The Oyo State Governor, His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde has assured the injured and families left behind by the fallen heroes to expect more robust welfare initiatives as his administration will continue to cater for the families of these war veterans in honour of their sacrifices in the interest of peace and security for our nation.

The Governor stated this while speaking to news men at the grand finale of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration held at the Government house arcade Agodi Ibadan.

His Excellency expressed his profound appreciation to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and other Service Commanders for their support to this administration in maintaining a peaceable and secure environment where economic activities can thrive.

Gov. Makinde stressed that the war veterans are being remembered throughout our Nation for them having paid the supreme price to ensure that we remain one Country that is safe and secured.

The Chairman Nigerian Legion Oyo State chapter, DCG Julius Ogunkojo appreciated the Oyo State Government for catering for the injured veterans and the families of the fallen heros who had participated in the first and second world war including our own Civil War as a nation.

Ogunkojo stated that the legions in Oyo State has never had it better with the prompt response of the State Government to their plight and readiness to ease the pains of the members of the legion

He therefore enjoined retired officers to join the body in order to continually make impact in the society positively.

Part of the highlights of the event was the presentation of a car gift to the pioneer director operations of Federal Road Safety Corps in the State, Major Rasaq Salawu rtd. for his dedication and selfless service to Oyo State.

Inspection of guards by the Governor, 21 gun salute, release of balloons /pigeons as a symbol of peace, laying of wreath by the Governor, Service Chiefs  and Reps of the Veterans Widows was observed while special prayers at Special Islamic and Christian prayer services were said for the repose of the souls of our fallen heroes.

In attendance with the Governor at the grand finale event were the Deputy Governor, Barr. Adebayo Lawal, Speaker Oyo State House of Assembly; Rt. Hon Adebo Ogundoyin, the Chief Judge; Justice Iyabo Yerima, the General Officer Commanding, Brig Gen OG Onubogu, other service chiefs, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Olanike Adeyemo, the Head of Service Mrs Olubunmi Oni, the hostess of the series of events; Commissioner for Women Affairs & Social inclusions, Hon (Mrs.) Toyin Balogun, other Commissioners in the State Executive Council and other dignitaries to mention but a few.

The program was concluded with a Cocktail Party at the Government House with the Wife of the Executive Governor, Her Excellency (Engr.) Tamunominini Makinde hosting the get together.

Omotoso Olukemi

Press officer

Min of Women Affairs & Social Inclusion

The Oyo State Government and the Federal Government have collaborated on addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable members of the society.

This, the Oyo State Government said will address the current harsh economic realities, and it is a collective effort to alleviate poverty and uplift the lives of the citizenry.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Hon. Toyin Balogun, stated this today at the flag-off and symbolic presentation of debit cards to the beneficiaries of Renewed Hope Cash Transfer (NASSP-SU) across the 33 local government areas in the state held at the Ibadan South-East local government Secretariat, Mapo, Ibadan.

According to Mrs. Balogun, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Oyo State Government, has prioritized initiatives aimed at providing direct financial support to those who need it most in response to the economic situation in the Country, which presents significant challenges, especially to those at the grassroots.

The Commissioner stated that the cash transfer program is a core component of the Federal Government’s social intervention agenda, designed to empower families to meet their basic needs and achieve sustainable livelihoods stressing that the program is not just providing financial assistance but equipping our people with a foundation to build a better future for themselves and their families.

Mrs. Balogun stressed that over ten thousand beneficiaries have been selected across the 33 Local Government Areas in the State by the National Cash Transfer Office, Abuja, under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Abuja, for cash transfer.

The debit card distribution is a critical improvement in how beneficiaries can access their funds.

Balogun explained that the sum of #25,000 is approved monthly for the beneficiary in this scheme and for 3 months.

She, therefore, enjoined the beneficiaries to see the money as an opportunity to build a better future by investing in areas that improve the well-being of their household, such as education, healthcare, and small-scale businesses.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibitoye Mofoluwake said the distribution of these debit cards is more than logistical improvements but a symbol of hope and a step towards restoring dignity to our people, meeting their immediate needs, improving their livelihoods, and providing stability she therefore appeal to the beneficiaries to utilize these resources wisely and strategically to have lasting impact on their lives.

The Ibadan South East Local Government Chairman and the host of the program, Hon. Oluwole Alawode, in his remarks, appreciated the kind gesture of the Ggovernment in making life better for the downtrodden and vulnerable in our society.

Two of the beneficiaries, Madam Sariatu Adawole and Mr Abdulwasiu Adekunle, after cashing out, appreciated the initiative of the Federal Government in collaboration with the State Government to bring succor to the poor and vulnerable in the society.

As we stand on the cusp of a new year, in reminded of the inspiration for this journey: to inspire change (paradigm shift) and to effectively and sustainably empower the vulnerable in our midst especially our women

The past year brought with it an array of highs and lows, windows of opportunities for few, daunting challenges, a largely unfavorable economic climate and a couple of dark episodes but we are hopeful that the dark days are behind us, that this new year is filled with endless possibilities and opportunities

This year by God’s grace, we will overcome the challenges of the outgone year with a combination of resilience and determination, challenging old limits and building new possibilities .

In the process, we will be empowering our women, investing in our youth both male & female, creating an enabling environment for our women, children, elderly and physically challenged to thrive and pushing the boundaries of community development

Lets all embrace the core values of unity, progress and accountability in all we do in line with the precepts shown by our Leader; His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde

As we usher in this New Year, I extend my warmest greetings and hearty well wishes to all citizens of our State, especially members of our vulnerable communities (women, children, elderly, the physically challenged and the indigent)

In this year 2025, lets embrace the spirit of peace, unity and collaboration.

Our strength as a community lies in our diversity, shared aspirations and relentless commitment to progress

Together we can overcome challenges, foster understanding and create an environment where every individual thrives

We are urged to remain dedicated to promoting inclusivity, driving sustainable development and enhancing the well being of our families, neighbours and our collective communities

This is a clarion call on all to join hands in gloves with the govt on this collective mission. Let us be compassionate neighbors, active citizens and custodians of the peace, and exhibit commitment to the rule of law that defines the leadership style of His Excellency

We are very fortunate indeed to have a Leader who is ready to put political will behind the push of our Ministry to effectively and sustainably empower the Vulnerable in our midst especially our women

My final charge to all especially our women is to brace up and intentionally determine to key into the various interventions and programs to be rolled out in the nascent year 2025 by the State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs & Social Inclusion so that working hands in glove with us, we can collectively deliver on the mandate the ministry has set for itself as indicated below;

To lift a minimum of 4m (four million) family units from Poverty to Self Sustenance and then on to Prosperity in line with His Excellency’s Omituntun 2:0 Agenda before the end of the timeline of the Governor Seyi Makinde led government

Lastly, I pray that this new year brings peace, joy and abundant blessings to every family unit and home in our dear State

Happy New Year!

Yours in Service

Hon. (Mrs) Toyin BALOGUN

Commissioner For Women Affairs & Social Inclusion

The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has taken a significant step towards improving Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHHM) in the State.

The Government has trained and distributed 3 sewing machines to  Egbeda, Ona Ara, and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas (LGAs).

The workshop, held at Plaza de Aruna hotel in Oyo, aimed to equip communities with the knowledge and skills needed to improve MHHM.

Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, who was represented by Mrs. Bakare Olabisi expressed gratitude to the State Government and UNICEF for organizing the training.

She emphasized that menstruation is a natural process that plays a vital role in women’s lives. She urged participants to concentrate on acquiring the necessary skills to improve MHHM in their communities.

The Chairman of Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, commended the Oyo State Government and UNICEF for their efforts in improving MHHM

He praised the present administration for its commitment to addressing hygiene-related issues, crucial in preventing the spread of pandemics.

Alhaji Afobaje emphasized that the sewing machines and other menstrual products distributed are for the sustainability of reusable pads.

He urged participants to take the training seriously, as effective hygiene practices are essential in ensuring the health and well-being of communities.

Also speaking, the General Manager of OYORUWASSA, Mr. Adeduntan Mumeen stated that the training aimed to implement good menstrual hygiene management in communities.

The distribution of sewing machines to LGAs enables participants to produce reusable pads and sustain them in their communities.

While presenting his speech, UNICEF  WASH Specialist, Mr. Johnson Monday reiterated that menstrual health and hygiene management is very crucial among the female gender adding that they shouldn’t be isolated.

He added that the female gender should be supported by the male gender during their  menstrual period.

The training built the capacity of community people in the selected LGAs with adequate knowledge on using various menstrual hygiene products and sewing reusable pads.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

December 20, 2024.

A courtesy call cum strategic engagement was made by the renowned and credible transnational NGO; Invictus Africa Team led by Ms Bukky Shonibare to the Commissioner for Women Affairs & Social Inclusion and her team comprising the Coordinating Director & Director Women Program Mr Ogunjimi ,Director Child Welfare Mr Ojerinde and the Director Planning & Statistics on the 12th of December

Invictus Africa is a transnational NGO which promotes human rights and addresses gender inequality through data-driven and evidence-based advocacy, legal and policy review, and capacity development

The two teams had a meaningful discourse on a topic of mutual interest: Gender Responsive Education Budgeting.

The Executive Director of Invictus Africa outlined the primary purpose of the meeting, which was to follow up on an advocacy program on Gender Responsive Budgeting which the ministry represented by the Commissioner and the then Director Women program participated in earlier in the year 2024

Invictus Africa is a staunch advocate for the adoption of a gender-sensitive budget from all ministries especially those which handle cross cutting issues with relevance to women and children e.g Ministries of Health, Education, Justice and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, beginning from the 2025 fiscal year and beyond. The team emphasized the importance of integrating gender considerations into budget planning to enhance equity, inclusivity, and the effectiveness of program delivery, particularly as it impacts women and vulnerable groups in the State.

The Commissioner in her response highlighted how Gender-Responsive Budgeting aligns with global best practices, supporting sustainable development and promoting equal access to economic opportunities

She further highlighted the necessity for budgetary allocations to address the specific needs of women, children, and other vulnerable groups, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and social inclusion.

Hon ( Mrs) Toyin Balogun underscored these necessities as a justification for the provision made by her ministry to address all these concerns in the recently approved 2025 budget which has been presented to the House of Assembly by His Excellency Governor Seyi Makindr

She further reiterated that thankfully in Oyo State we have the best Governor who has not only rallied requisite political will and support behind  her ministry to enable it deliver on its core mandates and responsibilities to the vulnerable demographics in the State, he has also graciously assented to the ambitious budgetary provisions that will make these identified ideals possible

The Honourable Commissioner, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, expressed appreciation for the advocacy visit pointing out that there was clearly a nexus between the agenda of both Invictus and the Ministry on several key issues such as Advocacy and Sensitization programs to eradicate Sexual and Gender Based crimes, Economic Empowerment of our Women and other vulnerable demographics, enhancing capacity of requisite structures through provision of requisite work tools such as the ministry departments, the Rapid Response Team, the SARC ( Sexual Assault Referral Centre ), provision of facilities such as Shelters for Victims of SGBV, capacity building for survivors and other vulnerable communities through Vocational & Skills Acquisition programs, equipping of vocational centres etc. all of which activities have all been provisioned for in the 2023 budget which His Excellency has graciously assented to

She further reiterated that the ministry’s position is already aligned with the goals of Invictus Africa with respect to gender-responsive budgeting as evidenced by the provisions her ministry has already made in the 2025 budget

The Invictus Africa team responded by commending the ministry under the Commissioner’s watch for its dynamism  and proactive approach in handling identified challenges and pledged its support going forward to enable the ministry achieve projected outcomes.

The Invictus Africa team thereafter presented the Commissioner with an award of Excellence and branded Invictus Africa  mementoes in recognition of the dynamism the ministry team led by the Honorable Commissioner have brought to bear in the discharge of their duties to the vulnerable communities of the State

The Honorable Commissioner expressed her appreciation of this recognition, considering it as a vote of confidence and reaffirmed  the ministry’s readiness to continue to work with credible stakeholders like Invictus Africa to enable equal access to economic opportunities to both genders, eliminate poverty, the menace of all forms of Sexual & Gender Based Violence and ensure inclusion across board to all members of the vulnerable demographics of Oyo State

Wife of the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Mrs. Tamunomini Makinde, has charged women in the State to keep breaking barriers, building bridges, and creating a world where women are empowered in every sense of the word.

She stated this on Monday at an event held to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion held at Daylan Events Centre, Sango-Eleyele Road, Ibadan.

Delivering her address on the theme: “Invest in Women; Accelerate Progress,” Mrs. Makinde noted that women must be committed to a future where women’s rights, equality, and leadership are fully prioritised in every sphere of life.

She stressed that the journey for equality is never a destination but a life-long process.

She added that women must be empowered to overcome barriers and challenges that hinder their opportunities and potentials in their daily activities by creating conducive environment to empower them through education, resources and support systems so as to  break down stereotypes and biases such as female genital mutilation/cuttings, widowhood practices among others.

She implored women in the State to continue to support Governor Makinde’s visionary Government in order for him to achieve his vision as captured in the Roadmap for Sustainable Development of Oyo State.

She said: “It is my pleasure to stand before you today as we converge to commemorate International Women’s Day— a day dedicated to recognising the immense contributions, unwavering resilience, and unyielding spirit of women across the world.

“This year’s theme, Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress, not only beckons on us to acknowledge the strides women have made but also urges us to commit to a future where women’s rights, equality, and leadership are fully prioritised in every sphere of life.

“Today, we celebrate women of every age, background, and walk of life, from the trailblazers who have shattered glass ceilings to the quiet heroines who nurture communities; our world is shaped by the strength, determination, and courage of women.

“But while we honor their achievements, we must also recognise that the journey for equality is never a destination but a life-long process.

“Distinguished guests and adorable women, we live in a world where women are still fighting for equal pay, for leadership roles, for freedom from violence, and for access to education and healthcare, notwithstanding the progress made, barriers remain, and many women continue to face systemic challenges that hinder their opportunities and potentials, this is why our mission—today and every day—must be one of empowerment.

“Empowerment is not just about opportunity; it’s about access. To truly empower women, we must create environments where they can thrive—where they have access to the resources, education, and support systems they need to succeed. Empowerment means dismantling the societal structures that have held women back and rebuilding a world where every woman, regardless of her circumstances, has the ability to shape her own future.

“Empowerment is about breaking down stereotypes and biases such as female genital mutilation/ cuttings, widowhood practices, among others. The future of our world depends on unleashing the full potential of women, allowing them to dream without limits, act without fear, and lead without hesitation.

“My fellow compatriots, let us reinforce solidarity and unity as we celebrate today. Let’s remember that empowerment is not a solo journey—it’s a collective one. Each victory for one woman is a victory for all women.

“We must continue to lift each other up, to create networks of support that foster growth, confidence, and success. When women support each other, they form an unbreakable bond that can weather any storm and face any challenge.

“Today, as we stand united in the spirit of progress; let us reflect on how far we have come and how much further we can go. Let us celebrate those women who have inspired us, whether personally or globally and let us commit to being the change-makers, the advocates, and the leaders who will pave the way for future generations of women.

“To the women here today and to women around the world: I vehemently declare that you are powerful, you are indispensable, you are worthy of every opportunity, every recognition, and every chance to shine. The world needs your voices, your vision and your leadership. So, let’s keep breaking barriers, building bridges, and creating a world where women are empowered in every sense of the word.”

Earlier in her welcome address, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, reassured women of more Government support and empowerment through the Office of the Wife of the Governor and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social inclusion.

She enjoined them to continue to deliver on their role as home-makers and nurturing their children to become great in life.

While stressing the importance of women, the Commissioner said, “The woman’s role is multi-faceted, they are God’s special creation made for procreation. The woman as a mother at home is a role model, a peace -maker who is involved in decision making processes and many more. Hence, we stand tall to say, ‘no woman, no life.’ Women as catalyst for change should say no to women subjugation.”

In their separate goodwill messages, former speaker the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; wife of the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Olamidun Ogundoyin, Chief judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima, represented by Justice Olusola Adetujoye and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Bose Adedibu, appreciated the unwavering support women in the State are enjoying under Governor Makinde’s administration.

They acknowledged various challenges women are facing, calling on Governments at all levels to invest in women and girls in order to unlock their full potential and create a brighter future for the womenfolk.

Parts of the side attractions at the event was exhibition of products, raffle draw where some women won shops at the Bola Ige International Market gbagi, empowerment equipment such as garri processing machines, cooking gas cylinders, kitchen utensils and cartons of soft drinks donated by Nigerian breweries PLC to mention a few.

Oyo State Government has distributed cash and food items to 1000 elderly residents of the State and some elderly focused NGOs, restating it’s commitment to catering for the welfare of the elderly in the society.

This was as it declared it’s readiness to designate  one primary health care center in every local government area of the State for the care of elderly people.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun, stated this on Monday at an event organized in commemoration of the international Day for the elderly, held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan.

She noted that Governor Makinde led Government has been people centric by putting in place several interventions that are aimed at making life more meaningful for all segments of the society.

According to the Commissioner, the State Government will soon kick start an elderly friendly healthcare centers in 9 local government areas, which will later be expanded to other councils before 2027.

The Commissioner noted that the event, themed ” Ageing with dignity” was held to add value to the lives of the elderly demographic and to teach them on how to live a fulfilling life, free from health challenges, neglect and isolation.

She said “This is a Government that is people centric. This Government is putting in place interventions that are in the best interest of the people”.

“In some communities the elderly ones are being looked at with derision, but the Government of Governor Makinde is committed to leaving no one behind. My Ministry is responsible for the welfare of women, children, elderly and the physically challenged ones.

“We consider our elderly ones as a valued source, because these are people who have lived their lives in the service of their families, children and society at large.

We think it is very important for us to make sure that we support them in their old age.

“We are hoping, by next year, to expand the scope so that we can onboard more elderly people. Also, we are working in collaboration with a number of NGOs and agencies that have competencies in the care of the elderly.

“We have put in place plans that are going to be sustainable even beyond the lifetime of this Government. One of them is social welfare intervention and we are hoping to be able to take action next year such that the elderly will benefit from stipends once every two or three months.

“In addition to that, we are going to be designating one PHC as an elderly-friendly health care center. And in the last discussion we had, we said it is better for us to scale our intervention so that we can monitor and measure the result.

“So, our plan is to deploy to the first nine local government areas and after six months, we will re- assess and expand.

Also speaking, the guest lecturer and Nutritionist, Dr Tunde Ajobo, appreciated the Makinde led administration for implementing policies that are friendly to the aged, including the prompt payment of pensions and gratuities, among others.

He equally charged members of the society to take care of their old ones so that they can enjoy their old age, just as he called on the Government to organize sensitization programmes for the aged across wards and local government levels.

Stressing that people should be aware of changes in their body system as they advance in  age. He said the major thing that happens in old age is pronounced dehydration. If they don’t drink enough water it affects them adversely.

He explained further that, if an elderly begins to  skip meals, it is another thing to actually look into. It will surely have a long term effect, because it can lead to nutrient deficiency. As one is ageing, his stomach gets compacted and not as wide as when we are at youth. Even if they are going to take a small meal it must be adequate and nutritious.

In their separate remarks co-chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Dr Saka Balogun, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade and the member representing Ibadan North Constituency l in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Comforter Olajide, appreciated the Governor  Makinde led administration for its unwavering commitment to the people of the State across different age grades and social strata.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr Olugbenga Jegede, who spoke to newsmen at the end of the event, commended the State Government for organising the event which he described as timely and a good one.

Other side attractions of the event includes  “ayo olopon” game, cultural dance display and palm wine drinking.

“Empowerment of women is the easiest way to entrench sustainable development. Empirical data gathered on bank loans shows that women are very credit worthy. When the female demographic is empowered, it trickles down to the most vulnerable in our society because no woman will have money in her pocket and ignore the needs of her children

Empowerment of women is also critical for the reduction and elimination of societal ills such as the Out of School Children menace, drug abuse and other malfeasances”

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Hon Mrs Toyin Balogun stated these during an engagement with the Country Director of the Women in Agricultural Technical Education and Apprenticeship in Nigeria (WATEA) Project; Ms Zaina Sore Koutou in company of the Project Coordinator for the South West Mr Onasanya on the 19th of July

This was sequel to an engagement of the donor sponsoring this project, the French Govt rep and the Country Director Ms Zaina Sore Koutou with His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde few days ago

The WATEA

team were on hand to make a presentation to the Commissioner and her team on the scope of the proposed collaboration with Oyo State

Ms Zaina Koutou explained that this initiative is intended to benefit 3,000 students in Technical Colleges nationwide, 80% of which must be women.

In Oyo State, 500 students of the Technical College in Ibarapa are to benefit, 400 of which must be women

The projected outcomes from this collaboration between the French Govt /IITA and Oyo State Govt include but not limited to the following:

1. Technologies, insights and experiences from developed Countries are incorporated into the curriculum of study at the Technical College in 3 sectors of Agriculture.
2. This will make graduates of this institution either more employable or provide them with capacity to become employers of labour themselves.
3. This will greatly reduce the unemployment index with positive implications for Food Security
4. There is also an Exchange Program element to this collaboration with travel to France incorporated to enable beneficiary students experience first hand modern agricultural best practices

According to Hon Balogun, this is a very timely collaboration given that agriculture is one of the corner stones of the Governor Seyi Makinde led govt through which he intends to solve the challenge of Food Security and to diversify the earning base of the State.

The Commissioner stressed that she bears a burden to empower the large proportion of indigent women in the State through interventions from various sectors of the economy, one of these being agriculture where we have a comparative advantage of arable land compared to other south west States

The Commissioner stated that she’s also presently in talks with Amo Sanders, a notable entity in agribusiness with a view to training and empowering some of our indigent women through Noiler Poultry Farming which will not only empower our women economically, it also has implications for reducing the malnutrition index and stunting in our children, Food Quality and Food Security

She stated further that both her ministry and OYSADA are presently collaborating on various interventions, Works In Progress, which will see a lot of our women who are presently unemployed and indigent getting involved in the agricultural value chain from production of food crops like tomatoes, pepper, onions, rice etc. to cash crops and allied products like shea butter, cotton (for the manufacture of Aso Oke), aloe vera to animal husbandry, Goatry etc. Also, another agribusiness based collaboration with the World Bank is in the offing.

Part of her vision is to with His Excellency’s approval, incorporate as many of our indigent women/female farmers as possible into the agricultural value chain  in each of the 33 local govts to reduce food scarcity and the possibility of Oyo State serving as the food basket of the South West in the first instance and the entire Southern Nigeria in the larger picture

She also explained that the Ministry is planning to host an engagement with female farmers in the State soon with a view to understanding the peculiar challenges they face which militate against their ability to perform maximally

This will enable the ministry come up with creative  solutions which will help maximize their productive capacity

According to the Country Rep of the French govt/IITA collabo Mrs Zaina Sore, the WATEA project is born out of the fact that hitherto, little attention has been given to the attractiveness and quality of Agricultural Technical Vocational Education and Training in Nigeria which can contribute substantially to increasing productivity, resilience and sustainability of the agricultural sector.

Ms Soure explained that young women are not exposed to  agricultural technical education, which is perceived as outdated and lacking in decent job prospects but the demand for qualified agrifood technicians is significant and increasing which is presenting an opportunity for young women to access gainful employment or self employment.

She stated that the project will operate in six pilot States which is organized into three regional clusters based on their strategic geographic location and they are: Kwara and Oyo States for the South West, Anambra and Enugu States for the South East while Kano and Jigawa States are taken from the North.

Soure stressed further that the project is in two tranches and the training will be for two years at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora (OYSCATECH) and the collaborating MDAs are Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), Ministries of Women Affairs & Social Inclusion, Agriculture and Education

Mrs Kemi Omotosho

INFORMATION OFFICER

MIN OF WOMEN AFFAIRS & SOCIAL INCLUSION

The Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Hon. (Mrs) Toyin Balogun in order to underscore the Zero Tolerance Policy of the Governor Seyi Makinde led Government for Sexual & Gender Based Violence (SGBV) cases in  Oyo State appeared in court on Monday in expression of empathy, solidarity and support to the 9 year old Girl Child Survivor of a rape incident

The Commissioner immediately swung into action on the 6th with her team from the ministry by collaborating with requisite security agencies, lawyers from FIDA and the Family Court to ensure that justice is served in the interest of the Girl Child involved immediately she received the heartbreaking report of the rape of the minor, which took place on the 6th of July around Moniya axis of the State from a public spirited individual, a youth corper who lives around that general location who alerted her.

According to her, the young girl child survivor is presently in the custody of the Ministry in a safe and secure environment where she is being given adequate care, psychological and psycho- social support to ensure this horrific experience does not derail her life trajectory irretrievably nor define her journey, so she can grow/rise above this to become a productive member of society in future

She said the suspected perpetrator who absconded on the day of the incident has since been tracked down and arrested. His wife was picked up when he absconded but has been released once the perpetrator was found and arrested by the police

“The perpetrator was charged to court yesterday (Monday) morning and has been remanded to jail. He will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law to determine his guilt or otherwise.”

“His remand happened with the Commissioner for Women Affairs & Social Inclusion and representatives of Child Welfare Dept. Women Program dept. and the NSCDC present”

“The Ministry under my watch is determined to protect the interest of all children in Oyo State in general and are also committed to securing justice for the survivor in this instance.”

“Appreciation to the new CP and his team, same also goes for the NSCDC who have given the requisite support in aid of the Ministry’s efforts to ensure that justice is served.”

“The Ministry of Women Affairs & Social Inclusion will be working with professional advice from the Commissioner’s Learned Colleague; the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to ensure that Justice is secured for the Survivor who in this case is a minor.”

“The Government of His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde is committed to walking it’s talk on its Zero Tolerance to Sexual & Gender Based Violence Policy in Oyo State,” the Commissioner said.

WHAT IS CHOLERA

Cholera is a sudden illness that happens when a person accidentally ingests (swallows) Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae) bacteria. When the bacteria infect a person’s intestines, they can cause very bad diarrhea and dehydration.

These complications can sometimes lead to death.

The bacterial infection usually happens in places without modern systems for sewage and clean water

Cholera outbreaks are common in warm climates. Outbreaks sometimes happen after natural disasters, like earthquakes and hurricanes. These disasters can damage sewage systems.

Symptoms and Causes

Cholera comes from the V. cholerae bacteria. People infected with these bacteria can spread disease through their feces. They do so when infected feces get into the water system. If the water isn’t properly sanitized  people using the water to drink, cook and wash risk exposure.

When a person eats or drinks food or water that contains V. cholerae, the bacteria grow inside them. The bacteria then make the small intestines secrete (leak) fluid, leading to diarrhea.

Cholera usually doesn’t spread directly from person to person, but it can. So it’s very important to wash your hands to prevent infection.

Some people have gotten cholera from eating seafood.

Symptoms of Cholera

Cholera infection can be mild, with no symptoms. But about 10% of infected people develop severe symptoms, 12 hours to five days after ingesting the bacteria. These symptoms include:

• Diarrhea, or extremely watery poop.
• Intense thirst.
• Lower amounts of urine
• Muscle cramps.
• Restlessness or irritability.
• Vomiting.
• Weakness.

If you develop any of these cholera symptoms, immediately contact a hospital because dehydration can become deadly very quickly.

Early treatment can save your life.

What problems can cholera cause?

Diarrhea and vomiting from cholera can make your body lose large amounts of important substances:

• Electrolytes.
• Fluids.
• Sodium.
• Potassium.

When your body doesn’t have enough of those things, you get dehydrated and may develop the following:

• Dry mucous membranes (such as in the eyes, nose and mouth).
• Fast heart rate.
• Hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood).
• Hypotension (low blood pressure).
• Loss of the natural stretchiness in skin.
• Untreated, severe dehydration from cholera can lead to:
• Kidney failure.
• Shock.

Anyone with cholera should immediately replace the fluids and salts they’ve lost.

If you’re in an area with cholera cases, certain strategies can help prevent infections:

• Use clean, running water only
• Don’t eat raw or undercooked seafood.
• Drink water only if it’s bottled, canned, boiled or treated with certain chemicals. And don’t drink out of a bottle or can with a broken seal.
• Make sure foods eaten are freshly, hygienically cooked and served hot.
• Consider disinfecting your water: Boil it for at least one minute.
• Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water.

Wash your hands with soap and clean running water, especially before handling and eating food and after using the bathroom. If clean water and soap aren’t available, use hand sanitizer made of at least 60% alcohol.

Wash your hands often.

Together we can end the scourge of cholera in our communities

MINISTRY OF WOMEN AFFAIRS & SOCIAL INCLUSION