Thursday, August 24, 2023

Ladipo, NBBofC Boss Pays Thank-you Visit To Adegoke, Ex-Immigration ACG

Dr Ladipo with Segun Adegoke
Retired Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration (ACG), Segun Adegoke has revealed that sports in Nigeria can only be developed in line with contemporary realities in the world if there is synergy with appropriate stakeholders within and outside the sports industry.
Adegoke, who was recently appointed Special Adviser, Migration and Homeland Security to the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, made the call while hosting the leadership of Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) led by its President, Dr Rafiu Ladipo in his Ibadan residence on Thursday.
Adegoke a lawyer, and former United Nations Advisor on Immigration thanked the NBBofC boss for finding time to visit him assuring the boxing body of a good synergy anywhere it might be necessary towards improving the livelihood of youths in Oyo State through sporting activities.
He noted that collaboration has become imperative, particularly as sports is not only one of the most unifying factors for all Nigerians but also one of the key sectors that contributes to the socio-economic development of the nation.
The retired ACG however thanked Governor Makinde for his good vision in ensuring holistic security of Oyo state by his appointment, stressing that the office of Migration and Homeland Security provides professional services to enhance the economy of the state and manage the flow of people and products into and out of Oyo State.
Dr. Ladipo on behalf of Nigeria Supporters Club and NBBof C expressed his gratitude to the former immigration chief for his assistance to the bodies when he was in-charge of the passport office in Ikoyi Lagos where he always gives express service to members of the supporters club.
Other members of the NBBofC family that accompanied Dr Ladipo on the visit are the Secretary General of the body, Mr. Remi Aboderin, the Chairman of Oyo State Chapter of NBBofC, Hon. Gbenga Opaleye and his vice, Hon. Bako Arowolo with their secretary, Olanrewaju Agiri.


Wednesday, August 23, 2023

NANS Chieftain Appeals to FG To Open Borders For Rice, Other Commodities To Cushion Subsidy Effect

President Tinubu
The Senate President Aspirant of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Comrade Olalere Benedict Adetunji has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to review some of the policies he met, and take a critical look at some areas of the economy which affects the continue survival of the masses because the major challenge of the common man start from food.
Adetunji who said this via a statement issued and made available to newsmen in Ibadan vouched for the present administration saying “from our observations as students, we understands that this Tinubu’s government mean well for Nigerian, but there is need for urgent review of some of the policies he met on ground.”
He added that “The policy of the last administration which imposed a ban on importation of rice is not really good, the adverse effects of the imposed ban tell on the masses especially Nigerian students.
“As a sovereign country, the production of rice within is not enough for over 200 million Nigerian, in-fact according to our research, the production of rice in Nigeria can't feed 20 percent of this population, well, kudos to RIFAN and Central Bank on the drastic approach established for the large Production of Rice.”
The Immediate past national President of National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) however, stated that “I think what we need as a nation at this time, considering the subsidy removal; ban on importation of rice and some other commodities should be lifted. Let’s continue the production of rice locally while the borders should be open for foods alone, and when we have assurance that the production of rice and other commodities is enough then the ban on importation can be activated again.”
He further explained that a bag of Rice is now being sold for 42 thousand Naira, which is outrageous for the economy of Nigerian Students and the Masses. “Everyone knows that the most consumed food in Nigeria is Rice.”
Adetunji
Adetunji who is popularly called OBA however urged President Tinubu to see to the food security for all students on campuses, stressing that a student who doesn't eat well can't read and study well,
“I have an idea on how this can work with reliable Nigerians like Otunba Yomi Odunnowo. Also for any Nation to grow, the Private Sector needs to be encouraged, (the Entrepreneurs), FG need to give adequate attention to the policy and grants to support the Entrepreneurs in Nigeria, giving them an enabling environment, from Real Estate Sector, Agriculture, Automobiles, Manufacturers etc.
“They should be considered in all arrangements that have to do with palliative and policy to cushion the effects of subsidy removal, the Entrepreneurs’ contribution towards the GDP of Nigeria which can't be undermined. With all the assurance of the Renewed Hope mantra of this administration, Nigeria will be great Again.” said NANS’ Senate Presidential aspirant.

Friday, August 18, 2023

Gov Makinde Approves August 20 As Isese Day, Declares Monday Public Holiday

Gov Makinde
In line with his policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has approved that August 20 of every year as Isese Day in the state.
Isese is Yoruba word for tradition, and is also used to denote different kinds of festivals held by adherents of the Yoruba traditional religion.
To this end, the governor has declared Monday, August 21, 2023 as the maiden public holiday to commemorate the day.
This is contained in a circular signed by the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo.
According to the circular, the governor urged traditional worshippers in the state to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity and stability of the state in particular and the country in general.
The approval indicates the governor’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for all religious practices in the state.

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Former NAPS Boss, Olalere Joins Race For NANS’ Leadership

Olalere Adetunji
The Immediate Past National President of National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) Comrade Olalere Benedict Adetunji has Declare intention to contest for the Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

Adetunji’s experience according to his profile and background cut across student unionism over the years and has served in various capacities in uplifting and ensuring that the student’s welfare is protected.
In statement of intent made available to newsmen in Ibadan, Adetunji highlighted things he will do different to ensure that the interests of his people are well protected.
The Statement Reads thus: I, appreciate every singular privilege given to serve at different capacity in the student’s constituency. It serves as expository experiences in restoring and contributing to the dignity of our dear students’ community and the Nation at Large. I'm Comrade Olalere Benedict Adetunji, the immediate Past National President of National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS). I have a strong desire in pushing forth in my activism in the student’s community at National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
National Association of Nigerian Students is an umbrella body for all Nigerian Students both at home and Diaspora. Over the years, the Association has been the voice of Nigerian Students at all levels and has been contributing to the welfare of Nigerian Students in one way or the other. After several observations on the activities of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), I decided to aspire for the position of Senate President of this noble Association.
My Aspiration: The aspiration is born out of passion to contribute my own quota to the advancement of Nigerian Students at large by introducing more innovation and creativity to the Senate Arm of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). I will be coming up with lot of ideas that will benefits the entire Nigerian Students across the board, set up strategic committee in the Senate Arm to oversee some existing issues and build a robust relationship with the Senate Arm of Federal Republic of Nigeria to uphold the Constitution of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in fullest.
The Constitution of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) gives a wide opportunity for the advancement of Nigerian Students but there is need for a critical study and understanding to make the most of the Constitution. However, I am going to work tirelessly to ensure that within the stipulated time of frame, a lot of constitution upliftment would have been attended to, to foster the will of the National Executive Council of NANS with great opportunity to discharge their duties without delay.
Conclusively, I reverently declare my ambition to the entire students populace, inestimable senators, leaders and stakeholders as I aspire for the Office of the Senate President of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), with code name RENEWED CONSOLIDATION 2023, Together we can keep the narration positive, I’m humbly seeking for your Support in all Ramifications.

Iyalaje Adini, Ayinde Solicits Prayers, Support For New Hajj Ameer In Oyo State

The Iyalaje Adini of Oyo State, Alhaja Amb. Ramat Romoke Ayinde has called on all Muslim and Islamic scholars in Oyo State to support Sheikh Hashim Abdul-Wahab Atere, the newly appointed Chairman of Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim wing).
Sheikh Hashim Atere was appointed by the state governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde to replace Professor Saheed Malik.
Amb Ayinde, who is also a United Nation’s Ambassador of Peace, in her congratulatory message to the new Chairman, described his appointment as a welcome development to the Muslim Community in Ibadan land and Oyo State in general.
The Iyalaje Adini of Oyo State also extended his greeting to the Chief Imam of Ibadan Land, Sheikh Abdulganiyy Agbotomokekere and the entire Imam-in-Council over this laudable achievement.
While soliciting support and cooperation of all Islamic scholars in the state for the newly appointed Chairman, Alhaja Ayinde prayed that Almighty Allah to guide him through as he begins the management of Hajj operations in the state.
“I congratulate my brother, Sheikh Hashim Abdul-Wahab Atere on his appointment as the Chairman for Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim wing), and I pray that almighty Allah guide you through in your new appointment.
“I also want to solicit support, cooperation and prayers from our fathers, mothers and Islamic scholars in Ibadan and the entire state for the success of Sheikh Hashim Abdul-Wahab Atere in this new assignment,” the woman Islamic leader said.
Sheikh Hashim Abdul-Wahab Atere is a member of Imam-in-Council in Ibadanland. He was promoted by the Chief Imam, Sheikh Abdulganiyy Agbotomokekere in 2020.

Golfers Hails Makinde For Naming De Fun Golfers Kitty Group Member As State Commissioner

"The resonating sound of resounding applause and heartfelt accolades echoed through the ranks of the De Fun Golfers Kitty Group, marking the auspicious moment when Mr. Akin-Funmilayo William ascended to the role of Oyo State Commissioner for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development.”
The above was the way Otunba Abimbola Davis, the Chairman of ‘De Fun Golfers’, a subgroup within prestigious Ibadan Golf Club (IGC) described the recent appointment of the founder of the group and also a former Captain of IGC, Mr. Akin-Funmilayo William by Governor Seyi Makinde.
Akin Funmilayo-William, is a seasoned figure within the civil service in Oyo State, and has left his mark across the landscape of the state, having served in virtually every local government. His journey culminated in his elevation to the esteemed position of Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission in 2019 a role he steadfastly held until his retirement in 2023.
Akin-Funmilayo
Otunba Davis in a piece he wrote in the second edition of the newsletter for the De Fun Golfers Kitty Group, published this month said “it is no surprise that Governor Makinde, is honouring Akin Funmilayo-William’s outstanding service and unblemished professionalism, by confidently bestowed upon him this commissioner role.”
“Unassuming in demeanor, unwavering in loyalty, and devoted to the spirit of public service, Akin Funmilayo William once captained the Ibadan Golf Club and played a pivotal role in birthing the De Fun Golfers Kitty Group. The community he co-founded has burgeoned under his stewardship, becoming a formidable presence within the world of golf”, he averred.

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

FIFA Approves Torunarigha Switch To Represent Nigeria

Jordan Torunarigha
World football governing body, FIFA has granted official approval to KAA Gent defender, Jordan Torunarigha, on his change of nationality from Germany to Nigeria.
The momentous decision follows a formal request made by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to FIFA, seeking Torunarigha, the son of former footballer Ojokojo Torunarigha who played as a forward for German club Chemnitzer FC,  is eligibility to wear the national colours of Nigeria.
The verdict from FIFA’s Players’ Status Chamber Single Judge now sets the stage for Torunarigha’s historic transition.
Born on August 7, 1997, Torunarigha, a gifted defender, currently plies his trade for Belgium’s First Division A club, Gent.
Previously having represented Germany at youth levels, Torunarigha’s monumental decision to switch allegiances to Nigeria’s Super Eagles marks a significant turning point in his football journey and this was officially announced in June 2023, adding an exciting chapter to Nigeria’s football narrative.
Torunarigha’s remarkable journey, transitioning from a striker to a defender, highlights his versatility as a football player on the field.
His football journey began when he joined Hertha BSC as a young talent in 2006, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the sport.
Torunarigha is getting ready to don the Super Eagles shirt, and his presence proudly will likely strengthen Nigeria’s football supremacy on the global stage.

Monday, August 7, 2023

Football Fans Set For 3.0 Role Model Champions Night In Ibadan

The city of Ibadan will be agog as the stage is set for the third edition of Role Model Champions Night Show, an event being organized by a popularly sports presenter, Babatunde Saheed also known as Mr. Sports with motive to celebrate the football lovers and the club of their choice in an electrifying atmosphere where people will gain access to the venue of the event with a customized jerseys of the club.
The governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde is expected to attend the event in his Shooting Star jersey and other top celebrities such as Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and Dr Yinka Ayefele, the Chairman of Fresh FM Nigeria, both an Arsenal fans, Saheed Osupa and Taye Akande Adebisi Currency, both Chelsea fans, Mogaji Kola Olootu, Suliamon Alao Malaika, another Fuji stars and other numerous fans of the London club.
They are all to fly the colors of their various football clubs according to the statement issued by the organisers and made available to newsmen.
The event according to Mr. Sports will be held on Sunday 13th August at Olubadan Event Centre, Ibadan will also be used to appreciate some people that have had positive impacts in the life of the organizer that will also be marking 20 years of radio presentation with recognition awards.
“Why are fans so important in soccer, they are the ones that the team plays for, when they turn up at a game, they set the stage for the team, they enhance the feeling of the game and the worth of it. You know that if you're playing in front of 30 or 40,000 people then you're doing something important. ” said Mr. Sport.
He however described fans as an important part to the team because they're the reason why the players, staff and coaches make money. “They give the players confidence, and whoever their favorite team is, they really love that team and that is why there is a difference between loyal fans and bandwagon fans.”

Purplebloom Publisher Organises Writers’ Workshop In Ibadan

Adejoke Oyekan
In a bid to unleash inner wordsmith and offer the aspiring writers valuable tools to polish their writing skills to perfection, the Purplebloom Publishers has perfected plans to organize a two-day Writers Workshop with the theme: Inkspiration Unleashed: ‘Unveiling the Path to Authorship’.
The event that will ignite the creativity and empower the participants to conquer the world of writing according to the Adejoke Oyekan, the founder of Purplebloom has been scheduled for Friday 25th and Saturday 26th August 2023 at IACD Library, American Corner besides Booksellers, Jericho, Ibadan.
Oyekan, while addressing newsmen in Ibadan ahead of the event urged all aspiring writers to come and learn how to write a compelling and bestselling story from esteemed facilitators, as their renowned experts will unravel the secrets behind captivating plots, unforgettable characters, and the craft of impeccable prose.
Among the resource personnel lined up to handle various topics during the seminar are Tade Ipadeola, a Poet, Essayist and Lawyer, Ronke Giwa-Onafuwa, an Author and OAP, Ayo Oyeku, also an Author and founder, Eleventh House, Oluchi Anyakudo, of Gem Mind Books and Chima Ogoke, MJC Echeruo/ANA-IMO Prize winner for poetry.
 The expected participants, either student or working class according to Purplebloom boss, will stand to gain an automatic invitation to the Authors' Conference, Certificate of Participation, One month mentorship, Publishing deal and network with industry stakeholders.     
“One of the real reasons most people write is because they can not only speak out and express themselves to the world but they may also influence others with their ideas. There are so many great things a person can do with the power of words. Whether it is to persuade, inform, narrate, or inspire, good writing is something that can be appreciated by all and is a very powerful tool.” said Oyekan.
She added that “student are expected to pay 3,000 Naira as participation fee while early bird will be 50 percent reduction opportunity of 1,500 Naira, as participants in the working class category pays: 7,000 naira with early bird paying the sum of 5,000 and people can register via: https://forms.gle/mABexCUzE36FxQzk9”.