GIFTED NIGERIAN STUDENTS SET TO BREAK WORLD'S RECORDS

In a bid to set a new World Record as the Largest Mathematics Lesson involving 5000 Nigerian Students, the International Academy for the Gifted (IAGIFTED) in collaboration with Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and State tertiary institutions has Organised camping system for selected students in Secondary Schools across the State. 

Underscoring the importance of the programme, the Coordinator, Prof. Adewale Solarin explained that the project which would be coming up at Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu-Ode on Friday, April 5, 2024 by 10am, was aimed at identifying Gifted Nigerian Students in both Junior and Senior Secondary Schools who are interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) subjects and build them up to become world-class geniuses and leaders.

Prof. Solarin explained that it is an initiative towards improving their quality of participation in STEAM Education and make them achieve their highest potentials, for them to be able to compete favourably with gifted youths of the world in achievements, through an enduring partnership network amongst academics in Nigerian Universities, Nigerian Academics in Diaspora and Leadership Development Agencies. 

He said "The immediate interests are on enhancing mentorship programmes for all gifted youths identified through annual Nation-Wide Talent Search Competition for Secondary Schools Learners, using various instruments designed by IAGIFTED, like intelligent tests, puzzles and Rubik’s cube solutions".

Prof. Solarin highlighted the format of the event to include; Nation-wide online STEAM competition for about 1,000,000 Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) students to be conducted in three stages: such as, Aptitude Test, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics Physics and art subjects for stage one, with top 1000 to be invited to participate in the Guinness World Record Event.

Stage 2 will have top 10 percentage of participants in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics and Physics and Art Subjects, while

Stage 3 will cover Gifted STEAM Camp with top 20 boys and girls to be invited to a 2-week STEAM and Leadership Training Camp to produce winners in areas like; Gifted STEAM King and Queen, Gifted Biology King and Queen, Gifted Chemistry King and Queen, Gifted Computer Science King and Queen, Gifted Mathematics King and Queen and Gifted Physics King and Queen.

Solarin assured that adequate and maximum security measures have been put in place to ensure safety of lives and properties, adding that all hand were on desk to ascertain the success of the project. 

Samuel Ogungbesan,

Head of Media Unit.

OGUN CELEBRATES WORLD ORAL DAY, HARPS ON IMPORTANCE OF ORAL HYGIENE

In a bid to live and maintain a healthy life style, people have been urged to give proper attention to their oral health by visiting government approved dental centres at least twice a year for regular dental check-up.

The Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Olayinka Elemide, while speaking during a sensitisation seminar, organised to mark the 2024 World Oral Day with the theme, "A Healthy Mouth is a Healthy Body", at the Dental Centre, Nawar-U-Deen Road, Oke-Ijeun, Abeokuta, saying, “the mouth is the door and the mirror to the body, hence the need to give it proper care for healthy living”.

Represented by the Director, Public Health, Ministry of Health, Dr. Festus Soyinka, the Permanent Secretary advised the public to care for their teeth by brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste, to avoid tooth decay and Halitosis.

 On his part, the Director, Dental Services, Ogun State Hospitals Management Board (HMB), Dr. David Ogunba, emphasised the importance of dental health, pointing out that the good condition of the oral cavity would promote confidence and good health, among others, imploring the people to go the extra mile to put their oral health status in better shape.

Contributing, Chief Dental Officer, Dental Center, Nawarudeen, Abeokuta, Dr. Oluwatosin Olarinde, said the celebration was to enlighten people on the importance of the mouth to the body and educate them on how to take proper care of it.

Also speaking, the representative of Pharmadeko General Manager, Mr. Ishola Kayode, who noted that the role of oral health in human health was germane, informed that the company was committed to manufacturing products that protect the teeth and mouth,

An enlightenment rally had earlier been held in schools, major markets and motor parks across Abeokuta, on proper ways to take care of the mouth, while free dental services were rendered to the people.

 

Femi Osipitan,

Press Officer, HMB

 

OGUN SECRETARIES, ASSETS FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE

Secretaries have been advised to be good assets for good operations in their various establishments because they are the first contact for the visitors to give whether negative or positive impression about the organisation. 

The Chairman, Ogun State House of Assembly Service Commission, Hon. Waliu Taiwo, gave this advice during a 2-day training programme organised for all Confidential Secretaries in the State House of Assembly and the House of Assembly Service Commission at Oke-Mosan.

Hon.Taiwo said that the Commission was not only interested in the welfare of its staff, but also in the human capital development, hence the need for the training to enhance skills and capabilities as well as increase the productivity of the Secretaries for career progression.

Charging the trainees to respect their work vows and work closely with their superiors, the Executive Secretary, House of Assembly Service Commission, Mr.Taiwo Opaleye explained that a secretary should be smart and familiar with current software applications to ensure uniqueness on his/her part.

In her goodwill message, the Deputy Clerk, Barrister Oluwafunmilayo Adeyemi mentioned that communication and organisational skills are necessary to be a competent secretary, adding that there should be continuous upgrade in ICT in order not to be outdated. 

In their contributions, the resource persons, the Director, Management Services and Training, Bureau of Establishments and Training, Mr. Olusegun Akinfaiye and Director I.T, Office of Accountant General, Mr. Abdul-Fatai Odunsanya, highlighted attention to details, safe-keeping, registry management and decision-making as tools for effective documentation in the public service. 

The duo who explained that as a professional secretary, time management should be an essential skill to ensure that all tasks are completed before deadline, disclosed that confidentiality is needed for secured job etiquette noting that all secretaries should know how to use advanced computer applications especially excel software in their everyday activities to be IT competent. 

Responding on behalf of the participants, Mrs. Agnes Fasanya, applauded the State House of Assembly Service Commission for the training, stating that it has exposed them to fresh knowledge and flexibility in the discharge their duties. 

Busayo Faleti, 

Information Officer, 

OGHASC.

TRACE, LAFARGE CEMENT CAUTION ROAD USERS

 Road users across Ogun State have been cautioned to take their safety seriously by observing necessary procedures and signs in the course of carrying out their activities.

This was brought to the fore during a safety talk, jointly organised by Ifo Division of Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) and Larfage Cement Safety Team, at Pakoto High School, Pakoto in Ifo Local Government Area.

Speaking, TRACE Commander and Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, Commander, Seni Ogunyemi, who spoke on, “Proper Usage of the Road", said it was imperative for the people, particularly pedestrians to be wary of their safety with other road users.

Commander Ogunyemi, represented by Ifo Divisional Commander, Commander, Michael Oyebola, outlined some basic rules that pupils must religiously observed, which include, facing on-coming vehicles, avoid walking in clusters while on the road and be fully conscious of their environment, among others.

He urged people to always make use of walkways and pedestrian bridges, carefully observe that the road is clear at both sides before crossing and ensure that they use Zebra Crossing where available.

      On his part, the leader of Larfage Safety Team, Mr. Ademola Akindele, while making a presentation on "Truck Drivers Blind Spot", said articulated vehicles have limitations and challenges while driving on the road, due to their height and length.

     "This implied that all road users should be visible to truck drivers by giving enough distance to them to the right, left, front or back, to enable them to see everything surrounding them clearly before they make their decisions", he said.

 

Tope Akinbola

Press Officer, TRACE

OGSG ASSURES OF CONDUCIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUTHS TO THRIVE

Ogun State government will continue to provide enabling environment for companies to continue to thrive, so as to provide job opportunities for the youth, towards expanding the socio-economic well-being of the state in particular and Nigeria in general.

Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, gave the assurance at the 7th graduation ceremony of Nestle Technical Training (NTT) programme, in Agbara, saying all hands must be on deck to take sports to the grassroots and lay a solid foundation for a policy-driven sporting development in the state.

Hon. Isiaka described sports as a vehicle for social change, where individuals can fulfil their full potential, while also creating an atmosphere of employment opportunities, foster teamwork and cooperation, as well as instil values of discipline and perseverance in human, encouraging people to consider the power of sports in community development.

He noted that the technical training programme was designed to sharpen skills, increase productivity rate and employability of students in the labour market, advising the graduands to use the skills and knowledge acquired through the training programme to create employment opportunities for others, mentor and guide the next generation of aspiring professionals, thereby bequeathing an enduring legacy of impact and change.   

While appreciating Nestle for its commitment to making a positive impact on the society, Hon. Isiaka lauded the automatic employment given to 20 graduating students, affirming Nestle’s immeasurable contribution to youth development and employment generation in the state.

The Commissioner appealed to corporate organisations to strive in building a workforce that would not only be skilled but also inclusive and diverse, where everyone would be opportune to thrive and succeed

“I call on you to support the deliberate effort of this government. We are open to collaboration of any kind; partnership, investment, donations or sponsorship. We have sports facilities across the state, we have the athletes and footballers abound", he said.

Earlier, the MD/CEO, Nestle Nigeria, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, informed that the training was designed to help bridge the gap in technical skill in the industry, disclosing that it was one of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility to the community.

He explained that the programme would enable youths access economic opportunities, either through direct employment or entrepreneurship, to improve their living standard and contribute to the development of their communities, appreciating government and other stakeholders for collaborating, to enhance a prosperous and sustainable society.

 

Disu Ayobami,

Press Officer, Ministry of Sports Development

Senator Salisu launches Media Award for Ogun Journalists

ABEOKUTA -- The senator representing Ogun Central senatorial district, Shuaib Afolabi Salisu has given his approval to the setting up and funding of an annual award ceremony for outstanding journalists in Ogun State to be known as the SAS Media award. 

Salisu, who paid an unscheduled visit to the members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), at its secretariat in Iwe Irohin, Abeokuta also promised to immediately sponsor the installation of solar powered inverter to light up the Union's office.

"On the SAS media award for outstanding journalists during press week, I hereby support the motion. 

"Also, whether this place is outdated or not, this place needs to have maximum power. I am here as a Senator of journalists because this Iwe-irohin is the cradle of journalism. I also approve the installation of solar power, "he said

The senator, while briefing the newsmen on his 9 months sojourn at the 10th National Assembly noted that it is important for Nigerians to be patient with the current administration of Bola Tinubu, saying that the current challenges are dated.

He emphasized that the media must stand in the gap and to enlighten the public on government policies, which, according to him, will yield positive results soon. 

 "I acknowledge the challenges faced by Nigerians, I appeal for your commitment to continue enlightening our people. 

"It is crucial to strike a balance in legislative duty, especially during challenging times when we distributed aid to bring solace.

"These times demand a government with clarity, even in the face of inevitable pains, as they pave the way for future relief.

"Despite challenges in the oil sector, the government, under Bola Tinubu's leadership, is resolute in its clear direction. A collective show of support for the administration is imperative, and the positive impact of federal savings is now cascading down to states and local governments, "he added

Earlier in his speech, the NUJ Chairman, Comrd. Wale Olarenwaju appreciated the presence of the senator while seeking support for the welfare of journalists in the state.

YOUTHS TASKED TO LEVERAGE ON CONSTRUCTIVE ENGAGEMENTS

Youths have been tasked to leverage on technological innovations, constructive and meaningful engagements for nation building rather than resorting to violence.

 Ogun State Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, gave the charge during a courtesy visit of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, saying the student body needed to be proactive in shaping the path of honest and effective leadership.  

          Mr. Okubadejo described the youths as crucial to shaping the future of the country, as they play integral role in national development, assuring the delegation of government's commitment to continue to provide social infrastructure, adding that efforts would be sustained to ensure citizens feel the effects of the state's development drive.

"Recognizing the higher stake the youths have is the success of our country. You need to use your voice responsibly with the potential impact of constructive engagement", he said.

Speaking earlier, the NANS Senate President, Segun Ekundina, lauded the state government for its educational initiatives and incentives towards the student body, citing the robust consideration given to them during the recent approval of a N5bn palliative.

He said the student body was proud to associate with the government of Prince Dapo Abiodun, noting that the governor was student-friendly in prioritising students’ welfare.

DS ADEGBENRO POLYTECHNIC MASS COMM STUDIOS BEST IN SOUTH WEST - NBTE

The Mass Communication Studios of the D. S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori-Ewekoro, Ogun State, have been described as the best in the South West and among the most sophisticated in the country. 

The representative of the Mass Communication Division of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Mallam Garba Dansabe stated this during the  exit briefing of the Board's accreditation visit to the Polytechnic, congratulating the Institution for her huge investment in the studios.

Dansabe said, "I personally have never seen such state- of-the arts studio equipment in any other Institution at resource inspection stage. I am very, very impressed". He noted that the studios will go a long way in assisting the students to appreciate graphic displays in their various specializations of journalism. 

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the Institution's Governing Council, Ambassador Toye Okanlawon, attributed the success of the visit to the enduring power of the Almighty God, as well as inspiration and encouragement by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

 Okanlawon added that the Mass Communication Complex would be named after the late father of the State governor, Pa Emmanuel Adesanya Abiodun, alias Baba Teacher. 

He revealed that putting the facility in place in less than a month was a huge task that made him become apprehensive, stating that “when the NBTE gave the Institution barely three weeks to prepare for the accreditation exercise, it appeared like an immovable mountain”.

"please permit me to register my profound appreciation to our amiable and amazing Governor, Prince (Dr) Dapo Abiodun con, for his persistent exhortation and encouragement. Throughout the process of building and equipping the studios, he never let us down. 

“I also like to thank the Polytechnic Council members for their wisdom and understanding, as none of these would have been possible without their commitment and unflinching support. Most important, we appreciate the Almighty God for coming through for us", the Chairman stated.

In his remark, the NBTE Director of Academic Programmes, Architect Ngbede Ogoh, emphasized the importance of practicals in the Polytechnic curriculum, noting that “the Polytechnic’s huge investment in the Mass Communication studios as well as other laboratories in the Institution are worthwhile because practicals are actually the distinguishing features of Polytechnic education”.

Also speaking, a member of the Governing Council, Chief Mufutau Ajibola urged the NBTE to continue to work hand in hand with the Polytechnic, having in mind that "our common goal is to graduate students that will contribute positively to the Nation's human capital development”. Chief Ajibola also advised students and youths to shun bribery and other social vices capable of tarnishing their good names". 

The Rector of the Institution, Dr. Goke Rauf assured the NBTE that D. S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic was committed to a flawless implementation of the Board's policies in order to ensure quality service delivery for all stakeholders.

Thieves Cart Away Ogun Journalist's Car

... surveillance in high gear

A cream-coloured Toyota Camry (Pencil) belonging to an Ogun Journalist, Femi Onasanya, has been reported stolen. 

The Camry with the registration number FF 961 KRD,

Engine number: 5S08742 and 

Chasis No: JT2BG22K1XD339724 was stolen from the front of the journalist's residence overnight on Thursday in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Speaking on the ugly development, Onasanya, a staff of the Ogun State Ministry of Information and Strategy, said that he parked the car outside his compound due to the ongoing construction of drainage system.

He added that he washed the car around 10pm on Wednesday in preparation for the following day. 

The journalist noted that the matter has been reported at the nearest police station and pleaded with the members of the public with any relevant information to reach him on 08084818609.

The perpetrators of this evil act are advised to have a rethink of their action and return the car as surveillance is already in high gear and anyone caught with the vehicle would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

Thieves Cart Away Ogun Journalist's Car

A cream-coloured Toyota Camry (Pencil) belonging to an Ogun Journalist, Femi Onasanya, has been reported stolen. 

The Camry with the registration number FF 961 KRD,

Engine number: 5S08742 and 

Chasis No: JT2BG22K1XD339724 was stolen from the front of the journalist's residence overnight on Thursday in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Speaking on the ugly development, Onasanya said that he parked the car outside his compound due to the ongoing construction of drainage system.

He added that he washed the car around 10pm on Wednesday in preparation for the following day. 

The journalist noted that the matter has been reported at the nearest police station and pleaded with the members of the public with any relevant information to reach him on 08084818609.

OGUN CIVIL SERVICE HOLDS SYMPOSIUM ON RULES, REGULATIONS

Implementing code of ethics and conducts in Civil Service is crucial to providing guidelines for both workers and elected officials, while its effectiveness lies on complementing such with training and leadership abilities of different categories of officers for effective service delivery.

The Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Engr. Tokunbo Odebunmi, stated this during a symposium organised by the Commission for its management staff with the theme, ‘’Strict Adherence to the Rules and Regulations in Treating Issues in Civil Service’’, at the Conference Hall, Obas’ Complex, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Engr. Odebunmi, who explained that drifting from the concept and principles of the public service by civil servants as compared with the past, just as the real foundations in Civil Service are Grade Levels 12 and 13 officers, who would cascade the training, necessitated the choice of topic and participants for the symposium, stressing that it was imperative to ensure that the workforce is improved upon, in order to enhance workers’ performance.

‘’The Commission agreed on a symposium where interactive sessions would take place and lead to a better understanding of the subject matter compared to regular in-house training by it in the past where lectures were only delivered to participants’’, he said.

  While highlighting some ethical violations that could occur in the Civil Service of Ogun State to include, nepotism, corruption, conflict of interests and misuse of official resources, the Chairman urged participants to make the best out of the event.

Also speaking, the Special Guest of Honour, who doubled as the moderator of the symposium, Princess Iyabo Odulate, noted the rules and regulations guiding the Civil Service were written to be studied, observed and implemented by the Civil Servants, advising participants to be diligent and upright in the course of discharging their duties.

In his remark, the Head of Service, Mr. Kolawole Fagbohun (HoS), represented by the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Mr. Jola Oyeneye, emphasised the need for training of Civil Servants, disclosing that the HoS had secured several approvals that would facilitate capacity building for the workforce.

The interactive sessions had Permanent Secretaries from Bureau of State Pensions, Mr. Soji Adewuyi; Permanent Secretary and Accountant-General, Mr. Tunde Aregbesola and representative of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Mr. Olumuyiwa Ogunsanwo, who spoke on Public Service Rules (PSR), Financial Regulations Procedures and Process in the Civil Service and Law, Discipline and Consequences in the Course of Discharging Duties, respectively.

Other dignitaries at the event were former Head of Service, Elder Olusola Adeyemi; Commissioners in the Commission, Hons. Adebowale Ojuri, Nike Osoba, Gabriel Falola and Yusuf Adegbemiro; Permanent Secretary in the Commission, Mrs. Roseline Jacobs, among others.

 

Funmi Onafowope,

Press Officer, CSC

Ogun Perm. Sec. Commiserates With NUJ Information Chapel Over Member's Demise

...Urges Resilience In Face of Grief

The Permanent Secretary, Ogun State Ministry of Environment, who was also a former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Information Chapel, Comrade Samuel Oyeleye had reached out to the leadership of the Chapel to commiserate with it over the demise of Comrade Olawunmi Fadairo who until her death, was a member of the union.

Comrade Oyeleye who visited the Chapel's Secretariat at Ministry of Information and Strategy, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta on Tuesday to sympathize with the Union over the loss said, "In this trying time, I send my condolences and I share in the grief of the union as life sometimes can be so unpredictable taking away the most valued treasure to ever walk the face of the earth, a human".

The Permanent Secretary admonished the Chapel's leadership and by extension the entire members that this incidence and period should not be allowed to weigh us down but serve as a stepping stone towards further understanding life and staying prepared for the best.

"As we sing 'it is well', may our lives forever remain gloriously colored with every shade of wellness", the erstwhile Chairman prayed.

Gift Samuel,

Secretariat Assistant.

NITT ZARIA UNDERSTUDIES TRACE OPERATIONS

Commander and Chief Executive, Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Commander Olaseni Ogunyemi, has disclosed that the agency was opened to sharing knowledge and vital ideas with related professional bodies to improve the transportation industry in the state and the country at large.

Commander Ogunyemi made this known in his office at TRACE headquarters, Ibara, Abeokuta, while receiving the 2023/2024 batch of students of Nigeria Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), who came to the state for their field survey exercise, saying the Agency, among other dynamic measures, was committed to instilling road safety in students by taking advocacy campaign to secondary schools across the state.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the team, a Deputy Director in the Institute, Mr. Abdulhhakeem Badiru, disclosed that the purpose of their visit was to acquire knowledge, as well as expose students to the dynamic trends of traffic management, describing TRACE as a force to be reckoned with in traffic management and control in Nigeria.

He added that the institution planned to expose its students to the practical and theoretical aspects of transport and logistics industry, in order to keep them abreast of new developments in the industry, noting that the Agency was the most preferred destination for the exposure needed for the success of their programme.

Also speaking, a member of the team, Mr. Muhammed Issa, appreciated TRACE for the willingness to train them, promising to practice all they have garnered.

OGUN HoS REWARDS TWO WORKERS FOR DEDICATION

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kolawole Fagbohun, has appreciated two top Civil Servants, Mrs. Kikelomo Ajayi and Mr. Akinbobola Aduloju, from the Bureau of Local Government Pensions, with commendation letters for displaying passion, dedication, commitment and loyalty in the discharge of their statutory duties.

The Head of Service made this known in the presence of a retired Head of Service from the Oyo State Civil Service, Alhaji Tajudeen Aremu and some Permanent Secretaries, while presenting letters of commendation personally signed by him to the duo in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

According to the Head of Service, the duo of the Director, Finance and Supplies and the Chief Administrative Officer, have been under his observation and assessment for a while and they had excelled in the tasks and undertakings set before them, thus, the open commendation to use them as examples of excellence and commitment in the Civil Service.

Mr. Fagbohun charged them to continue doing what is right and acceptable and not relent in pursuing excellence as people are watching them, and added that the commendation letter was a symbolic way of compensating them for diligence.

"Continue to be yourself. Don't fret when an allegation has been levelled against you, knowing full well that you're not guilty. Keep doing what you know how to do and don't relent in doing good", the HoS charged.

Adding his voice, Alhaji Tajudeen Aremu thanked the HoS for presenting the document evidence of good performance to the duo, and appreciated the entire workforce of Ogun State, as it is a good step in the right direction, at a time when moral standard has degenerated so much in the country that Civil Servants are not exempted from the rot, but they kept their heads high within the available resources.

Responding on behalf of the duo, the Director, Finance and Supplies, Mrs. Ajayi, who was taken aback by the pleasant surprise said the kind gesture of the Head of Service would not be taken for granted and pledged more commitment and dedication to duty.

Omolara Osindele & Tunde Olayiwola

Office of the Head of Service

OGUN COLLEGE OF NURSING SCIENCES TO ADMIT CANDIDATES THROUGH UTME

Ogun State Government has disclosed that the admission process for candidates into its College of Nursing Sciences for 2024 and subsequent academic calendars would be done through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, who made this known in a statement, said government had demonstrated its resolution to foster the standardisation of nursing education by securing collegiate status for its erstwhile Schools of Nursing and Midwifery in 2021, through the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).

Dr. Coker revealed that the state had also secured accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in 2023, empowering the College to award Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and Higher National Diploma (HND), adding that it is now a requirement for prospective candidates to commence admission into the colleges through Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB).

"Governor Dapo Abiodun has supported us continually in our resolve to reform the educational aspect of the nursing profession. Our rationale for this reform is founded on the pivotal roles nurses play in healthcare delivery. If we desire the best health outcomes, the schools that produce our nurses must offer nothing but the best form of education.

"This government will continue to ensure that only the best candidates gain admission to the campuses of our College of Nursing in Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode and Ilaro; and more importantly, only the best students make it through the institutions. This would ensure that our Registered Nurses are highly productive anywhere they work, whether at home or outside the shores of the country", she said.

Dr. Coker further disclosed that only candidates with a minimum of five credits, including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics, at not more than two (2) sittings in West African Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) could apply for the OND/HND Nursing programme, while the UTME subject combination must be Use of English, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

She further revealed that successful candidates, who meet the minimum cut-off marks, would be invited for a screening/interview by the College, adding that the high standards which the government had established in recent years would be sustained throughout the admission process.

While warning prospective candidates to be wary of fraudsters, the Commissioner stated further that government no longer conducts sales of entrance examination forms, advising them to visit JAMB website and select any of the three campuses of the College from the listed state Monotechnics.

DSAP COUNCIL CONGRATULATES ABIODUN, SAYS SC JUDGEMENT AFFIRMS PEOPLES' TRUST

The Governing Council, D. S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori-Ewekoro, Ogun State, has congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State over his victory at the Supreme Court. 

Chairman of the Governing Council, Amb. Toye Okanlawon in a release, stated that the Supreme Court judgement was an affirmation of the trust reposed in the Governor to steer the ship of the State for a second term. 

"I join a throng of friends and well wishers to rejoice with our amiable governor, Prince (Dr) Dapo Abiodun, over his victory at the Supreme Court" Okanlawon said.

He added that "governance is a serious business that requires total focus, especially at this time that our Nation is experiencing her own share of the current global economic challenges. I am glad of this closure to the long drawn electoral battle in the State. At least all stakeholders will now put their hands on deck to move our dear State forward".

The statement noted that the Council called on all citizens of the State to join hands with Governor Abiodun in the critical task of "building our future together".

The March 18, 2023 gubernatorial election in Ogun State has been a subject of legal dispute between Governor Dapo Abiodun and his main opponent, Ladi Adebutu. But the Supreme Court finally laid the matter to rest with last week's declaration of Dapo Abiodun as the duly elected governor of the State.

OGUN PHCs BRACE UP FOR DIGITAL OPERATIONS

Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in Ogun State will effectively run an efficient digitisation of medical records before the end of year, to provide continued health care services to patients from any facility across the state.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, gave the assurance during the 2024 Leadership Retreat, at Mitros Residences Hall, Ibara, Abeokuta, for the leadership of Ministry of Health, Hospitals Management Board, Primary Health Care Development Board, State Action for the Control of AIDS, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Ogun State Alternate Medicine Board and all Heads of health facilities across the state.

Dr. Coker explained that the retreat was to review the level of performance in the sector in the last four years, brainstorm and strategise for the years ahead, adding that the digitisation process would also assist in reducing time spent by medical personnel to attend to patients.

She hinted that five Primary Health Centres were already running their medical records digitally, while another eight centres were almost ready for digital operations, assuring that others would be digitised before the year runs out.

In their contributions, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Kayode Oladehinde and his counterpart in the Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Olayinka Elemide, enjoined all participants to use the retreat as an avenue to cross-fertilise ideas and network for the development of the health sector.

Appreciating the leadership of the Ministry of Health on behalf of other participants, the Chief Medical Director, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Bunmi Fatugase and the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Wellington Ogunsanya, commended government for the retreat, saying, "we have been better equipped to deliver better health care services to the people of the state".

 

Femi Osipitan,

Information Officer, HMB

JUSTIFY YOUR PAY- OGSIEC PERM. SEC.

 Staffers of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), have been urged to justify government pay by being diligent and productive.

The Permanent Secretary in the Commission, Eng. Olabode Ojetola stated this, during a meeting with staffers, saying they should sustain unity and love that exist between the management and staff.

Engr. Ojetola enjoined members of staff to embrace positive change and initiate new ideas that would be beneficial to the Commission and the people of the state, noting that attendance and punctuality at work should be paramount to them.

The Permanent Secretary implored them to be security conscious, particularly on fire outbreak, revealing that the Commission would collaborate with the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter- Governmental Affairs on training of staffers on fire outbreak prevention.

Some of the staffers who spoke at the prayer session appreciated the Permanent Secretary for his fatherly advice, promising to uphold the Public Service Rules and Regulations, in order to contribute their quota to the development of the state.

 

Damilola Akindele,

Press Officer, OGSIEC

2024 GIFT: JCI ABEOKUTA EMPOWERS JUVENILE CORRECTIONAL HOME CHILDREN WITH 3 MONTHS SKILLS ACQUISITION

... Advocates Mental Health Campaign, Donates Food Items

As it has been the usual tradition of the Junior Chamber International (JCI), to positively touch lives and to celebrate the first day of the new year with the less privileged and the needy, the Abeokuta chapter of the Chamber has organized three months skills acquisition programme for children in the Juvenile Correctional Home, Asero, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The President, Junior Chamber International, Abeokuta, JCIN Amb. Olamide Olurin who led the Annual I-Care project, a venture of the organization that goes beyond traditional giving to instill lasting skills and promote mental well-being said this year's project holds a special significance as the chamber embarks on a transformative journey for the children with trainings in the areas tailoring, hair making, and barbing. 

"Over the next three months, these children will be engaged in tailoring, hair making, and barbing trainings. Our goal and commitment goes beyond mere donations; as we are dedicated to providing skill acquisition opportunities to the children to equip them with skills that can shape their futures and provide a pathway to self-sufficiency upon their release from here", JCIN Amb. Olurin said.

While encouraging the children not to think that being at the Correctional Home at this point in time is the end of their lives, the President charged the young minds to believe in themselves and think of who and what they want to become in life while enjoining them to pay rapt attention to the three months skills acquisition training.

JCIN Amb. Olurin while celebrating the children and sharing the joy of the New Year with several gift items and food donations, underscored the importance of the mental health of the children and launched a mental health advocacy campaign that focuses on addressing depression and other related mental illness among youths which would help to raise awareness, reduce stigmatization, and foster a supportive environment for those who may be experiencing mental health challenges.

In his lecture on Depression, a Senior Registrar at the Neuro Psychiatry Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, Dr. Oluwatobi Ogunyemi said Depression is a condition characterized by consistent sadness which can be as a result of broken homes, lack of love and care, bullying and harassment, health challenges to mention but a few and can lead to suicide, mental health problems and poor academic performance.

Dr. Ogunyemi disclosed that when an individual gets angry often, experiences constant headache and abdominal pain, these and many more can be symptoms to watch out for adding that self-love and good parental love are ways of avoiding depression.

Earlier in his address, the immediate past President of JCI, Abeokuta, Mr. Olufemi Emmanuel Adeleke disclosed that the organization provides leadership development opportunities for young people to create positive changes while enjoining the children to open themselves up to the training that is coming their way. 

Mrs. Olubukola Adeleye, one of the Instructors at the Home disclosed that there are various categories of children under their care; children under the conflict with the law, children in conflict with their parents, children roaming the streets without love or parental care and love and special children especially those that have been abandoned by their parents because of their health challenges. "We counsel them and speak to them on depression", she said while appreciating the team for coming to show the children love and care and to also impact skills, train and empower them. 

Miss Kikelomo Abiodun on behalf of other children at the Home appreciated the leadership of JCI, Abeokuta for putting smiles on their faces and for not forgetting them pledging her commitment and that of her mates to the skills acquisition programme.

In their separate remarks, representatives of Ray of Hope and JibuluCare Foundation, partners of JCI, Abeokuta said, "we believe that it is important that stakeholders and organizations pay attention and commit to making their communities a better place. We are most thrilled about the impact of this year as we prepare the juveniles for better opportunities to improve the state of their lives"

*Femi Osipitan*

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, PS CHARGES STAFFERS...AS ALMA MATER VISITS

The members of staff of the Bureau of Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service, have been charged to keep up the good work so as to ensure quality service delivery to the entire workforce in the State.

The Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service, Mr. Oladipupo Ogunfowora, gave the charge in a maiden meeting with the staffers of the bureau at the Conference Hall of the office of the Head of Service.

Mr. Ogunfowora urged them to use their God given talents for the success of the office, in the discharge of duties and responsibilities given to them in their various departments and units for the overall betterment of the Civil Service.

He urged the workers not to abuse the privilege of the off days arrangement approved by the Governor of the State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, by absenting themselves from duty unduly.

"Our governor has been magnanimous enough to approve one day a week off duty for us as one of the means of palliatives to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal, don't let us abuse the privilege by absenting ourselves from duty unduly, let us strictly adhere to the schedules and avoid taking laws into our hands", Ogunfowora advised.

The Permanent Secretary, while appreciating the members of staff for their cooperation and support since his assumption of office, solicited for continued cordial relationship to keep moving the bureau forward.

Responding, the duo of the Directors, Welfare Matters and Administration and Supplies, Mr. Abubakar Adeduntan and Mrs. Adebola Fagunwa, congratulated the Permanent Secretary on his appointment and promised their unalloyed, unflinching support and cooperation by discharging their duties responsibly.

In another development, the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Service Matters, Mr. Oladipupo Ogunfowora, received in audience the Management Team of Ijemo Titun High School, (Junior), Ibara, Abeokuta led by its Principal, Mrs. Funmilayo Adeyemi, who came to felicitate him on his appointment as Perm. Sec.

Mrs. Adeyemi said the visit was necessary as Mr. Ogunfowora is the first old student of the school to become a Permanent Secretary in the Ogun State Civil Service.

She said the school is elated to identify with their own and solicited for more support towards the continued progress of the school.

Responding, the Perm Sec., Mr. Ogunfowora, who was overwhelmed to receive his Alma Mater as the first group on a visit to his office, appreciated the Principal, her team members and indeed the entire school for the visit and acknowledged that his great dream of lofty heights he has attained was inculcated into him at the school.

He appreciated them for the confidence reposed in him and promised not to disappoint them but will keep the flag of the school flying.

 

Tunde Olayiwola and Omolara Osindele

Prese Officers,

Office of the Head of Service.