Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • Peller Charges Turkish Investors To Engage with Nigeria’s Growing Market For Remarkable Returns

    Peller Charges Turkish Investors To Engage with Nigeria’s Growing Market For Remarkable Returns

     

    Peller Charges Turkish Investors To Engage with Nigeria’s Growing Market For Remarkable Returns

    By Adewale Owoade

    A former member of the House of Representatives, Honourable Shina Peller, has emphasised the need for Turkish enterpreneurs and investors to engage with Nigeria’s growing market for a remarkable Return on Investment (RoI).

    Hon Peller stated this while delivering his speech as a keynote speaker at the 2023 Mindshift Empowerment and Employment Initiative (MEEI)’s Turkey-Africa Entrepreneurship Conference held in Istanbul, Turkey.

    Speaking on the topic, “The Power of Entrepreneurship, the Opportunities it holds and the remarkable potential that lies in the heart of Africa”.

    Peller noted that Africa is a continent of boundless potential and home to some of the world’s most creative minds both within the continent and in the diaspora.

    He explained further that Nigeria, with over 250 diverse ethnic groups and local languages, represents the economic and cultural potential that exist across the African continent, that Nigeria is the gateway to Africa’s world of creativity, describing Nigerian entrepreneurs as vibrant, innovative and problem-solvers.

    Highlighting some of the benefits Turkish investors stand to gain from trading and doing business with Nigeria, Honourable Peller stressed that Nigeria’s youthful population and growing middle class present a substantial consumer base for businesses to thrive.

    He added that the country boasts of abundant natural resources, from oil and gas to agriculture, offering immense investment potential.

    Also, the Oke-Ogun born businessman cum politician explained that Nigeria’s diversity isn’t limited to its rich cultural heritage alone, but that it includes its economic and great entrepreneurial attributes.

    “Nigeria’s entrepreneurs have continuously demonstrated incredible resilience and innovation, contributing to the country’s status as one of the Africa’s largest economies,” he said.

    High Chief Ayedero also disclosed to the Turkish entrepreneurs that their Nigeria’s counterparts do not only foster job creation and wealth distribution but also actively contribute to solutions for the continent’s most pressing issues, which he said include healthcare, education, agriculture and technology.

    Moreover, Hon. Peller stressed that it is very important that Turkish and Nigerian entrepreneurs come together to harness and explore the vibrancy and creativity, potential of the power of entrepreneurship in taking responsibility for problem-solving.

    In addition, the former Federal legislator explained that Oke Ogun region in Oyo State, where he indigenously hails from, is blessed with diverse landscape, natural resources and fertile land, which offer immense opportunities to investors particularly in agriculture and mineral resources.

    He said, “Oke Ogun, a vast area within Oyo State, offers distinctive advantages for entrepreneurs. Its strategic location, vast land and resources and untapped agricultural potential make it fertile ground for agribusiness ventures.”

    He used the platform to acknowledge effective leadership role of the State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, in transforming the state’s landscape and fostering an environment conducive to enhance its appeal as a business destination.

    Some of the prominent personalities at the conference are His Excellency, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Türkiye, H.E. Summy Smart Francis, President, Africa’s Young Entrepreneurs and Special Adviser, (Entrepreneurship), Ondo State, Nigeria, Dr. Yavuz Altun, CEO Happy Center and Istanbul Chamber of Commerce and President of Retail Committee.

    Others are Bülent Akarcall Economist and Former Minister of Health Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, Gökhan Kurtar, Ministry of Agriculture, Republic of Türkiye, Mr. Ismail Aktas, General Coordinator, Europe-Asia Businessmen International Association, Dr. Daniel Deji Ayodele, founder, MEEI Programme, Mr. Martin Arebun, President, MEEI Program, and many others.

    Part of Honourable Peller’s keynote speech made available to journalists read:

    “I am truly honored to stand before you today to discuss a topic of great significance – the power of entrepreneurship, the opportunities it holds, and the remarkable potential that lies in the heart of Africa, particularly in the vibrant and diverse nation of Nigeria.

    “Before I delve into these matters, allow me to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the visionary individuals who have orchestrated this extraordinary event, bringing together aspiring entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and innovators from around the world. Your dedication to fostering ambitious spirit and collaboration is commendable, and I thank you for providing us with this invaluable platform.

    “Now, let us delve into a topic that embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, but also transcends borders and cultures. Turkey and Africa share a rich and complex history that dates back centuries, highlighting the enduring value of cultural exchange. Today, I want to focus on Nigeria, a remarkable country in Africa, as it represents the economic and cultural potential that exists across this dynamic continent.

    “Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” stands as a beacon of diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups and languages spoken. This diversity is not just cultural; it is economic and entrepreneurial. Nigeria’s entrepreneurs have demonstrated incredible resilience and innovation, contributing to its status as one of Africa’s largest economies. It is this vibrancy and creativity that we must harness and celebrate as we explore the power of entrepreneurship in taking responsibility for problem-solving.

    “Within Nigeria, Oyo State stands out as a unique gem. Its diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage offer immense opportunities, particularly in agriculture and mineral resources. The fertile soil and favorable climate make Oyo State a potential agricultural hub, while its abundant mineral deposits are yet to be fully explored. This presents a promising prospect for entrepreneurs looking to invest in these sectors.

    “But let us zoom in a bit further. Oke Ogun, a vast area within Oyo State, offers distinctive advantages for entrepreneurs. Its strategic location, vast land resources, and untapped agricultural potential make it fertile ground for agribusiness ventures. The commitment of the Oyo State government to infrastructure development further enhances its appeal as a business destination.

    “In the spirit of recognizing leadership, I must mention and celebrate the Governor of Oyo State, Governor Oluwaseyi Makinde for his remarkable efforts in transforming the state’s landscape and fostering an environment conducive for business growth and development. His dedication to improving education, healthcare, Agriculture and infrastructure is truly commendable and sets a powerful example for other states in Nigeria and beyond.

    “Today, I want to continue by celebrating the profound cultural connections between Turkey and Africa. These ties have evolved over centuries, reflecting a rich tapestry of shared traditions, values, and aspirations. Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” stands as a testament to this cultural bridge. It is a nation that embodies resilience, diversity, and boundless potential. With a population of over 200 million people, Nigeria represents not just a market, but a vibrant ecosystem ripe for innovation and entrepreneurship.

    “Entrepreneurship is not merely about creating businesses; it is about taking responsibility for problem-solving, innovation, and societal progress. Entrepreneurs, like all of you gathered here, are the change-makers who drive economic growth, create jobs, and address the challenges of our times.

    “Entrepreneurs, by their very nature, are change-makers. They are driven by a vision, a passion, and a commitment to addressing the challenges our world faces. In a country like Nigeria, where access to basic services, education, and healthcare remains a concern, entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to create sustainable solutions that can transform lives. But this responsibility extends beyond Nigeria’s borders.

    “Entrepreneurship is not confined by geographic boundaries. It is about identifying opportunities and building bridges. In this regard, Nigeria stands as a gateway to a world of possibilities in trade, export, and investment. The Mindshift Empowerment and Employment Initiative (MEEI) has opened up new avenues for collaboration and growth. For Turkish entrepreneurs, this is a chance to engage with Nigeria’s growing market and, in turn, benefit from the vast resources and talent it offers.

    “However, like any venture, foreign trade with Nigeria comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, Nigeria’s youthful population and growing middle class present a substantial consumer base. The country boasts abundant natural resources, from oil and gas to agriculture, offering immense investment potential. But on the other hand, bureaucratic hurdles and infrastructure challenges can pose significant barriers to success.

    “So, what are the solutions to the disadvantages of trading with Nigeria? Collaboration, innovation, and adaptability is key. Building strong partnerships with local businesses, leveraging technology to overcome logistical challenges, conducting thorough market research are essential steps to succeed in this dynamic market, getting the necessary licenses to ensure smooth trade and investment in Nigeria which would be provided by me and my team of foreign trade expert to help all foreign investors.

    “In closing, let us remember that entrepreneurship is not just about seizing opportunities, but also about creating them. It is about turning challenges into steppingstones for growth and progress. As we embark on this entrepreneurial journey together, let us be inspired by the cultural ties between our nations, the potential of places like Oke Ogun, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Let us embrace the opportunities in trade, export, and investment, and let us work collectively to overcome the challenges and make a lasting impact on Nigeria and beyond.

    “Thank you for your attention, and may this conference be a catalyst for innovative ideas, partnerships, and innovations that will shape the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria, Africa, Turkey and the world.”

  • Commissioner advocates for education investment in young people 

    Commissioner advocates for education investment in young people 

    Commissioner advocates for education investment in young people

     

    By Ibukun Emiola

     

    The Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Soliu Abdulwaheed, has underscored  the importance of investing in young people’s education, for the development of any society.

     

    Abdulwaheed stated this at the 7th Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony of Abadina College Old Students Association (ACOSA) in commemoration of the 46th anniversary of the College in Ibadan.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event had as theme “Providing Holistic and Qualitative Education Hinged on Integrity and Excellence.”

     

    The commissioner who was represented at the event by the Deputy Director Schools, Ministry of Education, Mr Hafees Ibrahim, commended the old boys for their contributions and support for qualitative education in the school.

    “Investment in education is perhaps the most important investment any individual or Government can make.

     

    “When we invest in the education of young people, we invest in the future. When we build new schools, we are building a safer more prosperous world for us all.

     

    “Lack of education is, I believe, one of the main reasons why a large number of people are still living in extreme poverty,” he said.

     

    Citing the words of Derek Bok, a Former President of Havard University, Abdulwaheed said Bok hits the nail on the head when he submitted: “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.”

     

    Earlier in his address, President, ACOSA, National Executive Committee Mr Okpeta Oyakhire, said students could encourage old students to donate more to the school through proper use and maintenance of donated facilities.

     

    “What can be done to ensure that the old students increased their participation in the school, is for the students and by extension the parents, to use this facilities very well in a good way.

     

    “So that when the old students come back and see that what they have done is well maintained and well kept, then they will be encouraged to do more,” he said.

     

    Oyakhire stated that one of the alumni had promised to set up five smart classrooms estimated at N5 million which has been geared towards building academic excellence and the minds of the students in the school.

     

    Also, an Alumnus Prof. Serifat Aboaba, of the 1986 Graduating set said the old students had created many avenues to improve the quality of teaching and learning in the school.

    He said this they had done through various activities and the provision of infrastructures.

     

    “We go as far as getting tutors for them to coach them in subjects they find difficult. The essence of it is for them to have a good grasps of what they are being taught.

     

    “We believe this will go a long way to prevent them from engaging in examination malpractices.

     

    “We also encouraged the indigent students who are very brilliant by paying for their WAEC,” Aboaba said.

     

    The event featured panel discussion, cultural dance, and presentation of award to distinguished alumnus, outstanding public service and best students. (NAN)

  • Oyo Govt to partner with Poultry Association of Nigeria to regulate industry

    Oyo Govt to partner with Poultry Association of Nigeria to regulate industry


    Oyo Govt to partner with Poultry Association of Nigeria to regulate industry

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye, says the state government is ready to work with the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Oyo State Branch, on how to regulate the industry.

     

    Olaleye said this when members of the association visited him in his office in Ibadan, in commemoration of the 2023 World Egg Day.

     

    He also urged the association to create more awareness on the advantages of eating eggs.

     

    “You need to do more, you need to organise lectures, seminars, you need to go to schools, worship centres,and talk to our people on why they need to eat eggs.

     

    “We are set to work with the Poultry Association of Oyo State on how to regulate your industry.

    “We realised that at the moment, Oyo state is the biggest producer of day old chicks in the whole country.

     

    “And our poultry market is one of the largest in the country, meaning that if we must retain that position, we need to regulate the market.

     

    “We need to have the register of poultry farmers, processors, those who operate hatcheries and day old chick sellers.

     

    “We want to ensure that standards are complied with, the ministry is home of policies and regulations, and our intention now is to focus on policies and regulations for the growth of the market.

     

    “I can assure you in collaboration with poultry association of Nigeria we are going to achieve that within the next one year,” Olaleye stated.

     

    Earlier in his remarks, PAN Branch Chairman, Mr Oyekunle Omidokun, rolled out the importance of eggs to the body.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that World Egg Day was established in 1996 in Australia, by International Egg Commission, IEC, since then, egg fans across the world have celebrated egg day, which creates incredible nutrient power house, with this year’s theme being “Egg For A Healthy Future” (NAN)
    OWO

  • Makinde Condems Road Blocks On Highways, urges improved patrol

    Makinde Condems Road Blocks On Highways, urges improved patrol

    Makinde Condemns Road Blocks On Highways, urges improved patrol

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says mounting road blocks on highways by the Police, will create apprehension in the minds of prospective investors willing to do business in the state.

     

    The governor said this while hosting the newly deployed Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG, Zone 11, Paul Odama who paid him a courtesy visit in his office at Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.

     

    Makinde however said that regular patrol on the expressway, encouraging the officers and men that are on patrol, will bring more peace to the area.

     

    He also commended CP Hamzat Adebola Oyo State Police Command, for his effort in bringing peace to the state and also the synergy among other sister security agencies in the state.

    “Democracy has come to stay in our country and it gladdens my heart that the police is also contributing its own quota to stabilise democracy in this country.

     

    “I will encourage you to keep pushing in that direction, the officers and men of Nigerian police.

     

    “The issue of having road blocks, I think we can do better in this age and time, I want you to please look into that and let’s see what we can do together to encourage investment.

     

    “Encourage the people also, the officers and men that are on patrol, if we can achieve the same thing that we have achieved in Oyo state without road blocks and unnecessary show of agitation, I think there will be more peace,” Makinde said.

    Earlier, Odama appreciated Gov Makinde for various support that his administration is providing for the police in the state , which included vehicles and security gadget for all the police divisions in the state.

     

    He also solicited extended support to the zone 11.

    “Haven been hearing how you’ve been assisting the police force. The governor of Oyo state is buying vehicles for all the divisions in Oyo State, more than 70, I want to thank you Sir.

     

    “Like Oliver Twist, we want to ask for more and I know you are going to assit us, and continuously assist us.

     

    “The Zone in Osogbo is also under your command, Zone 11 is made up of 60 per cent Oyo State and 40 per cent Osun State , because of the population in Oyo state.

     

    “I’m requesting that as you’ve given out vehicles to the divisions in the Oyo state, you should not forget the zone, even two vehicles will be enough for us,” he said.

    Gov Makinde later led the AIG and his team on inspection of new vehicles bought and ready to be deployed to all the security agencies in the state, to beef up the state security network, with a promise to give two vehicles to zone 11. (NAN)

  • Prof. Adedoja Solicits Partnership Between Teachers Continuous Training Institute And NCDMB

    Prof. Adedoja Solicits Partnership Between Teachers Continuous Training Institute And NCDMB

    Prof. Adedoja  Solicits  Partnership Between Teachers Continuous Training Institute And NCDMB
    By Adewale Owoade
    The Director General of Teachers Continuous Training Institute, TCTI, Biase, Cross River state, Prof Taoheed Adedoja, has solicited partnership between TCTI and Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
    Prof. Adedoja asked for this when he paid a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of the NCDMB located in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
    Adedoja who was accompanied by the institute’s Director of Academic planning, Dr. Godwin Ogar, had a meeting with top officials of the Agency’s Directorate of Human Resources headed by Dr. Ama Ikuru.
    Dr Ikuru used the occasion to highlight the various areas of intervention in the education sector by NCDMB over the years across the country and therefore commended the visit of Prof Adedoja to the Board .
     At the end of the meeting, they were able to identify key areas of potential partnership that would improve the quality of education in Nigeria in general and Cross river state in particular.
    Since the take off of the Teachers Continuous Training Institute in year 2020, the institute has been in the forefront in providing the needed reskilling of teachers  to meet up the current trends of teaching and learning.
    In a related development, Prof Taoheed Adedoja also visited one of Nigeria’s  foremost private libraries, The Azaiki Foundation and Public Library, which houses the Niger Delta Museum and Museum of African Arts, owned by Prof. Steve Azaiki.
    Prof. Adedoja’s portrait at the three story imposing library was admitted into the library hall of fame for distinguished personalities whose contributions to knowledge have been internationally acknowledged.
    In his remark ,Prof Adedoja , a former minister of sports and special duties commended the initiatives of the founder of the library, Prof. Steve Azaiki and charged his colleagues in the education sector to deposit their publications and research findings to the Azaiki library for prosperity. prof Adedoja promised to link the Azaiki library to the TCTI e-library
  • Makinde Sets Up C’ttee On Labour Unions’ Demands

    Makinde Sets Up C’ttee On Labour Unions’ Demands

     

    Makinde Sets Up C’ttee On Labour Unions’ Demands

     

    By Adewale Owoade

    The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated ad-hoc Inter-ministerial committee on the harmonisation of various demands by Labour Union.

    The inauguration took place in Exco Chamber of the governor’s office, in Ibadan.

    The eleven-man committee has the Secretary to the State government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo as the Chairman, and Director of Establishment Matters in the Ministry of Establishment and Training, as the secretary.

    Others are Head of Service (HoS); Mrs Olubunmi Oni, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice ; Barrister Abiodun Aikomo, Commissioner for Finance; Akinola Ojo and Commissioner for Establishments and Training; Hon Adeniyi Adebisi

     

    The Special Adviser on Labour Matters; Bayo Titilola-Sodo, the Executive Assistant on Security,; CP Sunday Odukoya, Oyo NLC Chairman; Kayode Martins,Trade Union Congress, (TUC) Chairman; Bosun Olabiyi and the Joint Negotiations Committee (JNC) Chairman.

     

    Makinde said that the committee was necessary in other to address various demands by the labour unions and also having home grown solution to the effect of fuel subsidy removal on the state workers.

    He charged the committee to submit its recommendations in four weeks time.

    “Let me thank the labour leaders for coming to the table, and I’m optimistic that we can have our home grown solution, we’ve done it before.

    “In terms of the welfares for the workers in Oyo State, we’ve been very proactive as a state, and in return we have had cooperation, from the labour leaders, workers, and that has allowed government to function properly and also to go after some of the developmental activities we are trying to carry out on behalf of the people of Oyo State.

    “In sincerity of purpose and having the interest of our people at heart, the both should quickly come together and address the issues that are being face by our people due to economic crisis that the country is in right now.

    “I want to solicit for your understanding, on behalf of the government we must be completely open,” Makinde said.

    In interview with the governor’s office correspondents on behalf of other unions, the Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Kayode Martins said the committee must work very fast so that they can deliver in time.

    “We would like to have it in good time the suffering is already on ground we will put in our best to make sure we arrive at a conclusion in a very short time.

    “The major thing now is that the issue of wage award to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal. Workers today find it difficult to report to their duty post, so something has to be done in good time,” Martins said. (NAN)

  • Nurses in UCH Wear Mufti To Work, Over Unpaid Uniform Allowances

    Nurses in UCH Wear Mufti To Work, Over Unpaid Uniform Allowances

    Nurses in UCH Wear Mufti To Work, Over Unpaid Uniform Allowances
    By Adegbenro Salawu
    The Nurses working with University College Hospital, (UCH), Ibadan resumed at their various working post by wearing mufti instead of their various level uniforms.
    They did this as a show of protest to demand payment of their accumulated four years uniform allowance, following the expiration of 21 day ultimatum given to the management of the Hospital.
    It was gathered that nurses working in Federal hospitals are entitled to 20, 000 naira, annually, as uniform allowance, but the management of UCH, Ibadan, had not been paying since 2019.
    Over this non payment of their annual uniform allowance, the Nurses, under the umbrella body of National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), took the decision to drive home their demand.
    However, this development has raised ethical and security concerns among patients and workers inside the facility, seen a nurse that supposed to be in a known uniform but instead in muftis which is making it difficulty to differentiate between a real nurse and a visitor.
    Speaking to a nurse at the hospital, who didn’t want her name to be mentioned, said it is a very sad thing, for a tertiary health care centre like this, to be in this kind of avoidable condition.
    She added that had it been the management of the hospital did not ignore the 21 day ultimatum given them, which expired on October 3rd, this would not have happened.
    She stated further that this decision  by members of (NANNM), UCH, Ibadan chapter was backed by the national body.
    However, a call was put through  to the Public Relation Officer of UCH, Funmi Adetuyibi, this morning, Friday, October 6, 2023, but she neither picked nor returned the call.
  • NGO donates health care facilities to Oyo State govt

    NGO donates health care facilities to Oyo State govt

     

    NGO donates health care facilities to Oyo State govt

    By Adewale Owoade

    A health initiative organisation, HACEY, has donated health commodities worth millions of naira to the Oyo State government, to reduce malaria mortality in pregnant women in the area.

    The organisation also presented a new data management system to the state, to reduce the waiting time in health facilities.

    The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Soji Adeyanju, who received the items on behalf of the Commissioner of Health in Oyo State, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, , thanked HACEY for the gesture.

    Adeyanju promised to ensure judicious use of the equipment in the health facilities.

    “We appreciate you, because HACEY is known for one thing, qualitative health impact delivery in Nigeria and of course in Africa.

    “Let me also say that, the commodities given to us today will be used appropriately to ensure that our people benefit from this donation.

    “I know when we strengthen the services at local government level, there will be less burden at the secondary and of course at the tertiary level,” Ajetunmobi said.

    Also, the Executive Secretary, Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Muideen Olatunji promised that the items would not be wasted, but used for the purpose for which they have been donated.

    “This intervention they are giving us at this point in time, is another way of strengthening the system that we are working towards achieving and the state will be better for it.

    “I can assure HACEY On behalf of my team, that whatever you do will not be a waste, it will showcase what you’ve done.

    “And, you can be able to beat your chest that you actually worked with a formidable team that is very resilient and industrious and it will give the best account of whatever you invested.

    “So, I can assure you there will be results for the investment and it shall be better for it,” Olatunji stated.

    Executive Director For HACEY, Rhoda Robinson, said that by contributing the health commodities to the state, it would promote access to affordable and quality health care services for rural communities.

    “We are looking forward to expanding our reach and expanding the impact of this project to cover not just Ante Natal Care but other aspect of maternal health care and health care as a whole.

    “This includes post natal care, immunisation and the likes and ensuring that we are also able to contribute improved quality and healthy care delivery within the state,” Robinson said.

    The resource person, Emmanuel Oni, explained that the data management dashboard presented to the state, would strengthen data collection.

    “It helps in strengthening data collection and management at primary health care level.
    “, Basically, it allows health care workers to organise records and also store the records on electric system that is free from damage by natural hazard,” Oni said.(NAN)

  • Miss Africa seeks more support for female farmers

     

    Miss Africa seeks more support for female farmers

    Support

    By Ibukun Emiola

    Miss Africa, Precious Okoye, has called on governments of African countries to increase their support for female farmers, who contribute to food production and preservation.

    Okoye made the call in Saki, Oyo State, during the implementation of her pet project on Agro-Industrialisation where she empowered more than 30 female farmers with 50kg bags of fertiliser.

    She said in recognition of the contribution of these women to farming, her pet project was to encourage local female farmers to keep up with agriculture.

    She explained that they contribute immensely to the growth of the economy by helping to produce and preserve food.

    “I am pleading with the government and private sector across Nigeria and Africa to support me on this project as I am looking at carrying out this project in six geo-political zones and in Africa.

    “It is to enable female farmers to be more productive, save them time and energy and also get the job done.

    “These women are going through so much and usually farm with their bare hands and we can make their lives better and also create more job opportunities for them.”

    She urged the government to support women farmers with fertilizers and machinery that can make their lives easier.

    “With these local farmers we can help our GDP and boost the economy for sustainability,” she said.

    In his remarks, the Royal Father who received Okoye, the Okere of Saki, King Khalid Oyebisi, congratulated the beauty queen for emerging as Miss Africa.

    “I think this is the first of its kind in Nigeria. I also want to commend her on her choice of pet project which is to assist female farmers.

    “As we all know, Saki is known for farming for both males and females and this will boost the number of females that will go into farming if this kind of project is done yearly.

    “We thank God for her life and her presence here will encourage other young girls to see her for the first time here, as Miss Africa in their domain.

    “It will inspire them and make them work hard and aspire to be one in the future,” Oyebisi said.

    One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Aderemilekun Ojo, commended Okoye, adding that God will bless her as they can do much with what was given to them.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Miss Africa, Precious Onyinye Okoye, is a 27-year-old Botany graduate from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)