…flags off 2026 IBBSS Training

The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening evidence-based HIV prevention strategies through improved data collection and research, as it officially flagged off the 2026 Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey (IBBSS) training for relevant stakeholders in the State.

The training, held today at the Development Support Centre (DSC), Iyaganku, Ibadan, is part of preparations for the nationwide survey aimed at generating current and reliable behavioural and biological data on HIV among key populations.

Flagging off the exercise, the Chairman of OYSACA, Aare (Dr.) Gbola Adetunji, described the survey as a critical public health initiative that would provide the evidence required to understand emerging HIV trends, identify service gaps and guide the effective allocation of resources.

According to him, the 2026 IBBSS would generate information on the socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, beliefs, risk behaviours, access to HIV prevention and care services, HIV status awareness and treatment uptake among key populations, including Female Sex Workers (FSW), Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM), and People Who Inject Drugs (PWID).

He noted that the findings of previous IBBSS rounds had shown significant HIV burden among key populations, stressing that updated data was essential to determine the impact of interventions and shape future programming.

Dr. Adetunji also called for stronger community participation, stressing that key population communities should not be regarded merely as respondents but as important partners in the HIV response.

The Chairman charged the field and technical teams to deliver a credible, ethical and high-quality exercise that would translate into better HIV policies, programmes and health outcomes

He urged stakeholders and community representatives to support field teams and create an environment where participants could provide accurate information without fear, discrimination or stigma.

He assured the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), the West Africa Centre for Public Health and Development (WACPHD), development partners and other stakeholders of Oyo State’s continued support and collaboration towards the successful implementation of the survey.

Representing the Director-General of NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori, Mr. Joseph Terry described the IBBSS as a national Government survey whose protocol had been reviewed by the IBBSS Technical Working Group and approved by the Federal Ministry of Health.

He stressed that the exercise must be treated as a national assignment, with strict adherence to the approved protocol and proper documentation of all activities.

Mr. Terry further explained that the survey is supported by the Global Fund, whose funding is subject to strict financial and accountability requirements.

He therefore urged all implementing teams to maintain comprehensive documentation, noting that proper records would be critical to the successful release of funds tied to implementation milestones.

He also commended the collaboration between OYSACA and WACPHD, urging both teams to work closely together to ensure that the exercise produces credible results capable of supporting sound health policy and decision-making.

The representative of WACPHD, Mr. Chukwebuka Ejeckam, said the organisation was providing technical support for the implementation of the 2026 IBBSS, which is being conducted simultaneously in 12 States across Nigeria.

According to him, the 2020 IBBSS recorded substantial HIV prevalence among key populations, including 15.5 per cent among female sex workers and 10.9 per cent among people who inject drugs, underscoring the need for fresh data to assess progress and determine whether investments in HIV interventions are producing the desired results.

Ejeckam said approximately 40 field personnel had been recruited and were undergoing training in Oyo State, comprising about 31 personnel for the behavioural component and nine personnel for the biological/serological component, including laboratory personnel and counsellors.

He disclosed that the training would be followed by hotspot validation and the commencement of field activities, with the exercise expected to run for approximately two months, covering September and October, after which data analysis, report writing and dissemination would follow.

The Oyo State implementation coordinator, Mr. Aduluju Ayodeji, said the field team would work across the three selected key population typologies and called for the cooperation of community members and eligible participants.

He assured participants that confidentiality would be strictly maintained, stressing that information collected during the survey would be handled responsibly and securely.

Speaking on behalf of the Key Population Secretariat, Mr. Ajani Kayode, appreciated OYSACA under the leadership of Dr. Adetunji for its continued support to key population communities in the State.

He expressed confidence in the quality of personnel selected for the exercise, describing them as capable hands, and pledged the Secretariat’s commitment to supporting the successful implementation of the survey.

Also, speaking, the Acting Coordinating Director of OYSACA, Mrs Fausat Okanlawon, described the IBBSS as more than a routine survey, noting that its findings would serve as a critical compass for Nigeria’s  HIV response among  key populations.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Primary Health Care Board has successfully concluded the Integrated Adolescent Health and Economic Empowerment, Intervention for Girls in Oyo State, reaffirming its commitment to improving the health, well being and economic independence of adolescent girls across the State. The intervention combined adolescent health education with practical vocational skills acquisition to equip young girls with the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to become self reliant and productive members of society.

The programme provided participants with hands on training in Adire Making, Screen Printing, liquid soap production, bag weaving and other vocational skills selected to create sustainable livelihood opportunities. Beyond skills acquisition, the intervention was designed to strengthen entrepreneurial capacity, improve economic resilience, reduce vulnerability to poverty and discourage social vices by providing girls with productive opportunities for income generation.

The training sessions were held at Oja’gbo PHC, Ogbomoso North, Apete PHC, Egbeda, Monatan PHC, Lagelu, Oranyan PHC, Ibadan South East, Ajegunle PHC, Saki West, and Kamorudeen Shittu  PHC, Oyo East Local Government Areas of Oyo State, providing beneficiaries across different communities with access to practical learning and empowerment opportunities.

Addressing participants during the programme, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Olatunji, reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to adolescent development, describing girls as vital to the future of families, communities and the State. He emphasised that investing in girls through quality health education and economic empowerment is a strategic pathway to achieving sustainable social and economic development.

“Our girls deserve every opportunity to succeed. By investing in their health, education, and economic empowerment today, we are building a healthier, more productive, and prosperous Oyo State for tomorrow. This intervention is designed to equip them with practical skills and the confidence to become self-reliant and responsible leaders in their communities,” Dr. Olatunji said.

A major highlight of the programme was the practical entrepreneurship session Adire Making and  liquid soap production, where participants were trained in production techniques, packaging and basic business management. The session was designed to give the girls a practical income generating skill that could support financial independence, self-employment and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Olatunji expressed appreciation to the development partners, facilitators, healthcare workers, community leaders, parents and other stakeholders whose contributions supported the successful implementation of the intervention. He stressed that sustained collaboration remains essential to expanding access to adolescent-friendly health services and economic empowerment opportunities across Oyo State.

Speaking during the training, one of the facilitators, Dr. Olufemi Oloyede of the Department of Consumer and Home Economics, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, described vocational skills acquisition as a powerful tool for transforming the lives of adolescent girls. He noted that practical skills have significant commercial potential and can provide reliable sources of income for young entrepreneurs.

Dr. Oloyede urged the participants to remain focused, disciplined and committed to putting the knowledge acquired into practice. He stated that the success of the intervention would ultimately be reflected in the beneficiaries’ ability to establish sustainable businesses, achieve financial independence and make positive contributions to their communities.

The State Adolescent Health Coordinator, Mr. Adeniyi Ademola, emphasised that adolescent health is central to the wellbeing and future of girls. He noted that when girls understand their bodies, mental health and rights, they are better positioned to remain in school, avoid preventable risks and build healthier families. According to him, “A healthy girl is a girl who can dream and act on that dream.”

Mr. Ademola also highlighted the importance of economic empowerment through skills acquisition, financial literacy and access to opportunities. He encouraged the girls to take their health seriously, ask questions, acquire useful skills and develop saving habits, while urging parents, schools and partners to create safe spaces and meaningful opportunities for girls to thrive and become self-reliant.

The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government and the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board for providing them with the opportunity to acquire practical vocational skills. They noted that the training had expanded their knowledge, strengthened their confidence and inspired them to consider entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic independence.

Speaking on behalf of the host community, Alhaji Dauda Olayiwola described the initiative as timely and impactful. He noted that the programme would contribute to improving the socio-economic wellbeing of adolescent girls, while promoting self-sufficiency and reducing vulnerability among young people in the community.

Alhaji Olayiwola commended the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, for his leadership and commitment to people-oriented programmes aimed at improving the lives of women, children and vulnerable groups across the State. He also commended the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Olatunji, for his dedication to strengthening primary healthcare delivery and supporting innovative interventions that empower adolescent girls socially and economically.

The Oyo State Primary Health Care Board reiterated that the Integrated Adolescent Health and Economic Empowerment Intervention is part of its ongoing efforts to improve adolescent health outcomes while addressing socio-economic challenges affecting young girls. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining partnerships with stakeholders, community leaders, development partners and vocational experts to expand similar interventions across the State, with the expectation that beneficiaries will use their knowledge and skills to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Oyo State.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

…Opens State To Global Investments

The Oyo State Government has published the Oyo State Climate Action Plan (OYCAP) 2026–2040 on its official website, making the document accessible to citizens, development partners, investors, researchers and other stakeholders across the world.

The publication is aimed at opening the State to opportunities associated with the document and enabling existing and prospective partners to align with the State’s climate goals from 2026 to 2040.

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, said OYCAP provides the State with a clear, science based roadmap for tackling climate related challenges, including flooding, heatwaves, drought, environmental pollution, Food insecurity, ill health implications, reduced daily life productivity and other climate related concerns

He added that the Plan aligns Oyo State’s climate actions with global frameworks, the Paris Agreement and Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), thereby strengthening the State’s eligibility for climate funding and partnerships.

Aderinto explained that the Plan would serve as a guide for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in planning and implementing climate related projects in sectors such as health, agriculture, infrastructure and environment. He noted that it also provides strategies for reducing climate risks through improved flood management, protection of wetlands, early warning systems, climate smart agriculture and measures to address the health impacts of heatwaves, air pollution and poor waste management.

According to the Commissioner, OYCAP also presents significant economic opportunities through green jobs and investments in waste to energy, recycling, renewable energy and tree planting, while providing a framework capable of attracting climate finance and investments from international development partners, financial institutions and the private sector.

The Commissioner therefore called on local and international investment and development partners to take advantage of the framework provided by OYCAP to explore infrastructural and climate resilient investment opportunities in Oyo State, stressing that the State is open to partnerships that will support sustainable development.

Aderinto described OYCAP as more than a policy document, but a public tool for action, investment, funding and accountability, urging stakeholders to study the Plan and identify areas where they can contribute to its implementation.

The document can be accessed and downloaded from the Environment Portal of the Oyo State Government website through the link below:

https://environment.oyostate.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/THE-STATES-CLIMATE-ACTION-PLAN-2026-2040.pdf

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has commenced the replacement of stolen manhole covers with durable concrete covers at strategic locations across Ibadan, in a move aimed at safeguarding lives and preventing avoidable accidents.

The intervention, carried out on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Apata, Ibadan, was supervised by the Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd.), as part of efforts to address the dangers posed by open manholes and damaged sections of roads across the metropolis.

Speaking during the exercise, Major Adekoya said the intervention was part of the agency’s corporate social responsibility, stressing that OYRTMA’s primary concern was to safeguard the lives of motorists, pedestrians, Okada riders and other commuters.

He explained that uncovered manholes constitute serious hazards to road users, particularly at night and during rainfall, adding that the dangerous spot along Apata Road had reportedly contributed to accidents and exposed commuters to significant risks.

According to him, the decision to replace the stolen metal cover with a concrete alternative would provide a more durable solution while reducing the likelihood of vandalism and further theft.

Major Adekoya appealed to residents to desist from vandalising public infrastructure, noting that the removal of manhole covers does not only damage Government property but also puts the lives of innocent road users at risk.

He urged members of the public to promptly report cases of vandalism, uncovered manholes, dangerous potholes and other road hazards to the appropriate authorities for immediate attention.

Major Adekoya further assured residents that OYRTMA would sustain efforts to identify and address traffic-related hazards while working with relevant Government agencies and stakeholders to create safer road environments across the State.

The Area Commander, Oyo Police Force, represented by ASP Okphor Kingsley, commended the OYRTMA management for the intervention, noting that the initiative would contribute significantly to preventing accidents and protecting lives.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Okada Riders Association, BCJ, Unit 3, Apata, Ibadan, Mr. Oluwadamilare Ale, appreciated OYRTMA for the timely intervention, noting that several lives had reportedly been lost in accidents associated with the dangerous spot.

He said the intervention had brought relief to residents, commercial motorcyclists and other road users who had been exposed to danger while navigating the affected section of the road.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

…as OYRLEA Intensifies Environmental Enforcement in Akobo

The Oyo State Hospitals’ Management Board (OYSHMB) has warned members of the public against a fake online circular claiming to announce applications for internship and housemanship programmes at the Board.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to journalists in Ibadan, the Board described the publication as false, misleading and the handiwork of fraudsters seeking to deceive unsuspecting applicants.

OYSHMB clarified that it has not commenced any recruitment process for internship or housemanship programmes and urged students, parents and the general public to disregard the fraudulent circular.

The Board noted that its doors remain open for enquiries and clarifications on internships, the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) and other programmes relating to hospital management in the state.

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Anifat Ibraheem, advised residents to visit the Oyo State Hospitals’ Management Board at the State Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, for authentic information and clarification on matters relating to the Board.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has intensified enforcement against illegal livestock and agricultural activities in Akobo, Ibadan, as part of efforts to protect public health, preserve the environment and ensure compliance with environmental laws.

The enforcement exercise was carried out in collaboration with the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and relevant security agencies.

During a compliance assessment visit to the Mercy Rock area, officials observed that several residents and property owners who had earlier been served a 21-day Abatement Notice made little or no effort to comply with the Authority’s directives. Consequently, a final 14-day Abatement Notice was served on all defaulters, with a warning that full enforcement would commence immediately after the expiration of the notice.

The enforcement team also responded to a petition by residents of the Ifesowapo, Yawiri area over the activities of a poultry farm allegedly constituting a public nuisance.

Inspection of the facility revealed that the poultry farm, located within a densely populated residential neighbourhood, was emitting offensive odour, while poor waste management practices, including indiscriminate accumulation of poultry droppings, posed significant environmental and public health risks.

Environmental Health Officers described the facility as a potential breeding ground for disease-causing pathogens, warning that the unsanitary conditions could trigger outbreaks of cholera and other communicable diseases if urgent corrective measures were not taken.

The poultry farm owner was subsequently served a 14-day Abatement Notice and directed to rectify all identified environmental infractions in line with the provisions of the Oyo State environmental sanitation laws.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of residents, OYRLEA stated that the ongoing enforcement exercise is aimed at promoting environmental compliance and maintaining a clean, safe and healthy environment across Oyo State.

The Authority warned that individuals or organisations that fail to comply with its directives within the stipulated period would face appropriate enforcement measures in accordance with the laws of Oyo State.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State

…Builds Leadership Capacity for Sustainable Development

The Oyo State Government has intensified efforts to strengthen governance, fiscal planning and institutional capacity with the commencement of the preparation of the 2027–2029 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the training of top civil service leadership cadres on talent management and mentoring.

As part of the initiatives, the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning commenced a five-day walk-through session on the preparation of the 2027–2029 MTEF at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre, bringing together 60 participants from relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) responsible for planning, budgeting and finance.

The workshop is designed to build a common understanding of the MTEF process and equip participants with the technical knowledge required to prepare a realistic, credible and implementable medium-term budget framework.

Representing the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Barr. Ayobami Ojo, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Ghafar Bello, described the exercise as another milestone in institutionalising transparent, prudent and results-oriented budgeting in Oyo State.

Barr. Ojo stated that the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework remains a critical instrument for aligning government spending with policy priorities, available resources and the State Development Plan, noting that a credible MTEF provides the foundation for realistic annual budgets capable of delivering measurable development outcomes.

He explained that the workshop would deepen participants’ knowledge of revenue forecasting, expenditure planning, programme-based budgeting and fiscal sustainability, while ensuring that MDAs align their plans with the Roadmap for Sustainable Development (Omituntun 2.0) and Agenda 2040.

The Commissioner urged participants to embrace transparency, accountability and realistic costing throughout the budget preparation process, adding that the technical session would produce realistic revenue projections, programme-based budgets, strengthened monitoring frameworks and draft expenditure ceilings for the 2027 budget.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Tunde Ayanleke, appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for approving the workshop and releasing the necessary funds, while the Lead Consultant, Dr. Ayuba Onifade, urged participants to provide accurate and reliable data, stressing that the quality of the MTEF would depend on the credibility of information supplied.

Similarly, in furtherance of the state’s ongoing civil and public service transformation agenda, the government trained 100 top leadership cadres across Ministries, Departments and Agencies on “Talent Management and Mentoring as Panacea for Sustainable Institutional Development.”

The two-day executive workshop, organised by the Ministry of Establishments and Training in collaboration with the American Open University, was held at the university’s Ashi-Bodija campus in Ibadan.

The programme was designed to strengthen talent management, mentorship and succession planning within the civil service to ensure that retiring senior officials leave behind competent officers capable of sustaining high service standards and advancing the state’s development agenda.

The Head of Service, Mrs. Adenike Fasina, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Career Management Services, Office of the Head of Service, Barrister Sunday Olagoke, emphasised that effective talent management is essential for sustainable institutional development, noting that strong succession planning guarantees continuity, prevents panic recruitment and addresses staff attrition.

Speaking during the programme, the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Saliu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, who previously served as Commissioner for Establishments and Training, said the training would equip senior officers with the leadership and soft skills required to improve efficiency, mentor subordinates and enhance service delivery.

He disclosed that similar training programmes would be conducted regularly, with additional certificated courses planned through the Simeon Adebo Staff Development Centre in partnership with the American Open University.

“We need to begin to identify talents within the service and deliberately develop them. More than 100,000 civil and public servants depend on the leadership of fewer than 150 senior officers. Talent development and mentorship must therefore become a priority,” he said.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Establishments and Training, Mr. Hameed Alade Bello, described the workshop as a challenge to participants’ leadership capabilities and urged them to maximise the opportunity.

Participants commended the initiative, saying it would strengthen succession planning and support the state’s vision of becoming the fastest-growing economy in Nigeria.

The twin initiatives underscore the Makinde administration’s commitment to prudent fiscal management, effective governance and the development of a highly skilled and future-ready public service capable of driving sustainable development across Oyo State.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government’s sustained investment in sports development has continued to yield remarkable results as Pacesetter Queens Football Club returned home with two major trophies, a feat that underscores the state’s growing dominance in grassroots and women’s football.

In a colourful reception held at the Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, received the management of Pacesetter Queens FC following the club’s impressive victories in the Oyo State Challenge Cup and the Ibadan Football Association (IFA) League.

The trophies, formally presented to the Oyo State Government, symbolise not only the club’s success but also the impact of Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering commitment to sports development, youth empowerment and talent discovery across the state.

Welcoming the victorious team, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, represented by the Permanent Secretary Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports, Dr. Sunday Akinwale Moradeyo described the achievements as a testament to what can be accomplished when government support is matched with dedication, discipline and determination. She noted that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has consistently prioritised sports as a vehicle for youth development, social inclusion and economic opportunities, adding that the latest triumph by Pacesetter Queens further validates the government’s vision.

“You have demonstrated that champions are made through discipline, teamwork and perseverance. Do not relent because this is only the beginning of greater accomplishments,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the club, the Team Manager, Prince Babatunde Adegorowa, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde for his visionary leadership and unwavering support for sports development in Oyo State.

He disclosed that the club emerged champions of the Oyo State Challenge Cup and the Ibadan Football Association (IFA) League, describing the victories as products of the enabling environment created by the present administration.

Prince Adegorowa assured the government that the club would remain committed to sustaining its winning culture and bringing more laurels to Oyo State.

The celebration was more than a ceremonial presentation of trophies; it was a reflection of a government whose deliberate investment in sports is producing champions, inspiring young talents and projecting Oyo State as a force to reckon with in Nigerian football. As the trophies were handed over amid applause and admiration, they stood as shining symbols of a vision that continues to transform sporting dreams into lasting achievements.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State.

Oyo Govt To Begin House To House Waste Bin Enforcement, Gives Residents One Month To Comply

The Oyo State Government has announced the commencement of the enforcement of mandatory waste bin provision for every residential and commercial building across the state, giving residents and property owners one month to comply with the directive with stringent enforcement effective from September 1st,2026.

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, disclosed this while addressing journalists in his office, stating that the initiative forms part of the State Government’s renewed efforts to strengthen environmental sanitation and ensure proper waste management across Oyo State.

Hon. Aderinto explained that every household, residential building, business premises, shopping complex and plaza must provide designated waste bins that are commensurate to the size of the building, the number of occupants and the volume of waste generated.

The Commissioner stressed that all residents and business owners must patronise only government accredited Private Sector Participants (PSPs) responsible for waste collection and evacuation, warning that anyone found engaging unapproved waste contractors or disposing of waste through unauthorized means would face the full weight of the law.

He urged members of the public experiencing challenges with waste collection services or those uncertain about accredited PSP operators to report to the Oyo State Solid Waste Management Authority (OYOWMA) or the Department of Environmental Health Services of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources for necessary guidance and clarification.

Hon. Aderinto further revealed that government enforcement teams would also verify evidence of payment of waste evacuation fees during inspections, noting that residents and businesses are expected to remain up to date with their monthly waste disposal payments as part of the requirements for compliance.

The Commissioner explained that the new enforcement exercise is an extension of the state’s daily environmental sanitation initiative, emphasizing that having a waste bin and engaging an accredited PSP alone is not sufficient if the surroundings remain dirty.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State

The Oyo State Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned journalist, author, historian and cultural ambassador, the Abese Olubadan of Ibadan Land, Oloye Lekan Alabi describing his demise as a monumental loss to Oyo State, Ibadanland and the entire Yoruba cultural heritage.

In a condolence message, Dr. Olatubosun said Oloye Lekan Alabi dedicated his lifetime to preserving, documenting and promoting the rich history, traditions and cultural values of the Yoruba people through his writings, public engagements and advocacy for cultural renaissance. He noted that the late Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland was an outstanding ambassador of culture whose contributions would continue to inspire generations.

The Commissioner described the late elder statesman as an encyclopedia of Yoruba history whose knowledge and commitment to cultural development made him a dependable reference point for scholars, government institutions and cultural enthusiasts.
“Oloye Lekan Alabi lived a life of purpose and service. His passion for promoting our cultural identity, preserving our historical heritage and projecting the image of Oyo State and Ibadanland remains unmatched. His passing has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill,” the Commissioner said.

Dr. Olatubosun further noted that the Ministry of Culture and Tourism had benefited immensely from the wealth of knowledge and experience of the late cultural icon, whose counsel and support for initiatives aimed at promoting tourism and preserving cultural heritage were invaluable.

The Commissioner extended heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja and the Olubadan-in-Council, the Alabi family, the people of Ibadanland, the journalism profession and all lovers of Yoruba culture over the irreparable loss. He prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed eternal rest.

Signed

Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism

..as OYACA organises A -3 Day AI Training for Staff

The Executive Director and Consultant of Grace Alone Concept and Systems Ltd., Dr. Wole Oyeyemi has called on stakeholders in governance and accountability to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) as a critical tool for detecting and preventing corruption in public institutions.

He said the adoption of AI would strengthen, sustain, and enhance anti-corruption efforts through improved collaboration, transparency, and accountability.

The don made the call on at the formal opening of the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) three-day staff training on “Applicability of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Detection and Investigation in the Public Service,” held at Koltol Hotel, Ikolaba, Ibadan, sponsored by the Center for Democracy and Development (CDD),Abuja.

Delivering the keynote address, the Executive Director and Consultant of Grace Alone Concept and Systems Ltd, Dr. Wole Oyeyemi said the future of anti-graft work lies in predictive, data-driven investigations rather than the current reactive approach.

According to him, traditional methods of investigation can no longer cope with the volume and complexity of financial and procurement data in government.

“Corruption now lives in databases, trails, e-payment platforms, and procurement portals. AI gives us the microscope to see patterns humans will miss for years,” Dr. Oyeyemi stated.

He noted that AI tools such as machine learning, network analysis, and natural language processing can flag ghost workers, contract inflation, bid-rigging, and suspicious transactions in real time.

“AI analyzes complex data and suggests leads. Human discretion drives on various prosecution questions for agencies like OYACA to ask and act on,’ Dr Oyeyemi added.

Dr. Oyeyemi, whose firm specializes in technology and systems consulting, stressed that while AI is powerful, it must be guided by clean data, ethical frameworks, and trained investigators.

He called for stronger collaboration between government, tech firms, and civil society to build the necessary infrastructure.

In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency [OYACA] Dr Folasade Ajibade said the agency is committed to adopting innovation to protect public resources in Oyo State.

“Corruption is evolving. So must the methods of fighting it. This conversation on AI is timely as we seek more intelligent ways to ensure transparency and accountability in governance. ”

The Executive Secretary noted that OYACA recognizes technology as a force multiplier in tracking leakages and enforcing compliance with anti-corruption laws at the state level.

Participants at the capacity building were Director administration and supplies, Mr Wasiu Alimi, Director of finance and account, Mr Tajudeen Azeez, among other OYACA Staff.

*E-Signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Hon. Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State.