Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has announced that all Primary, Secondary schools, as well as Government Science and Technical Colleges in the State should proceed on the 1st term holiday for the 2021/2022 academic session on Friday, December 10, 2021.

A release signed by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu stated that all schools are expected to resume for the 2021/2022, 2nd term academic activities on Monday, January 3, 2022.

It enjoined parents and guardians to ensure their wards are properly monitored during the holiday period.

By Sinob Lawal

Following the disastrous fire incident at Lafenwa Market on Sunday were some lives were lost and properties running Millions were consumed, Ogun State government has set up a 9-man committee to probe.

According to a statement by Kunle Somorin, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun, on Tuesday, the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, in a letter dated November 29, compiled the names of members of the committee and its terms of reference.

The statement indicated that the committee would look into the causes of the incident and come up with ways to prevent future occurrence of such disaster.

The committee would be chaired by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Barrister Femi Ogunbanwo while the Permanent Secretary of the Bureau of Political Affairs and Administration in the Governor’s Office, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya would serve as Secretary.

Talabi stated that the terms of reference of the committee would include: determination of the remote cause of the fire outbreak; recommendation of immediate steps/actions for intervention of the government to forestall future occurrence; recommendation of medium and long term intervention of the government and recommendation of compensation for the victims of the fire incident to the government. The SSG, however, said the committee was expected to submit its report within two weeks.

Other members of the committee include the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Akin Adesanya; Commissioner for Transport, Engr. Gbenga Dairo; Commissioner for Rural Development, Engr. Oludotun Taiwo, and his Women Affairs and Social Development counterpart, Mrs. Funmi Efuwape.

Others are Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Mr Bayo Ayorinde and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government and the head of the State Task Force on Illegalities, Toyin Afolaogun, an assistant commissioner of Police.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Tuesday presented a sum of N351bn as the proposed appropriation bill for the year 2022 before the House of Assembly.

By Shola Adesola

Abiodun, while presenting the fiscal proposal christened ‘Budget of Restoration’, said the main task of his administration next year is to increase pace of the implementation of its development plan as already designed and encapsulated in the ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda.

Adding that the budget for 2022 will also seek to sustain and improve on the gains so far made in the delivery of good governance to the people of Ogun State, Abiodun noted that the state under his watch, has begun moving very steadily towards full recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said his administration’s budget credibility as determined by performance in year 2021 was better than what Ogun has ever had in its history while noting that his administration was able to achieve 80% IGR as of September 30, 2021.

He said: “Judging from our Internally Generated Revenue, we were able to achieve 80% IGR as at 30th September of this year. A brief detail of this, indicates that out of the State IGR Budget size of N121, 806,876,775.63 this year, a sum of N73, 064,877,599.72 was generated as at Q3 September ending, translating to 80% proportional performance, as against 44% proportionate performance recorded in Q3 2020. This indicates an improved performance, owing to the digitalisation of our processes and the introduction of Central Billing System, amongst others.

“A further break down reveals that, out of a total estimation of N338.61Billion projected as total funding, comprising of expected inflows N121.81B as IGR; N58.87 Billion as Statutory Allocation/ Value Added Tax and N139.53 Billion as the Capital Receipts, respectively. As at September ending, Q3 2021, the actual total funding was N177.02 billion representing 70% of the prorated revenue target of N253.96 billion”, he stated.

The governor said that despite the economic constraints, his administration has made modest progress within the available limited resources in the outgoing year by carrying out people-oriented projects such as road re-construction and rehabilitation across the three senatorial Districts of the state; health care delivery; education sector revitalization; affordable housing projects; agricultural development; digital and technological revolution; better sports development; and, improved welfare of workers, among others.

While pointing out that three town hall meetings were held to have inputs of the people and shape the priorities of his administration in preparing the 2022 budget, Abiodun, said “the proposed appropriation bill would focus on completion of existing projects; projects with revenue potential; projects consistent with priorities articulated in the State Economic Development Strategy and projects that can enhance employment generation”.

The governor said that the estimated N350.74 billion for the year 2022 will be funded through the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS) expected to generate N56.30b, while other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) estimated to generate N96.87 billion totaling N153.17 billion.

He added that N73.01b is expected from statutory allocation (FAAC and VAT), while capital receipt – internal and external loans, grants and aids – is estimated at N124.56 billion.

Abiodun, who explained further that 51 percent capital expenditure has been achieved in view of the need to drive his administration’s developmental objectives, said that recurrent expenditure for 2022 will gulp N154b, while capital an aggregate sum of N170b will made available for capital expenditure, which according to him is an increase of N10b over the sum approved for the 2021 budget.

Highlighting the proposed budget, the governor announced infrastructure to take the lion share of N77,775b, representing 22% of the total budget.

This was followed by education and health sectors with proposals of N56,071.21b and N35,073.51b, representing 16% and 10% of the total budget, respectively.

Abiodun, however, noted that N170billion allocated to capital expenditure is to chart economic recovery growth through investment in physical projects that will create enabling environment for investment, create employment and trigger redistribution of resources.

He added a total sum of N7.7b is provided for transfers to the Stabilization
Fund to insulate and position the state towards unprecedented activities or economic shocks.

The governor thanked the Ogun State House of Assembly for its continued collaboration and cooperation within the ambits of the Separation of Powers, soliciting for its unflinching support to enable the the executive and the legislature collectively deliver on their promises in the coming year.

“Let me re-emphasize that the people of Ogun State expect that the 2022 Budget will contain only implementable and critical projects, which when completed, will significantly address current structural challenges of the economy, improve the business environment and accelerate economic recovery.

“I have directed all Commissioners, Accounting Officers and Heads of Agencies to be personally available for budget defence”, he stated.

Abiodun also appreciated the Ogun people for the trust and confidence they have reposed in his administration.

“We appreciate the invaluable support, cooperation, and prayers of all stakeholders. Our gratitude goes to our political class; our revered Royal Fathers, Elder Statesmen, our Religious leaders, Development Partners, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Market Women and Men and indeed our Public Servants. We also thank our critics. As our supporters continue to motivate us, our critics are also challenging us to do more. That is the whole essence of democracy. I thank all of us”, Abiodun submitted.

By Adesola Ololade

Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun has appointed Dr. Nafiu Aigoro as the new Head of Civil Service in the state. The statement stated the appointment takes effect.

This is contained in a statement issued today in Abeokuta by Mr Tokunbo Talabi, the Secretary to the State Government.

Dr. Nafiu Aigoro who was until his appointment was the Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board,
joined the state public service at the hospitals management board as consultants (Orthopaedic), Grade level 15 on January 6, 1998.

“He was born on March 25, 1963

Ogun State Governor has said the decision to join the Value Added Tax (VAT) fray was to ensure that the State got a fair share from the money generated from the system.

It would be recalled that Ogun joined Rivers and Lagos States to demand that States and not the Federal Government, through the Federal Inland Revenue Service, should collect Value Added Tax (VAT).

Governor Dapo Abiodun stated this in Abeokuta, while playing host to members of the Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria (ICAN), saying despite the huge amount generated from VAT, the State’s share does not reflect what is generated.

While informing his guests that his administration is strictly adhering to the tenets of good governance, Prince Abiodun said the State generated the sum of N75bn in the last nine months and was working towards surpassing it this next year.

“We have joined the fray on the Value Added Tax because we believe Ogun is not getting a fair share of the proceeds. Not only are we producing, we are also a consuming State. We generate so much money, yet we don’t have a bigger chunk of that same fund that we generate”, he noted.

He said the country was spending so much in subsidising petroleum products, hence wasting fund needed to provide basic amenities which could be used to fast track development.

On the State’s Accountability Index (AI) position of the ICAN, the State helmsman said though the State had moved from the 29 to 19, government’s desire was to see the State in the first three position in future.

The Governor urged the Institute to look at ways of partnering the State in the area of youth development, saying the Institute Entrepreneurship Training Centre planned for the State is a welcome development.

Enumerating some of his administration’s achievements in less than three years, Abiodun hinted that housing projects sited across the State, was part of the sustainability model strategy to generate employment and at the same time, provide affordable houses to the people.

Earlier in her remarks, the ICAN President, Mrs. Comfort Eyitayo, noted that the exemplary leadership style of the Governor had impacted positively in the health, education, youth development and other sectors of the State’s economy.

The ICAN President who said the Institute had made its position known on VAT and the Petroleum Industry Act, added that it would soon embark on another round of Accountability Index assessment across the country, calling for the cooperation of the State Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

By Our Correspondent

Arising from the recent flagging-off of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Ogun State, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo, has enjoined political office holders, including the State lawmakers and Councilors to mobilise people en-masse, towards getting vaccinated, with a view to flattening the curve of the pandemic, especially as the festive period approaches.

Oluomo gave the admonition in Abeokuta, while responding to the submission of a member representing Yewa North I State Constituency, Hon. Adeyanju Adegoke, who spoke under Personal Explanation at a plenary session.

The Speaker noted that it was imperative for all opinion leaders, Community Development Councils and Associations to mobilise and orientate members of the public on the need to take the vaccine, which is free in all health centres and designated points.

He lauded the 60 -day window of opportunity provided by the State to enable more people, including residents of border communities and people living in high density areas to get vaccinated.

Meanwhile, the State Assembly has granted approval to the State to participate in the Federal Government’s facility for 35 States in the country to the tune of N18, 746, 059,992.57 to cushion the effect of repayment of Federal Government intervention facilities earlier granted to Ogun State during the past administration.

The approval followed the presentation of the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation by its Chairman, Hon. Kunle Sobukanla, who thereafter moved the motion for its adoption, seconded by Ademola Adeniran and unanimously supported by other lawmakers through a voice vote.

The essence of the facility according to the report, was contained in a letter conveying the approval of the President, addressed to 35 States expected to benefit from the loan, as signed by Hon. Minister for Finance, Budget and National Planning, Dr. (Mrs.) Zainab Ahmed.

Speaker Oluomo subsequently directed the Clerk and Head of Legislative Service, Deji Adeyemo to convey the Assembly’s resolution to the State Governor for necessary actions.

By sainob Lawal

In its determination to reduce child and infant mortality rate, the present administration in Ogun State is considering collaboration between the Traditional Birth Attendants and Orthodox Doctors in the State.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, made this known in Abeokuta at the inauguration of the State Executive Association of Traditional Birth Attendants, noting that logistics had been put in place to ensure smooth partnership of the Orthodox Doctors and Traditional Birth Attendants, that would promote the State Health care system and practitioners.

Dr. Coker said the government had been working assiduously to reduce the rate of child mortality to zero level, adding that pregnant women should have the option to either patronise orthodox or traditional birth attendants, especially those at the grass roots level to ensure safety of mother and Child during delivery and after.

She stated that the Prince Dapo Abiodun led administration would continue to prioritise the health care of its citizenry through the provision of quality and affordable healthcare Services, saying that more enlightenment programmes, re-orientation, training and re-training of the sub-sector would be factor into the system.

Congratulating the newly sworn-in executives, the Commissioner charged them to keep the flag flying and be ready to work with the government, stressing that collaborative efforts would further reduce infant and child mortality rates.

Speaking, the representative of World Health Organisations (WHO), Dr. Gloria Archibong said the organisation would not relent in partnering with the State government and traditional birth attendants to enhance child reproductive health and necessary trainings on child mortality rates prevention.

In his response, Chairman, Ogun State Traditional Birth Attendants, Alh. Soremekun Oladeinde, appreciated the State Commissioner for Health and the Chairman, Ogun Alternate Medicine Board Balogun Nurudeen Olaleye for the efforts put in place to coordinate the board and practitioners in the State, urging the traditional birth attendants to complete their registration, in order to be recognised by the government.

By Our Correspondent

President Muhammadu Buhari will, on Monday, formally unveil the country’s first digital currency, eNaira.

Osita Nwasinobi, spokesperson of the Central Bank of Nigeri (CBN) who disclosed this in a statement on Saturday said the apex bank had postponed the unveiling of the eNaira on October 1, citing key activities lined up for the country’s 61st independence anniversary.

Nwasinobi said the launch of the eNaira was a culmination of several years of research by the apex bank in advancing the boundaries of payment systems in order to make financial transactions easier and seamless.

“Following series of engagements with relevant stakeholders including the banking community, fintech operators, merchants and indeed, a cross section of Nigerians, the CBN designed the digital currency, which shall be activated on Monday, October 25, 2021,” the statement reads.

“The eNaira therefore marks a major step forward in the evolution of money and the CBN is committed to ensuring that the eNaira, like the physical Naira, is accessible by everyone.

“Given that the eNaira is a journey, the unveiling marks the first step in that journey, which will continue with a series of further modifications, capabilities and enhancements to the platforms.

“The CBN will continue to work with relevant partners to ensure a seamless process that will benefit every user, particularly those in the rural areas and the unbanked population.

“Since the eNaira is a new product, and amongst the first CBDCs in the world, we have put a structure to promptly address any issue that might arise from the pilot implementation of the eNaira.

“Accordingly, following Monday’s formal launch by the President, the Bank will further engage various stakeholders as we enter a new age consistent with global financial advancement”.

He added that the theme of the eNaira launch is ‘Same Naira, More Possibilities’.

By sola Adelola

The Executive Chairman, Ikenne Local Government, Hon. Olusegun Ogunleye, has on behalf of the government and the good people of Ikenne Local Government expressed a heartfelt felicitations to the Balogun and Babaoba of Iperu Akesanland, Sir Dr. Chief Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu on his 86th birthday.

The Council boss, according to a release from the council’s Director of Information, Education and Sports, Tope Oyekan rejoiced with the Business Mogul and rare Philanthropist, as he wished him a very happy birthday anniversary, held annually on the 24th October; thanking God for granting unto him, a good and robust health, and for preserving him to witness yet another glorious celebration.

“I am very delighted to wish you a very happy birthday, as I pray for more meaningful years, lived in a healthy manner.
I pray that the good Lord continue to preserve, protect and bless you, as you continue to selflessly serve God and humanity”, the Chairman added in the release.

He commended the Celebrant, and acknowledged his several interventions at bringing smiles to the faces of the needy and downtrodden in the society.

Sir Adebutu is a Knight of John Wesley; the Baba Ijo of Wesley Methodist Cathedral, Iperu; Balogun of Remoland; Asoju Oba of Lagos; and Odole of Ife.

By Sinob Lawal

All roads will lead to Oke Mosan today, Monday, October 25, 2021 as Akarigbo and the paramount Ruler of Remo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Ajayi will be inaugurated as Chairman, Ogun State Council of Obas.

According to a letter signed by the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Peter Kolawole Fagbohun, Akarigbo will be taking over the mantle of leadership of the council from Awujale and paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, following the expiration of his tenure.

The State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun is expected to perform the inauguration of the Chairman at the Conference Hall of the Obas Complex, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta by 11.00 am.

The letter also read that the 2021 statutory Quarterly meeting of the Council will hold immediately after the inauguration of the new Chairman.

The notice further stated that only invited permanent and rotational members of the council were expected at the meeting with strict adherence to the COVID-19 protocols, and that all members of the council and guests must be seated by 10.00 am prompt.