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Makinde administration special, doing things effortlessly – Bishop Akinfenwa
The administration of Governor Seyi Makinde in Oyo State has been commended for taking special developmental strides effortlessly.
Lord Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese, Most Reverend Dr. J.O. Akinfenwa, who gave the commendation during the 60th anniversary thanksgiving of the All Saints Church, in Jericho, Ibadan, on Sunday, said that Governor Makinde’s tenure was bound to usher in unprecedented development in the state.
A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, also quoted the Governor, who was presented with an award at the Service, as declaring that free and qualitative education has come to stay in Oyo state.
Akinfenwa, in his homily, maintained that the church would continue to pray for Governor Makinde and Oyo State, adding: “we believe your tenure will usher in unprecedented development in Oyo State.
The clergy added: “I have been in Oyo State for the past 19 years and have witnessed the administrations of six governors but that of Governor Makinde is special.”
The Most Reverend Akinfenwa also urged Christian leaders to ensure that the Church of God pays close attention to issues in the contemporary society, noting that if Nigeria and Oyo state will make remarkable progress and be developed, the Church of God has crucial role to play.
While addressing the congregation, Governor Makinde, not only restated his resolve to remain dedicated to the four pillars of his administration, but also charged the residents of the State to hold him accountable to his promises, especially on the education sector.
The Governor congratulated the All Saints Church and appreciated its members for their support during the electioneering period.
“Two years ago, I was here on this same podium. I was not the governor then, not even the candidate of the party. I was just an aspirant but they allowed me to talk to the church and they also prayed for me. Today, here I am as the Executive Governor of Oyo State.
“When Most Reverend Akinfenwa was talking, he said we have been doing everything easily. No doubt. Since we came in, things we have been doing are the works of God and we give Him all the glory, honour and adoration.
“The award, for me, is a call to do more because we are just starting. I am not sure I really deserve it but I have accepted it so as not to cause any trouble.
“I want to charge the church to continue to pray for us, because the challenges before us are enormous. We believe that with your prayers every day, we will surmount those challenges and deliver good governance to Oyo State.
“I see Oyo State as a country on its own. Of course, in landmass, we are larger than over 20 countries in Africa. We are about the size of the country, Belgium. Yes, we do have limitations within the federal arrangement but we will do anything on our own for the benefit of Oyo State.
“And one of the things you should hold me accountable for, which I also don’t have serious challenges on is the education sector. I stand before you and in front of God’s altar to say that in Oyo State, under my watch, there will continue to be free and qualitative education.
“This is our own way to alleviate poverty. When people are educated, I don’t need to give them grinding machines and some palliatives politicians normally give out. I will give them education and they will take their families, future families out of poverty.”
China has announced a sharp increase in tariffs on US imports, raising the rate from 34 percent to 84 percent, in response to new American trade measures that came into effect on Wednesday.
The decision, confirmed by China’s finance ministry, will take effect from 12:01 p.m. on Thursday. It follows the imposition of sweeping new US tariffs under President Donald Trump, including a hefty 104 percent duty on certain Chinese goods.
“The tariff escalation against China by the United States simply piles mistakes on top of mistakes and severely infringes on China’s legitimate rights and interests,” the ministry said in a strongly worded statement, warning of “firm and forceful” countermeasures.
Beijing has long opposed the increasing use of tariffs as a tool in trade disputes, and accused Washington of undermining the multilateral rules-based global trading system.
In a related move, China’s commerce ministry also announced it would blacklist six American artificial intelligence companies, including Shield AI Inc. and Sierra Nevada Corporation. The companies were accused of either supplying arms to Taiwan or collaborating with the island on military technology.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Oyo State Governor, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, describing his death as a monumental loss to the people of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
In a condolence message made available to the press on Sunday, in Ibadan by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker eulogised the late elder statesman as a distinguished scholar, consummate public administrator, and one of Nigeria’s most intellectually gifted leaders whose legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Dr. Olunloyo, who served as governor of Oyo State during the Second Republic, was reported dead at the age of 89. He was widely respected for his brilliance, administrative acumen, and unmatched depth in mathematics and public discourse.
Oseni noted that the late governor’s contributions to the development of Oyo State, particularly in the areas of education, governance, and intellectual engagement, are indelible footprints in the sands of time.
“We have lost a gem. Dr. Olunloyo was not just a leader, he was a father figure and a repository of wisdom. His demise is a personal loss to me and all lovers of progress and excellence in our society,” he stated.
While commiserating with the Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadan, and the entire Oyo State, he prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed soul and urged all to take solace in the rich and impactful life he lived.
Member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Chairman, House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole and other members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) executives on their re-election.
Chief Ajewole was returned as the President-General of the apex Ibadan socio-cultural association, alongside other members of the executive council, who were all given the mandate to continue piloting the affairs of the association for another two-year term.
In a congratulatory message issued through his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, Oseni described the re-election of the Ajewole-led team as a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in their leadership by the Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora.
He commended the CCII leadership for its unwavering commitment to the progress, unity, and cultural advancement of Ibadanland while expressing optimism that the renewed mandate would further propel the association to greater heights.
“The re-election of Chief Ajewole and his team is not only a testament to their sterling performance over the last term but also an affirmation of their capacity to continue serving the interest of Ibadan indigenes. I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes for a more impactful tenure,” he said.
The lawmaker further assured the CCII of his continued support for any initiative geared towards the development of Ibadanland and the preservation of its rich heritage.
The CCII is renowned for its pivotal role in mobilising Ibadan sons and daughters towards the socio-economic development of the65 ancient city and beyond.
