Category: General News

 

By Biola Lawal

Ayede (Oyo State): FLOWERBUDNEWS :  The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, has rejoiced with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his 73rd birthday anniversary, acknowledging the President’s total commitment to Nigeria”s economic progress and prosperity.

Dr. Abdul-Hameed spoke on behalf of the Chairman of the Governing Council, Hon. Yakubu Dati, members of the Council, Management, Staff and Students, a statement by the Protocols and Public Relations Officer of the institution, Mr. Sunday Adepoju stated.

The Rector commended President Tinubu for his numerous reforms in the different sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Dr. Abdul-Hameed expressed the institution’s sincere felicitations to the President, acknowledging his leadership and commitment to the peace, progress and development of Nigeria.

“We wish Mr. President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a very happy birthday, filled with joy and prosperity.

“The Polytechnic community looks forward to continued progress under his leadership as President Tinubu remains committed to advancement in different areas of the Nigerian economy.” the statement read.

The Rector noted that the feats recorded by Federal Polytechnic Ayede within the shortest period of its existence have been largely due to the commitment of President Tinubu to the education sector.

“Since the establishment of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State in 2021, we have been making tremendous progress.

“Just on Thursday, we had our third matriculation ceremony held in a colourful atmosphere at our temporary site in Iresa-Pupa, Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State.

“Mr. President has supported us through the Federal Ministry of Education, National Booard for Technical Education (NBTE), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and othet critical agencies of the Federal Government.

“So, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Staff a d Students of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, I congratulate Mr. President and the entire nation on this milestone.

‘:God bless Mr. President and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the Rector said. (Flowerbudnews)

By Flowerbud News

With profound joy and immense nse pride, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you, Alhaji Ahmed Danjuma Adams (Quincy), on your well-deserved conferment as the first-ever Ardo Birni of Lokoja by His Royal Highness, the Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV.

This prestigious recognition is not just a title—it is a symbol of your unwavering dedication, selfless service, and relentless commitment to the growth, progress, and preservation of the cultural heritage of Lokoja. Your exemplary leadership, generosity, and passion for the betterment of our people have truly set you apart as a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength within our community.

Your journey has been marked by integrity, resilience, and an unshakable devotion to humanity. This honor is a testament to the countless lives you have touched, the bridges you have built, and the positive change you have inspired across Lokoja and beyond. As Ardo Birni, your influence will not only preserve our cherished traditions but also usher in a new era of unity, development, and prosperity for our people.

May this new role bring you greater wisdom, strength, and divine guidance to continue your noble service. May your legacy as a leader and philanthropist shine even brighter as you carry the esteemed responsibilities of this title.

Once again, congratulations, Ardo Birni of Lokoja! Your honor is well-deserved, and your impact will forever be remembered.

With utmost respect and best wishes,
M.Y Isah

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.

The new moon of Shawwal 1446AH has been sighted.

 

Sultan of Sokoto and President General of Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, to give details in his official announcement shortly.

 

Details later…

 

 

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

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.

Flowerbudnews

The Shawwal crescent has been witnessed in Saudi Arabia.

An Islamic news break monitored by Flowerbudnews showed that this year’s Ramadan fasting ended at 29 days.

It stated that tomorrow, Sunday, 30th March 2025, is the day of Eid Al Fitr.

The month of Ramadan ends tonight at 29 days for Nigerians.

عاجل | رؤي هلال شهر شوال في المملكة، و غداً الاحد هو أول أيام عيد الفطر المبارك لهذا العام ١٤٤٦هـ

 

By Flowerbudnews
The Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, says the Federal Government through his ministry would give the forthcoming maiden Enugu Tech Festival (ETF) a national and global outlook.

The Enugu State Government has scheduled the ETF festival to hold from May 6 to May 9, 2025 at the International Conference Centre, Enugu.

Tijani announced plans to elevate the event into a national platform after unveiling the logo and vest of the upcoming ETF Festival during his two-day working visit to Enugu on Saturday.

The minister revealed that he would personally attend the festival and ensure its expansion to attract tech professionals from across the country and global.

According to him, the Enugu Tech Festival will help to strengthen the ongoing collaboration between the state and Federal Government in advancing technological innovation, digital infrastructure and digital entrepreneurship in the region.

Tijani commended the leadership of Gov. Peter Mbah over his personal vision in fostering innovation and technological development in Enugu State and among youths, adding: “This is a governor that understands and believe in the potentials of technology and innovation.”

He lauded the governor’s deployment of technology and innovation in his achievements in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and industry, adding that these advancements lay the foundation for a vibrant digital economy that would empower the youths.

The minister, however, outlined a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at further transforming Enugu’s technological landscape.

“The ministry, through its Project 774 Connectivity Initiative, will bring internet access to 17 local government secretariats across the state. Powered by Galaxy Backbone and NIGCOMSAT, the initiative will ensure seamless connectivity for government offices and public, facilitating efficient governance.

“In addition, the collaboration between Galaxy Backbone and Enugu State will lead to the establishment of a Digital Innovation Complex. This facility will serve as a hub for technological growth, offering digital innovation, training, and entrepreneurial support.

“It will also connect over 200 state-owned institutions, including schools, healthcare centers, and government offices, to reliable internet services, further enhancing the state’s digital infrastructure,” he said.

Tijani announced the Federal Government’s plan to extend internet access to underserved areas in the state through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF); adding that this would include the installation of a new base station and the laying of 15-kilometers of fiber optic cable to provide high-speed internet.

“As part of this initiative, computer laboratories will be set up in one secondary school and one tertiary institution in Enugu,” he said.

He revealed plans to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Regional Centre at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, adding that the centre would become a focal point for AI research and development in South-East, offering state-of-the-art facilities to foster innovation in AI.

The miniter said, “As part of this initiative, the Federal Government will be training 100 cyber-security professionals in Enugu, boosting the state’s cyber-security capabilities as part of a nationwide effort.

“The Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative, which will train 1,155,000 Enugu residents in essential digital skills by 2027. This programme will prioritise underserved groups, including artisans, market women, civil servants and students, ensuring opportunity to engage with digital economy.”

Tijani emphasised the importance of the joint federal-state partnership in driving the success of these projects, adding that a special committee would be formed to oversee the implementation.

“This is to ensure that the collaboration between the two levels of government continues to yield tangible benefits for the people of Enugu State, South-East and Nigeria at large,” he said.

Responding, the Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government and the Minister for his support and commitment to the development of Enugu’s technological landscape.

Ezeh also took the opportunity to laud Gov. Peter Mbah for his visionary leadership in driving tech governance and fostering a robust digital economy in the state.

He emphasised that the Enugu Tech Festival (ETF) is one of the flagship projects championed by Gov. Mbah, designed to empower youths and create opportunities for the next generation in emerging technologies, particularly in robotics and other cutting-edge fields.

 

The commissioner reiterated that the governor’s forward-thinking approach is aimed at positioning Enugu State as a hub for innovation, setting the stage for the youths to lead the change in the evolving digital economy.

 

By Perpetua Onuegbu

Abuja,  (NAN/Flowerbudnews :  A civil society organisation (CSO), Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), on Friday, unveiled the 2024 Edo and Ondo Governorship Election Ballot Integrity Report.

The Team Lead and Executive Director of KDI, Mr Bukola Idowu, who stated this in Abuja, said that the report indicated that there were discrepancies in the results released by INEC.

Idowu said that there were inconsistencies in some areas, such as arithmetic errors and voter register mismatch, all of which needed to be improved upon.

Although he said that the findings showed some noticeable improvements in the uploading of results on the IReV portal for both states, with 90 per cent of the results uploaded before midnight on the day of the elections, the discrepancies and inconsistencies were still much.

“There are inconsistencies in figures and data released by INEC so that inconsistency need to be worked on.

“Different figures for registered voters. So the one released before the election, another one after collation and another one on the IReV.

“This is not what we should be talking about in the 21st century.

“8,154 votes, representing 97 per cent of 8,377 results uploaded on the IReV were analysed, of which 4,358 belonged to Edo and 3,796 was for Ondo,” he said.

Idowu recommended that INEC should upgrade Form EC8 for customisation and pre-recording of the number of registered voters on the form.

“The IReV portal should be upgraded to allow for results from ward collation points and officials found guilty of electoral misconduct should be decisively punished,” he said.

The team lead also recommended restoration of synchronisation feature by INEC to allow for protection and monitoring of uploaded names.

A professor of Political Science, Adele Jinadu, said for the country to move ahead, a lot still needed to be done about election management.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Jinadu, a former NEC Commissioner, spoke on the topic: “Protecting the Vote-Ensuring Electoral Integrity through Credible Result Management Practices.”

According to him, inconsistencies in election results should be viewed in totality, adding: “we should be careful of data tyranny.

“Elections are complex events to organise and because they are very complex, you can find mistakes here and there. We are all human beings.

“So human error cannot be ruled out. Now, the question is: is it deliberate or not?

“To what extent have the errors affected the results declared? And sometimes, it is very difficult to prove,” he said.

Jinadu, who said flaws and inconsistencies were inevitable, urged the citizens to be vigilant and protect their votes, terming it ‘the watchman’s approach’.

He called on CSOs to leave their comfort zones in the cities and go to rural areas to organise and mobilise people and ensure electoral rules were not violated.

He also called for reduction of over-legislation of electoral processes, amount of funds coming into the country during elections and abuse of power of incumbency.

On his part, the Executive Director, Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), Mr Clement Nwankwo, commended KDI for providing the innovative instrument that could be used by CSO to keep an eye on the 2027 general elections.

Nwankwo, represented Omolara Akinyeye, Deputy Director, PLAC, said the 2027 general elections would be significant owing to what happened in the 2023 general elections.

NAN reports that the integrity report presented a detailed assessment of the electoral process, focusing on the accuracy of election result management, transparency in result transmission and overall electoral integrity.

NAN also reports that KDI used the data from polling units, state collation centres and the IReV portal to highlight the significant trends, discrepancies and areas of reform to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral processes. (NAN)