Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • PDP Governors Confirm National Convention Dates, Rule Out Party Mergers.

    PDP Governors Confirm National Convention Dates, Rule Out Party Mergers.

    PDP Governors Confirm National Convention Dates, Rule Out Party Mergers.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

    The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF), has ruled out the speculations on joining any coalition or merger with any party.

    However, the party said it will welcome any party, persons or groups that are willing to join it with a view to wrestling power and enthroning good leadership in 2027.

    The governor elected under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) including members of National Executive Committee, NEC, converged in Ibadan to discuss critical issues affecting the party

    The forum which was hosted by the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, had in attendance Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Peter Mbah of Enugu and Agbu Kefas of Taraba.

    Others include Dauda Lawal (Zamfara); Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun) and Douye Diri of Bayelsa.

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and Gov Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom were represented by their deputies, while the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara was absent at the meeting.

     

    The governors later went for a close door session which lasted for about two hours, after which a communique was issued and read by Chairman PDP Govs Forum, Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.

    “The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) held its Meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State, and resolved the following:

    “Noting the nationwide speculations about possible merger of parties, groups and/or associations, the Forum resolved that they will not join any coalition or merger.

    “However, the PDP as a major opposition party welcomes any party, persons or groups that are willing to join it with a view to wrestling power and enthroning good leadership in 2027.

    “The Forum reiterates its position taken in Asaba on the issue of National Secretary of the party, but in the wake of the Supreme Court judgment, the Forum resolved to recommend that the Deputy Secretary acts as National Secretary, pending the nomination/ ratification of a Substantive National Secretary from the South East Zone at NEC’s next meeting.

    “The Forum reasserts our collective determination to avert a rap constitutional democracy hence the decision of approach Supreme Court to give a clear cut verdict on the interpretation of the provisions of the court on the declaration of State of Emergency in any State of the Federation.

    “The Forum therefore restates its solidarity with His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on the ordeal into which his state and people are being plunge into by the declaration of a state of emergency. And we reiterate our commitment to stand with him till the end.

    “The Forum finds alarming the worsening security situation in the country, as evidenced in parts of the country as evidence in parts of the country, especially Borno, Plateau, Katsina and Edo States.

    “The Forum calls for review and reordering of priorities and strategies including adopting a bottom up template that guarantees the sub-nationals to constitute an effective line of defence against security breaches.

    “While raising the concerns above, we condemn the recent attacks in Plateau State, and commiserate with the government and people of the state especially those who lost their lives and properties during this unfortunate mishap.

    “The Forum resolved in conjunction with the National Working Committee (NWC) and other relevant organs of the party, to hold the NEC Meeting on the 27th of May, 2025.

    “Constitute a Zoning Committee that will address all issues relating to zoning of party offices and hold an early convention in August 2025, precisely on the 28th, 29th and 30th in the ancient city of Kano.

    “The Forum equally recommends the constitution of the Zoning and National Convention Committees for ratification by the NWC and NEC as follows.

    “Zoning Committee: Gov. Douye Diri Chairman; Gov. Dauda Lawal – Vice Chairman and Gov. Caleb Mutfwang- Secretary, while the National Convention Committee has Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri as Chairman; Gov. Ademola Adeleke as Vice Chairman and Gov. Peter Mbah as Secretary.

    “The Forum expressed its gratitude to the host Governor, His Excellency. Engr. Seyi Makinde, the government and good people of Oyo state for their unusual and good hospitality to all of us.” (NAN)

  • NSE inducts 295 UI Engineering Graduates

    NSE inducts 295 UI Engineering Graduates

    NSE inducts 295 UI Engineering Graduates

     

    By Olatunde Ajayi

     

    The Ibadan Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers(NSE) has inducted 295 University of Ibadan 2023/2024 engineering graduates into the society.

    The ceremony was held at the lecture theatre of the faculty of technology at the premises of the University of Ibadan.

    Speaking on the theme of the event, ” Engineering Theory to Praxis: Expectations from Young Engineers in Solving Real-World Problem”, the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Oguntala, challenged young engineers to think deeply to explore new and underdeveloped areas of engineering.

    Oguntala, represented by the past chairman of the branch, Engr. Ezekiel Ojekunle, enjoined the inductees to adhere strictly to the highest standards of professional ethics.

    She then urged fellows and elders of the profession to take special interest in 295 inductees.

    “We have invaluable knowledge and experience to share, and I encourage all to mentor these young engineers, guiding them to reach their full potential,” she said.

    Similarly, the Chairman of NSE, Ibadan Branch, Engr. Ibraheem Folarin Bello, urged the inductees to be guided by ethics, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

    “The challenges before our nation are vast, from energy and infrastructure to technology and sustainability, and the solutions lie in the minds and hands of capable young engineering graduates,” he said.

    He encouraged the inductees to actively engage with NSE as a professional home, noting it would remain committed to supporting their growth through mentorship, professional development, networking, and advocacy.

    Meanwhile, the event’s keynote speaker, Mrs Bukola Adubi, the Chief Executive Officer, MicCom Nigeria Limited, reiterated that engineering remained the backbone of every developed society.

    This, she said, was due to its ability to shape the way people think, work and interact with the environment.

    “Nigeria, like many developing nations, is facing a lot of challenges, ranging from power shortages, inadequate infrastructure and environmental concerns among others.

    “The nation needs a generation of young engineers to solve these problems; the young engineers are expected to be at the forefront of finding innovative, cost-effective and sustainable solutions to these challenges,” she said.

    The guest speaker of the event, Engr. Dr Anthony Adeniyi, charged the inductees to first prioritise, always willing to add value to themselves over money.

    He urged the inductees to seek graduate internship placements that would help them achieve a smooth transition from classroom theories to practical realities.

    A civil engineering inductee, Miss Shekinah Sadiq, explained the possibility of a female engineer developing an inferiority complex in a male-dominated profession.

    Nevertheless, Sadiq charged her female colleagues never to relent but to work harder to distinguish themselves in the various engineering fields.

    She expressed her desire to start as an intern to broaden her knowledge and later explore other career options such as the entrepreneurial and management aspects of engineering.

    The event featured award presentations to the overall male and female best graduating students and best graduating students from the engineering department in the Faculty of Technology.

  • Oyo begins 2nd phase of tractor subsidy to boost food output

    Oyo begins 2nd phase of tractor subsidy to boost food output

     

    Edited for use:

    Oyo begins 2nd phase of tractor subsidy to boost food output

    By Adewale Owoade

    The Oyo State Government has launched the second phase of its 50 per cent land ploughing subsidy, also known as the Tractorisation Policy, to increase food production.

    Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye, announced this at a press conference in Ibadan.

    He said the initiative aimed to enhance mechanised farming and strengthen the state’s position as one of Nigeria’s food baskets.

    Olaleye said over 9,569 tonnes of cassava, equal to about 300 trailers, were moved from Ibarapa zone to neighbouring states between December 2024 and March 2025.

     

    “I call on all farmers in Oyo State to take advantage of this opportunity.

    “We aim to surpass last year’s achievement of 6,090.91 acres and reach more than the 1,487 farmers who previously benefited.

    “The 50 per cent Tractorisation Subsidy Programme reflects the governor’s commitment to progressive and sustainable agricultural development.

    “As we prepare for the 2025 planting season, we are confident that this initiative will continue to transform agriculture in our state,” he said.

     

    Chairman of the Agricultural Credit Corporation of Oyo State (ACCOS), Mr Taofeek Akeugbagold, said the policy would support peasant farmers, especially those in crop production.

    He said the programme would begin simultaneously in all local government areas, particularly agrarian zones, by April 30.

     

    “The Tractorisation Programme is designed to subsidise the cost of tillage operations by farmers across the state.

    “This is not a political project. It is open to all farmers regardless of political affiliation.

    “Farmers are encouraged to register with their extension agents and loan base officers in the 33 local government areas,” he said.

     

    Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs Abosede Owoeye, welcomed guests and praised the commitment of Gov. Seyi Makinde and the commissioner to the programme’s success.

    She said the progress made in the first phase was due to collaboration among government, farmer cooperatives, technical partners and individual farmers.

     

    “As we launch the 2025 phase, we remain committed to expanding its reach, improving service delivery and increasing agricultural productivity across the state,” she said. (NAN)

  • First Ibadan man to Lead Oyo State, Olunloyo, Dies Just Shy of 90

    First Ibadan man to Lead Oyo State, Olunloyo, Dies Just Shy of 90

    First Ibadan man to Lead Oyo State, Olunloyo, Dies Just Shy of 90

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former Oyo State governor, has passed away just nine days shy of his 90th birthday.

    Born 14th April 1935, Olunloyo, then of the National Party of Nigeria, NPN, was governor of Oyo State between October 1 and December 31, 1983 having defeated incumbent Bola Ige of the Unity Party of Nigeria, UPN.

    His death was confirmed in a statement signed by a former Editor of the Nigerian Tribune, Barrister Oladapo Ogunwusi, highlighting his achievements as a mathematician, engineer, and technocrat.

    The family is planning a befitting burial and appreciates the public’s understanding during this difficult time.

    The statement reads, “With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer, and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday.

    “The Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo, was the first Rector, Ibadan Polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic, among other notable appointments.

    “His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates, even as we come to grip with this devastating event.

    “The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial.”

     

  • 46th Alaafin of Oyo Installed: Oba Owoade’s Coronation Marks New Era

    46th Alaafin of Oyo Installed: Oba Owoade’s Coronation Marks New Era

    46th Alaafin of Oyo Installed: Oba Owoade’s Coronation Marks New Era

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Oba Abimbola Owoade has been crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.

    The coronation ceremony, held at Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo, was attended by a large gathering of dignitaries, traditional rulers, politicians, and citizens from across Nigeria and beyond.

    Speaking at the event, the representative of President Bola Tinubu, who is also the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, congratulated Oba Owoade.

    Stated further that the throne of the Alaafin “is a symbol of cultural pride, unity and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.

    “On this auspicious occasion, I reaffirm President Tinubu’s commitment to preserving Our Cultural Heritage by supporting initiatives that promote our rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a source of strength.

    “To the great people of Oyo, l urge you to rally behind your new Alaafin,
    support his vision, and uphold the values of peace, tolerance, and development.

    “For the Alaafin, As you ascend the throne of your forefathers, I pray that the foundation laidbby your predecessors will continue to guide the kingdom’s future.”

    In his speech the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde called on Oba Owoade to work hard for the progress of Oyo, assuring that the state government would continue to play a vital role in ensuring the growth and development of the state and promoting Oyo’s World Sango Festival as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.

    “I want to say congratulations once again to the people of Oyo Kingdom. Your patience and resilience have paid off and this is why today has become a reality.

    “Today, the people of Oyo State can be proud again that we have a new Kabiyesi that represents the interest of our people and that of our ancestors.

    “Let me use this opportunity to urge the Kabiyesi and the Oyomesi to work together to ensure that the tradition around the ascension of Kabiyesi remains sacrosanct.

    In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade called for shared responsibilities, cordial relationships and unity among the communities to foster a sense of belonging, overcome challenges.

    And ultimately pave the way for progress, growth and expansion of the economy for Oyo kingdom in particular and that of the state in general .

    Present at the historic event were the representatives of the governors of Osun and Ondo states.

    A wide array of traditional rulers across the country, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, among others

  • Oloye Saheed Oladele Celebrates President Tinubu’s Life, Lauds His Commitment to Progress

    Oloye Saheed Oladele Celebrates President Tinubu’s Life, Lauds His Commitment to Progress

    Oloye Saheed Oladele Celebrates President Tinubu’s Life, Lauds His Commitment to Progress

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Oloye Saheed Oladele, the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland and Oyo APC gubernatorial aspirant, congratulates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, hailing him as a “true bringer of hope” for Nigeria.

     

    Oladele credits Tinubu’s bold reforms for revitalizing the nation’s economy, steering it toward a prosperous path.

    He urges Nigerians to continue supporting Tinubu’s administration, wishing him long life and good health as he leads the country.

    ” Tinubu’s reforms have placed Nigeria’s economy on a thriving path, moving away from artificial and superficial growth.

    “His courageous decisions, which have renewed hope among Nigerians.

    “I encourage Nigerians to continue working with the Tinubu administration to achieve progress,” he said.

    As the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland, Oladele’s endorsement carries significant weight. His statement reflects the appreciation of many Nigerians who see Tinubu’s reforms as a step toward a brighter future.

  • Tomato Production Gets a Boost as Oyo Govt Collaborates with Netherlands on Greenhouse Project.

    Tomato Production Gets a Boost as Oyo Govt Collaborates with Netherlands on Greenhouse Project.

    Tomato Production Gets a Boost as Oyo Govt Collaborates with Netherlands on Greenhouse Project.

     

    By Adewale Owoade.

    Oyo State Government is set to revolutionise tomato production in the state by leveraging greenhouse technology.

    This move is expected to boost tomato production, making the commodity available throughout the year at reasonable prices.

    The Dutch delegation led by the Consular-General of the Kingdom of The Netherlands, Nigeria, Mr Michel Deelen, visited Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State at his private residence in Ibadan, on the collaboration

    Speaking, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser on Agribusiness to Gov. Seyi Makinde, Dr Debo Akande, stated that The Netherlands delegation was ready to partner with Oyo State in the area of tomato production.

    He noted that the state has achieved successes in the agriculture value chain and has particularly carved a niche for itself in the area of cassava production.

    “This is probably going to be the best thing that would happen to our state in recent times; the evolution that is happening in the agribusiness sector.

     

    “It is not as if we have not been doing something about tomatoes, but we have not done enough. So, this visit by the Dutch government to His Excellency is providing the opportunity for us to accelerate and expand on what we are doing on tomatoes.

     

    “People who have mastered tomato production in the world are the Israelis and the Dutch. Today, we have The Netherlands and we are willing to learn how they have done it, because they have massive production of tomatoes.

     

    “The partnership with the Dutch government is going to help us accelerate.

    “This is why the governor has given us a marching order. He wants to see about 50 of these greenhouses producing tomatoes in our state to complement what our smallholder farmers are doing in the open field.

     

    “The Dutch government is going to support while the Oyo State government will continue to provide an enabling environment and the right facility for this to grow.”

    Speaking earlier, Mr Deelen, said that the visit is to discuss the role of government and see how they could work with the Oyo State Government to boost production of horticulture products.

    “We brought people from Westland, and other people from the horticulture sector, to exchange information and see how together we can make sure that production of horticulture products increases in Oyo State.

    “We felt there is a huge demand in the South-West, not just Ibadan or Lagos. Lagos does not have the landmass to produce all that but Oyo State has.

    “The ordinary person on the street tends to gain different things from this partnership if he is interested in horticulture or getting a job in that sector, because it is also about job creation.

    “On the other hand, if the average person on the street is a consumer, he will see that the quality of tomatoes and other farm products in the market will increase and that could be visible.”

    Similarly, Agricultural Counsellor at the Consulate-General Office, Inge Tenniglo, said the Dutch government is willing to partner with Nigeria to see how the quality and quantity of tomatoes can be increased.

    In the same vein, Senior Manager, International and Economic Affairs, Ima Meijer, said the Dutch government believes in sustainable food production and believes that greenhouse technology is one of such ways to achieve it.

  • Hon. Olayinka Segelu Hosts Grand Iftar, Preaches Developmental Politics

    Hon. Olayinka Segelu Hosts Grand Iftar, Preaches Developmental Politics

    Hon. Olayinka Segelu Hosts Grand Iftar, Preaches Developmental Politics

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Hon. Olayinka Segelu, a Germany-based Nigerian entrepreneur and PDP gubernatorial aspirant, hosted an Iftar program for Muslim stakeholders in Oyo State, emphasising unity and developmental politics.

    The event was held at his residence, Monatan Area , in Lagelu Local Government , Ibadan

    As a philanthropist and former National Assembly appointee, Segelu urged PDP members to support a united front for the 2027 elections.

    Segelu stressed the need for unity among PDP stakeholders to produce a sellable candidate who can sustain the developmental progress achieved under Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.

    He advocated for a shift from bitter politics to developmental politics, focusing on progress and sustainability.

    Segelu emphasised the need for a young, vibrant successor to Governor Makinde, who can build on his achievements and ensure continuity.

    In his words, “Today we are hosting our Muslim faithful in our party PDP to an ifar so we can break the fasting together and have time to discuss on way forward on my ambition.

    “These people are here today not because they don’t have money to break their fast in their respective homes but because of the love they have for me and their commitments towards the successful achievement of my ambition.

    “As we all know, I’m a converted Muslim and a practicing one at that, I have been trying my best since all these years by organising an Iftar during the month of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers,.

    “But today will be the grand finale of the program for this year’s Ramadan period and I really love the atmosphere because it gives us the opportunity to speak out our minds and shares some ideas that will help us to move ahead on our journey.

    “As a bonafide member of the People’s Democratic Party in the state, I want to call on our political stakeholders across the state to give room for unity of purpose, we should embrace a developmental politics and eschew politics of bitterness.

    “Unity of purpose will give us a sellable candidate that will sustain the developmental process we are currently enjoying in Oyo State under Engr Seyi Makinde led administration.

    “Governor Makinde need a young and vibrant successor, a personality that will give room for sustainability of his achievements, all his projects must be well guided and sustained, we need someone that can leverage on Governor Makinde’s laudable achievements,” Olayinka said.

     

    Speaking on behalf of the attendees, Counselor of Ward 14, Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Tawakalitu Omolara Alamu and Mr. Shina Akande, popularly known as “Shinafolly” praised Segelu for the Iftar program and pledged their support for his gubernatorial ambitions.

    They described Segelu as a grassroots politician with a strong chance of winning the 2027 elections.

    Segelu’s Iftar program reflects his commitment to fostering unity and development within the PDP, as he seeks to become the party’s gubernatorial candidate in 2027.

  • NIMechE advocates commercialisation of indigenous innovations

    NIMechE advocates commercialisation of indigenous innovations

    NIMechE advocates commercialisation of indigenous innovations

     

    By Olatunde Ajayi

     

    Experts in mechanical engineering have emphasised the importance of commercialising indigenous innovations to rapid national economic development.

    The experts made the call at the 4th Annual Prof. Olusoji Ofi Distinguished Academic Lecture, organised by the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), Ibadan Chapter, in Ibadan.

    The lecture, which also marked the 6th NIMechE Ibadan Distinguished Academic Lecture, is entitled “Crossing the Valley of Death in Technological Innovation in Nigeria”.

    It aimed at advocating for effective support for developmental research in Nigeria.

    The Guest Lecturer, Prof. Abel Olorunnisola, the Vice-Chancellor (VC), Dominion University, Ibadan, said only a few indigenous technological innovations had reached the commercialisation level.

    Olorunnisola noted that far too many local innovations ended up in either the research and development stage or the start-up valley of death.

    He added that the lack of political will to mobilise or harness science, engineering and technical manpower in the pursuit of national economic objectives must be addressed.

    “We need to believe in our own capabilities to innovate; we need to promote local manufacturing and minimise importation of goods and services that can be provided here at home.

    “We must curtail our unbridled taste for foreign and imported goods and services that have strangulating effects on our drive for self-reliance and self-actualisation.

    “This valley can be crossed if adequate support is given by the government, our universities and the private sector to science and technology activities,” he said.

    Similarly, a former VC of the University of Ibadan (UI), Prof. Olufemi Bamiro, reiterated the need to encourage informal professionals with training and mentorship toward modern practices.

    The Chairman, NIMechE, Ibadan Chapter, Engr. Wole Ayanrinde, remarked that the lecture provided the professional body with a unique opportunity to be part of the nation’s solution providers.

    According to him, the lecture aims to provide solutions to the obstructive problems of the nation’s growth and development.

    “We will continually engage critical stakeholders of the Nigerian project till landmark changes are achieved across all sectors through various programmes that will bridge the gap between the industries and classrooms,” he said.

    He described the celebrator, Prof. Olusoji Ofi, as a man of many parts, a bridge builder and administrator per excellent.

    “The distinguished academic lecture is named after the inventor of the popular ‘Ofi Pounded Yam’ to give him a long-deserved and proper recognition of his humble sacrifice to the development of engineering,” he said.

    Responding, Prof. Ofi expressed his gratitude to the association, UI community, well-wishers, and all who had worked tirelessly to make the event a reality.