The Beulah Adeoye Foundation, under the leadership of its esteemed President, Amofin Beulah Adeoye, has announced the provision of 200 free JAMB forms for 2025 UTME candidates across all zones in Oyo State.

This generous initiative aims to support and encourage students aspiring to pursue higher education by alleviating the financial burden associated with registering for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.

The foundation revealed that it launched an intensive two-month JAMB preparation program on January 15, which will continue until March 12, 2025.

The program is meticulously designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the UTME. The initiative operates across 20 education centres throughout Oyo State, strategically located to serve candidates from all zones, ensuring widespread accessibility and participation.

The success of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation’s FREE JAMB & TUTORIAL program is largely attributed to the dedication and expertise of its volunteer team, said Ridwan Fasasi, Chief of Staff, Beulah Adeoye Foundation.

“We have an incredible group of individuals who are passionate about education and committed to helping students to succeed. We also appreciate deeply the support from several local governments, community leaders, and schools which were crucial to the program’s reach and impact”.

The Chief of Staff, Ridwan Fasasi, highlighted the selection criteria for the beneficiaries of the free JAMB forms during a briefing with the pressmen. According to him, the top 10 performing students from each of the 20 centres, based on their performance in the recently concluded Mock Examination conducted by the foundation, will be awarded the free JAMB forms. This means a total of 200 deserving candidates will benefit from this initiative.

Fasasi further emphasized the foundation’s commitment to educational support in Oyo State. Since its inception in 2018, the Beulah Adeoye Foundation has sponsored over 500 students through various academic programs, providing them with the resources and opportunities to achieve their educational goals. The foundation’s consistent efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many students and their families.

In addition to free JAMB forms, the foundation’s preparation program includes comprehensive tutorials, practice tests, and personalized coaching. This holistic approach ensures that students are well-prepared and confident as they approach the 2025 UTME. The initiative not only aims to lessen the financial burdens on parents but also to foster a culture of academic excellence and determination among students.

Tiamiyu Opeyemi, the Foundation’s Director of Volunteers, said: “Our volunteer tutors are highly qualified and experienced educators who go above and beyond to provide personalized support to each student”.

“They create a nurturing and encouraging learning environment, which is crucial for students preparing for such a competitive exam. The support from directors of volunteer for each local government, in terms of providing venues for our tutorials and helping us reach students in their communities, has been invaluable”.

Opeyemi also highlighted the crucial role of the volunteer heads in each LGA. “The volunteer heads are our boots on the ground. They are instrumental in coordinating activities at the local level, ensuring smooth communication, and providing vital support to both the students and the tutors”.

Adewolu Kafilat, the Undersecretary for Education, emphasized the comprehensiveness of the program. Our two-month intensive program is designed to cover all aspects of the UTME, Kafilat explained.

“Students receive in-depth instruction in all four core subjects such as Mathematics, English, Physics, Chemistry and others as well as access to practice tests and personalized feedback. Kafilat also noted the rigor of the mock exam. The mock exam we conducted was designed to simulate the actual UTME, providing students with a valuable experience and helping us identify the top performers who will receive the free JAMB forms.

Being a volunteer head has been incredibly rewarding, said Rianat Shittu, Volunteer Head for Oyo East LGA. “I’ve seen firsthand how this program transforms the lives of these students, giving them the confidence and the resources to pursue their dreams. The support we’ve received from the Oyo East Local Government has been essential in making our work easier and more effective”.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, in his address, expressed his gratitude to the educators and volunteers who dedicated their time and expertise to this noble cause. He reiterated the foundation’s mission to empower the youth through education and to create opportunities for them to thrive academically and professionally. The foundation’s ongoing efforts exemplify its unwavering commitment to the betterment of society through education.

Our commitment goes beyond just helping them to pass the JAMB exam, Amofin Beulah Adeoye stated.

“We want to empower them to become future leaders and contribute to the development of our community. We are grateful for the partnership with local governments, communities, volunteers, and schools which has enabled us to amplify our impact and reach even more students.

“This initiative by the Beulah Adeoye Foundation serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for students across Oyo State. By investing in the future of young minds, the foundation continues to pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for the community”.

Alao Abiodun, an award-winning Journalist and Fact-Checker with The Nation Newspaper has bagged the award of “Most Outstanding Alumnus in Media Excellence” organised by the Junior Chamber International, Nigeria (JCIN) University of Ibadan.

Abiodun’s journalism career spans across reporting various beats and participating in media fellowships both locally and internationally including United Kingdom, United States of America (USA), Netherlands, Senegal, Egypt, and others.

Abiodun graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Management and Economics from Nigeria’s premier university – University of Ibadan, and also holds a post-graduate Diploma in Journalism from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Lagos.

Abiodun is a 2023 alumnus, Radio Netherland Training Centre (RNTC), Netherlands.

In 2022, he was selected alongside 21 other young journalists across the world as a Fellow for the prestigious United Nations Reham al-Farra Memorial Journalism Fellowship (UNRAF).

Owing to his exceptional performance, he was selected again alongside eleven journalists for the UN RAF to cover the United Nations General Assembly UNGA 78.
He was a recipient of the 2023 Scholarship for In-Person on Digital Media to Counter Disinformation and Hate Speech funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and managed by Nuffic (RNTC Media Training Centre), Netherlands.

He emerged as runner-up for the 2021 Anti-corruption star award organised by Step Up Nigeria. Also, in 2021, Abiodun was shortlisted as a Nominee for the 2021 Oyo State Youth Awards in Journalism.

He is also a 2024 recipient for Nigeria Emerging Leaders Award (NELA24).

The Director of FOPA 2024, Sylvia Obi in the nomination letter said: “I’m thrilled to inform you that you’ve been nominated as one of the nominees for the 5 alumni category of the Fifteen Outstanding Persons’ Award, JCIN UI. You’ve been nominated as one of the top nominees in the “Most Outstanding Alumnus in Media Excellence” category for the Fifteen Outstanding Persons Awards (FOPA) 2024 at the JCIN, University of Ibadan.

“Your exemplary achievements in journalism and media production have earned you this well-deserved recognition.

“Congratulations once again on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments and honoring your legacy at the FOPA event.”

Abiodun in his acceptance speech, appreciated Junior Chamber International, Nigeria (JCIN) University of Ibadan for the outstanding recognition. He further dedicated the award to God Almighty, his wife, and family.

Last week, I carefully explained the essence of rethinking our approach and commitment to governance. To start with, can we make an attempt to review how much collectivism counts in our endeavours and how much it does in governance? Definitely! So, I see collective action as a central line to human progress. It remains a propulsive impulse that transforms individual endeavours into a cohesive and unstoppable momentum. I believe that when diverse perspectives and skills converge around a shared vision, the resulting synergy would be nothing short of remarkable. It’s the kindle that sets the wheels of innovation in motion, and propels us toward unprecedented breakthroughs and paradigm-shifting discoveries. If we are united by a common purpose, we become an unstoppable force that is capable of overcoming even the most daunting obstacles and redefining the boundaries of what’s possible.

The beauty of collective action lies in its ability to move beyond individual limitations and leverage our unique strengths and weaknesses to engineer something greater than the sum of its parts. An acknowledgement of the fact that no single entity can tackle the complex challenges of our big world alone can open ourselves up to the vast potential of collaborative problem-solving. It’s a pragmatic imperative that recognises the value of diversity, creativity, and innovation, and harnesses these forces to drive meaningful progress. When we work together, our differences become the catalyst for growth, inspiring new ideas, insights, and solutions that might have otherwise remained elusive.

Every day, it becomes increasingly clear that governance is not a unilateral endeavour but a deeply broad dialogue between the governed and those who govern. The most effective leaders recognise that their role is not to impose their will, it is to facilitate a conversation that encourages the collective wisdom of their constituents. In this sense, governance becomes a dynamic and iterative process that reflects the diverse needs, aspirations, and values of the community it serves.

The beauty of this collaborative approach lies in its ability to ace above the boundaries of traditional power structures and create a more nuanced, inclusive, and responsive system of governance. When we have a leadership structure that gives a premium to collaboration, they not only tap into the collective genius of their constituents but also build a culture of shared ownership that allows everyone to have a stake in the system. This, in turn, brews a deeper sense of trust, empathy, and mutual understanding, and allows us to attend to even the most complex challenges with greater ease, creativity, and collective resilience.

Think about it; when was the last time you saw a community come together genuinely, unforced, to achieve something remarkable and huge? A preventive cause is not reactive to solve a problem? Or maybe a local fundraiser, a neighbourhood clean-up initiative, or a grassroots campaign that ignited revolutionary advancements. Whatever the cause, it’s undeniable that collective action has a way of revealing our absolute whole. It’s the trigger that ignites the fire of progress that fuels our passions for creativity and determination. And when leaders tap into this energy, magic happens. They become facilitators, not dictators, and empower the people to drive innovative advancements.

But here’s the thing: this kind of collaborative magic doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It requires leaders who are willing to listen, learn, adapt, adopt and put the needs of their community above their own interests. True leadership is ‘otherish’. I am a leader like that. I understand it demands a willingness to be vulnerable, to take risks, and to trust in the collective wisdom of others. And when this happens – when leaders and communities come together in a spirit of mutual respect and trust – the results can be nothing short of transformative. We see it in the way communities rally around a common cause, in the way leaders empower their teams to drive something fundamental, and in the way collective action inspires us to be better versions of ourselves.

As a seasoned and accomplished professional with a proven track record, I know it’s a fact that collaboration is the key to driving sustainable and lasting advancement. It’s about bringing people together, taming the exotic taste of our unique strengths and expertise, and working towards a common goal. When effective and true collaboration happens, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone. It’s a simple yet powerful truth that has guided my approach to leadership and informed my commitment to building a better future for Oyo State.

Even more true, my experience has taught me that collaboration is not just a buzzword or a box to be checked. It’s a way of working that requires empathy, creativity, and a deep understanding of the complex relationships that account for change. It is when we work together that we can tap into a collective wisdom that is greater than the sum of its parts, that we can drive innovation, promote inclusivity, and build sustainable solutions that benefit everyone. That’s the kind of collaboration I’m committed to – and I believe it’s exactly what Oyo State needs to reach its full potential. And with your support, I am beyond ready to make it happen.

Friday, February 21, 2025

Think of the five zones that made up Oyo State and the unique challenges each of them confronts and the kind of opportunities they each bring to the table. To effectively make change happen therefore, it is imperative to understand the things that make both the people and the places unique, exceptional and stand-out in their own right – without shortchanging or sidelining one part for the other. This becomes necessary to address what matters to each other, and to give everyone what truly they deserve.

One of my favourite definitions of justice is to give everyone what they deserve, and by that, it means carving out a solution that is ultimately rooted and reflected in people’s lived realities and experiences. Perhaps, rather than advocate for equality or equity, we must continuously seek justice to build an inclusive society. For a leadership that will make a difference in people’s lives, such must adopt the bottom-up approach instead of top-to bottom approach to tackling challenges. For instance, a bottom-up approach ensures justice and fairness as it addresses issues through the perspectives and lens of the people. A whole lot rests on the shoulders of leaders to rethink their minds, mindsets and state of the mind in leading and service. Ultimately, a challenged mind is one that can potentially experience seismic shift in all facets of life.

A mind shift can only take place in an atmosphere of openness, readiness, humility, courage etcetera. A significant point to note is the difference between changing position on critical matters and sustaining one’s values. Much of what has permeated our leadership circles is one of closed minded, arrogantly flippant, and ignorant groups of people who only think of themselves and their respective acolytes and cronies. To have a new place we can all be proud to call our own, adopting a growth mindset is sacrosanct and that is only possible in an environment of hope, optimism, gratitude, conviction etcetera.

One city, two stories. The implication of this dichotomy is that no two places identify with the same problem. In fact, where that appears to be the case, similarities in features do not translate to sameness in terms of characteristics. In other words, the nearest in meaning is not the same as the exact. Take the cities. Ibadan, the capital city is even divided into two broad categories. We have the inner and the less city. Of the 11 local governments that made up the entire city landscape, only about five belong in the innermost part of the old western region capital, those five are also urban, in that, they have the infrastructure, for instance that gave them out as more appealing, enticing and attractive to the outsiders. They also have more heads hustling to make ends meet and continue to evolve in ways that appear quite progressive, adaptive and disruptive. For the remaining six local government areas, the story is quite different. While the long hands of development might be catching them in terms of road infrastructure, for instance, they are still very far from stepping into the big shoes of urbanization. Basically, they are better described as the outskirts of the city.

A new leadership mind is what separates the wheat of Amofin Beulah Adeoye from the grains of others. It is what made him different: his uncanny ability to engage in intellectual conversation, have his mind shift on issues and sustain his values of integrity, diligence, and compassion. Amofin Beulah Adeoye has an impressive understanding of the comparative advantages in each of the zones. He’s been to all and has interacted with all categories of the people. He’s gained a deeper and profound insights into what makes each standout of the pack. He’s combing through the zones with a view to changing the story and rewriting the narrative. He’s taking the bull of the state’s uniqueness and peculiarities by the horns. He’s unrelenting.

Olajide Hamzat writes about the various prospects and potential of Oyo state while projecting Amofin Beulah Adeoye as a solution provider, problem solver and creative, adaptive and innovative leader and thinker with compassion and empathy.

A recent press release by a major opposition party in Oyo stated that the non-performance of the partys federal lawmakers is because the Oyo state Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde has hampered the performance of our local councils due to a lack of financial autonomy.

This piece looks into the following questions:
1. Are Local government councils financially hampered from delivering development?
2. Evaluate the performance of some chairmen across the state.
3. Are our councils better run under the financial system being used by the Seyi Makinde administration?

The framework that established local government as a third-tier government can be attributed to the 1976 local government reforms guidelines. The guideline chronicles local government as government at the local level exercised through a repertoire-presentative council, established by law to exercise specific powers within defined areas.

However, in typical Nigerian fashion, the local government as a third tier began to lose relevance and purpose, primarily due to military administration being basically unitary in nature.

Before the Seyi Makinde’s administration, the local government councils were plagued with widespread financial recklessness, unpaid salaries, and pensions. Councils owed up to 8 months of unpaid wages, it is therefore surprising that the party that supervised this painful period would cry wolf. The Seyi Makinde’s administration took the bull by the horns and designed a system of local government administration that was better supervised and with financial prudence. According to Jim Rohn, “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.

ARE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCILS FINANCIALLY HAMPERED FROM DELIVERING DEVELOPMENT?

Financial prudence, accountability, and ingenuity have been the framework by which the state government has been able to deliver unprecedented infrastructural, socio-cultural, and economic development in Oyo state. This framework should expectedly be applied to the local Government administration.

Framework for development:

The Seyi Makinde’s administration came in at a crucial time for Oyo state; the country was going through financial constraints and also had the COVID pandemic, which hampered the economic activity of the country. As such, the local government could not have been allowed to function, without a workable framework that aligns with the times.

Salaries, pensions, and subventions are removed from the Local Government allocation by the state government; this ensures that Local government workers and pensioners receive their monthly salaries on or before 25th of every month.

All Local government councils have the right to request any developmental or infrastructural project in their local councils subject to the approval of the Honourable commissioner for local government and chieftaincy matters and the Governor (for projects above N10m).
Some local governments are also located in economically viable areas where the internally generated revenue is substantial and administered solely by the local government administration.

With or without financial autonomy (direct allocation), it is unfair to state that the local councils in Oyo state have been hampered from development. To buttress this assertion, I will state the development that has occurred in some local government areas in the state in the last 8 months. While it is unrealistic to expect excellent performance by all chairmen, with the current financial framework some chairmen have continued to deliver dividends of governance to the grassroots.

The aforementioned local councils are just some of the performing chairmen but for a succinctly delivered article, we will focus on the dividends of good governance at 5 of the 33 local government councils.

IDO LOCAL GOVERNMENT (Hon. Sheriff Adeojo) 12 months developmental review.

Objectively stating the fact, Sheriff Adeojo has been in the media space for his good governance and delivery of development to the people at the grassroots. After earning his re-election as Ido council chairman, Adeojo has provided needed infrastructure and amenities, especially roads, security, food production, water, etc., for his people to enjoy a better life. Ido local government under Sheriff Adeojo is one of the few local governments that has implemented food production as a priority. Sheriff Adeojo can simply be referred to as Mr. Project for the Oyo State Local councils.

Agriculture:
Adeojos administration has acquired hectares of land for Agriculture, and assured his constituents of adequate food production. His laudable projects on agriculture after resuming for the second term include the acquisition of 14acres of farmland on leasehold for arable crops cultivation,
The Cultivation of 10acres of Cassava crops in the year 2024 planting season,
The Cultivation of 3acres of Maize crops in the first planting season of the year 2024
Cultivation of yam in the year 2024 planting season.
Adeojo sponsored Ido local government farmers to Akinyele local government secretariat, Moniya, for sensitization on Agric loan offer requirements;
Within the 8 months of his second term, he empowered youths with farm inputs to encourage them in agriculture.
Hon. Sheriff Adeojo in his innovative mind has established farmer’s school for capacity building of farmers.

He also made provision of logistics to the Oyo state Ministry of Agriculture veterinary development on free animal vaccination in the Ido local government area.
Adeojo, as council chairman who has a passion for agriculture, had renovated the Ido local government Dip Litter Chicken Pen for the commencement of full-time poultry farming

WATER RESOURCES
Sinking of the borehole at:
Ilaju, Aba-Odo, Elewe, Akindele, Onigbodogi, Awotan secondary school area, Arowosaye, Gorojo community and NNPC Cele road.

LIGHTING
Installation of 10 solar street lights across:
ward 1, Ward 2, Apete -Idi Igbaro, Toriola and environs, Idi-Iya, Sonso, Batake, Ladunni and Adegbite and Orobiyi.
Financial support to Iso Pako, Ido town, with N1,000,000.00 (one million Naira) towards the installation of an electric transformer.

ROAD ACCESS
Grading across:
ward one, Akufo to Onigbinde Road, Akufo to Onigbinde Road, Abigbinde to Eleshin Road, Ologuneru, Abanla and Alafara roads, Balogun Toriola and environs, Ekerin community – Lifeforte road, Batake to Alaro to Olowa road, Ido to Papa Road and so much more.
Rehabilitation of Elebu junction road, Olusoji road linking Oluyole extension.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Supporting the Alakuta community project with the sum of N500,000.00 (five hundred thousand naira).
Supporting the completion of the Alatare bridge with the sum of N1,000,000.00 (one million naira).
Supporting the completion of the Mosoke-Osajin bridge with the sum of N1,000,000.00 (one million naira).
Financial support to the Kajola-Olowa community with the sum of N250,000.00 (two hundred and fifty thousand naira) to complement the community efforts at Sonso Community High School.
Purchased and installed a transformer at Akilapa
Construction of the Omituntun modern market
SECURITY.
Adeojo, while in office, had distributed several Motorcycles to security agencies. Some police stations that are major beneficiaries include Ile Ido Division, Apete Division, Omi Division, Kuola Division, Ido Division, Eleyele Division, Elebu Division, and Apata Police Station. Other agencies are: Ido DSS, Civil Defence, Ile-Ido NSCDC, Road Safety, Immigration, HVGN, Agbekoya, OPC, and Operation Burst.
Procurement of generator for Apete police station,
fixing of aluminum windows for Apete police station.
Refurbishing of Ile-Ido patrol van,
Refurbishing of Apete police station patrol van.
Refurbishing of the Ido immigration office.
Refurbishment of NSCDC building, Camp.
Establishment of Operation Burst at Ido with a fully furnished office.
Adeojo also has distributed solar-powered lights to all the security posts in the Ido local government.

OLORUNSOGO LOCAL GOVERNMENT 8 Months Review(Hon. Qozeem Olayanju).

It took Olayanju, a former Oyo state House of Assembly member less than 3 months to justify Governor Seyi Makindes statement about local government areas being productive.
SECURITY
Hon. Olayanju has completed the total renovation of the former Oyo SUBEB building to accommodate the Department of State Services (DSS) in the area. The new headquarters building for the DSS in Igbeti, Olorunsogo local government was furnished with modern facilities.
He has delivered to the Police authority a newly constructed building to serve as area command headquarters for the Nigeria Police Force in Igbeti.
The council chairman, has also delivered two newly built Amotekun outposts for the recently inaugurated Amotekun Rangers.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Within 100 days, Olayanju was also able to give his local government a befitting Town Hall. The dilapidated and abandoned Igbeti Television Viewing Centre now serves as a Multi-purpose Hall and event center for the residents of the local government.
Olayanju, the chairman, has taken several precautionary measures against flooding in his council area, part of these include the dredging of the water channel and evacuation of debris under the Ayetoro and Hon. Wasiu Olatunbosun linking bridge and the extension of the Santari water channel.
WATER RESOURCES
Installation of a motorized borehole at Gbodu community in the Oke ibukun area Igbeti.
ROAD REHABILITATION
Hon. Olayanju has flagged off the grading of 100km access roads with the local government, 38km Igbeti-Booni road, 22km Apata Alaje road while 40km will be shared amongst other communities
ADMINISTRATION
Hon. Olayanju embarked on repairing and servicing all the earth-moving equipment, such as low bed, bulldozer and the excavators. Presently, Olayanjus local government has functional earth-moving equipment thereby enhancing agricultural production and productivity and sustaining infrastructure in the council area.
ELECTRICITY
Olayanju has also restored electricity to the council secretariat and its environment after a five-year blackout.
His intervention has brought relief to the Keso community, where the repaired transformer has restored power to the area.
Click the link to watch a little highlight: https://youtu.be/O50LEE_B0QA

IBADAN NORTHEAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT: Hon. Ibrahim Akinsola Akintayo

Another local government chairman who has been making a significant contribution to the development at the grassroots is Hon. Ibrahim Akinsola Akintayo, the Executive chairman of Ibadan Northeast local government.

Ibrahim Akintayo, a second-term local government chairman, is one of the Chairmen in Oyo state who is proving to the wolf criers that local government administration in the state is beautifully run with high benefit for people of the grassroots with or without autonomy. He is another Mr. project for the local council in Oyo state
AGRICULTURE
Construction of Garri Processing Factory. The Ibadan Northeast executive chairman, in his bid to bridge the gap between the growth in demand for convenience foods and availability in his local government, constructed a Garri Processing Factory; he was able to procure and install all necessary equipment for the factory. Some of this equipment includes machineries (Fabricated Machines, fryers, Presser, grinders, Garri packaging kits, etc.).
WATER
As council chairman, Akintayo has drilled several Boreholes for the residence of his local government. The drilling of a borehole at Yidi Oremeji and at some other locations by the chairman is regarded as a project currently addressing the water challenges among his people as well as improving their hygiene and general health and well-being.
ELECTRICITY
Reconnection of damaged electrical equipment for regular electricity supply across the Local Government.
N1,000,000.00 (one million Naira) cash support to Salami Shomade community for repair of community transformer.
N500,000.00 (Five hundred thousand Naira) cash support to Akeke Bashorun for transformer repairs
ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND REHABILITATION
Grading of various roads across all the wards in the Local Government.
Filling of Deplorable Road around Oloronbo Ojoo link Road with Latenje.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
His ongoing projects include the construction of an Ultra-Modern Motor Park with a Shopping Complex, a Mosque, and conveniences at the Gate Araromi Market.
He continuously sponsors sporting and enlightenment programs for youths in his local government, including the concluded, sponsoring the activities of the Association of Football Coaches of Nigeria.
General dredging of water ways across the local government.
On-going PPP construction of over 300 lock-up shop at Jonku Market iwo-road.
On-going PPP construction of over 480 shops, garage and open stalls at Orita-aperin old dump-site.
On-going upgrade of shops at Ogundipe market from wooden shops to a modern lock-up shop.
SECURITY
On-going construction of Operation Burst office at Adekile Goodwill Grammar School Area.
The Local Government has also made significant contribution towards the purchase of police operational vehicle.
Renovation of NSCDC building at Agugu.
EDUCATION
Promotion of the Adult Literacy Program, and organized inter-primary school debate competitions for primary school pupils in the local government.
Jamb and Waec past exam questionnaire for secondary school.
HEALTHCARE
Rehabilitation of Lagelu-Ilupeju health-center at Oke-Ibadan.
Engagement of additional health-workers.
Refurbishment and upgrading of the Ibadan North-east mobile clinic
Monthly distribution of drugs to health-centers across the local government.
Monthly health check-up for the aged.
Facilitating a modern medical Laboratory at American Quarters Agodi.

Watch picture highlight: https://youtu.be/7_lao1XT5kc

LAGELU LOCAL GOVERNMENT: KAMORUDEEN MUDASHIRU MORENIKEJI 8 months developmental review.
The administration of Hon. Kamorudeen Mudashiru Morenikeji in Lagelu local government has been marked with substantial development in various sectors and it is regarded as a testament of effective leadership at the grassroots. His ongoing administration has successfully executed significant projects across various sectors, including welfare, health, infrastructure, and human capital development. In less than a year in office,
Security
Construction of the Amotekun Security Headquarters in Lagelu Village.
On-going construction of building meant for security agencies.
Water
Installation of motorized boreholes at the following locations
Council secretariat
Aba-afaa at Olorunda Akobo
Opposite Olorunda Police station
Olowode village ward 11.
Infrastructure
Ongoing Construction of the 8.3km Akobo-ojurin/Odogbo barracks to Olorunda-abaa junction dual road.
On-going Wofun-Kute Road construction.
Culvert at Morola.
On-going culvert at Lalupon ward 8.
On-going Culvert at oke-Ago Okitimo Area.
On-going Culvert at Lalupon ward 9.
On-going construction of Tri-cycle, motocycles and micra garage at General gas Akobo.
Grading of roads at various locations such as Lagun, Onikeke, Oke Aro, Adeoye village Alatamu village and so on.
Donation of N2,000,000.00 (Two million Naira) for the On-going construction of block of classrooms at Arulogun Olorunda primary school ward 3.
Electricity
Procurement of new transformers for the following areas
Basorun Estate – Air force.
Akobo Ajara community.
Awotunde Elewuro.
Oke-Ibadan estate Oniyeye community Akobo
Solar lighting of Primary and secondary schools across the 14 wards in Lagelu Local Government
Trade and Investments
Launch of Lagelu -owned paint brand which will be used to paint the Local government secretariat.
Establishment of the first Lagelu Palm Estate
Revival of the Lagelu Garri production factory.
Empowerment
Essential supplies and cash empowerment for 150 beneficiaries – Inclusive of People Living with Disability (PLWD) Women Orphans.
Payment of SSCE exam for 100 constituents.

Health
Distribution of first aid Boxes to primary and secondary schools across 14 wards for improved school Health Services(SHS) Economy Cooperative credit Bank scheme for: New startups Local small business.

IBADAN NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT (Hon. Seun Olufade) 8 months developmental review:

Despite being the youngest Executive local government Chairman and the most populous council area in Oyo state ever produced, Olufade was not deterred by his age and in less than a year, young Olufade continues to deliver on development for Ibadan North constituents.

Security
To enhance nighttime security, the council chairman installed solar streetlights across all 12 wards of Ibadan North Local Government, ensuring the safety of lives and property.
Olufade commissioned the NSCDC building to further strengthen security in the community.
Funding for the renovation of Oluwo Police Station
Education
The local government organized a quiz competition among secondary schools in Ibadan North with full responsibility for sponsoring the emerged winners education until he completes his tertiary education.
The chairman also catered for the WAEC fees for all participants in the competition.
The council chairman, in his effort to address girls essential needs, distributed sanitary pads to secondary school girls across the local government in celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child.
Hon. Olufade is also set to donate 730 tables and chairs to primary schools to enhance learning condition.
Health
The council chairman has sponsored 150 individuals for health insurance under the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA), which gives the beneficiaries access to free medical treatment for a year.
On-going processing of health insurance for a further 150 constituents
Agriculture.
To ensure food security within our local government, Ibadan North local government, under the administration of Hon. Olufade, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
Furthermore, the Local Government has allocated 10 acres of land to local farmers to boost agricultural production.
Community Development
Installed motorized borehole in the following locations
Loko street Sango.
UCH ward 10.
Atenda ward 4.
Ifelodun.
Constructed eight public toilet cubicles.
Commissioned an ultramodern shopping complex named Idumota Gate.
Commissioned ultramodern lock-up shops in Bodija Market, boosting the local economy and supporting businesses.
Donation of ₦1 million to support the victims of the Gbaremu fire incident.
On-going construction of a new NULGE office.
Road Infrastructure
Asphalt laying of the 4km Sabo-Jembewon Road has been completed.
4km Agodi – olive court road.
Grading of over 20km road.

Worthy of mentioning is the current 5.123 km ongoing road construction by Hon. Sikiru Sanda of Egbeda local Government which starts from Monatan – Adogba – Ebenezeri with spur to Nigerian breweries.

Hon Akeem Olatunji, who was the former PDP PRO has been able to justify his 8months as the executive chairman of Oluyole Local Government with the provision of 100 solar light (300 watts) for ten [10] wards in Oluyole Local Government Area. He has renovated the youth center at Onila to serve as Amotekun New Base distributed free school uniforms and distributed free exercise books for secondary school students in Oluyole L.G.

Hon. Kehinde Akande of Ibadan Southwest Local Government just completed 1.2km Alalubosa road, construction of a skill acquisition center at ward 5,streetlights and boreholes at several locations.

With the listed achievements of our Local councils in the last one year, one can challenge Oyo state Senators to put their achievements side by side with the local Government councils in Oyo State. Without being subjective, it is obvious that Oyo state Local councils have benefitted from the financial system adopted by Oyo State. All Chairmen cannot deliver at the same pace but it is safe to say that the system has not hampered development at the grassroot.

If the Federal Government decides to implement the financial autonomy, one thing is obvious, the state will assist the Local Government administrators deliver dividends of democracy in a well-structured system that is devoid of debts and financial recklessness.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, a chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Oyo State chapter has extended warm birthday felicitations to Otunba Joseph Oluseye Famojuro, a key ally of Governor Seyi Makinde, as he celebrates his birthday anniversary today.

In a heartfelt congratulatory message made available to the pressmen, Amofin Beulah Adeoye hailed Otunba Famojuro as an exemplary political figure whose unwavering dedication to the development of Oyo State has contributed significantly to the success of the current administration.

According to Beulah Adeoye, “I am delighted to celebrate a distinguished personality, Otunba Joseph Oluseye Famojuro, the Bobajiroro of Orile Igbon kingdom, on this joyous occasion of his birthday anniversary.

“Your remarkable contributions to the growth and development of our dear state under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde have not gone unnoticed. Your commitment to excellence and dedication to service have set you apart as a true leader.

“As you mark another milestone, I pray that the Almighty continues to grant you wisdom, good health, and the strength to continue your noble service to our state and humanity at large.

The notion of nationhood embodies a multifaceted identity that defies simplistic definitions. It spans across cultures, perspectives, and ideologies. It is a shared sense of identity, purpose, and belonging that binds people together to shape a common future. Nationhood can be about the firm belief in a shared vision, a conviction that greatness is achievable together. This belief is not blind faith but a deep-seated trust in the inherent potential of our collective endeavours. It is indeed the understanding that our individual strengths and weaknesses are intertwined and that our collective progress is inextricably linked to our shared humanity.

Patriotism, in this context, is not merely a sentimental attachment to one’s country but a fierce dedication to the ideals, values, and principles that support our nationhood. It is a willingness to work towards a common goal, to strive for excellence, and to persevere through adversity. Patriotism is not about jingoistic nationalism but about a genuine love for one’s country, warts and all, and a desire to see it thrive. It is the recognition that our country’s flaws are not inherent but a reflection of our collective shortcomings.

Nations are great not because they are perfect but because their people believe in their future. It is this unrelenting confidence that pushes a nation forward, even in the face of adversity. The United States, for example, was not built overnight, nor was it without its flaws. Centuries of hard work and believing. Yet, the American people’s collective belief in their country’s potential has driven them to achieve greatness. Similarly, in Nigeria, our collective aspirations, values, and ideals can propel us towards enhanced opportunities. We must recognise that our nation’s potential is not limited by its current circumstances but rather by our collective imagination and determination.

Friends, I cannot overstate the power of imagination and belief. What we believe, what we think, and what we imagine possible are the building blocks of our reality. As a Nigerian, I am of the opinion that we must rethink our approach to nation-building and jettison the notion that our country is inherently flawed. We must dream of greatness, envision collective prosperity, and genuinely trust that our country can be great. We can only realise what we believe in. We must be willing and ready to harness the power of our collective imagination to have improved prospects for ourselves and the generations ahead.

It is understandable why some may be sceptical, given the maladministration and disappointments of past leaders. Yet, nations are built on the cohesiveness of ideas and beliefs, not on the misgivings of a few. We must not allow negative thoughts dictate our collective destiny. Instead, we must recognise that the little efforts we make as individuals can collectively translate into something big and prosperous. We must also acknowledge that our nation’s progress is not solely dependent on its leaders. The collective efforts of its citizens count so greatly.

The past is marked with examples of nations that have risen from the ashes to achieve greatness. the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, and South Korea, among others, have all faced significant challenges, yet they have built strong institutions, harnessed their collective potential, and achieved remarkable success. These nations demonstrate that with a shared vision, determination, and collective effort, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges. They also show that nation-building is a continuous process that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from our mistakes.

We must acknowledge the boundless potential of our imagination. We must not submit to scepticism, but instead, channel our collective creativity to build greater success. The future generations of Nigerians and Oyo state will rest on our readiness, on the depth of our imagination today, and how much we believe in our country. We owe them that much. If we work together, we can build a nation that is worthy of our highest aspirations, a nation that is built on the principles of justice, equality, and freedom.

Friends, our nation’s future is not predetermined; it is a product of our collective choices and actions. We can choose to be held back by our past mistakes, or we can use them as a stepping stone to build a better tomorrow. We can choose to be sceptical, or we can capitalise on the power of our collective imagination to birth something comforting and sustainable. The choice is ours, and the time to make that choice is now. I trust we will decide right.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Friday, February 14, 2025