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LASUSU ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR FREE SHUTTLE DAY FOR STUDENTS.

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The Lagos State University Students’ Union, LASUSU, through its Office of Welfare Director, has announced plans for a free shuttle day for all students of the University.

In a chat with Blacktalker, LASUSU Welfare Director, Apata Oluwasegun explained that on the said day, students can commute around the Ojo Campus using the shuttles at no cost, but must provide a valid identification card, which will verify them as Students of the University.

Apata also said the initiative was a cardinal campaign point for him, which is aimed at helping students access school shuttles for free amid the current economic downturns being experienced by Nigerians.

The LASUSU Welfare Director said his Office is open to collaboration from corporate bodies and other stakeholders to ensure the initiative is further sustained for the benefit of all LASUITES.

Apata, who did not disclose a date for the free shuttle day, pledged to continue on the path of people-driven projects to ease the lives of students.

LAGOS RESIDENTS CALL FOR MORE SEAMLESS PROCESSES FOR OUNJE EKO INITIATIVE

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Lagosians have urged the state government to make seamless, the processes of the subsided Sunday Markets also known as Ounje Eko across the State.

Speaking with Blacktalker who monitored the activities of the markets around Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, the residents also suggested a platform where they can order online to reduce rowdiness at the various market venues.

Also, vendors at the markets commended the state government for providing succour to residents through subsidised food items, especially amid these economic downturns.

The vendors also charged Lagosians to come out en masse to benefit from the various food items made available at a twenty-five percent discount.

Earlier, Market Leader and Ounje Eko Team Lead in Ifako-Ijaiye, Idris Gboyega, noted that challenges such as crowd control, late arrival of vendors, demand and supply, and availability of produce will be fully addressed in subsequent market days.

Gboyega, who is the Chief Veterinary Officer and Director of the Vet Department, Ministry of Agriculture also assured residents of the state government’s commitment to providing people-driven initiatives such as the Ounje Eko in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Developmental Agenda to ease the effect of the present economic downturns.

Blacktalker can report that the “Ounje Eko” initiative introduced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Administration to cushion the effects of the economic hardship kicked off on Sunday, the seventeenth of March, 2024 across the five divisions of the State.

Staple food items, including rice, garri, beans, eggs, and pepper, were sold at a twenty-five percent discount to residents.

LASU RECEIVES 6-MAN DELEGATION FROM MINISTRY OF TERTIARY EDUCATION

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The Lagos State University, LASU has received a 6-man team from the Ministry of Tertiary Education (MTE) on the first quarterly monitoring visit to the University.


The team was received by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration,  Prof. Adenike Boyo, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, at the VC’s Conference Room on Monday, 18th March 2024.


Other senior officials of the administration were also at the meeting.

PASSION TO SERVE HUMANITY, TRANSFORM FOBTOB ARE MY DRIVING FORCES TO BECOME NATIONAL PRESIDENT – COMRADE ADEROGBA

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Comrade Adebayo Aderogba.mni is a social critic, and State House of Assembly candidate in the 2019 election in Oyo state, also one time National Treasurer of the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association, FOBTOB.

In this interview with newsmen, the current deputy National President of FOBTOB speaks on his ambitions, plans and goals to transform the sector, by running for the office of National President with a 7 point campaign agenda.


1. What inspired you to run for the office of national president of FOBTOB?

The fire within me, igniting my resolve to run for the esteemed position of National President of FOBTOB, is fueled by an unwavering passion to serve humanity. It pulses with the fervent desire to pave a new path, to breathe life into our workers in the Food, Beverages, and Tobacco sector in Nigeria. It’s not just about leading; it’s about igniting a flame of hope, about daring to dream of a future where every worker’s voice is heard, and every life is touched by the warmth of compassion and progress.

2. What do you believe sets you apart from the other candidates running for this position?

I stood at the precipice of destiny, ready to ascend to the exalted office of National President after six years of unwavering service as the National Treasurer, yielding impeccable results. However, fate had other plans, and love for our beloved association compelled me to relinquish my ambition for the current leadership in 2021. In the ebb and flow of Power, I discovered that its transient nature holds within it the divine purpose guiding our paths as human beings. Had I seized the reins of presidency then, I would have missed the transformative journey of attending the NIPSS Sec44, 2022 course at Kuru, Jos, a crucible of growth and enlightenment. This one-year intensive course has sculpted me into a leader more equipped to champion the fortunes of Fobtob and our cherished members. The profound experiences and invaluable connections forged at NIPSS now stand as pillars upon which I shall build a legacy of service and excellence, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all who call Fobtob home.

3. How do you plan to lead and represent the interests of FOBTOB members as national president?

I carry within me a 7-point campaign agenda, a beacon of hope that will be steadfastly upheld and honored. It’s not just a plan; it’s a sacred promise, a covenant with the hearts and souls of our members. With every fiber of my being, I believe that this agenda holds the power to transform lives and safeguard the interests of our beloved community. As we embark on this journey together, rest assured that every voice will be heard, every opinion cherished, for in unity lies our strength, and in inclusivity, our triumph. Together, let us forge an administration where the dreams of our members become the cornerstone of our collective destiny..

4. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing FOBTOB currently, and how do you plan to address them if elected?

The challenges we face are formidable, with financial scarcity, declining membership due to redundancy, abandonment of investment initiatives, and neglect of ex-NEC members casting shadows over our path.
If entrusted with the honor of leadership, we will prioritize prudent financial management, ensuring every penny is stretched to its fullest potential. Moreover, we will launch extensive membership recruitment efforts and implement sustainable projects that honor the legacy of our past leaders, support current NEC members, and uplift the entire workforce in our industry. Together, we will navigate these challenges and emerge stronger, united in our commitment to the betterment of our association
.

5. How do you intend to work with other members of the FOBTOB leadership to promote the rights and welfare of the food, beverage, and tobacco senior staff?

We will foster an administration that embraces inclusivity, where every opinion, from every level of leadership, holds significance. Our commitment extends beyond words; we lead by example, embodying the values of transparency, accountability, and respect.

6. What specific goals do you hope to achieve during your tenure as national president?

Embedded within our 7-point agenda are the core pillars that guide our mission. Our foremost priorities include safeguarding the welfare of our members, defending workers’ rights, establishing a lasting legacy, and bolstering our ranks through vigorous membership campaigns. Additionally, we envision harnessing technology to facilitate seamless information dissemination, envisioning a future where every member can access vital updates with ease through a dedicated Fobtob mobile application. Furthermore, we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an administration free from ethnic biases and religious prejudices, ensuring equality and fairness for all.

7. How do you plan to foster collaboration and communication among FOBTOB branches and members across the country?

By ensuring timely and accurate information sharing, fostering collaboration, and embracing inclusivity, we pave the way for a unified community where everyone feels valued and empowered. This collective engagement in decision-making not only enhances a sense of belonging but also promotes satisfaction, as each individual knows their voice matters in shaping the outcomes that impact their lives and well-being.

8. Can you share any previous experiences or achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead and serve the union and its members?

• My ascent to the role of National Treasurer of Fobtob in 2015 was not a stroke of luck; it was a culmination of my relentless dedication and tangible contributions to our organization, both at the grassroots level and as a member of the NEC. Serving as the pioneer branch vice-chairman and chairman at Promasidor, we bravely spearheaded the union’s establishment within the company, even at the risk of our own livelihoods.
• Throughout my tenure as National Treasurer, I, alongside my esteemed colleagues in the CWC, undertook a series of transformative initiatives:
• We waged a fierce battle to rescue Fobtob from the brink of financial ruin, combating the reckless practices of the pre-2015 leadership and the undue influence of the Executive Secretary.
• In 2015, we conducted the delegate conference under trying circumstances, refusing to succumb to financial dependency on our employers, a testament to our commitment to financial autonomy.
• Through diligent stewardship, we restored Fobtob to a state of fiscal stability, purging the organization of detrimental forces hindering our progress. Notably, the 2021 delegate conference was successfully executed without resorting to borrowing funds.
• Under my vigilant watch, we meticulously reviewed and reduced the travel allowances of national officers, redirecting savings towards bolstering the financial health of our association.
• Furthermore, we demonstrated our unwavering support for needy branches by consistently paying check-off dues in advance.
• Over the span of six years, we oversaw a remarkable growth in Fobtob’s assets, amassing over 600 million Naira.
• Additionally, we spearheaded the construction and commissioning of three hostel projects across different regions, all accomplished through prudent financial management without incurring debt from external sources.
These achievements stand as a testament to our unwavering commitment to the well-being and prosperity of Fobtob and its members.


9. How do you plan to prioritize the needs and concerns of FOBTOB members, while also considering the challenges facing the food, beverage, and tobacco industry as a whole?

As the saying goes, “two heads are better than one.” Indeed, the hurdles before us in our industry loom large, but with resolute leadership, we shall overcome. Through robust collaboration with NUFBTE, our esteemed junior counterpart, and AFBTE, our employers’ union, we will forge a formidable alliance.

Together, our voices will resonate louder, echoing the urgent call to action to the powers that be. Let us stand united, shoulder to shoulder, advocating for the survival and prosperity of our sector.

10. Lastly, what message would you like to convey to FOBTOB members as they consider their choice for the next national president?

In the face of oppression, silence is not a virtue but a surrender of our voices. Wole Soyinka’s words ring true: “The man dies in him who keeps silent in the face of tyranny.” History reveres those who dare to speak out, even when alone in the wilderness. Life’s essence lies not in its duration but in the depth of our impact, as evidenced by Methuselah’s longevity juxtaposed with Solomon’s enduring wisdom.


Let us cast off the shackles of incompetence, reject emotional manipulation, and stand firm against impunity. The stagnation of FOBTOB in the pre-2015 era must be left behind.
This is the year 2024—a time for a revolutionary shift in mindset. Let us embrace constitutional principles, youthful vigor, and unwavering accountability. Let us embody financial discipline and embrace pragmatic leadership, fueled by a fierce determination to achieve tangible results.


I, Comrade Aderogba, stand as a beacon of assurance—a guardian of your jobs and the custodian of a proud legacy. Together, let us conquer the challenges that lie ahead. Our destiny, as an association, rests squarely in our hands. It is a pivotal moment—a choice between regressing into the wilderness of the past or forging ahead, united in our pursuit of progress.


Fellow comrades, 2024 marks a watershed moment in the history of FOBTOB. The decision is ours to make—to embrace a forward-thinking, progressive future or to remain tethered to the outdated ways of the past. Together, let us seize this opportunity and chart a bold new course into a brighter tomorrow.

MEET YOU AT THE TOP.
Solidarity Forever!!!

FACULTY OF EDUCATION, LASU HOLDS ORIENTATION PROGRAMME FOR FRESHERS

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The Faculty of Education at Lagos State University, LASU has recorded a huge turnout of newly admitted students as it held its annual orientation programme for freshers.

The programme, which was held on Tuesday, 12th March 2024, at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, main campus, Ojo, was aimed at integrating knowledge and guidelines that would help the fresh students develop their abilities, attitudes, and other forms of behaviour throughout their stay in the university.

The orientation programme was also designed to acquaint them with the faculty values and regulations.

The Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Solomon Makinde, in his remarks, congratulated and welcomed the freshmen to the largest faculty at Lagos State University.

Professor Makinde noted that the faculty is a unique one ready to take the students to greater heights, describing it as a faculty of professional teachers and nation builders.

He asserted that: “the seat of innovation in education and for any nation to come out of poverty, stagnation, and underdevelopment, the answer is education”.

The Dean also introduced the students to the heads of departments in the faculty and implored them to visit their departmental heads whenever they have any challenges.

Earlier, the Head of Department, Language, Arts, and Social Sciences Education, Professor S. A. Jimoh said the programme was held to initiate the new students into the university system and urged them to count themselves lucky to be amongst those offered admission into one of the best universities in Africa.

Professor Jimoh implored the students not to rely on hearsay and should get credible information from reliable sources such as their Heads of Departments, Faculty Officers, and Course Advisors, among others.

The orientation programme featured lectures from resource persons such as Professor Simeon Dosunmu, who spoke on ”University Dress Code and Student Exposure”, Head, Department of Science and Technology Education, Professor Gabriel Akindoju, who also lectured the students on the ”University Grading System”.

Other speakers at the event include; Deputy Registrar/Head, Career and Counseling Unit, Dr Joseph Ayeni, who lectured the students on ”How to Write and Pass Examination in the University”, the Faculty Officer, Mrs Modupe Obayomi-Davies, who took the students through the ”Students’ Registration Procedure”.

NIGER BORDERS: IMMIGRATION BOSS, NANDAP DIRECTS STATE COMPTROLLERS TO COMPLY IMMEDIATELY ON REOPENING

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The Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, CGI Kemi Nanna Nandap, has issued a directive to all Comptrollers stationed at States and Border Commands along the Nigeria-Niger Republic border, to promptly ensure strict compliance and lift restrictions on human movements.

This comes after the directive from the Federal Government to reopen borders between Nigeria and Niger Republic.

According to a press statement e-signed and released by ACI Kenneth Kure of the Service’s Public Relations, the NIS assured the public of its unwavering dedication to facilitating safe and orderly border crossings while upholding the integrity and security of Nigeria’s borders.

LAGOS STATE EDUCATION DISTRICT 5 HOLDS 2024 TEACHERS’ MERIT AWARDS

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In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, educators must use innovative teaching approaches to engage and inspire students, thereby equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a digital world.

Supervising Tutor General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Education District 5, Anike Adekanye made this submission at the 2024 Teachers Merit Award Ceremony with the theme: ” Innovative Teaching in the Digital Age: Celebrating Educators’ Achievements” held in Agboju.

Adekanye, who commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the State Education Family for creating an enabling environment, said by celebrating educators’ achievements, District 5 aims to inspire others to adopt creative and effective instructional practices that leverage technology to create dynamic learning experiences.

She noted that it also reaffirms the state government’s commitment to support and empower teachers as they continue to innovate and inspire the next generation of learners.

The awards were in the best Principal and vice principal senior and junior categories, best HOD senior and junior categories, best year tutor senior and junior categories, best teacher senior and junior categories, best district headquarters staff senior and junior categories, and best non-teaching staff senior and junior categories.

PORT-HARCOURT REFINERY GETS 450,000 BARRELS OF CRUDE OIL, TO RESUME OPERATIONS IN APRIL

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The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Mele Kyari, says the Port Harcourt refinery will commence operations in about two weeks’ time.

According to Kyari, mechanical works have been completed on the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries, stressing that the Kaduna refinery will commence operations in December.

Kyari made this known in a press briefing after he appeared before the Senate Ad-hoc Committee investigating the various Turn Around Maintenance projects of the country’s refineries.

He said, “We are serving this country with honour and dignity. And we will make sure that the promises we make on the rehabilitation of these refineries will take place.

We did a mechanical completion of the refinery that was what we said in December. We now have crude oil already stocked in the refinery. We are doing a regulatory compliance test that must happen in every refinery before you start it, and I assure you that this Port Harcourt refinery will start in the next two weeks.

Completing the mechanical work means that you are done with the rehabilitation work, now you have to test it to see how it works. Of course, we have also completed the mechanical work on the Warri refinery. It is also undergoing regulatory compliance; processes that we are doing with our regulator, and this will soon be completed and it will be ready.

Kaduna refinery will be ready by December. We have not reached that stage in Kaduna, but we promise Kaduna will be delivered by December.”

The NNPC GMD also told the Senate that over 450, 000 barrels of oil had been stocked into the Port Harcourt refinery.

He said, “All crude lines are active and have actually delivered over 450,000 barrels into Port Harcourt refinery.

Meanwhile, the Senate disowned the alleged report of fraud in the Turn Around Maintenance of the nation’s refineries currently being undertaken by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited.

The Chairman of the Senate ad-hoc panel, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, told his colleagues that he already had some documents on the TAM and that no fraudulent practice had been discovered in the exercise.

Ubah said members of the committee would visit all the refineries to ascertain the progress of work there so that a comprehensive report would be presented to the Senate in plenary soonest.

APWEN LAGOS LIGHTS UP LASU EPE CAMPUS WITH SOLAR MODULARS

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The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria Lagos Chapter, APWENLagos has donated and installed solar modules and five solar street lights to the Epe Campus of Lagos State University, LASU.

This is after APWENLagos led by the chairman, Engr Atinuke Owolabi went on a familiarisation tour toLASU Epe Campus to pay a courtesy visit to the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering on the fifth of March, which led to the discovery of the female Engineering students poor-living condition.

Owolabi said APWENLagos is now on a mission to improve electricity and water provision at LASU Epe Campus by installing a Solar System at the Female Engineering Hostel.

She noted that the male hostel will not be left out as a solar street light is expected to also be installed there as part of efforts to further light up the campus.

” Why is this project important for APWENLagos :

-Empowering Female Engineers to enhance the learning environment of/for female engineering students and thus improve access to water which presently portends an impending public health challenge to our girls on campus.

-Sustainable Solution to embrace renewable energy to reduce carbon footprint.

-Academic Excellence to encourage uninterrupted study sessions with reliable electricity supply.”

The Chairman, APWENLagos while giving an analysis of the electricity provision at the LASU Epe campus, listed the intervention to include:

”Provision and installation of 1.5kva Solar system, provision, and installation of 5 of 300W Solar streetlights to female and male Engineering hostels, provision and installation of water pump charge controller with solar panels.

On his part, the Head of the Epe Campus, Prof. Elkanah Oyetunji, while receiving the items, appreciated the Association for the kind gesture, which he believed would make the atmosphere more conducive for the students.

ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL WOMEN ENGINEERS DONATES SOLAR PANELS, SOLAR STREET LIGHTS TO LASU, EPE CAMPUS

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The Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN) has donated solar modules and five solar street lights to the Epe Campus of Lagos State University, LASU.

Head of the Epe Campus, Prof. Elkanah Oyetunji, while receiving the items, appreciated the Association for the kind gesture, which he believed would make the atmosphere more conducive for the students.

He said the solar modules are expected to be used to power the common room of the female hostel, while four of the solar street lights are expected to be installed at the same hostel.

The male hostel would not be left out as a solar street light is expected to also be installed there as part of efforts to further light up the campus.