Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • Oyo APC Leader Begins Mediation Talks Over Candidacy Disputes

    Oyo APC Leader Begins Mediation Talks Over Candidacy Disputes

     

     

    Oyo APC Leader Begins Mediation Talks Over Candidacy Disputes
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎Professor Taoheed Adedoja, a leader of the All Progressives Congress had intensified efforts to broker peace among aspirants jostling for party tickets at the various primary elections across the state ,to preserve unity within the party.
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    ‎The mediation moves, it was gathered, followed growing tension among supporters of various aspirants seeking elective positions under the platform of the APC across different constituencies and political offices.
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    ‎Prof Adedoja,  a former Minister of Sports and Special Duties, had started engaging aspirants in separate meetings aimed at discouraging bitterness and division that could weaken the party ahead of the polls.
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    ‎He envisioned that ‘’if my mediation template is considered, the unpicked aspirants will be encouraged to cooperate with the candidates for subsequent campaign activities of the party”
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    ‎Prof Adedoja who  was the 2007 Oyo State  Governorship candidate  of  the Action Congress  AC, Said,  “from experience any aspirant should be recognised in determining the future of the party  and  can be negotiated on the mediation table which i am  currently exploring  with the current  circumstances of Oyo State ‘’
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    ‎Adedoja established that he has spoken to several of the aspirants, who thought they have lost out in the recent  Party primaries, to continue to work for the party and imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship
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    ‎According to him, the leadership of the party believes that allowing prolonged confrontations among aspirants could create avoidable factions capable of affecting APC’s electoral chances.
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    ‎“The party cannot afford internal disunity at this critical period. That is why  am stepping in to mediate ” Adedoja said.
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    ‎He also appealed to aspirants and their supporters to place party unity above personal ambition, warning against inflammatory statements and actions capable of heating up the polity.
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    ‎Prof Adedoja emphasised further that the financial and mobilisation efforts of all the aspirants should not be jettisoned when candidates emerge either through primaries or consensus ,considering the array of supporters and sympathizers behind all aspirants
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    ‎Meanwhile, political observers noted that consensus arrangements, if transparently handled, could reduce litigation, post-primary grievances and internal wrangling often associated with party contests.
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    ‎However, several aspirants are reportedly insisting on open and competitive primaries, arguing that every interested member should be allowed to test popularity through the democratic process.
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  • Oseni Pledges Effective Representation at National Assembly

    Oseni Pledges Effective Representation at National Assembly

     

    Oseni Pledges Effective Representation at National Assembly

    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎An aspirant for the Oyo South Senatorial District on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Aderemi Oseni, has pledged to provide effective representation at the National Assembly if elected.
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    ‎Oseni made the pledge while addressing party faithful during the APC primaries held to elect senatorial candidates for Oyo Central, Oyo North and Oyo South Senatorial districts.
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    ‎The lawmaker arrived at Elenusonso, Ward 7, in Ido Local Government Area for the primaries and was received by prominent party leaders from across Oyo State.
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    ‎He reaffirmed his commitment to bridging the gap between grassroots communities and the national government.
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    ‎Oseni also pledged to support policies relating to national security, economic reforms and international treaties that would enhance national development.
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    ‎He further promised to attract developmental projects to his constituency in line with the party’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
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    ‎“Every elected member of the National Assembly on the platform of the APC has the responsibility to provide robust governance for the people and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach our communities.
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    ‎“Our people must be proud of us through the quality of service we render during our assignment.
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    ‎“I am pleased with what I witnessed here. The election process was peaceful and party members conducted themselves responsibly throughout the exercise.
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    ‎“In Oyo South, the conduct of the election was peaceful, based on reports from various centres visited, ” he said.
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    ‎In other centres visited ,things were the same, as party faithfuls comported themselves in an orderly manner.

  • Oyo Ready to Engage Kidnappers for Safe Release of Abducted Pupils — Makinde

    Oyo Ready to Engage Kidnappers for Safe Release of Abducted Pupils — Makinde

    ‎Oyo Ready to Engage Kidnappers for Safe Release of Abducted Pupils — Makinde
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has  said the that government was ready to listen to the demands of abductors of pupils, students and teachers kidnapped during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, in a bid to secure their safe release.
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    ‎Makinde stated this while addressing journalists at his private residence in Kolapo Ishola Estate, Ibadan, over the kidnapping incident that occurred in Ahoro Esinle Community in Oriire Local Government Area.
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    ‎He, however, stressed that the state would never surrender to terrorism, assuring that all efforts were being intensified to ensure the victims returned home unharmed.
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    ‎Makinde appealed to the abductors to release the victims promptly, insisting that the government was willing to engage them to save lives.
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    ‎“We will do everything possible to ensure that our children and their teachers return safely.
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    ‎“These are not foreigners; they are our people. Whatever their demands may be, we are ready to listen and address the ones we can as a state government. The children and their teachers must be released without delay.
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    ‎“We have now conclusively confirmed that at the Community Secondary School, seven students were abducted, while at the First Baptist Primary and Nursery School, 18 children were abducted alongside seven teachers.
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    ‎“Unfortunately, as I reported yesterday, one of the teachers was killed, ” he said.
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    ‎Makinde appealed for responsible reporting that the situation is not about sensationalism.
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    ‎“The operation is still ongoing. It remains a very fluid and difficult situation for our troops on the ground. I will therefore appeal for responsible reporting because this is not about sensationalism; it involves human lives,” he said.
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    ‎The governor disclosed that the state government had established an operational situation room at the Oyo State Police Command headquarters to coordinate rescue efforts and provide verified information to the public.
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    ‎“We have set up an operational centre at the police headquarters here. The Commissioner of Police will coordinate the situation room and provide the required information,” he added.
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    ‎Speaking on security reinforcement, Makinde confirmed that the surveillance aircraft procured by the state government had arrived in Nigeria and were currently being assembled at the Nigerian Air Force hangar in Lagos.
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    ‎“The surveillance aircraft have arrived in the country and are presently at the Nigerian Air Force hangar in Lagos for reassembly.
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    ‎“The manufacturers from China arrived about three days ago and will require roughly two weeks to complete the process.
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    ‎“I can say conclusively that the surveillance aircraft will become operational on or before the end of June,” the governor stated.
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    ‎He explained that the aircraft were procured proactively to monitor border communities between Oyo and neighbouring states, as well as the international border with the Republic of Benin.
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    ‎“We were proactive because we wanted to cover the borderline between Oyo and Kwara states, as well as the international border between our state and the Republic of Benin, although we did not anticipate this particular incident,” he said.

  • FG Pushes Dairy Self-Sufficiency with Capacity Building Initiative.

    FG Pushes Dairy Self-Sufficiency with Capacity Building Initiative.

     

    FG Pushes Dairy Self-Sufficiency with Capacity Building Initiative.

     

     

     

    By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

     

     

    The Federal Government has identified capacity building for grassroots farmers as a critical driver for transforming Nigeria’s dairy industry.

    Speaking at a training programme for 100 small-scale dairy farmers in Ibadan on Monday, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Livestock Development, Mr Idris Ajimobi, described the initiative as both timely and strategic.

     

    The training, organised by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, focused on best practices in dairy farming.

     

     

    Ajimobi said the programme was designed to enhance farmers’ productivity, improve milk quality and promote a sustainable dairy value chain capable of benefiting rural communities and the broader economy.

     

     

    “As we strive for self-sufficiency in livestock production, initiatives like this highlight that true transformation begins with empowering farmers at the grassroots,” he said.

     

     

    He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to developing the livestock sector through targeted policies, partnerships and programmes aimed at unlocking its economic potential, urging participants to maximise the opportunity and apply the knowledge gained.

     

    In her remarks, the Oyo State Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr Florence Kalulu, said the training represented a collective effort to strengthen the livestock sector and improve farmers’ livelihoods.

     

     

    She emphasised the importance of small-scale dairy farmers, describing them as central to local milk production, food security and rural economic growth.

     

     

    Kalulu, however, noted that the sector continues to face significant challenges, including low productivity, poor animal health management, inadequate hygiene practices and limited access to modern technologies.

     

     

    “If not addressed, these challenges will continue to affect the profitability, quality and safety of milk production,” she said.

     

     

    She reiterated the ministry’s commitment to repositioning the dairy industry in line with the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NL-GAS), with a focus on boosting productivity, improving livelihoods, reducing import dependence and strengthening national food security.

     

     

    According to her, the training goes beyond knowledge sharing, as participants are expected to become advocates of improved practices within their communities.

     

     

    “We recognise that policies alone cannot drive change. Real impact occurs when farmers gain practical knowledge, upgrade their skills and adopt better production methods,” she added.

     

     

    Also speaking, the President of the Women in Dairy Production Association (WIDPA), Mrs Racheal Eyitayo-Ariori, commended the government for prioritising the dairy sector.

     

     

    She stressed that supporting small-scale dairy farmers would significantly boost economic growth and increase milk production nationwide.

     

     

    Eyitayo-Ariori called for greater inclusion of women in dairy production, noting that recognising farmers in the South-West was a positive development.

     

     

    “Oyo State remains a major hub for agricultural activities in this region,” she said.

     

     

    A participant, Mr Moyosore Olatunde, who has been in dairy farming for 13 years, advocated increased youth participation in the sector.

     

     

    According to him, involving younger generations would introduce innovation and accelerate growth, especially with adequate government support.

  • IBEDC Staff Abducted in Ogun, Company Engages Security Agencies.

    IBEDC Staff Abducted in Ogun, Company Engages Security Agencies.

    IBEDC Staff Abducted in Ogun, Company Engages Security Agencies.

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.
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    ‎The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has confirmed the abduction of two of its staff members in Ogun State.
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    ‎In a press statement issued, the company disclosed that the incident occurred on April 29, 2026, within its Ogun region, sparking concern over the safety of its personnel.
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    ‎IBEDC expressed deep worry over the development, noting that its thoughts are with the affected workers and their families during the difficult period.
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    ‎The company stated that it is working closely with relevant security agencies to secure the safe release of the abducted staff. It added that it is also maintaining active engagement with the families of the victims, providing necessary support.
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    ‎While assuring the public of ongoing efforts to resolve the situation, IBEDC said it could not release further details due to the sensitive nature of the incident.
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    ‎The management appealed for understanding and restraint as efforts continue to prioritise the safety and well-being of those involved.
    ‎The company, however, pledged to provide updates as events unfold.

  • Odidiomo Empowers Youths, Unveils Plan to Make Ibadan Tech Hub

    Odidiomo Empowers Youths, Unveils Plan to Make Ibadan Tech Hub

    Odidiomo Empowers Youths, Unveils Plan to Make Ibadan Tech Hub

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.

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    A member of the House of Representatives, Dhikrullahi Adedeji Olajide, Odidiomo, has intensified his political visibility in Oyo State, leveraging a large-scale youth empowerment initiative to reinforce his governorship ambition ahead of 2027.

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    ‎No fewer than 200 youths from Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency and other parts of the state benefitted from a 10-day digital skills and empowerment programme facilitated by the lawmaker in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA.

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    ‎The participants, largely unemployed, received training in digital marketing, cybersecurity fundamentals, remote work, and tech-driven entrepreneurship.

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    ‎Each beneficiary was also supported with a laptop and startup funding to kick-start digital ventures.

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    ‎Speaking at the closing ceremony, Olajide—who chairs the House Committee on Digital, ICT and Cybersecurity—framed the intervention as both an economic and strategic response to youth unemployment and the widening digital gap.

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    ‎He said the initiative aligns with his broader vision of transforming Oyo into a technology-driven economy, noting that Ibadan has the potential to emerge as a leading innovation hub in the South-West.

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    ‎Olajide also acknowledged the role of Governor Seyi Makinde in laying what he described as a “solid foundation” in infrastructure, education, and governance, pledging to consolidate on those gains if elected.

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    ‎According to him, the programme is part of a sustained effort that has seen over 2,400 youths trained across the state, alongside the establishment of digital hubs and provision of scholarships.

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    ‎“This is not just the end of a training programme but the beginning of economic independence for these young people,” he said. “The tools provided are meant to drive innovation, enterprise and productivity.”

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    ‎Beyond empowerment, the lawmaker used the platform to advance his policy direction, highlighting plans for broadband expansion, public Wi-Fi in commercial centres, and the establishment of tech and innovation hubs across the state.

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    ‎He also disclosed that a Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill he sponsored at the National Assembly is nearing public hearing, calling on stakeholders to contribute to shaping Nigeria’s digital policy framework.

    ‎Reaffirming his governorship ambition, Olajide said his aspiration is driven by a commitment to deepen ongoing reforms and unlock new economic opportunities through technology and innovation.

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    ‎“We will not slow down progress. We will scale it up—particularly by investing in digital infrastructure and skills that create jobs and improve livelihoods,” he stated.

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    ‎A representative of NITDA, Eedris Faruk, said the training exposed participants to practical digital tools, including artificial intelligence applications and online business development.

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    ‎Some beneficiaries who spoke at the event commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, while pledging support for the lawmaker’s gubernatorial bid.

  • 536 Visually Impaired Candidates Sit UTME, Stakeholders Applaud JAMB Boss.

    536 Visually Impaired Candidates Sit UTME, Stakeholders Applaud JAMB Boss.

    536 Visually Impaired Candidates Sit UTME, Stakeholders Applaud JAMB Boss.

     

    By Adewale  Owoade

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    ‎The Chairman of the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), Emeritus Professor Peter Okebukola, has commended the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Is-haq Oloyede, for his sustained commitment to inclusive education, as 536 blind candidates successfully participated in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

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    ‎Speaking with journalists on Monday at the commencement of the special UTME sessions, Okebukola said the Oloyede-led administration had ensured that no qualified Nigerian is denied the opportunity to sit for the examination on account of disability.

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    ‎Okebukola, who monitored this year’s examination from the Oyo centre, revealed that the exercise was conducted seamlessly across 11 designated centres nationwide. These centres are located in Oyo, Ekiti, Enugu, Bauchi, Lagos, Kano, Abuja, Jos, Kebbi, Yola, and Sokoto.

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    ‎He noted that since 2017, JAMB, through JEOG, has provided comprehensive support services, including free accommodation for candidates and their guides, feeding, transportation, and customised examination materials.

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    ‎He noted that the successful conduct of the examination for visually impaired candidates underscores JAMB’s dedication to equal opportunity and access to higher education for all Nigerians, regardless of physical challenges.

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    ‎He also highlighted the adoption of a bimodal examination system, which allows candidates to choose between Fully-Braille and Fully Read-Aloud formats.

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    ‎According to him, the initiative, now in its third year, has significantly enhanced accessibility and improved the examination experience for candidates with visual impairment.

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    ‎Providing a breakdown, Okebukola said Kano recorded the highest number of candidates with 136, followed by Lagos with 95, while Abuja hosts 46 candidates. Other centres are located in Ado-Ekiti, Bauchi, Benin, Enugu, Kebbi, Oyo, Jos and Yola.

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    ‎According to him, the exercise was supported by top past and serving chief executives of tertiary institutions, who volunteered their expertise to ensure smooth coordination and credible conduct of the examination across the centres.

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    ‎On admission outcomes, Okebukola expressed satisfaction with the steady improvement in the performance of candidates with disabilities.

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    ‎He disclosed that in the 2025 admission cycle, 483 candidates applied for tertiary education, out of which 252 secured admission, representing a 52.2 per cent success rate.

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    ‎He noted that candidates with visual impairment accounted for the highest number of applications, while other categories such as Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Dyslexia also recorded encouraging admission rates, with Dyslexia candidates achieving full admission success.

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    ‎Okebukola further observed a growing interest among candidates with disabilities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, describing the trend as a positive development.

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    ‎Despite the progress, he acknowledged persistent challenges faced by blind students in science-related courses, noting that efforts have been ongoing since 2018 to address the barriers.

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    ‎He revealed that since its inception, JEOG has supported about 3,200 candidates with disabilities to participate in UTME, with over one-third gaining admission into tertiary institutions.

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    ‎Okebukola said the initiative has continued to attract recognition across Africa as a model for inclusive education.

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    ‎Also speaking, Professor Taoheed Adedoja, former Provost of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, and Oyo State examination centre coordinator for the past eight years, praised Oloyede for what he described as remarkable achievements in the administration of UTME over the last decade.

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    ‎Adedoja, who also served as former Minister of Sports and Special Duties, highlighted the consistency, transparency, and innovation introduced into the examination system under Oloyede’s leadership.

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    ‎He said the sustained success recorded in the past ten years has significantly improved public confidence in JAMB and ensured fairness in the admission process.

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    ‎Both stakeholders reiterated the need to sustain the inclusive framework that accommodates candidates with special needs, stressing that education remains a fundamental right for every citizen.

  • Southwest PDP backs Makinde, dismisses alleged impeachment plot

    Southwest PDP backs Makinde, dismisses alleged impeachment plot

    Southwest PDP backs Makinde, dismisses alleged impeachment plot

     

    ​By Adewale Owoade

     

    ​The Southwest Zonal Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared unwavering support for Seyi Makinde, dismissing recent rumours of an impeachment plot as baseless and politically motivated.

     

    ​This declaration was made during a press conference at the Soji Adagunodo House, the party’s zonal secretariat in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

     

    ​The Zonal Publicity Secretary, Chief Sanya Atofarati, reaffirmed the party’s solidarity with Nigerians.

     

     

    ​”We unequivocally identify with and stand firmly behind His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, whose administration continues to demonstrate stability, focus, and an unwavering commitment to delivering democratic dividends to the good people of Oyo State.

     

    ​”We also commend His Excellency for his dogged and consistent efforts in sustaining and strengthening multi-party democracy in Nigeria.

     

    ​”The rumoured impeachment plot against the Governor is baseless, contrived, and should be disregarded by all well-meaning Nigerians.

     

     

    ​”The PDP Southwest strongly condemns the reckless and divisive comments made by former Governor Ayodele Fayose.

     

    “Such utterances are irresponsible, self-serving, and capable of inciting tension, particularly through the needless politicisation of revered traditional institutions.

     

    ​”This conduct is unacceptable and is hereby unequivocally condemned. Furthermore, the PDP Southwest pledges its unwavering support and loyalty to the Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC).

     

    ​”We reaffirm our commitment to party unity, discipline, and cohesion at all levels,” Atofarati said.

     

     

    The PDP Southwest leadership also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their resilience and continued faith in the party, assuring them of responsible leadership and a better future. (NAN)

     

  • Lagos Outclass Ogun to Win Fifth South-West U-19 Tournament

    Lagos Outclass Ogun to Win Fifth South-West U-19 Tournament

    ‎Lagos Outclass Ogun to Win Fifth South-West U-19 Tournament
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    ‎By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju
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    ‎Lagos State on Saturday emerged champions of the fifth South-West U-19 Cricket Tournament, defeating defending champions Ogun State in the final of the competition tagged the “Jide Bademosi Cup” at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.
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    ‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Lagos posted 159 runs for nine wickets in 20 overs, while Ogun managed 120 runs for four wickets in their 20 overs.
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    ‎Oyo State secured third place after edging Osun State, scoring 58 runs for four wickets in 20 overs, with Osun falling short at 55 runs in 15.1 overs.
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    ‎Speaking after the match, Ogun coach Adeyemi Adegbola described the encounter as tough, noting that his bowlers conceded too many runs.
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    ‎“Our bowlers did not execute the game plan effectively. Also, some of our key players were unavailable due to school commitments. We will go back and intensify efforts in grooming the players who featured in this tournament,” he said.
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    ‎Lagos coach Azeez Salako expressed delight at his team’s victory, describing it as a long-awaited achievement.
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    ‎“Winning this edition is a dream come true. In the past four editions, we consistently finished second or third, so I’m glad we finally emerged champions,” he said.
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    ‎NAN further reports that the tournament, which began on April 15, featured teams from the six South-West states and was sponsored by Energy and Mineral Resources Mining (EMR), owned by former cricketer Seye Fadahunsi. (NAN)
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