Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to collaborate with and provide all necessary support to security outfits in the state.

The governor gave the assurance on Thursday while receiving the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, who paid a courtesy visit to him at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde, who donated two patrol vehicles to the command, commended the NSCDC for being a pillar of support to the security architecture of Oyo State.
He stated that the Corps had been complementing the government’s efforts in making the state one of the safest in the country despite the security challenges experienced across the nation.

The governor equally acknowledged the important role the NSCDC has been playing in protecting the country’s oil assets, which according to him, are the most critical national economic assets of Nigeria.

Governor Makinde said: “I want to specially welcome you, the Commandant-General of the Civil Defence Corps and your team to Oyo State.

“Let me also specially recognise the Oyo State Commandant of the Civil Defence, who is also a member of the Oyo State Security Council and I want to say it publicly that he is a valuable member of the council.
“We appreciate his contributions. When there is any issue, he and his team have never been found wanting.

“The Civil Defence Corps in Oyo State is part of Operation Burst and they are actually doing very well. That is why Oyo State is one of the safest states in Nigeria. I know this is a challenging period for our security commanders. It is a tough period, because we have security challenges all over the country.
“About four weeks back, we were told about another terror group, Lakurawa, that just emerged in the North-West. About three days ago, I was also reading about the sabotage of the Chevron pipeline around Warri South. And we all know that oil is the lifeline for the nation’s economy.

“At the political leadership level, for us, we will have to keep asking you to do more, even with fewer resources. So, thank you for the work you are doing to keep this country safe, especially this state.
“I can only say that we have to keep pushing and wherever we can collaborate and cooperate, I will like to give the commitment of the Oyo State Government.

“We will also continue to do our own part to ensure that our officers and men that are outside day and night do not see their posting here as hardship posting. We will definitely always give them the necessary support.”

The governor added that he would commemorate the visit by handing over two patrol vehicles to the NSCDC in the state.
Earlier in his remarks, the NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr Audi, thanked the governor for the cordial relationship that exists between the Oyo State Government and the command as well as for his support towards the Corps.

He equally lauded the governor for his developmental strides and innovative reforms in the state, pledging that the Corps would continue to offer its support and ensure the maintenance of peace and security of lives and property of the residents of the state.

He also thanked the governor for donating two additional patrol vehicles to the Oyo State Command of the NSCDC, charging his officers to continue to discharge their duties as expected.

In attendance at the visit were the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Fola Oyekunle; Commissioner for Special Duties, Alhaja Faosat Joke Sanni, Executive Assistant to the governor on Security, CP Sunday Odukoya (rtd); Director-General of Operation Burst, Col. James Ajibola (rtd); Commandant of Amotekun, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (rtd) and the Special Adviser on Immigration and Homeland Services, ACG Segun Addgoke (rtd).

The NSCDC Commandant-General was accompanied by the Oyo State Commandant, Dr Augustine Padonu and other top officers of the NSCDC.

Politics all over the world is a big news, big enough to drive and drag people’s perspectives along different fault lines. When you want to trigger people’s hidden emotions, try politics and see them unravel. In politics, pretending for long is impossible. One way or the other, the cat will be let out of the bag and everyone will see things with crystal clarity. As we have seen over time, decisions made through political choices do have consequences. The effects of those choices spare no one – rich or poor, young or old, male or female.

By the way, I have written about politics in this space before with emphasis on stepping up to the challenge of the day. In my previous treatise on politics for instance, I asserted that the idea that politics is dirty, deadly and dangerous has gained notorious traction beyond the shore of Africa and much of the global south. I added that for those who think politics is all shades of vilification and calumny, politics can only also serve as the avenue for common good — as we have seen in advanced democracy. As you are aware, the political system in our country today has without any equivocation failed to deliver. Consequently, it has failed, basically, in fixing our most pressing needs – there is still hunger on a massive scale as the poverty rate remains on the very high side.

For a fact, politics is what you do to get into power and elective offices. From the President to the Governor to legislatures across the three tiers of government, politics, and politicking are what you engage in to move from candidate to political office holder with symbol of authority . For too long, we hae handed over the political system to all manners of people: charlatans, rascals, miscreants, and unscrupulous elements who only think of themselves while damaging the country from all angles. As a monopolistic structure, we have waited endlessly for the system to auto-correct itself but to no avail. Efforts at ensuring the system delivered on its mandate have repeatedly proved mildly successful in some states of the federation – leaving others in the shambles of inept leadership.

Good governance, the hallmark of democracy, is elusive in many states. Fortunately, amid the plethora of reasons to be cynical and skeptical, the shining examples of Lagos, Oyo few other States continue to inspire hope, build confidence, and assure the people of a truly efficient system that serves the interest of all. In Oyo State, for instance, the government under Governor Seyi Makinde has delivered on many of his campaign promises. He has fixed more roads than any of his predecessors. He has achieved more in human capacity development than any of his predecessors. He has surpassed the record of his predecessors combined in critical areas of governance. He has done all of these without noise and fanfare. While other states were announcing the implementation of the new minimum wage, Governor Makinde took a step further by enhancing the state workforce through a transparent recruitment exercise that cuts across the ministries, departments, and agencies of the government.

Agencies of the government that last recruited more than 20 years ago were mandated to open job portals. The beneficiaries of a fair recruitment system will forever appreciate Makinde’s leadership style. In a country where average citizens believe they stand no chance at securing heavily politicized government jobs, Makinde’s government has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to doing things the right way regardless of whose ox is gored. When we fix politics, that is, instead of running away because of the activities of some few misguided elements, we can always build a system and structure that deliver dividends of democracy to the people irrespective of who they are or where they live.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye is a system and structured leader. He has worked to help states in the country design sustainable models that gives power to the people. His creativity, artistry and expertise have been put to test in solving multifaceted challenges in and outside the country. Tested, and trusted, Amofin Beulah Adeoye brings to the table extensive work experience in critical sectors of the economy with the strong character and capacity to turn things around for the common good in all spheres.

Olajide Hamzat writes about the various prospect 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.

This week, Tuesday, November 19, we marked the International Men’s Day. It is observed annually, and serves as a reminder of the significance of men’s roles in various global societies. This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the value men bring to their families, communities, and the world at large. It’s a celebration of the positive contributions men make, often quietly and without expectations of recognition. The day also acknowledges the challenges men face, from mental health issues to societal expectations, and seeks to create a more inclusive and uplifting ecosystem.

The importance of International Men’s Day cannot be overstated. Our world we live is one where traditional masculinity is often scrutinised, – this day offers a chance to re-evaluate and appreciate the qualities that make men unique. It’s an occasion to acknowledge the challenges men face, from toxic masculinity to emotional repression, and to work toward creating an empowering space. International Men’s Day affords us to promote a more nuanced understanding of masculinity, one that values vulnerability, empathy, and compassion. This, in turn, can help to break down harmful stereotypes and promote a more equitable society.

As a man myself, I deeply identify with the spirit of International Men’s Day. I draw inspiration from notable figures like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, and millions of other men who embodied the values of courage, compassion, and leadership. Their lives show us all the inspirational effect of men who work towards the greater good. As well, essays and writings from diverse thinkers are insights into the complexities of modern masculinity. Those works highlight the need for men to reclaim their emotional lives, to develop a deeper sense of empathy and compassion, and to cultivate heathier relationships with themselves and those around them.

I wish to particularly pay special tribute to Nigerian men, who tirelessly strive to provide for their families amidst the country’s economic challenges. These men are the unsung heroes who work diligently to make ends meet, often in the face of inequality and adversity. Their resilience and determination defines their strength and character. Men who work multiple jobs to provide for their families, or our great fathers and men who tirelessly toil the land in Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, Oyo, or Ogbomoso, or entrepreneurs in Ibadan who innovate and create despite the odds, – Nigerian men are the example of determination and resilience. We celebrate these courageous individuals, who embody the truest spirit of International Men’s Day.

The understanding that both genders must work in harmony to build strong societies is sacrosanct and highly fundamental for everyone to embrace. Men, as strong as we can be, yearn for the love and support of women to thrive. This mutual support is vital for creating a balanced and equitable world. Indeed, we should acknowledge and appreciate the complementary roles men and women play to build an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. This interdependence is not limited to personal relationships; it also extends to the broader social and economic spheres. When men and women work together, they can achieve far more than they could alone, and drive progress and development in all areas of life.

I have no iota of doubt that the world is populated by men and women of integrity and character. I also believe so firmly that when men make positive contributions, it’s often because they’ve received support and encouragement from good women. Conversely, women’s achievements are frequently bolstered by the backing of good men. More often, we should recognise this interdependence, and work toward creating a more fairer world, a world where both men and women are able to attain the best available for them.

Let us recommit to being responsible citizens of the world. The reality of the world today pose to us the need to embrace a shared vision for positive change, to drive causes that serve humanity, – good governance, equality, and social justice. I have no doubt that men and women can work cohesively to build a brighter, optimistic, and more compassionate world, – but this requires a willingness to listen, to learn, and to grow together. I believe very strongly that we all have an opportunity to thrive, regardless of our gender, race, or background. Let’s keep pushing.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Friday, November 22, 2024