Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • Take advantage of NYSC Skill Acquisition Programme – DG urges corps members

    Take advantage of NYSC Skill Acquisition Programme – DG urges corps members

    Take advantage of NYSC Skill Acquisition Programme – DG urges corps members

     

    By Olatunde Ajayi

    The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General YD Ahmed, has urged corps members to take advantage of the scheme’s Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program.

    Speaking during his visit to the NYSC Oyo Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, the DG encouraged the 2024 Batch B Stream one corps members to remain focused and utilize the program to become independent and self-reliant.

    “SAED is designed to empower you with skills, making you independent adults.

    “Soft loans are available through our stakeholders, such as the Central Bank, Leventis Foundation, and Kudimata, if you present a good business proposal. Take this opportunity to prepare yourself for life after service.” he said.

    The DG also emphasised the importance of unity and diversity, encouraging corps members to see themselves as brothers and sisters and appreciate each other’s opinions.

    He urged them to integrate with their host communities, respect local norms, and abide by the rules of wearing the NYSC uniform.

    While commending the corps members for their cleanliness and efforts to prevent cholera outbreaks, he advised them to continue prioritizing hygiene.

    The DG assured that the scheme’s management would ensure corps members are posted to safe areas, emphasizing the importance of security.

    Finally, he cautioned against sharing camp activities on social media, emphasising the need for discipline and respect for camp officials throughout their stay.

    Earlier, the NYSC Oyo State Coordinator, Mr. Odoba Abel Oche, expressed appreciation for the DG’s concern for the corps members’ well-being.

    He reported that the corps members have been well-behaved and actively participating in camp activities.

  • OYACA Solicits Contribution of New Set of Corps Members, Reels Out Achievements

    OYACA Solicits Contribution of New Set of Corps Members, Reels Out Achievements

    OYACA Solicits Contribution of New Set of Corps Members, Reels Out Achievements

    By Adewale Owoade

    The Chairman of the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA), Hon. Justice Eni Esan (rtd), has solicited the contributions of newly mobilised corps members to the progress of Oyo State.

    Speaking at a sensitisation program organised for the new corps members at their Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, Oyo State.

    The annual exercise is meant to orientate corps members about the activities of the agency, in the area of stamping out corruption and to solicit their support in achieving the set goal.

    Esan emphasised the importance of corrupt-free conduct in public and private establishments and among the populace for the state’s progress.

    The Chairman also reeled out the achievements of the Agency, said that the agency has been able to achieve a lot while discharging it’s given mandate, among which is investigation of 186 cases out of 337 reported to the office.

    Esan maintained that while investigation is ongoing on 151 cases, seven have been forwarded to the State Attorney-General for prosecution and fourteen persons are facing trial in court.

    She added that OYACA has succeeded in retrieving huge amount of money from corrupt contractors that failed to deliver on contracts collected from government departments and agencies.


    “The Oyo State Anti–Corruption Agency (OYACA) has been able to achieve a lot in the discharge of its mandate to fight corruption and curb corrupt practices in accordance with the law that established it.

    “The Agency has received from Government Departments, institutions and individuals over 337 petitions on different cases of corruption and corrupt practices.

    “186 cases have been thoroughly investigated and concluded. Investigations are ongoing on 151 cases and 7 cases have been forwarded to Hon. Attorney General for Prosecution while 14 persons are already facing trials in court.

    “It is expedient to mention that a senior civil servant in the state was recently convicted by a court of law and sentenced to a term of imprisonment for corruption.

    “OYACA has been able to recover huge amounts of money from corrupt contractors engaged by Government Departments but who failed to perform the contracts as expected.

    “OYACA has also assisted individuals to recover huge amounts of money from some fraudulent civil servants, the Agency has also investigated some Government officials on allegations of diversion of Government funds into personal accounts.

    “Such officers at the moment, are standing trial in court.

    “Also, in several MDAS, persons who had pending applications for approvals for over five years had such approvals speedily granted owing to the intervention of OYACA.

    “As part of the core mandate of the Agency to educate and enlighten the public, we have carried out many sensitisation and advocacy programmes for different groups of people for instance; Chairmen, officers and residents of Local Government Areas in the State, Traditional Rulers, Civil Servants and officers of the Judiciary and Staff and Students of Tertiary Institutions.

    “The Agency is currently running radio and television jingles on various media stations to sensitize the general public on the ill effects of corruption and the role everyone can play to fight same.

    “OYACA has opened social media handles such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X formerly known as Twitter to enable members of the public to view our activities,” she added.

  • NISER DG, others advocate more uptake of research outputs by policy makers

    NISER DG, others advocate more uptake of research outputs by policy makers

     

    By Olatunde Ajayi

     

    Prof. Antonia Simbine, Director-General (DG), Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), has emphasised the need for more uptake of research outputs by policy makers in Nigeria.

     

     

    Simbine said this in Ibadan at NISER Strategic Plan Validation meeting, an ongoing NISER strategic plan activities that focuses on agric and food policy, economic policy, human capital development, environment and other societal issues.

     

     

    She noted that the rate of the uptake of research output by policy makers still quite low in the country. She disclosed that NISER has seven research focal areas which were chosen based on the societal realities of the country.

     

    “It is worrisome that most of the ideas from research institutes are not being implemented by policy makers.

     

     

    “These policy departments relate to the problems of the Nigerian economy and society. As a research centre, we hope that focusing on them will help to address issues facing the country.”

     

     

    She however, noted that uptake of research outputs have started improving gradually through the involvement of external stakeholders, Ministry Department and agencies (MDAs), development partners and national assembly.

     

     

    “We are involving stakeholders, policy makers in the strategic plan validation meetings. With this, policy makers are getting more familiar with what we do and what we are likely to do as contained in the plan.

     

     

    “Through this policy formulation process, it is our hope that policy makers will consult more to get our research output in order to use them to formulate policy for the country, “she said.

     

     

    Presenting the Strategic Plan Document, Prof. Andrew Onwuemele, said that the development of the strategic plan started in 2011.

     

    He said the strategic plan documents were derived from the lessons learned from the evaluation of the previous planning that were implemented.

     

    “We always carry out evaluation at the end of implementation of each plan to see the extent to which the set targets were achieved. More critically to identify some lessons that will mainstream into future plans.

     

     

    “Strategic planning is designed in such a way that it is adaptable and flexible to address any emerging challenges in the country. More external partners are being engaged in the current plan to improve the uptake of research by policy makers, “he said.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop had in attendance representatives from ministries, extra ministerial departments and

    agencies from federal and state governments and development partner organisations. (NAN)  (www.nannews.ng)

  • Basketball Clinic : Participants Commend Organiser

    Basketball Clinic : Participants Commend Organiser

    Basketball Clinic : Participants commend organiser

    By Oluwaseyi Ogunwomoju-Oduneye

    Some participants at the just concluded Akeem Atilola Foundation Basketball Clinic on Saturday have commended the organiser for successfully hosting the event.

    The participants in separate interviews said that they learnt so much in the two- day clinic.

    Olamide Olatunde, 10-year-old, said it was a very great and interesting experience.

    Olatunde said he learnt passing and teamwork with my mates.

    ” I have been to several other camps and clinics. I attend camps/clinics in order to learn and achieve things in basketball,” he said.

    Marvelous Okem, 15-year old said she learnt rebounding, boxing out, and faking.

    Okem said it was an entertaining and educating experience.

    ” I attend camps so as to keep learning and improving in basketball, ” she said.

    Abasilim Ekene, 17-year old said the clinic was fun.

    “I learnt how to box out, how to pitch your rebound and how to play opponents with good defence.

    “This is my first camp or clinic, and I’m impressed. I will definitely attend other camps or clinics,” he said.

    Destiny Sunday, 16- year old, said the experience was fun packed while learning.

    “I learnt what we’ve not been able to learn over time. I was taught how to give a good pass, shoveling, and good defense.

    “Camps are a place you learn and not just about basketball. We learnt personal hygiene, truthfulness, respect, and humility,” he said.

     

    Akeem Atilola, the organiser and a former Oyo State basketball player, aimed to train and encourage young basketballers in the state.

     

    The two-day clinic had 60 participants, including 20 girls and 40 boys.

     

    Atilola, a Kentucky State University graduate, plans to make the clinic an annual event, providing hope and encouragement to young aspiring basketballers.

     

    He seeks to equip them with the necessary knowledge and basic kits to thrive in their basketball journey.

  • Museum, group organise stage play, ‘Ileba Odan’ among students to sustain, impact cultural heritage

    Museum, group organise stage play, ‘Ileba Odan’ among students to sustain, impact cultural heritage

    Museum, group organise stage play, ‘Ileba Odan’ among students to sustain, impact cultural heritage

    By Oluwaseyi Ogunwomoju-Oduneye

     

    The Museum of Unity, in collaboration with the Adamo Adeleke Drama Group, organized a stage play, “Ileba Odan” (Ibadan Warlords), for students to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of Ibadanland.

    The curator, Mrs. Oriyomi Otuka, introduced the play, stating that it is not just a theatrical presentation but a deliberate effort to celebrate and preserve Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.

     

    “Ibadan, the land of warriors and scholars, have stories that reverberate through the annals of Nigerian history.

    “The Ibadan Warlords performance is aimed at reminding us of the past, offering a vivid portrayal of the valiant leaders and pivotal events that have shaped our great city.

     

    “By reenacting these historical narratives, we seek to honor the bravery, wisdom, and resilience of those who came before us,”she said.

    Otuka said that the museum stands as a bastion of cultural preservation, dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s diverse heritage.

    “Through the Ibadan Warlords performance, we strive to educate both young and old about the historical significance of Ibadan warlords.

    “This performance is a powerful medium to impart knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of our roots and inspiring a sense of pride in our identity,”she said.

    The curator described Ibadan, with its diverse population, has a microcosm of Nigeria’s multifaceted cultural landscape.

    The “Ibadan Warlords” performance is not only a historical recount, but also an artistic masterpiece that merges traditional story telling with contemporary theatrical techniques.

    She added that the play is meant to create an immersive experience that captivates and engages the audience, with the old and new exemplifies the innovative spirit of Ibadan, showcasing the city’s ability to honor tradition while embracing progress.

    She added that staging the “Ibadan Warlords” performance also has significant economic and social implications, creating opportunities for local artists, performers, and craftsmen, stimulating the creative economy.

    “It attracts visitors from near and far, boosting tourism and fostering a vibrant cultural scene. By investing in the arts, we contribute to the overall development and well-being of our community.

    She therefore called on all Nigerians to come together to celebrate their heritage, learn from our past, and also, to build a future where our cultural legacy is cherished and preserved.

    “Let us embrace this opportunity to connect with our history, celebrate our culture, and inspire future generations,” she said.

  • FG approves upgrade of Ibadan Airport

    FG approves upgrade of Ibadan Airport

     

    FG approves upgrade of Ibadan Airport

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Gov Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport to international standards, to expand the economy of the state.

     

     

    Gov. Makinde made this known when he received the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Baba Abubakar in his office in Ibadan.

     

    The governor said that the upgrade of the airport to international standards would commence in the next three weeks.

     

    According to him, the project will include the construction of a new terminal, runway and other structural features.

    “Since I came into office, this administration has focused on education, agriculture, health and expansion of our economy.

     

    “My administration spent the last five years turning around the state’s economy and had identified the need for the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport as being central to our economic expansion agenda.

     

    “We have been talking to the Presidency and we got a response from them early this week that the President has graciously approved my request for Ibadan Airport to be upgraded.

     

    “I will be in Abuja soon to get the documents relating to the approval. And within three weeks, we will start the project, we will expand the runway and build a new terminal,” Makinde said

     

    The governor, who appreciated the Chief of Air Staff for the efforts of his officers to work with sister security agencies to secure Oyo State, urged them to maintain the cordial relationship between security personnel and the people of Oyo State.

    Earlier in his speech, Air Marshal Abubakar described governor Makinde as a visionary leader, thanking him for his support to the Air Force.

     

    He assured that the Force would continue to support the state and also build on the mutual relationship with the state. (NAN)

  • Makinde to present Staff of Office to Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin July 12

    Makinde to present Staff of Office to Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin July 12

    Makinde to present Staff of Office to Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin July 12

    By Adewale Owoade

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, has approved the coronation and presentation of staff of office to the new olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin.

    The ceremony is scheduled to hold on Friday, July 12, 2024.

    This is contained in a statement by the commissioner for information, Prince Dotun Oyelade.

    The Commissioner said that “our people must learn to be patient and believe an Administration that has not let them down in five years.

    Oyelade said that insinuations and mischievous innuendos have not derailed Gov Seyi Makinde from the path of justice and fairness.

    He advised the people of Oyo State and Ibadan in particular to await the spectacle of the coronation and presentation of the staff of office on July 12.

  • Anti-corruption: NISER DG, others call for gender inclusiveness approach

    Anti-corruption: NISER DG, others call for gender inclusiveness approach

     

    Anti-corruption: NISER DG, others call for gender inclusiveness approach

     

    By Olatunde Ajayi

     

    The Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Professor Antonia Simbine, has underscored the importance of adopting a gender-inclusive approach in the fight against corruption.

    Speaking at the Actualizing Behaviour Change (ABC) Series in Ibadan, Simbine emphasised that the previous one-size-fits-all solutions to corruption have been unsuccessful due to their failure to consider the gender dynamics of corrupt behavior.

    The ABC Series, a collaborative project between NISER and the MacArthur Foundation, focuses on “Research Support for Corruption Control through Behaviour Change.” The latest installment, “A Gender-Lensed View of Citizens’ Lived Experiences of Corrupt Behaviour in Nigeria,” highlights the need for a gendered perspective in anti-corruption efforts.

    “In the previous series, we have been looking at all aspects of corruption issues, behavioural aspects of corruption.

    “Now, we are considering how it relates to women and men differently, but much more with regards to women; all toward finding solutions for corruption,” she said.

    Simbine argued that anti-corruption agencies must adopt a gender-sensitive approach to address the different ways men and women experience and engage in corrupt practices.

    “The second aspect is that, in the programmes of anti-corruption agencies, they need to now understand the various aspects of behaviour or reaction of people to the issue of corruption and then target their programmes in that direction.

    “They must be able to analyse what a corrupt man or woman does, how they do it, what pushed them to do it, what is their reaction, and then we may be saying we are fighting corruption,” she said.

    Dr. Temitayo Adeyemo, a lecturer at the University of Ibadan, presented research showing that women’s experiences of corruption differ significantly from those of men when interacting with government agencies.

    She called for gender mainstreaming in corruption control policies and institutional structures to ensure effective anti-corruption campaigns.

    “We must incorporate gendered themes in the corruption campaign to enable voicing out for the vulnerable victims,” she said.

    Dr. Safiya Ahmad-Nuhu, Director of the Centre for Gender Studies at Bayero University, Kano, emphasised that corruption is a cross-cutting issue that affects development and requires a gender-inclusive approach.

    She stressed the importance of incorporating gendered themes in anti-corruption campaigns and considering women’s roles in achieving sustainable development goals.

    “There are different experiences of men and women about corrupt practices but at the core of it, is a governance issue that affects development.

    “Gender inclusion is a critical issue for sustainable development. As a nation, working toward the discussion on sustainable development cannot be done in rhetoric.

    “If the country really wants to move forward, we need to consider all the various components of the SDGs in terms of where women fit.

    “It is not just in respect of a particular issue, but all the 17 goals; women’s role in those goals has to be included,” she said.

    The ABC platform provides a forum for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to engage in debate and idea-sharing, facilitating a multidisciplinary approach to addressing corruption.

  • AGWF elite camp for talent identification, scouting says former D’Tigers forward.

    AGWF elite camp for talent identification, scouting says former D’Tigers forward.

    AGWF elite camp for talent identification, scouting says former D’Tigers forward.

     

    Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

     

    Al-Farouq Aminu, the founder of the Aminu Good Work Foundation (AGWF), has stated that the annual AGWF elite camp is aimed at talent identification and scouting.

     

    The three-day camp, which is holding at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, will end on June 23.

     

    Aminu, a former D’Tigers forward and 2015 AfroBasket Champion, said, “Having played in the NBA for 11 years, I recognise the importance of helping others achieve their basketball dreams.

     

    “My journey was made possible by people who supported me, and now it’s my turn to give back.”

     

    He added, “The camp is designed to identify talents that can be nurtured to stardom.

     

    “This is the eighth edition, and I’m impressed with the improvements I’ve seen over the years. The coaching crew is intentional about teaching and impacting knowledge on the participants, and they keep improving every year.”

     

    Aminu noted that some past participants have gone on to play basketball at various levels worldwide, including Adenike Olawuyi, who attended the camp in 2019 and now plays for the D’Tigress and NKA Universitas Pecs in Hungary.

     

    He said, “Our aim is to help every single kid improve in basketball. We want all participants to be leaders and better people. We have scouts here identifying talents to nurture into stardom and make a name for themselves in basketball.”

     

    According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the first day of the camp featured 41 girls, U-19 from Oyo state, showcasing their skills and talents.