Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • Oyo Govt Cracks Down on Illegal Diesel Sellers on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

    Oyo Govt Cracks Down on Illegal Diesel Sellers on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

    ‎Oyo Govt Cracks Down on Illegal Diesel Sellers on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
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    By Adewale Owoade
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    The Oyo State Government has apprehended 14 individuals operating shanties that sell diesel illegally along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ibadan.
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    The Executive Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security, retired CP Sunday Odukoya, who led Oyo state government special taskforce on the operations confirmed this while briefing newsmen on the arrest.
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    According to Odukoya, the arrested individuals are not only involved in the sale of adulterated diesel but also other illicit activities.
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    “We discovered that along that road we use to see corpses of human beings, sometimes without head.
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    “We have seen that this crime is being perpetrated by people around those areas, and instead of giving information to the police they refused.
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    “The state government had given them sufficient notice to vacate the area, the clearance exercise will continue until the expressway is completely cleared of unauthorised structures.
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    “Today we moved out with my team and these exhibit (diesel) was confiscated
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    “The suspects will face prosecution in a mobile court operated by the Rule of Law agency,” he said.
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    One of the arrested individuals, Bolaji Mustapha, admitted to engaging in the illegal diesel business, claiming ignorance of previous warnings issued by the government.
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    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the clearance exercise is part of efforts to ensure the safety and security of commuters and residents in the state.(NAN)

  • Farmers in Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun Zones, Rejoice as OYSADA Extends N-CARES Support.

    Farmers in Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun Zones, Rejoice as OYSADA Extends N-CARES Support.

    ‎Farmers in Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun Zones, Rejoice as OYSADA Extends N-CARES Support.

    By Adewale Owoade

    ‎The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) has extended the ongoing fifth phase of the Nigeria Community Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (N-CARES) farm inputs distribution to farmers in Ibarapa East, Ibarapa Central, Ibarapa North, Iwajowa, and Itesiwaju Local Government Areas.

    While addressing the beneficiaries, OYSADA Director-General, Dr. Debo Akande, emphasised the agency’s commitment to fairness and transparency in the distribution process.

    ‎He said, “This process is guided by principles of transparency, accountability, and orderliness. We are committed to ensuring that only genuine farmers benefit from this programme.

    ‎”Governor Seyi Makinde has made it clear, there is no room for favouritism or political interference in empowering our rural farmers.” Debo said..

    At Aiyete, the headquarters of Ibarapa North, the intervention brought a wave of relief as ten verified farmer groups, each consisting of ten members, received NPK fertilizer, cassava stems, and herbicides.

    ‎The Executive Chairman of Ibarapa North Local Government, Hon. Lateef Akorede Adebare, was represented by the Secretary of the Local Government, Hon. Oyediran Monsuru, who commended the initiative

    ‎”What the government is doing through OYSADA is not just support, it is a statement that rural farmers matter.”

    ‎At the Ibarapa East distribution centre in Eruwa, verified farmers received NPK fertilizer, improved maize seeds, and herbicides. The Executive Chairman, Hon. Arogundade Owolabi, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Olatunji Kazali.

    “This initiative is a lifeline to many of our farmers who have been struggling with the rising cost of inputs. The transparency and efficiency of OYSADA’s operations under Dr. Debo Akande are commendable.”

    ‎Also, at Ibarapa Central in Igboora, the distribution was met with enthusiasm. The LGA Chairman, Hon. Sola Adeleke, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Atilola Oyeyemi.

    “This is what inclusive governance looks like. These inputs are not handouts, they are investments in the future of food security.” He said.

    The distribution train also reached Iwere Ile in Iwajowa Local Government, where over 100 farmers received 50kg SSP fertilizer, soybean herbicide, NoduMax legume inoculant for soybeans, and 10kg soybean seeds each.

    ‎The event was supervised by the Iwajowa Local Government Chairman, Hon. Abiodun Oyewunmi Muritala, who was represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Adeola Seyi.

    ‎In Itesiwaju LGA, the distribution was held at Otu, where it was overseen by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Ayangade Peter Ayantayo, who represented the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ojo Monsuru Olayemi.

    Hon. Ayantayo praised the initiative, saying, “This programme is a direct investment in our people. It shows that government can work for everyone, not just the privileged. We are grateful for this timely intervention.”

    High-profile beneficiaries in the area included the Oniro of Otu, His Royal Highness, Oba Sunday Adepoju, and Chief Julius Ayandele Ayanwunmi.

    ‎Speaking on behalf of traditional leaders, Oba Adepoju applauded the state government’s grassroots engagement, “For the government to remember us here in the rural communities shows that we are not forgotten. This is the kind of responsive leadership we prayed for.”

    One of the beneficiaries, Alabi Saminu, a cassava farmer, said.

    ‎“We were almost giving up because fertilizer and herbicides are now beyond the reach of poor farmers like us. But today, we received help without stress or middlemen. Governor Makinde has shown that he understands our struggles.”

    Pastor Olayiwola, Chairman of the Farmers Association in Ibarapa North, also remarked, “This is the first time in years that our people are receiving government support directly. We are not just receiving farm inputs, we are receiving encouragement to keep feeding the state.”

    Ajayi Olakunle, a maize farmer, described the intervention as timely.

    He said, “When I heard about this programme, I didn’t believe it would reach us. But here I am today with fertilizer and seeds in my hands. It’s not just support, it’s a show of genuine concern.”

    Another farmer, Segun Ojebola, added, “For years, we’ve heard about government programmes that never get to the real farmers. But this is different. This support got to us directly, no politics, no middlemen.”

    The Chairman of the Farmers’ Association in Ibarapa Central, Adeleke Azeez, added:

    “We farmers are the backbone of this state’s food supply. But today, Governor Makinde has shown that he sees us. With these inputs, many of our members will return to their farms with renewed hope.”

    Okegbenle Mofoyofolu, a representative of a women-led cooperative, said:

    Many of us are single mothers and widows. This support is nothing short of a miracle. The fact that we were included means someone is truly listening to rural voices.”

    Among the beneficiaries were Moriamo Yekini and Akintunde Yusuf, who both expressed deep gratitude for the assistance that came at a critical time in the farming season.

    Moriamo Yekini, a widow and vegetable farmer, said, “I never thought I would benefit from a government programme like this. With these inputs, I can expand my farm and take better care of my children. This is a huge blessing.”

    Akintunde Yusuf, a young farmer from Iwere Ile, added, “This support proves that farming is not a forgotten profession. With the rising cost of everything, this is the boost I needed to keep going. I’m grateful to OYSADA and Governor Makinde.”

    The programme has brought hope and relief to farmers in the region, enabling them to continue farming despite the challenges posed by the economic hardship.

    The distribution exercise is part of the state government’s efforts to enhance food production and mitigate the effects of the fuel subsidy removal on smallholder farmers.

  • UCH Nurses Join Seven-Day Warning Strike, Demanding Better Pay, Staffing

    UCH Nurses Join Seven-Day Warning Strike, Demanding Better Pay, Staffing

     

    UCH Nurses Join Seven-Day Warning Strike, Demanding Better Pay, Staffing

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Nurses at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan have joined a nationwide strike called by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) due to unresolved issues with the Federal Government.

    The strike, which began on July 29, will end on Aug. 5 with the hope that government will meet their demands.

     

    However, if their demands aren’t met, the nurses have threatened to issue a 21-day ultimatum and potentially escalate to an indefinite strike.

     

    Their key demands include; Immediate Gazetting and implementation of the 2016 Nurses Scheme of Service to guide their profession.

    Speaking with newsmen after a closed-door meeting at UCH, the Chairperson of NANNM UCH chapter, Funmilola Faminu, said the decision to fully comply with the national directive was unanimous.

    The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment had earlier convened a meeting with the association, but talks ended in a deadlock, prompting the industrial action now affecting public hospitals across the country. (NAN)

  • 7-Day Strike Action Commences as NANNM, FG Meeting Ends in Deadlock.

    7-Day Strike Action Commences as NANNM, FG Meeting Ends in Deadlock.

    7-Day Strike Action Commences as NANNM, FG Meeting Ends in Deadlock.

    ‎By Adewale Owoade

    ‎The meeting between the Federal Government and the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) held on Tuesday , 29 of July, 2025, at the Ministry of Labour and Employment conference hall, presided over by Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, has ended in deadlock.

    In in statement signed by Chidi Aligwe of NANNM National Headquarters, Abuja, stated that despite a thorough analysis of the Association’s demands, the Ministry and NANNM could not come to a mutually acceptable conclusion. As a result, the strike action declared by NANNM will commence tonight.

    The meeting was adjourned to a later date, with the Hon. Minister of Health, Office of the Head of Service of the Federation, and other relevant agencies expected to be present.

    NANNM members are urged to ensure total compliance with the strike action. The Association reaffirms its commitment to the struggle for improved working conditions and welfare for nurses and midwives in Nigeria.

    ‎Others present in the meeting were representative of FMOH&S, office of the accountant general of the federation and the budget office and National Salaries Income and Wages Commission

  • SWAN Calls for Recognition,  Support for Nigerian Sports Journalists.

    SWAN Calls for Recognition,  Support for Nigerian Sports Journalists.

    ‎SWAN Calls for Recognition,  Support for Nigerian Sports Journalists.

    By Adewale Owoade

    The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) and other stakeholders to recognise and reward the contributions of Nigerian sports journalists, who have played a vital role in promoting sports development in the country.

    ‎In a statement signed by Secretary-General Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo on behalf of President Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, SWAN decried the neglect of sports journalists by key actors in the Nigerian sports industry.

    President Benjamin noted that sports journalists face numerous challenges, including financial constraints, harsh weather conditions, and associated risks, yet they are often treated with disdain by administrators.

    The SWAN President cited the recent 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where over 25 Nigerian sports journalists attended the tournament through personal funding, without institutional or governmental sponsorship.

    ‎He emphasised that journalists play a crucial role in amplifying the successes of athletes and teams, and their contributions deserve recognition.

    ‎President Benjamin urged the NSC, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and other federations to prioritize inclusive planning and investment in the welfare and integration of sports journalists as core stakeholders.

    He stressed that the media’s role in sports development is foundational and deserves acknowledgment.

    ‎”Journalists pay their way through to attend and cover proceedings at competitions, face harsh conditions, and associated risks, yet administrators and others see and treat them with disdain.

    ” It’s time for sports administrators to recognise the value of sports journalists and include them in key decision-making processes.” he said.

    ‎President Benjamin commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and past Nigerian leaders for rewarding athletes and technical officials with cash, houses, and national honours for their achievements.

    ‎“Yes, the athletes and technical officials deserve to be rewarded and celebrated. However, journalists as humans, who have shown greater dedication in championing the sporting, nay economic growth for Nigeria, deserve more.

    ‎”In other climes, the government, corporate organisations, and sports bodies do so much in ensuring that the sporting media are taken care of one way or the other, but in Nigeria, even the sports professionals, including highly placed officials at the then Ministry of Sports, now National Sports Commission (NSC), see media as a mere appendage—which ought not to be so.

    ‎”Most times, during the planning and execution of sporting programmes and activities, the administrators intentionally sideline the media,” he said.

    ‎Referring again to the trend of exclusion, Benjamin questioned the motives of administrators who rely on the media during personal crises but shun them in institutional engagements.

    “Why will the sports administrators act as though sports journalists don’t matter to them, yet they run to same media whenever they are under pressure for certain personal aggrandizement?

    ‎”Why does the claim of ‘no funds’ always rear up when the media is meant to be part of crucial events, yet the administrators find ways of taking care of their continuous comfort zones?

    “In recent times, the neglect has taken a new dimension with NSC top hierarchy repeatedly excluding SWAN, and indeed sports writers, from key national and international sporting engagements,” he said.

  • Southwest Governors Seek Solutions to Regional Challenges

    Southwest Governors Seek Solutions to Regional Challenges

    Southwest Governors Seek Solutions to Regional Challenges

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Governors in Nigeria’s Southwest region are working together to address pressing issues affecting the area, including food insecurity, infrastructure development, economic integration, and regional security.

     

    This was disclosed by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun during a private visit to his Oyo State counterpart, Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan.

     

    Governor Abiodun emphasised the need for state executives to collaborate in finding lasting solutions to common challenges.

     

    He stressed that this collective approach would pave the way for all-round development and improve the lives of citizens in the region.

     

    “Today have come to discuss such matters of mutual interest and importance with my brother, Gov Makinde, you can see that every day in our sub regions we continue to host major investors, and because of the contiguousness of our states, Ogun state is contiguous to Oyo on so many fronts.

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    ‎“At a time like this, which has presented itself for us to look at how to strengthen that economy relationships that we have especially in the Agric sector, as we are all striving for food security and sovereignty.

     

    “Our discussion is centered about how we can further collaborate to ensure we eat what grow and we grow what we eat, and we turn our region into the Bread basket of this country.

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    ‎“Oyo State is doing a lot in Fashola farm and we also doing a lot in Odeda, and those areas are better areas.

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    ‎“We come also to discuss security issues as well; I know how both states and other states in the Southwest were championing the issue of Amotekun which had been very helpful.

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    “To gather and provide intelligence for our people, strengthen our security architecture,” Abiodun said

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  • OYSADA, N-CARES Empower Oyo Farmers with 5th Round of Farm Input Distribution.

    OYSADA, N-CARES Empower Oyo Farmers with 5th Round of Farm Input Distribution.

    OYSADA, N-CARES Empower Oyo Farmers with 5th Round of Farm Input Distribution.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) has commenced the fifth distribution of farm inputs to farmers across the state under the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (N-CARES) program.

     

    The distribution exercise took place at Arowomole, headquarters of Ogbomosho South Local Government, aimed to boost food production and support farmers in the state.

     

    The State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ishola Popoola, reiterated OYSADA’s commitment to reaching every farming community across the state, urged farmers to make good use of the inputs.

     

    According to him, the agency has supported over 13,000 smallholder vulnerable farmers in the state, reflecting in the high volume of crop production in the last three years.

     

    While addressing the farmers on behalf of the OYSADA DG, Popoola stated that Governor Seyi Makinde had mandated the agency to carry out the exercise to assist farmers across the state and increase food production.

     

    Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Elder John Oyekale, Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ogbomosho South Chapter, said:

     

    “We really appreciate Governor Makinde for his timely support. I also commend the DG of OYSADA, Dr. Debo Akande, for the transparent and orderly manner in which this distribution was carried out.”

     

    In Ogbomosho North Local Government, the OYSADA N-Cares distribution team was received by the Executive Chairman, Hon. George Ogunlade, alongside the Secretary of the Local Government, Mrs. Bolanle Olaniyi, and other political officials.

     

    In his remarks, Hon. Ogunlade said, “Governor Makinde is doing well for farmers in the state. Just a few weeks ago, some of our farmers were called to Ibadan, where they received farm inputs.

     

    Today, we are also witnessing another farm input distribution by OYSADA. Our farmers will go home with smiles on their faces, as they are receiving another round of support.”

     

    “So, I’m using this medium to urge you all to continue supporting our government, the Engr. Seyi Makinde-led administration, because to whom much is given, much is expected.”

     

    The distribution exercise also took place in Ido Local Government Area, where the OYSADA N-Cares team, led by the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ishola Popoola, who was represented by Dr. Ayedun Bamikole, reiterated the agency’s commitment to reaching every farming community across the state.

     

    The Executive Chairman of Ido Local Government, Hon. Sheriff Adeojo, expressed his gratitude to the governor and OYSADA. He revealed that a total of 40 bags of NPK fertilizer, 100 bags of 50kg maize seeds, and 70 bottles of 1-litre herbicides were distributed to ten groups of farmers.

     

    In his words, “This administration is intentional about boosting food production and empowering rural farmers. Ido Local Government is grateful to Governor Makinde and OYSADA for this targeted intervention. We will continue to play our part in supporting agribusiness.”

     

    Also present were key local government officials, agricultural supervisors, and community leaders who supported the smooth execution of the exercise.

     

    Farmers who benefited from the distribution exercise expressed their gratitude to the state government, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, and OYSADA, led by Dr. Debo Akande.

     

    Two local farmers, Mrs. Alice Oyekale (a cassava farmer) and Mr. Alabi Are (a maize and soya beans farmer), also expressed their appreciation.

     

    Mrs. Oyekale said, “This support has brought great relief to us. The cost of inputs is very high, and we didn’t expect this kind of help to come so soon. We thank the government for remembering us.”

     

    Mr. Are added, “I’m grateful for this intervention. It shows that the government is serious about supporting agriculture. With these inputs, I am hopeful this farming season will be a productive one.”

    Two beneficiaries from Ido also shared their views. Mr. Razaq Adebayo, a maize farmer from Akufo, said, “These inputs came at the right time. We have been struggling with the high cost of fertilizers and seeds. I thank Governor Makinde for remembering us in Ido. With this support, my yield will definitely improve.”

     

    Mr. Olarenwaju Akeem, representing a cooperative group, added, “What we received today may look small to some people, but to us farmers, it is a big relief. OYSADA has done this with fairness and transparency. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Debo Akande and the Governor. They have brought hope back to us.”

  • Art Stakeholders Advocate Preservation of African Culture

    Art Stakeholders Advocate Preservation of African Culture

    Art Stakeholders Advocate Preservation of African Culture

    By Adewale Owoade

    Notable art curators and enthusiasts have stressed the need to preserve African art, culture and traditions.

    They made the call at the 7th Art Competition and Inter-Schools Talent Hunt Exhibition, held at the National Museum of Unity (NCMC), Aleshinloye, Ibadan.

    The stakeholders urged Africans to celebrate their roots and honour their stories to inspire pride in future generations.

    They said African cultural heritage was crucial for fostering identity and promoting intercultural understanding.

    ‎The convener of the exhibition, Olaide Turner-Moyet, encouraged young talents to take their future into their own hands and celebrate their African heritage.

    ‎“The mission is to foster confidence and curiosity in young minds by allowing them to see through their own perspective and sculpt their stories.

    ‎“This event is an initiative deeply rooted in purpose, passion and the profound power of creative expression.

    ‎“The inspiration behind this initiative is the pressing need to engage and empower the next generation by building their confidence and nurturing their talents.

    ‎“It also aims to provide meaningful exposure that validates their dreams,” she said.

    A guest lecturer, Chief Tunde Odunlade, a renowned artist and cultural expert, called on Nigerians to unite in preserving the nation’s arts and culture.

    He said the country could not afford to let its rich heritage fade into obscurity, adding that wisdom resided in traditions.

    ‎”Incorporating traditional art forms into the curriculum is vital. This not only preserves our rich history but also empowers students to express their identities confidently.”

    “When young people understand and value their culture, they become ambassadors of that heritage, carrying it forward into the future.

    ‎”Communities must take ownership of their cultural narratives. By hosting local events and supporting emerging artists, we can create a vibrant cultural landscape that resonates with all.”

    ‎”This is where true empowerment lies, when individuals feel a sense of belonging and pride in their cultural identities,” he said.

    Also speaking, the Director of Medical Social Services, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Olagunju Adelayo, stressed the need for moral instruction in school curricula.

    “We must reinstate moral instruction in the school curriculum,” he suggested.

    ‎The Media Head of the Young Artist Art Hub, Comrade Olawale Ogunbusola, urged students to nurture their talents, saying such gifts could open doors to high places if discovered and developed early.

    ‎The Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Segun Olayiwola, represented by the Registrar of Exams, Mr Johnson Awodeji, urged leaders to tap into the potential of Nigerian youths.

    ‎”We have a lot of talent in this country, it just for our leaders to get it right and do the needful so that these talents will not waste away.

    “I want to encourage the parents of these children to continue to guide them, pray for them so that the gift will not be a waste .”

    ‎A virtual artist, Oluwole Omofemi, said government should support the art sector and promote young artists.

    ‎”It is a good thing to discover new artists which will give a kind of platform for creativity in the art sector.

    ‎”If we have more of this a lot of younger artists will also be discovered like I was discovered few years ago.

    ‎”The government should get more involved in the art sector to promote younger artists, because we need more creative people in the country, people that can come up with different ideas, new innovative that can help.

    “I would also like to encourage the parents that whatever their kids decide to do they should give total support .”

    ‎The event featured award presentations to schools that won various art competitions.

    ‎Some of the award-winning schools included Lead City International School, St. Louis Grammar School, Bodija International College, Quiblah International School, Community High School, Iseyin, and Community High School, Samonda.

    ‎The event, themed “My African Roots; My Pride”, aimed to promote African cultural heritage and inspire young talents. (NAN)

  • Agricultural Industrialisation Key to African Development – Dr. Debo Akande.

    Agricultural Industrialisation Key to African Development – Dr. Debo Akande.

        

    Agricultural Industrialisation Key to African Development – Dr. Debo Akande.

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.

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    ‎The Director General of Oyo State Agricultural Development Agency (OYSADA), Dr. Debo Akande, has emphasised the importance of tech-driven agriculture and industrialisation in driving economic growth and development in Africa.

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    ‎He made this assertion at the 18th annual lecture of Splash FM, held in commemoration of the station’s anniversary and the 86th birthday of its founder, Oba Dr. Murtala Adebayo Akande.

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    ‎Dr. Akande highlighted the paradox of economic growth and poverty reduction in Nigeria, noting that despite periods of economic growth, poverty levels have remained high.

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    ‎He emphasised the need for Africa to industrialise its agricultural sector to drive economic growth and development. He noted that Oyo State, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has made significant progress in developing its agribusiness strategy.

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    ‎ “Economic development broadly implies improvement in the overall well-being of a population, the standard of living, quality of life, and progressive changes in the country’s socio-economic structure.

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    ‎“Our narrative as a nation has been that of one that has struggled with a systematic and consistent economic growth strategy and inability to translate any economic growth that has occurred in history into economic development.

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    ‎” Poverty reduction, which is one of the primary goals and measurements of economic development, is a major paradox to economic growth in Nigeria.

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    ‎“The poverty and economic growth paradox in Nigeria is not new. During most of the periods that Nigeria’s economy was growing, the poverty level was also high.

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    ‎” Between the late 1970s and 1990, Nigeria’s poverty level, which was already 27%, subsequently jumped to 46% in 1996, and it currently stands at 40.1%.

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    ‎“From Independence, the focus of Nigeria’s government policy shifted from the extraction policy of the colonial era to export-led growth and import-substitution policy for industrialisation.

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    ‎ “Today, Oyo is on the verge of industrializing its agricultural sector. You may say I am biased, but I am speaking the facts, and they say data is sacred. In the last six years, Oyo State has ticked most of the boxes above.

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    ‎”Oyo State, under the visionary leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde, developed its own agribusiness strategy as far back as 2019,” he said.

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    ‎In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion Prof. Jide Owoeye stated that the gathering is not just a calendar coincidence but a convergence of excellence.

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    ‎Prof. Owoeye who also doubles as the Chairman, Governing Council, Lead City University, Ibadan described the event as a two celebrations, one legacy.

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    ‎“Today, I stand here as Chairman of the Governing Council of Lead City University, chairing this occasion, but I also stand as a grateful citizen of this city because when you tell the story of Ibadan’s modern evolution, you cannot ignore the voice of Splash FM.

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    ‎“Today, we gather not only to honour a station but to celebrate a symbol, an 86th birthday celebration for Oba Dr. Murtala Adebayo Akande, a monarch, a media visionary, and a beacon of Ibadan’s legacy,” Owoeye stated.

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    ‎The founder of Splash FM, Oba Dr. Murtala Adebayo Akande, celebrated his 86th birthday during the event.

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    ‎ In his welcome address, that was read by the CEO West Midlands communications, owner of SplashFM & Lagelu FM – Chief Mrs Atinuke Adetunji, expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and colleagues for their support and love.

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    ‎“It is not every time a man gets to celebrate 86 meaningful years of life, nor is it every day that one sees a dream like Splash FM grow, thrive, and redefine a city’s media culture for 18 vibrant years.

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    ‎“But what is life, without the people who walk its journey with you? Today, I’m not just celebrating my birthday, I am celebrating you, my dear friends, family, colleagues, and loyal partners.

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    ‎“I am overwhelmed by the love that surrounds me, by the laughter in this hall, by the kind words that have been spoken, and by the faces that have travelled near and far just to honor me.

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    ‎”To my friends, Your unwavering support, your constant check-ins, your belief in my person and vision… these are treasures money cannot buy. To my dear family — your love is my compass.

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    ‎“To the entire team at WestMidlands Communications, past and present, thank you for giving meaning to a vision I once whispered to myself. You’ve turned a single frequency into a household name. You’ve taken radio beyond the studio, you’ve taken it into lives.

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    ‎“I often say that Splash FM is not just a radio station, it is a voice of values, a companion, a teacher, an entertainer, and most importantly, a torchbearer.

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    ‎”The fact that it stands today as the first private radio station in Ibadan, and also the first to stream live on Facebook in the city, is not just a testament to innovation — it is proof that dreams, when backed by sincerity and commitment, can rewrite history.

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    ‎” And today, as I look at all of you, I am reminded again that legacy is not only built in structures — it is built in values.

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    ‎“I stand before you today not just as a Royal Majesty or a broadcaster, but as a grateful man.Thank you, thank you, thank you, for the honor, the love, the friendship. May Almighty God bless and reward you all abundantly.l,” Oba Akande said

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    ‎The General Manager of the Splash FM radio station, Mr Tunde Olawuwo said that the annual lecture has  established itself as a melting pot of ideas, by spotlighting critical issues, it continues to drive meaningful impact, going beyond our core mission to educate, inform, and entertain.

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    ‎The annual lecture, themed “Industrialisation of Agriculture for Economic Development,” featured discussions on the importance of agricultural industrialisation in driving economic growth and development.

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    ‎The event was attended by notable figures. (NAN)

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