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NASENI EVC/CEO, Halilu Hosts Pi-CNG’s Ride-Share CNG Conversion Incentive Program

The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, at the weekend presided over the launch of the Presidential CNG Initiative’s (Pi-CNG) Conversion Incentive Program for rideshare sector, alongside the introduction of the MY-CNG App.

This landmark event took place at NASENI’s Compressed Natural Gas Engineering, Training, and Conversion facility in Utako, reflecting the Agency’s commitment to pioneering technology-driven solutions for Nigeria.

The event held at NASENI-Portland CNG Conversion Centre, Utako, Abuja, was graced by the Honourable Minister of State (Gas), Petroleum Resources, Hon. Ekperipe Ekpo, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, alongside Honorable Minister for Information and National Orientation, who was represented by the Director-General of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Muhammed Bulama and other ecosystem players.

In his remarks, the EVC/CEO of NASENI, Khalil Halilu emphasized the significance of Pi-CNG in Nigeria’s gas revolution, noting that the Initiative has quickly become central to discussions on the nation’s energy future.

“A little over two months ago, we commissioned this all-in-one CNG facility in partnership with Portland and Dana Motors. This joint venture is part of NASENI’s vision to accelerate the delivery of market-ready products that reduce the cost of living, improve quality of life, and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.

The Conversion Incentive Program, aimed at the rideshare sector, including Uber and Bolt drivers, offers a 50 per cent discount to drivers who sign up and use the newly launched MY-CNG App.

“CNG is a cleaner, more affordable vehicle fuel, with the potential to reduce transportation costs by up to 70 per cent and deliver 40 per cent savings for car owners,” the EVC/CEO explained. He stressed that this initiative is a response to the current economic challenges, offering a viable solution to reduce the cost of living for Nigerians.

Halilu also highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving these milestones, commending partners Pi-CNG, Portland, and Dana Motors for their dedication. “Working together, we can and will transform Nigeria’s energy and transportation sectors,” he affirmed.

The launch of the MY-CNG App and the Conversion Incentive Program reflect NASENI’s commitment to leveraging technology to drive national transformation. The EVC/CEO concluded by reiterating NASENI’s role as a technology enabler, partnering with the private sector to bring innovative solutions to market and support national development goals, including energy efficiency, climate action, job creation, and poverty alleviation.

NASENI remains Nigeria’s leading technology-transfer agency, purposely-built to fostering innovation, research, and development to support the country’s industrial growth and economic sustainability.

Senator Alli Extends Food Palliative to Ido, Ibarapa Traders

In a bid to cushion the current economic hardship in the district, Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has extended the distribution of food palliatives to traders in the Ido and Ibarapa areas of Oyo State.

This was contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas, and made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Ibadan.

The items were received from the senator’s team led by Mr Gbenga Elegbede the market leaders (Babalojas and Iyalojas) from the four local governments hosting 11 various towns and more than 15 markets.

The markets visited include Apete, Awotan, Akufo, Ido, Omi-Adio, Okolo, Lanlate, Maya, Eruwa, Temidire, Oja-Oba Igboora, Towobowo Igboora, Towobowo Market, Idere, Ayete, Tapa and Igangan.

The senator had earlier distributed to traders in markets across five local governments namely Ibadan South-West, Ibadan North, Ibadan North-West, Ibadan South-East and Ibadan North-East.

Senator Alli said that the effort was part of his ongoing commitment to alleviate the suffering of his constituents amid the challenging economic conditions.

He said that the initiative aimed to provide much-needed relief to traders who have been significantly impacted by the rising cost of living.

According to him, the distribution of the food palliatives was carried out in various markets across Ido and Ibarapa areas of the district.”

The lawmaker said that the distribution of these food palliatives was just one of the many steps his administration is taking to support the economic stability of his district.

He reiterated his commitment to the welfare of his constituents and promised to continue implementing programs that would mitigate the effects of the current economic challenges.

“We understand the difficulties our people are facing, and we are committed to providing support where it is most needed,” he said.

The traders, who were beneficiaries of the food palliatives, expressed their gratitude to Senator Alli for his timely intervention.

They said that the palliatives would go a long way in sustaining their families during these tough times.

The traders praised the Senator for his proactive approach in addressing the pressing needs of his constituents and called on other leaders to emulate his example.

Meanwhile the distribution of food palliatives to traders and widows across the senatorial district is part of a broader initiative by Senator Alli to ensure that no one in his district is left behind during these economically challenging times.

His efforts have been widely lauded by community leaders and residents alike, who see him as a compassionate leader dedicated to improving the lives of the people he represents.

Among the Babalojas who received the items at their various markets are
Musiliu Adetoro (Apete), Chief Waheed Odedele(Omi Adio), Kayode Ojediran(Lanlate), Olusegun Adelere(Maya) and Olaosegba Oke(Eruwa).

Others are Alhaji Adebola Belau(Okolo) and Chief Tunji Arinkoola(Ojo-Oba Igboora), Chief Lasisi Afolabi (Iberekodo Towobowo), Mogbadunola Esuola(Idere), Ganiyu Adeoye(Ayete), Oludele Oyedepo(Tapa), Jimoh Ojelabi(Igangan) and Rufus Opasina(Temidire).

Among the Iyalojas who joined in receiving the food items were Taibat Oyewole (Eruwa and Ibarapaland), Chief Idiat Ogungbayi(Omi- Adio) and Bashirat Adewole(Lanlate).

Others are Serifatu Arike(Apete), Funmilola Olaegbe (Maya), Comfort Oladapo(Okolo) and Amudalat Salawu(Igboora).

UI Don Proffers Solutions to City-Wide Food Production, Resources Utilisation Concerns

A Professor of Aquaculture Engineering and Water Resources Management at the University of Ibadan, Professor Ayoola Olusegun Akinwole has proposed urban aquaculture as a capable means of providing transformative solutions to city-wide food production and resource utilisation concerns.

Professor Akinwole made the recommendation while delivering the 556th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ibadan on behalf of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources.

The lecture was entitled “Aquaculture Engineering: Reconciling the Balance in the Triad of Fish, Plants and Man.”

Prof Akinwole noted that while global food production needs to substantially increase to meet the ever-growing demand as a result of population surge, the world is running out of land space for food production that will serve the ever-increasing population.

He stated that the earth has already lost a third of its arable land, and climate change will only continue this trend.

The answer to these challenges, according to the lecturer, is to be found not on land but underwater.

“Aquaculture, or fish farming, has become an efficient way to feed the world”, he submitted.

Prof. Akinwole described aquaculture as the farming of aquatic organisms, including fish, molluscs, crustaceans, and aquatic plants involving the production, processing, and marketing of biological organisms from aquatic systems.

The Lecturer, a Professor of Aquaculture Engineering and Water Resources Management explained that the essence of Aquaculture Engineering is the application of basic engineering principles and procedures to the design and construction of structures and systems for aquaculture.

The Don further called on the government at all levels to promote Urban Aquaculture in order to achieve food security, job creation, and income generation for the teeming populace of Nigeria.

He also called on the government, as a matter of policy, to implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) in all agriculture, aquaculture, and food production facilities, ensuring minimal environmental impact and effective farming operations while minimising negative impacts on human, animal asystems to seek scientific and technical support for site-specific design and component fabrication in order to avoid overcapitalisation or premature facility expansion.

Professor Akinwole stated that the recirculating aquaculture systems-based farms require well-trained and experienced personnel with an average of eight years of related job experience to ensure profitability.

Professor Ayoola Olusegun Akinwole is the incumbent Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) University of Ibadan Branch.

UI Remains the Constituency of Ayo Banjo Says DVC, Olapegba

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, FNPA, has stated that the University of Ibadan remains the constituency of Late Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo and the community would continue to honour his meritorious service to humanity and his enduring legacies.

Professor Olapegba made these remarks on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, while receiving members of the Nigerian Academy of Letters during a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor’s office.

The DVC said Professor Ayo Banjo was the most profound Vice-Chancellor UI has had, not only because he was the longest-serving Vice-Chancellor but also due to his significant contributions to humanity and the legacies that he left behind.

He expressed happiness that the NAL would be honouring the late Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo.

Professor Olapegba said he was not surprised when the NAL President stated that UI has the largest membership in the NAL and the highest number of fellows, given that UI is the first university in the country, and many Professors of English in the country were taught by people who attended UI.

The DVC assured that UI will continue to produce outstanding individuals for the country and the world.

According to Professor Olapegba, “We need to celebrate Prof. Ayo Banjo and keep celebrating him,” noting that UI had already immortalised him by naming the Vice-Chancellor’s lodge “Ayo Banjo Manor” while he was still alive.

The President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, Professor Sola Akinrinade, stated that the UI contingent in academics is one of the largest and strongest, and it is a pride to meet with them.

He explained that the purpose of the visit was to enable the NAL to celebrate the Late Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo at an International Symposium organised in his honour because he was the second President of the Academy and one of its pillars.

He appreciated UI for hosting the Secretariat of the Nigerian Academy of Letters for many years.

Professor Akinrinade said that there is a Book of Tributes for Professor Ayo Banjo that will be presented to the family.

He commended the UI community for holding Late Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo in high esteem and continuing to celebrate his legacies.

Emeritus Professor Munzali Jubril of Bayero University Kano will be delivering the keynote lecture titled “The State of the Nigerian English Art.”

A Life Worth Living is a Life of Sacrifice – UI DVC, Olapegba

 

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba, FNPA, has said that a life worth living is a life of sacrifice reminding all of the need to be ready and willing to serve. “The only concept of leadership is servanthood. To lead is to serve”, he said.

Prof. Olapegba spoke at a luncheon organised by the Management of the University to appreciate the immediate past Provost of the College of Medicine; Deans of Faculties, and Directors of programmes whose tenures expired on 31 July 2024.

Professor Peter Olamakinde Olapegba, who stood in for the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS thanked the outgoing officers profusely for accepting to serve meritoriously as Provost, Deans, and Directors as the case may be.

Prof. Olapegba thanked those who have completed their tenure for a job well done in sustaining the legacy of excellence for which the University of Ibadan is known.

He acknowledged that this is not the best of times to serve in public universities in Nigeria because of the funding challenge.

The DVC noted that serving officers need to run from pillar to post, cap in hand, sourcing for funds to fill the funding gap to run their units successfully.

He also thanked them for their unrelenting efforts to serve meritoriously.

He said, “You sacrificed your time, energy, resources, and often had long absence from your families in your efforts to run your units, for this the University is eternally grateful”.

He reminded them that the reward for hard work is more work, alerting them to be prepared for more assignments that the University may give to them.

He thereafter called on those who had accepted to serve to brace up for the task ahead and hit the ground running as time waits for no one.

Professor Olapegba assured them of the support of the university under the watch of the VC but within the limited resources that may be available from time to time.

He therefore encouraged them to look in the direction o“therein lies the gold mine to sustain the system”.

He cited various interventions from the alumni of the University in the recent past. “Alumni out there have the resources and are willing to give back”, he affirmed.

The Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu Oke Saliu explained that the luncheon is an important tradition of the University of Ibadan to appreciate those who kept the system running.

The Registrar praised the doggedness of the outgoing officers and their efforts in keeping their various units running despite the challenges faced.

He noted that there is no amount of appreciation that will be commensurate to the quantum of sacrifices made and the challenges faced in office.

Mr Saliu thanked them for their roles in Council, Senate, Congregation, and Convocation saying “UI remains UI because you all have been playing your roles to keep the flag flying”.

He also used the opportunity to welcome the new Provost, College of Medicine, Deans of Faculties, and Directors of Programmes, wishing them a successful tenure.

The officers whose tenure ended on 31 July 2024 included:

Provost:
● Professor Olayinka O. Omigbodun, FAS, College of Medicine

Deans:
● Prof. T.O Ogundiran, Faculty of Clinical Sciences
● Professor Simisola O. Akintola, Faculty of Law
● Professor E. E. Nwokocha, Faculty of the Social Sciences
● Professor G. R. E. E. Ana, Faculty of Public Health
Directors:
● Dr. Seunfunmi M. Olutayo, Institute of African Studies
● Professor V.O. Okoruwa, Director of Academic Planning and
● Dr. S.O. Adesogan, Director of Physical Planning and Project Development.
● Professor Ayotola O. Aremu’s tenure in the Office of International Programmes expired in 2022.

The incoming Provost, Deans and Directors are:
●Professor T. O. Ogundiran, Provost, College of Medicine
●Professor T. A. Lawal, Faculty of Clinical Sciences
●Professor B.O. Ehigie, Faculty of The Social Sciences
●Professor J. O. A. Akintayo, Faculty of Law
●Professor M.D. Dairo, Faculty of Public Health
● Professor Prisca O. Adejumo Faculty of Nursing
● Professor Sola Olorunyomi, Director of Institute of African Studies.
● Professor A. E. Ayodele, Director of Academic Planning
● Professor B.I. O. Dahunsi, Director of Physical Planning and Project Development.

Ọmọ Ọlájíire; How Beulah Adeoye Defied Uncertainties Through Power of Determination, Resilience

 

This is intended not to be an eulogy or appraisal. I merely aim to hold up a mirror to his life, to reveal the contours of this character, the depth of this conviction, and the breadth of this impact. If, in the process, admiration and awe arise, I disclaim all responsibility – it is the subject himself who has authored this narrative of distinction and leaves us mere observers to marvel at the masterwork. But again, I might be guilty as charged.

The uncertainty of tomorrow is a notion that almost everyone agrees with. We are often told that the future is unpredictable and that it is a mysterious realm that only astrologers and fortune tellers can decipher. Or that only God knows. However, may I propose a contrarian view? That our tomorrows can indeed be predicted, and not by gazing into crystal balls, but by the intentional actions we take today.

Can we consider the contractor who pours their heart and soul into a proposal and showcases exceptional skill and mastery? Can they not predict with conviction that they will secure the contract? Or the student who diligently prepares for exams, can they not foresee an excellent grade? In both cases and many other similar instances, the outcome is not left to chance but is instead shaped by the efforts and dedication invested. This is ‘not’ to dismiss the role of luck or grace but to emphasise the agency we possess in shaping our futures.

Historically, we see examples of individuals who have defied uncertainty by sheer force of will and determination. From the ancient Greeks to modern-day achievers, those who have pushed boundaries and achieved greatness have done so by harnessing their inner power and strength and directing it towards a clear vision. This is not to say that external factors do not influence our lives, but rather that our responses to those factors can truly be intentional.

I sat before a human in the class of the aforementioned, whose life trajectory I believe is truly of his own making and choice. An emerging greatness, – loaded in intellect, rich and with reach, exactly like a canvas stretched to its limits that awaited the brushstrokes of destiny. His eyes seemed to hold the depth of a thousand midnights of his lived few decades, and his smile told the stories of his triumph over the vicissitudes of existence.

Ọmọ Ọlájíire; birthed by a soul that almost didn’t survive – himself, one of eight, a whole eight in those years? Ipapo wasn’t a place some people expected much from, stereotyped as a village or what have you. But, he rose from this overlooked corner of the world, and although he tasted several other soils and waters, he shattered expectations and rewrote the narrative of his origin. His root is deeply laced in the trials and triumphs of his forebears; he is nourished in resilience and brilliance that is uniquely his. A lawyer, an accountant and many other things.

Beneath the surface of his unassuming start, where the heftiness of history and the scarcity of opportunities could have easily stifled lesser spirits, he thrived. His intelligence speaks to his destiny for greatness. The lineage of Ọlájíire, defined by survival against the odds, finds its most luminous expression in him. Through sheer determination and an unyielding quest for knowledge, he has elevated himself beyond the confines of his immediate neighbourhood, being sought after at home and abroad, to be greater and make others great.

I felt the weight of existential inquiry, the whispered secrets of a life lived with intentionality, a story of choices and consequences. And yet, I sensed that he knew the truth – that true greatness lies not in the destination, but in the deliberate steps taken to arrive there.

I couldn’t help but feel a sense of respect for the sheer magnitude of his accomplishments. For in him, I saw the embodiment of a profound principle – that our lives are not mere narratives but dynamic, ever-unfolding creations shaped by the choices we make and the depths we dare to plumb.

Had he not walked the razor’s edge of uncertainty, would he have discovered the steel within? One may want to question the very fabric of fate and free will. This is self-authorship. This is greatness, Ọmọ Ọlájíire is greatness. Amofin Beulah Adeoye is greatness.

By AbdulAzeez, AbdulMaleek
Wednesday, August 7, 2024.

Team Oyo to Makinde: Tell Us How Oyo’s Share of 570bn Was Expended

Team Oyo, a group committed to accountability in the state, has asked Governor Seyi Makinde to tell the people of the state how he spent his own share of the N570 billion given to states in the country.

The group’s reaction is coming on the heels of denial by Makinde that the fund was not from the federal account but from an intervention fund.

President Bola Tinubu had in a nationwide broadcast revealed how all states got fund to alleviate sufferings in their respective areas.

But Makinde, in his weekly newsletter countered the claim, explaining that the money received by the states were actually the COVID-19 funds from the World Bank where the federal government acted only as an intermediary between the international creditor and the 36 states.

Wondering why Makinde and the state government have been silent about what the close to 6 billion naira it collected from the fund, Team Oyo in a statement by its coordinator, Adekunle Suraj, noted that Makinde was playing to the gallery and has not exposed anything.

He challenged Makinde to deny if Oyo wasn’t credited, urging him to also transparently reel out how the fund was disbursed for what it was meant for.

“We at Team Oyo are miffed by Governor Seyi Makinde’s new found penchant for attacking President Bola Tinubu at any opportune time. While we believe every individual has the right to defend him or herself, Governor Makinde should be decorous in whatever he does.

“This is a man who is always quick to exonerate himself when he is exposed. We have not finished talk on the spendings of local government fund. In the last 5 years, most of the projects they claimed were done with LG funds were actually nominated by the state. The people were not allowed to choose what exactly they wanted.

“Before the exposition by the federal government, there was no where Governor Makinde revealed that he collected any amount from the federal government whether as intention fund or otherwise. This is someone who claims to be transparent.

“Saying that he disagreed with the federal government is just to say something to cover his head in shame. Why did he not reveal to the people of the state when he received N5.98 billion in the first instance and N822 million in the second instance? And how was it spent and disbursed? Who and who got the 20 truckload of rice sent to the state?

“Makinde should always do what he preaches. It is not good to have double-face. Until the president signed the local government autonomy bill, Governor Makinde didn’t deem it to meet the local government chairmen in the state. And the two times he met them before now, they begged for it. Governor Makinde should explain his opposition to the local government autonomy. Is it because of the many loans from various sources that the state was alleged of using local government allocations as collateral? It is time the governor talk and not put these council chairman in unnecessary wahala,” the statement added.

Senator Alli felicitates Oyo APC Chieftain, Adeoye @ 51

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Engineer Idris Adeoye, a respected member of the Oyo State APC Elders Advisory Council, on the occasion of his 51st birthday.

This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas, and made available to newsmen on Friday in Ibadan.

Senator Alli praised Adeoye’s unwavering commitment and significant contributions to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State.

He described him as a man of integrity, whose dedication to the party and the development of Oyo State has been exemplary.

The lawmaker acknowledged the pivotal role Adeoye has played in guiding the younger generation of politicians within the party.

Senator Alli said that his wisdom and experience have been invaluable in navigating the challenges faced by the party.

“As you mark your 51st birthday today, I join your family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating a life of service, dedication, and excellence.

“Your contributions to the APC and the progress of Oyo State are deeply appreciated, and I have no doubt that your best years are still ahead of you,” Senator Alli stated.

He expressed admiration for his resilience and passion, which have made him a role model to many.

Senator Alli prayed for God’s continued guidance, good health, and prosperity in Adeoye’s future endeavours, urging him to keep up the good work for the betterment of the state and the party.

He reaffirmed his belief that Adeoye’s contributions would continue to positively impact the APC and the wider community in Oyo State.

Ex-Federal Lawmaker, Olugbemi Mourns Late Alaba of Abanla, Oba Tiamiyu Labiyi Oladipo

A former member of the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Olusunbo Samson Olugbemi mourned the passing of the Alaba of Abanla, Oba Tiamiyu Labiyi Oladipo, a revered royal father and respected son of Oluyole Federal Constituency.

Olugbemi in a condolence message on Thursday described Oba Tiamiyu as a giant in knowledge and humility adding that he made significant contributions to Abanla town and left an indelible mark on Ibadan’s history.

He added that the Late monarch was an intellectual giant, a disciplined mentor, and a father figure who generously shared his wisdom with others.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved royal father, Oba Tiamiyu Labiyi Oladipo. He was a shining example of wisdom, humility, and leadership.

“His contributions to Abanla town and Ibadanland as a whole will never be forgotten.” Hon. Olugbemi said.

Hon. Olugbemi described Oba Tiamiyu as a father, leader, and mentor who will be deeply missed.

He said “He was a father to all, a leader who led by example, and a mentor who guided us with his vast knowledge and experience. We will miss him dearly.”

The lawmaker prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed royal father eternal rest and comforts his loved ones.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may Almighty Allah comfort his loved ones. Adieu, our father, leader, and mentor. May Allah grant Baba eternal rest.” He added.

Excitement as Nigerian Students Receive Tinubu’s N20,000 Monthly Stipends

 

The Management of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) under the leadership of Mr Akintunde Sawyerr, the Managing Director has announced the successful disbursement of N20,000.00 monthly stipends for the month of July to 20,371 students from six tertiary institutions.

This initiative further underscores H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promised unwavering commitment to supporting Nigerian students by ensuring financial stability throughout their academic pursuit.

Students from the following institutions whose institutional fees have already been paid by NELFUND, have begun to receive July upkeep stipends:

1.Bayero University Kano
2.Federal University, Dutsin-Ma
3.University of Ilorin
4.University of Benin
5.University of Ibadan
6.University of Maiduguri

NELFUND is diligently working to commence the payment process for students from approximately 55 additional tertiary institutions.

It is anticipated that this will be concluded within the next two weeks as the fund is committed to ensuring that all eligible students receive their stipends promptly.

NELFUND remains steadfast in its mission to support the educational aspirations of Nigerian students by providing financial assistance for studies at qualifying institutions and ensuring the timely disbursement of stipends for day to day expenses.

It is noteworthy that the President only Sunday committed a further 50 billion Naira from recovered proceeds of crime.

NELFUND appreciates the patience and cooperation of students and institutions as the organisation works assiduously to fulfill its previous made commitments to Nigerian students.

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