Category: Promotion

  • A’Ibom to inaugurate committee over SPFL-Eastern Obolo dispute

    A’Ibom to inaugurate committee over SPFL-Eastern Obolo dispute

    Uyo – The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced plans to inaugurate a special committee aimed at finding a lasting resolution to the ongoing dispute between Sterling Petrochemical and Fertilizer Limited (SPFL) and its host communities, Obianga and Ikonta, in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.

    According to a statement from the Government House on Thursday, Governor Umo Eno made this known while addressing SPFL management, staff, and representatives of the affected communities following an extensive tour of the company’s facilities on Wednesday.

    Governor Eno stated that the visit was intended to gain firsthand insight into the grievances raised by the host communities and to ensure a peaceful resolution. He disclosed that the committee would include representatives from the state government, Eastern Obolo, SPFL, and security agencies.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to an amicable resolution, urging both SPFL and the Eastern Obolo communities to embrace peace.

    “Our presence here today should give you relief and hope that the state government is fully involved. We have seen the issues, and we will take necessary action to address them,” the governor assured.

    He further highlighted some of the key concerns to be addressed by the committee, including:

    Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

    Relocation of affected residents in Obianga and Ikonta

    Clarification of the actual land area occupied by SPFL

    Related News
    A’Ibom pensioners seek audience with Gov. Eno over LG autonomy
    Akwa Ibom Govt declares Cholera outbreak in one community                                                                       IYC alleges invasion, and attack of Ijaw communities in A’Ibom

    Measures to foster harmonious company-community relations

    Governor Eno emphasized that Eastern Obolo has benefited from his administration’s initiatives, including the one project per local government policy and the compassionate homes program. He encouraged the communities to remain peaceful and cooperative, stressing that the SPFL project would bring long-term economic benefits for the present and future generations.

    “We understand the temporary inconveniences, but I urge you to look at the bigger picture. This company’s presence will create opportunities for your children and future generations,” he stated.

    In his remarks, Chairman of Eastern Obolo Local Government Council, Mr. Samuel Nteogwuijah, expressed gratitude to the governor for visiting and stepping in to mediate the conflict.

    “We appreciate your intervention, Your Excellency. Our people support your development initiatives and are willing to work with SPFL to ensure that industrial activities are conducted responsibly and sustainably in line with laws and global best practices,” Nteogwuijah said.

    Similarly, the Paramount Ruler of Eastern Obolo, HRM Uboon Harry Etetor IX, commended Governor Eno for his commitment to restoring peace and bridging the gap between the company and its host communities.

    SPFL Managing Director, Mr. Mohit Barot, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and its willingness to align with the state government’s directives.

    “We have operated in Nigeria for nearly 20 years, and we chose Akwa Ibom because of its peaceful and business-friendly environment. We are committed to fostering strong community relations and addressing concerns raised by the host communities,” Barot assured.

    With the planned inauguration of the peace committee, all parties remain hopeful that the long-standing dispute between SPFL and the Eastern Obolo communities will be amicably resolved.

  • Elumelu canvases support for young African entrepreneurs

    Elumelu canvases support for young African entrepreneurs

    Chairman, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu has called for global   support for young African entrepreneurs to drive meaningful and sustainable transformation of the continent.

    Elumelu, who is also the Chairman of UBA Group Plc, and Heirs Holdings,   made this call while speaking at the Legacy Builders Palm Beach Conference, in Florida, US.

    According to him, African youths are key to the transformation of the continent, adding that this inspired the creation of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which is dedicated  to empowering African entrepreneurs.

    “Today, we have granted 2.5 million Africans access to training on TEFConnect, our online portal, and lifted over 2 million individuals out of poverty.

    “We have also disbursed more than $100 million in direct funding to over 21,000 beneficiaries, who have created 1.5 million jobs, and generated $4.2 billion in revenue across the continent.

    “We also learnt; we can’t do it just by ourselves – our programme receives over 300,000+ applications a year. So, we now work with the EU, the UN, the Red Cross – and with family foundations, we launched a programme with the Ikea Foundation – they use our execution ability – we amplify the good.”

    While noting that many African youths are  creating jobs and eliminating poverty, with their impact   felt in their communities and across the continent as they come up with solutions that are transforming Africa, Elumelu averred that every young African with a dream should have a fair shot at realising it.

    This, he said, requires knowledge-sharing, about mentorship, about building networks that support and uplift, hence the need to do more so as to   create a continent where young entrepreneurs are not paralysed by systemic barriers, but propelled forward by opportunity. We will bring back hope.

    “Africa will not rise by chance—it will rise because of deliberate action, because of people who refuse to accept the status quo and choose instead to create the future we deserve, “ he said.

    Consequently, he appealed to participants at the august gathering, “I invite each of you to explore how you can be part of our mission to drive meaningful and sustainable impact. Together, we can transform the African continent, one entrepreneur at a time.”

  • Xiaomi Spring Sale: Unbeatable Discounts on Redmi 14C, Redmi A3X, and Redmi A3 Pro!

    Xiaomi Spring Sale: Unbeatable Discounts on Redmi 14C, Redmi A3X, and Redmi A3 Pro!

    As the new season approaches, Xiaomi is bringing you an incredible opportunity to upgrade your smartphone at unbeatable prices! Starting from February 1st, the Xiaomi Spring Sale is offering massive discounts on some of the most popular entry-level smartphones—Redmi 14C, Redmi A3X, and Redmi A3 Pro. This is the perfect time to grab a high-quality device at a discounted price, with savings of up to ₦10,000!

    Mega Price Slash on Your Favorite Redmi

    Redmi 14C (6GB + 256GB) – Save ₦10,000!

    • New Price:₦175,600
    • Old Price: ₦185,600
    • You Save: ₦10,000

    The Redmi 14C is a powerhouse smartphone designed for smooth performance and high storage capacity.

    With 6GB RAM and 256GB storage, it ensures a seamless user experience whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or streaming your favorite content.

    With this incredible price slash, you can now enjoy high performance at an even more affordable price. If you’ve been considering an upgrade, there’s no better time to buy the Redmi 14C and save ₦10,000 while stocks last!

    Redmi A3X – Save ₦3,000!

    • New Price: Starting from ₦106,800
    • Old Price: ₦109,800
    • You Save: ₦3,000!

    The Redmi A3X is perfect for users looking for a stylish and budget-friendly smartphone. With its sleek design, smooth performance, and reliable battery life, this device is ideal for daily use, whether you’re browsing, chatting, or watching videos. Now, with ₦3,000 off, you can enjoy this amazing smartphone for even less!

    Redmi A3 Pro – Save ₦2,300!

    • New Price: Starting from ₦129,900
    • Old Price: ₦132,200
    • You Save: ₦2,300!
    Xiaomi Spring Sale: Unbeatable Discounts on Redmi 14C, Redmi A3X, and Redmi A3 Pro!
    Xiaomi Spring Sale: Unbeatable Discounts on Redmi 14C, Redmi A3X, and Redmi A3 Pro!

    If you’re looking for a device that offers a balance of performance, style, and affordability, the Redmi A3 Pro is your perfect match. It provides enhanced features, a vibrant display, and a smooth user experience. Now available at a discounted price, you can save ₦2,300 and enjoy this fantastic smartphone without breaking the bank!

    Why You Should Take Advantage of the Xiaomi Spring Sale Massive Savings: With discounts of up to ₦10,000, you get top-quality smartphones at the best prices.

    Latest Features at Budget Prices: Whether you choose the Redmi 14C, A3X, or A3 Pro, you’re getting modern features at unbeatable value.

    Limited-Time Offer: These discounts are available for a limited time only, starting from February 1st. Don’t miss out!

    Trusted Xiaomi Quality: Xiaomi continues to deliver cutting-edge technology at affordable prices, making these deals even more irresistible.

    Where to Buy?

    The Xiaomi Spring Sale is available at all authorized Xiaomi retail stores and online platforms, including FINET, RAYA, 3CHUB, SLOT, POINTEK, FINE BROTHER, and CALLUS MILLER. For those who prefer online shopping, visit Xiaomi’s exclusive store on Jumia at Xiaomi Store and enjoy the convenience of having your new Xiaomi device delivered directly to your door.

    Be sure to check your nearest store or favorite online marketplace to grab these deals before they’re gone!

    Act Fast – Stocks Are Limited!

    With such amazing discounts, these smartphones will sell out quickly! If you’re planning to upgrade your phone or gift a loved one, now is the best time to buy and save.

    Don’t miss out on the Xiaomi Spring Sale! Upgrade to a powerful and stylish Redmi smartphone today and enjoy huge savings before the promotion ends!

  • 17,000 jostle for 2,500 teaching jobs in Abia

    17,000 jostle for 2,500 teaching jobs in Abia

    UMUAHIA – Abia State Government said it had received over 17,000 applications for the 2,500 teaching vacancies in the state.

    This is because the State Government has accused the state leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NUP, of propagating falsehood to blackmail the Government.

    Meanwhile, the Government has said it is targeting N120 billion as its Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, for 2025.

    Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who spoke during a press briefing on the outcome of the state’s Executive Council meeting in Umuahia, said that shortlisted candidates on teachers’ recruitment would be subjected to computer-based test and oral interview before the successful ones would be finally recruited.

    This, according to him, is to ensure that the exercise is merit -based and transparent.

    He re-stated the commitment of the Alex Otti-led administration to inject more teachers in the school system (primary and secondary schools) for better service delivery as part of the transformation agenda in the education sector.

    Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Basic Education, Kenechukwu Nwosu, said there had been an upsurge in pupils’ and students’ enrollment across the state since the commencement of the free education policy of the Governor in January.

    He said the recruitment of new teachers had become necessary to meet the growing demand in schools and achieve the Governor’s target of providing compulsory quality and free education to every child in Abia.

    “There’s massive enrollment in schools across Abia State especially in Aba following the free education policy of our Governor. A school in Aba that previously had 45 pupils now has over 450 pupils. In some communities too, the population has swollen, hence the need for recruitment of teachers”.

    The Information Commissioner further said that the State Government had approved the provision of ramps in all public buildings to make them easily accessible by persons with disabilities (PWDs).

    This, he said, was a demonstration of the Government’s passion for PWDs, adding that the Otti-led administration is poised to give PWDs and other vulnerable groups a sense of belonging in the state.

    Kanu disclosed that the recent free medical outreach at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, ABSUTH, Aba was a huge success.

    He said 114 surgeries were conducted during the exercise while over 900 patients received medical attention.

    “The State also acquired some sophisticated medical equipment for the surgeries”, he added

    Abia targets N120b as IGR in 2025

    The Commissioner said strategies had been put in place by the State Government to shore up its Internally Generated Revenues (IGR), and meet the 2025 target of N120 billion.

    He disclosed that the State surpassed its 2024 target of N32 billion with additional N7 billion having made a total of N39 billion in IGR, a leap from N17 billion recorded in 2023.

    He, therefore, solicited the cooperation of residents in payment of their necessary financial obligations.

    ” This Government has never collected any fees on waste management because the Governor wanted to first clean up the state before asking people to pay. But now residents will begin to pay their ASEPA bills”.

    The Commissioner further disclosed that the State Government, under the Rural Access and Mobility Project, RAMP, programme (a World Bank- assisted project), had awarded contract for the construction of 59-killimeter road cutting across seven Local Government Areas.

    This, he said, was aimed at improving the access of rural dwellers to motorable roads for the evacuation of

    their farm produce and to enhance their economies.

    On the controversy surrounding the agreement between the State Government and pensioners culminating to the payment of pension arrears, the Commissioner accused the leadership of pensioners of insincerity and peddling of propaganda to blackmail the Government.

    He described the claims by the state leadership of NUP that it was deceived into signing the Memorandum of Agreement, MoA, with Government, as mischievous and a deliberate attempt to blackmail the Government.

    According to him, the state leadership of pensioners which was almost inactive during the immediate-past administration, is not after the welfare of its members but pursuing a different agenda .

    Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma, said that Gov. Otti, while in the opposition, related well with pensioners and even promised to pay their pension arrears.

    He, however, explained that the accumulated arrears were under-estimated as it amounted to about N30 billion after computation contrary to about N15 billion initially estimated.

    ” Based on this discovery, a committee was set up on the way forward, and at the end of the day, pensioners went into agreement with the State Government. The terms of the agreement were drafted by the committee and the leadership of NUP went home with the document and studied it for 48 hours before it was signed.

    ” How can they now turn around to claim they did not know what they signed! Were they under gun point during the signing? They are not being fair to this Government which has shown pensioners much love. Since last year, this Government has consistently paid 100% pension at the end of every month just like workers’ salaries. This is in addition to payment of arrears accumulated by previous administrations.

    ” Is it not curious that NUP which was inactive in the last administration suddenly woke up. Previously, its docility was the reason a group known as Concerned Abia Pensioners emerged. NUP has not come to equity with clean hands and Government is not interested in engaging it again. They are not representing Abia

    pensioners who are happy with Government for cleaning their tears. Government will be dealing with Concerned Pensioners”

    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, urged members of the public not to be deceived by the misleading narrative being propelled by NUP to portray the Governor’s gesture in bad light.

    He said that no Governor in the history of Abia had shown as much concern for the welfare of workers and pensioners as Otti had done, adding that it will be unfair to reciprocate his goodwill with blackmail.

  • Okachi Charity Foundation strengthens educational initiatives in The Gambia

    Okachi Charity Foundation strengthens educational initiatives in The Gambia

    On a recent courtesy visit to Her Excellency, Mrs Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, The First Lady of the Gambia by Faith Morey, Okachi Charity Foundation founder strategic discussions on educational initiatives and key findings from school visits as well as collaborative initiatives between both parties were highlighted.

    Her Excellency inquired about the challenges faced by the visited schools and explored how the Okachi Charity Foundation (OCF) can further support and enhance educational opportunities for Gambian children. In recognition of OCF’s Impact so far through their initiatives, The First Lady commended OCF’s dedication to education, particularly its adoption of six schools, impacting over 8,000 children through initiatives such as free volunteer teachers, playgrounds, and essential educational resources.

    Discussions centered on a potential partnership between Okachi Charity Foundation (OCF ) and the Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow (FAAB) Foundation, which champions education, women’s health, children’s welfare, and community development. Special focus was given to aligning efforts to expand access to quality education and social support.

    The meeting highlighted key initiatives from Gambia’s educational system that could be adapted to enhance learning outcomes and it includes Girls’ Education Sponsorships: Providing essential materials to encourage and sustain girls’ enrollment in school.

    Free School Transportation: Ensuring that no child walks more than three miles to school, removing barriers to attendance.

    School Feeding Program: Supporting low-income students with nutritional assistance to improve focus and learning capacity.

    Future Implementation and Knowledge Sharing:

    OCF expressed its commitment to integrating these insights into its 2025 Summer School Program, while also sharing findings with the Commissioner of Education in Port Harcourt to influence policy and practice.

    Commitment to Inclusivity and Teacher Training:

    A shared priority emerged—the need for enhanced teacher training to identify and support children with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.

    The meeting underscored a shared dedication to transforming education, empowering children, and fostering sustainable development. Her Excellency’s unwavering commitment to education and social welfare through FAAB is an inspiration, setting a strong foundation for impactful collaborations that will shape the future of countless children.

  • Food security: FG distributes 2.1m bags of fertilizers to farmers

    Food security: FG distributes 2.1m bags of fertilizers to farmers

    In a bid to boost food production, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has  said that the Ministry has distributed over 2.1 million bags of fertilizers to farmers and provided food aid to flood-affected communities

    The Minister also emphasized the need for Nigeria’s agriculture sector to shift from merely feeding the population to generating wealth.

    Speaking at the 5th Meeting of the Lake Chad Basin Governors Forum in Maiduguri, Boron State, Senator Kyari noted that increasing productivity through research, climate-resilient seeds, soil health improvement, and smart agriculture is crucial to achieving this goal.

    He said “the Ministry is developing a biometric-based farmer registration system in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

    “This innovative system will ensure that targeted interventions reach the intended beneficiaries, promoting transparency and efficiency.”

    Senator Kyari’s commitment to agricultural development is expected to make a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy.

    Nigeria’s agricultural sector has immense potential, accounting for about 87.6% of the sector’s total output, with crop production being the largest segment.

    The Minister, who is also taking bold steps to address the challenges facing onion production in Nigeria, recently convened an emergency meeting with the National Onion Producers, Processors, and Marketers

    Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN) to tackle the alarming 40% potential shortfall in onion production this season.

    The crisis was largely caused by the distribution of adulterated seeds to farmers, but it was revealed at the meeting that a member of NOPPMAN was responsible for supplying the substandard seeds

    The Minister commended the association for their swift action in identifying the culprit and handing them over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for investigation and accountability.

    Nigerians from various walks of life have lavished praise on the Minister proactive approach, hailing it as a resounding testament to his unwavering commitment to catapulting the country’s agricultural sector to unprecedented heights.

    As the seventh-largest onion producer globally and third in Africa, Nigeria’s agricultural prowess is undeniable. It has revealed that the country’s onion production accounts for approximately 4.3 percent of global production, totaling an impressive 244,866 tons in 2020 alone.

    Onion farming has emerged as a lucrative business venture in Nigeria, with key production hubs located in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Sokoto, Plateau, Bauchi, and Kebbi States.

    The Minister’s intervention is expected to further boost onion production, solidifying Nigeria’s position as a major player in the global onion market.

    Nigeria’s agricultural sector has immense potential, accounting for about 87.6 percent of the sector’s total output, with crop production being the largest segment.

    Experts have said that the minister’s efforts to promote smart agriculture, climate-resilient seeds, and soil health improvement will undoubtedly contribute to the sector’s growth and development

  • Food Security: Lagos set to launch N500m ‘Ounje Eko’ farmers’ subsidy intervention programme

    Food Security: Lagos set to launch N500m ‘Ounje Eko’ farmers’ subsidy intervention programme

    Lagos State Government has disclosed plans to launch a N500 million intervention fund “Ounje Eko,” Farmers’ Subsidy Program from next week Wednesday, aimed at providing affordable, domestic food sufficiency for its over 23 million residents.

    The intervention program, which will be implemented in collaboration with the private sector and stakeholders, will also ensure fair product pricing for end users.

    Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Bisola Olusanya, disclosed this on Wednesday, during the unveiling of the planned launch in Alausa, Ikeja.

    The programme, Olusanya, explained that the government will support farmers by providing a 25 percent subsidy on their production for dedicated markets.

    The benefitting farmers include poultry, crops, and fish. According to Olusanya, “As you may recall, the Ounje Eko Discount Market was introduced as a response to the significant rise in inflation and its effect on the affordability of essential food items for Lagos residents.

    “This initiative, which provides a 25% discount on key food commodities, has been widely accepted by the general public and has successfully provided relief to thousands of households across the state.

    “Through two successful phases, this initiative has demonstrated our government’s unwavering commitment to food security and economic stability for our citizens.

    “Building on this success and recognizing the challenges faced by our farmers, we are pleased to introduce the Ounje Eko Farmers Subsidy Programme (Ounje Eko FSP) — a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at

    “Building on this success and recognizing the challenges faced by our farmers, we are pleased to introduce the Ounje Eko Farmers Subsidy Programme (Ounje Eko FSP) — a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at supporting agricultural production through a 25% subsidy on animal feeds (poultry and fish), tractorization services for crop production as well as distribution of bags of fertilizers.

    Objectives

    “Objectives of the Programme

    The agricultural sector, particularly livestock and aquaculture farming, has been under significant pressure due to the rising cost of production inputs. Poultry and fish feed alone account for over 70% of production costs, leading to reduced farm operations and, in some cases, closures.

    “This has not only affected farmers but has also contributed to food inflation and reduced access to essential protein sources such as eggs, chicken, and fish.

    “Through the Ounje Eko Farmers Subsidy Programme, the Lagos State Government seeks to Provide direct financial relief to farmers through a 25% subsidy on poultry and fish feeds.

    Sustain and improve production levels, ensuring a steady supply of poultry and fish products in the market.

    “Prevent further farm closures and mitigate food insecurity. Strengthen the overall agricultural value chain in Lagos State by supporting farmers from production to market distribution.

    “This intervention departs from past strategies where free input distribution led to diversion and inefficiencies. Instead, this subsidy model ensures accountability, proper targeting, sustainable impact.”

    Integration with the Produce for Lagos Initiative and the Central Food Security and Logistics Hub, Olusanya added, “This initiative with a N500 million intervention, is a crucial step in the broader agenda to reduce over-reliance on food imports and strengthen local food production.

    Olusanya added; “Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub, faces unique challenges in food security due to its heavy dependence on external food supplies.

    “By empowering local farmers, the Ounje Eko Farmers Subsidy Programme aligns with the Produce for Lagos Initiative, which focuses on increasing internal agricultural productivity.

    “Additionally, this programme will help lay the groundwork for the Lagos State Central Food Security and Logistics Hub, ensuring seamless distribution of agricultural products across the state.”

    Implementation and Operational Strategy

    Speaking on the operational strategy, Olusanya, said, “To ensure the success of this programme, we have put in place a robust implementation strategy. Key components include targeted products and partners, such as poultry feed (Layers Mash). Fish feed (3mm and 4mm).

    Reputable feed millers such as Animal Care and Olam Nigeria Limited will be engaged.

    “Partnerships with Farmer Associations:

    Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) Lagos Chapter, Lagos State Catfish Association of Nigeria (LASCAFAN).

    Registered farmers within farm settlements Designated Discount Market Locations: Erikorodo Poultry Estate, Ikorodu, Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Araga, Epe

    Aiyedoto Poultry Estate, Ojo

    Coconut House, Mowo, Badagry

    Farm Service Center, Oko-Oba, Ikeja

    Fish Farm Estate, Odongunyan, Ikorodu.

    Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

    “The programme will run every Wednesday from February 5th to February 26th, 2025. Farmers will pay only 75% of the cost, while the government subsidizes the remaining 25%. Pre-ordering and payment processes will be managed through farmer associations to ensure transparency.

    “Vendors will deliver pre-ordered products to market locations for verification and distribution,” among others.

    The commissioner added: “The launch of the Ounje Eko Farmers Subsidy Programme marks another milestone in our commitment to ensuring food security, stabilizing food prices, and empowering our farmers.

    “This initiative will not only safeguard livelihoods but also reinforce Lagos State’s leadership in agricultural innovation and sustainability.

    “We call on all stakeholders — farmers, feed millers, security agencies, and the general public — to support and participate in this initiative.”

    Olusanya expressed gratitude to Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering dedication to the welfare of residents, as well as to all partners, such as OLAM Nigeria, Animal Care, Zenith Bank, Providus Bank, Farmer Associations such as the PAN, LASCAFAN, and other stakeholders.

  • Sanwo-Olu promises Ojo General Hospital will be ready by December 2025

    Sanwo-Olu promises Ojo General Hospital will be ready by December 2025

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has assured residents that the ongoing work on the General Hospital project in Ojo town will be ready by December 2025.

    On Tuesday, the Governor gave the contractor handling the project a 12-month deadline when he led an on-the-spot tour of the project site to assess the progress of the construction work.

    Besides, the Governor also flagged off the construction of a 27-block shopping complex along LASU-Iyana Iba Road.

    Sanwo-Olu, accompanied on the tour by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and State cabinet members, was received by Ojo residents led by their traditional leaders.

    Sited on 6.5 hectares along the Lagos-Badagry corridor, the Ojo General Hospital is a 280-bed infrastructure developed by the Sanwo-Olu administration to ramp up medical care in Lagos West Senatorial District.

    When completed, the multi-specialist hospital will be the biggest healthcare facility in the district, complementing other primary and secondary care facilities operating in the zone.

    The hospital borders the Ojo military cantonment, Lagos State University, and Lagos Rail Mass Transit (BLUE LINE) infrastructure.

    Sanwo-Olu said the hospital was being developed to address inadequate medical facilities in the area, stressing that the infrastructure would provide residents with a new care experience.

    He said: “We have just taken a tour to see the construction work being carried out on this hospital project.

    “Our word here is to encourage the contractor, who, we believe, is dealing with a big task, given the project’s magnitude.

    “We will support the contractor and encourage them to give their best. Whatever is to be done on our part, we will fulfill our obligations.

    “Based on the pace of work, we are hoping the project should have been completed in the next 12 months, which means that the contractor should hand over the project by the end of the year.

    “We will push everything to ensure this task becomes a reality in the next 12 months.

    “We extend our appreciation to stakeholders in the community for being part of this journey, and we urge them to be patient while the construction continues.”

    Sanwo-Olu said that when the project is completed, the hospital will be part of the infrastructure his administration initiated to improve the Ojo area.

    The Governor listed other ongoing projects in the area, including the hospital project, which had been sited in front of the Blue Line, which will terminate at Okokomaiko.

    “There is a complete renewal of infrastructure on this axis, which shows that our government is working to fulfill its promises to our residents in Ojo and Badagry Division,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    Aside from the medical departments, the project is being developed with four blocks of Doctors’ residences. The semi-detached accommodation comprises eight three-bedroom apartments in each block, for a total of 64 apartments.

    The main hospital building will include delivery theatres and wards, pediatrics, pharmacy, Oncology and Gynaecology, Accident and Emergency, an Intensive Care Unit, surgical wards, a dialysis centre, an administrative unit, and an outpatient department.

    The ancillary facilities include a morgue, central laboratory, equipment storage facility, laundry, bank, engineering department and parking lot.

    Turning the sod to flag off the construction of the Platinum Shopping Complex, meant to take traders off the highway at affordable rates, Sanwo-Olu said: “This is an attempt to achieve regeneration not only to improve infrastructure but also to reclaim the aesthetic properties of the environment and improve people’s lifestyles. All the infrastructure projects being sited in this area are designed to improve the socio-economic power of our citizens in this corridor.”

    The shopping complex is being developed by Almera Global Investment Services — a private developer — in collaboration with Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC) and Ojo Local Government Areas.

    The project will be constructed in four phases. Each block will have 30 shops, resulting in a total of 1,500 shops.

  • Odize congratulates Oborevwori on Governor of the Year Award

    Odize congratulates Oborevwori on Governor of the Year Award

    Odize congratulates Oborevwori on Governor of the Year Award

    Dr. Victory Oghenerabome Odize, Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Diaspora Affairs, has congratulated Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on his recognition as Governor of the Year by THISDAY/Arise TV. He described the award as a fitting tribute to the governor’s exceptional leadership, which has significantly transformed Delta State through the implementation of his “MORE Agenda.”

    In a statement, Dr. Odize commended Governor Oborevwori for his visionary approach to governance, which has brought remarkable progress in infrastructure, education, health care, and economic empowerment. According to him, the award reflects the governor’s relentless commitment to inclusive development and his ability to connect with the aspirations of Deltans both at home and in the diaspora.

    “This honor by THISDAY/Arise TV underscores the governor’s tireless efforts to position Delta State as a beacon of excellence in governance,” he stated.

    Dr. Odize further urged the governor to see the recognition as a call to redouble his efforts in delivering more impactful projects and policies that will continue to uplift the state and its people. He assured the governor of the unwavering support of Deltans in the diaspora, noting that they remain proud ambassadors of his administration’s achievements.

  • EFCC promotes 900 officers, reinstates life, property Insurance

    EFCC promotes 900 officers, reinstates life, property Insurance

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has given the green light to the promotion of approximately 900 officers.

    The commission also reinstated life and property insurance for its operatives.

    EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, revealed this at the commission’s 2024 Rewards and Recognition ceremony in Abuja on Saturday.

    Olukoyede stated that the commission, under his leadership, is working tirelessly to improve the welfare of its personnel.

    He revealed that some staff members had been awaiting promotion for six or seven years.

    Similarly, according to him, the commission is taking steps to address the long-standing issue of insurance, which has been absent for 20 years.

    “We have approved the promotion of about 900 staff, some of whom have been awaiting promotion for about six or seven years.

    “We are also taking steps to solve the issues of insurance. For 20 years, we have not had any life and property insurance.

    “I believe that in another one or two months, we should be done with our life insurance and also the property insurance,” he said.

    According to Olukoyede, the commission has recently taken delivery of 84 apartment units in the Lekki area of Lagos State.

    He said the apartments would be distributed and sold to staff members at cost, without any interest charged on the purchase price.

    Oloyede further confirmed that he was working on a package to adjust the cost of living for officers, adding that this would be unveiled soon.

    “You are aware that we have just taken delivery of about 84 units of apartment in Lekki area in Lagos.

    “They are going to be distributed and sold to staff at cost without charging one dime interest on the purchase cost of purchase value,” he explained.

    The EFCC chairman emphasised that the commission would do everything possible to ensure the welfare of its personnel was well taken care of, within the limits of its resources.

    “We are going to do everything possible to ensure that our welfare is well taken care of within the limits of our resources.

    “Even if we have to stretch ourselves, I think we deserve it by virtue of the risk we take in this job,” he said.

    He also stressed the importance of integrity, stating that it is the best preservation and assurance.

    “Indeed, this recognition coming at a time like this when some bad eggs in our fold are trying to bring back the hand of the clock against our cherished values is a morale booster.

    “It shows that hard work pays and integrity has good rewards. For those taking shortcuts to help themselves, I equally charge you to retrace yourself to accountable conduct.

    “The internal cleansing going on in the commission will spare no one.

    “I will continue to stress the need for us to do the right thing. Integrity is the best preservation and assurance.

    “Anything short of it is a disaster waiting to happen. Excellence is not about doing things right once in a while. It is about doing things right at all times.

    “You need to continue to offer your best as the reward for hard work is no work.

    “Government expects us to do more. Nigerians expect us to do more. And we cannot afford to fail,” he said.

    During the ceremony, Alvan Gurumnaan was awarded an SUV car for emerging as the best staff member in 2024, while 35 others received cash awards for their outstanding performance.

    The Sokoto Zonal Directorate was also recognised as the Best Directorate in 2024.