Residents of Ogbomoso have benefited from a free medical outreach organized by Jubril Dotun Sanusi Actualisation Team 2027 in honor of Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi’s gubernatorial ambition.

The outreach, held at Arada market in Ogbomoso South local government area, targeted market men and women, who were full of praise for the philanthropist’s kind gesture.

According to one of the organizers, Christiana Agboola, the free medical outreach team had previously visited houses, schools, and streets within the state before coming to the market.

She said that beneficiaries of this phase are market men and women at Arada market in Ogbomoso South local government area of the state.

She said the team plans to distribute food items soon to alleviate the present economic hardship.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr Akinwale Ademola thanked the organizers of the medical outreach. He prayed for more philanthropists in the country.

His words: “I pray we have plenty of people of his kind in Nigeria. The free medical outreach initiative is a commendable gesture. If they’re plenty, one will not suffer or fall sick because they will come to assist. They won’t also fall sick and their children and family members.”

Another beneficiary, Mrs Adetunji Fatimah, said she didn’t expect what she got from the medical outreach.

She said: “The outreach is a good one because they did things we don’t expect from them. And everything was free of charge. They did tests for us and gave us drugs.”

Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, a prominent Ibadan businessman, has been gaining support for his 2027 Oyo state governorship bid due to his philanthropic efforts and business acumen.

His contributions to Oyo state’s development have been acknowledged by various leaders, groups, personalities and others.

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient, expressing confidence that Nigeria’s economic challenges would be surmounted in due course.

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

Senator Alli made this assertion during his recent three-day tour of the Ibarapa Zone, aimed at engaging with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), youths and community leaders.

He had embarked on the tour in response to an invitation from APC leaders in Ibarapa towards fostering unity within the party.

The tour also provided platform for discussing pressing national issues with stakeholders from the three local governments in the zone: Ibarapa East, Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North.

Addressing APC Zonal leaders, Senator Alli emphasised the importance of grassroots engagement during times of national economic distress.

He stated that open dialogue between political leaders and the people was essential for tackling Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges.

“We are in a difficult time as a nation, but we must not lose hope. The APC remains committed to finding solutions to these economic difficulties.

“This can only be achieved by working together and understanding the specific needs of each region. I am optimistic that there is going to be light at the end of the tunnel,” Alli said.

The lawmaker assured the leaders that the President Bola Tinubu administration was working tirelessly to stabilize the economy, pledging to continue advocating for more beneficial policies.

Earlier, Chief Timothy Jolaoso, the APC Zonal leader in Ibarapa, had expressed appreciation to Senator Alli for always being responsive to the needs of the zone.

He commended the senator’s achievements over the past 15 months and described him as a representative with an unwavering commitment to the people.

Jolaoso, speaking on behalf of the party leaders, sought clarification on the Federal Government’s efforts toward addressing the nation’s economic challenges.

In his meeting with local APC leaders, Senator Alli emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration, stating that the party’s success in future elections depended largely on grassroots cohesion.

He urged party members to put aside their differences and focus on working together for the betterment of the community and the nation.

“It is essential that we remain united, especially during these challenging times. Our strength lies in our ability to work together, and division will only hinder the progress we all seek for our communities and our nation,” Alli said.

During his tour, Senator Alli also met with community leaders where he listed his achievements over the past 15 months, assuring them of his commitment to implementing more people-oriented projects in Ibarapa.

He stressed the need for local and state government interventions to mitigate the impact of the economic crisis on the lives of rural dwellers.

“The economic challenges facing our country have hit rural areas like Ibarapa the hardest. We must advocate for increased investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and education to revitalize the local economy and create jobs for our youth,” Alli said.

Senator Alli noted that while the federal government continues its national reforms, addressing the economic challenges at the local level was crucial to alleviating the difficulties faced by everyday citizens.

He reassured the people of Ibarapa that their concerns were being heard and that he would advocate for their interests at both the state and national levels.

In his interaction with youths during the tour, Senator Alli stressed the vital role played by youths in shaping the future of Nigeria.

He acknowledged the frustrations many young people experience due to unemployment, urging them to stay hopeful while actively engaginh in politics and community development.

“Job creation is a top priority, but we must also equip our youths with the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in today’s economy.

“I am working with stakeholders to bring more vocational training and entrepreneurship opportunities, especially in agriculture, where Ibarapa has immense potential,” he said.

Senator Alli encouraged youths to take advantage of existing government programs designed to support students, small businesses and agricultural ventures.

He reiterated that sustainable development in Nigeria can only be achieved through the active participation of young people.

The lawmaker reassured the people of Ibarapa that their voices were heard, saying he remain committed to addressing their concerns at every level.

“Ethical leadership leads with integrity and delivers priorities for a better tomorrow.”

Ordinarily, an airport upgrade in the 21st century shouldn’t meet any resistance, especially given its economic importance to a cosmopolitan city like Ibadan, a historic city in the West of Nigeria, and indeed Africa.

Some may come with defense that, Akwa Ibom State recently invested about 60 billion Naira into the aerospace business, validating the prosperity and business viability in this sector. But we must acknowledge that there are peculiarities to consider.

Akwa Ibom State holds more economic viability than Oyo State in the aerospace industry. For example, Ibom Air generated over 1.5 billion Naira within 18 months of its establishment, making it a strategic business and a significant source of internally generated revenue (IGR) for the state. In contrast, Governor Seyi Makinde inherited a Federal airport, unlike Victor Attah, who envisioned and built the Akwa Ibom Airport (now Victor Attah Airport). Governor Makinde’s situation is compounded by the stark realities of poor road infrastructure and other developmental deficits in Oyo State.

Governor Seyi Makinde, who, in my view, seems like a greenhorn politician still learning the ropes, appears to prioritize ‘flashy’ achievements over addressing the core challenges in Oyo State.

Take Ogbomoso, for instance. It holds a comparative advantage in agricultural products like mango and cashew and is Nigeria’s second-largest exporter of cashew after Kogi State. Cashew, which is one of the most sought-after crops, could have been utilized more efficiently by establishing processing industries in the state. Such companies could transform raw cashew into finished products like snacks, or ingredients for salads, stir-fries, and desserts. The cashew apple, too, could be processed into beverages, jams, and preserves. Moreover, cashew butter, oil, and even the nut shell liquid have industrial applications, ranging from lubricants to paints.

Having a cashew processing company in Oyo State would not only reduce crime and the mass exodus of young people (‘japa’ syndrome), but it would also revolutionize the state’s economy. What about reviving the moribund fruit juice factory in Oko? What about harnessing the agricultural prosperity of Oke-Ogun? What exports have come out of Fashola Farm in Oyo? Are we still relying on Botswana maize? It’s beyond disappointing!

Dear Governor, Oyo State’s comparative advantage lies in agriculture. In fact, most of the notable buildings in Oyo State—including the State Secretariat—are products of our past investments in agriculture. Why then are we treating this vital sector with lip service?

Your Excellency, you’ve been quoted saying Nigerians are ‘hungry and angry’ as a jab at the Federal Government. But are you completely blameless? Shouldn’t you also acknowledge your own role in Oyo State’s struggles?

Beyond agriculture, Oyo State is blessed with numerous tourist attractions that remain untapped. Igboora, the “twins capital of the world”; Ado Awaye Lake, the second of its kind globally; Igbeti Hills, and many other traditional sites could put Oyo State on the map, not only in Nigeria but across Africa. Your Excellency, the 42 billion Naira allocated for the airport upgrade is more than enough to achieve these transformations. So why is our attention elsewhere?

And what about education? Your Excellency, many of our public schools are in deplorable conditions. In some schools, students have no choice but to sit on bare floors or attend classes in makeshift, open-air settings. Are we not putting the future of our children at risk in Oyo State?

I’m not oblivious to the fact that governance is a continuum, and no single administration can solve all problems. However, setting the right priorities is essential. While I agree that an airport upgrade is welcome in this era, considering the realities in Oyo State, is this really a priority? Absolutely not.

Ethical leadership should be innovative and focused on solving core issues, not chasing superficial achievements. Government policies must be carefully thought out; this is no place for a trial-and-error approach.

Your Excellency, while I applaud your success with Adamasingba Stadium—reviving the sporting spirit of Ibadan and Oyo State—I must also acknowledge the contributions of the former Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, whose efforts made this possible. This achievement deserves commendation, no doubt.

In conclusion, Your Excellency, I thank you for being an inspiration to many aspiring youths. We trust that you are a listener and an advocate of social change, just like myself. I am optimistic that the areas highlighted in this letter will receive the prompt attention they deserve.

Thank you!

The Post UTME tests for admission into the various courses of the University of Ibadan for the 2024/2025 academic session have commenced.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, led other Principal Officers of the University to ensure the success of the exercise.

Candidates and their parents had arrived at the venue as early as 6.00 a.m. and the Admissions Committee had arranged chairs and canopies for their convenience.

11,912 candidates were expected to sit for the tests scheduled to be held from Thursday, 19 September, till Saturday, 21 September, 2024.

Candidates had earlier been advised to visit the UI Admissions Portal to print their photo-cards, which bear their date of examination, time, and venue. The photo cards were to be brought along to the venue of the tests.

Candidates were checked in, one hour to the commencement of their sessions.

Candidates who were earlier scheduled for Friday 20 September, from 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm, (Session 3) were re-scheduled to have their tests on Saturday 21 September from 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm (Session

The scheduled plan for each day was as follows:

Day One
Thursday, 19 September, 2024 – (3 Sessions)
8:30 am – 10:00 am/ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm/ 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Day Two
Friday, 20 September, 2024 (3 Sessions)
8:30 am – 10:00 am/ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm / 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

Day Three
Saturday, 21 September, 2024 (4 Sessions)
8:30 am – 10:00 am/ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm/ 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm /
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

The venue for the tests was the University of Ibadan Distance Learning Center, Sasa Road.

An ally to late June 12, 1993 hero, MKO Abiola, Alhaji Sufianu Kazeem has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the best listening President Nigeria has ever produced.

He stated the nation has never had a President that listens and leads according to their yearnings until the emergence of Tinubu.

A statement by the elder statesman, who was also a close confidant of late winner of 1993 presidential election, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, said evidence abounds that many decisions taken by President Tinubu which did not go down well with people later reflect wishes of Nigerians.

He said: “Let it be on record that this is the first time Nigeria will be having a listening President who never failed to show understanding with the plights of Nigerians whenever the needs arises.

“President Tinubu has portrayed himself as a leader, mentor, and father who will spare nothing to alleviate pains any Nigeria may be going through, with reversal of policies that may not go down well the citizens which makes him the most listening Nigeria President.”

Kazeem urged leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) not to be used against Nigerians.

He alleged NLC President Joe Ajaero is playing the ostrich to few influential politicians bent on distracting current government.

The elder statesman stated workers formed reasonable and active percentage of the country’s population but should not be taken for advantage over other Nigerians who are not working for government.

He said though Nigerians are passing through some challenges they shouldn’t loss hope but join hands with government to improve the nation’s economy.

“Let me say, had observed in recent times like any other Nigerian, the fierce battle between the NLC President and government of Nigeria over some offences levied against Joe Ajaero. I want to say that the office of the NLC President should be separated from that of Ajaero as the office has nothing to do with the said offences.

“It becomes very important for the labour leader to go clear his name and not hide under NLC presidency. He should also guard against being used by disgruntled elements who claimed to be politicians to distract the government as the implication may not be too palatable for him.”

He called on Nigerians to be patient and give Tinubu’s time to turn around the country for better, adding that opposition parties should also team up with Tinubu in navigating the nation out of difficulties.

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a robust financial system and a business-friendly economy that will attract more foreign direct investments.

The President made the commitment on Thursday in Abuja, as the Coca-Cola Company announced plans to invest $1 billion in Nigeria over the next five years.

The announcement was made at a meeting between the President and the global leadership team of Coca-Cola Company, led by Mr John Murphy, its president and chief financial officer, and the Chairman of Nigerian Bottling Company, Ambassador Segun Apata.

President Tinubu commended Coca-Cola for its long-standing partnership with Nigeria and for promoting investment opportunities that have employed over 3000 people across nine production facilities.

”We are business-friendly, and as I said at my inauguration, we must create an environment of easy-in and easy-out for businesses.

”We are building a financial system where you can invest, re-invest, and repatriate all your dividends. I have a firm belief in that,” he said.

President Tinubu told the delegation that private sector partnerships, which sustain investments, are central to his government’s far-reaching reforms to improve the business environment.

He pledged that the government would continue partnering with Coca-Cola to expand investments in Nigeria and address environmental issues, including climate change.

”The size of this country is enormous in Africa, and the consumption capacity of Nigeria is expanding daily,” President Tinubu added while commending the company for scaling up its skill development and community initiatives as part of its corporate social responsibility.

Presenting an overview of Coca-Cola’s business in Nigeria, Murphy noted that the company generates N320 billion annually through nearly 300,000 customers and contributes almost N90 billion in revenue to the Nigerian government.

”We are very proud of the growth of the business over a long period and its impact on the daily lives of many Nigerians.

”Beyond the financial impacts, we are also very committed to supporting the communities, and over the last number of years, we’ve had a special focus on several areas in the world of sustainability, water packaging and others, ” he said.

Mr Zoran Bogdanovic, CEO of Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, explained that the company’s confidence in Nigerian government policies had encouraged it to make the $1 billion investment pledge.

”Mr President, in your inaugural address, we were very pleased to hear of your invitation for foreign investors to invest and your assurance that foreign businesses can repatriate dividends and profits.

”That assurance gives us the confidence to continue our investments. Since 2013, we have invested $ 1.5 billion in Nigeria in capacity expansion, transformation of our supply chain infrastructure capabilities, training, and development.

”I am very pleased to announce that, with a predictable and enabling environment in place, we plan to invest an additional $1 billion over the next five years.

”We believe Nigeria’s potential is tremendous, and we are committed to working with the government to realise this potential,” he said.