The Oyo State Government has clarified that the financial arrangement for the construction of replacement shops at the Bola-Ige International Business Complex, New Gbagi, Ibadan, was strictly between the affected traders and the developer, Hamex Investment Limited.

The Government stressed that neither the State Government nor the Office of the Executive Governor collected money from the traders for the construction of the shops.

The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Salihu Adelabu, made the clarification on Thursday following a media report alleging that traders had paid ₦2 million each for shops that remained incomplete, creating the impression that the Government was involved in the financial transaction.

Professor Adelabu explained that the Ministry intervened in the matter after the affected traders approached it to report disagreements with the developer over construction costs and delays in completing the shops.

He stated that the Ministry had responded by bringing both parties together to facilitate dialogue and find an amicable resolution to the dispute, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to promoting a peaceful and business-friendly environment in Oyo State.

The Commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Olajide Okesade, at a meeting held in his office, said discussions established that the financial arrangement for the construction of the shops was entered into directly between the affected traders and Hamex Investment Limited.

He explained that the Ministry was not involved in negotiating the payments or collecting money from the traders, adding that, based on the information presented at the meeting, the arrangement was founded on a verbal agreement rather than a formally executed written contract available to the Ministry.

He stressed that the dispute should not be portrayed as though the Oyo State Government or the Executive Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, had collected money from the traders for the construction of the shops or reneged on any financial commitment to them.

According to him, the Ministry intervened following complaints from the affected traders, and its role has been to facilitate dialogue and work towards an amicable resolution between the parties.

While acknowledging the traders’ concerns over delays in completing the shops and the difficulties of conducting business without adequate trading spaces, Professor Adelabu stressed the need for constructive engagement rather than actions that could further complicate efforts to resolve the dispute.

In their contributions, the traders  raised concerns about changes in the amounts initially discussed for the shops, citing figures of ₦1.6 million, ₦1.95 million and ₦2 million per shop.

They appealed to the developer to honour the agreed terms and expedite construction to enable them to resume business in suitable trading spaces.

In his response, the developer and facility manager, Alhaji Abdulwahab Abdulhammed of Hamex Investment Limited, attributed the delays to irregular payments by some traders, rising building-material costs and the difficult terrain of the construction site, which he said had increased the quantity of materials required.

He explained that the shops were designed to be constructed collectively and that delays in payments had affected the pace of work.

In his remarks, the Babaloja-General of Oyo State, Alhaji Abass Yekini Oladapo, urged all parties to act in good faith, fulfil their respective responsibilities and work towards a peaceful resolution in the interest of the affected traders and the business community.

Following deliberations, the Commissioner directed the developer to resume and intensify construction work on the outstanding shops with effect from Friday, October 16, 2026, adding that Traders who are yet to fulfil their agreed payment obligations were advised to make the necessary payments on or before Friday, October 23, 2026, to facilitate the speedy completion of the project.

The developer was also directed to submit a formal letter to the Ministry upon completion of the shops before proceeding with the handover of the keys to the appropriate parties.

He  further advised that any disagreement over proposed increases in construction costs should first be resolved amicably between the traders and the developer. Where the parties are unable to reach a mutually acceptable agreement, they are to return to the Ministry for further reconciliation.

Professor Adelabu urged the public and media organisations to exercise care in reporting the matter by distinguishing between the financial dealings of private parties and the Ministry’s intervention to address their disagreement.

He emphasised that the existence of a dispute between traders and a developer should not, without supporting evidence, be presented as proof that the State Government collected the money in question or abandoned a contractual obligation.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde to promoting trade, protecting legitimate commercial interests and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive across Oyo State.

He assured the affected traders that the Ministry would continue to facilitate dialogue within its mandate and encourage all parties to honour their respective commitments towards the timely completion of the shops.

E-Signed :

Prince Dotun Oyelade

Hon. Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State

The Oyo State Government has launched a Digital Labour and Skills Database aimed at boosting employment opportunities, improving workforce coordination and strengthening the ease of doing business across the State.

The initiative was unveiled during the Stakeholders’ Engagement between the Oyo State Government and the Organised Private Sector held on Thursday, 14th May, 2026 at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Buildings, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat, Ibadan.

The programme, organised by the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry under the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) and Business Enabling Reforms Action Plan (BERAP) 2025, brought together stakeholders from government agencies, organised private sector groups, MSMEs, artisans, cooperatives, manufacturers, traders and development partners.

Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade, described the Oyo State Labour & Skills Registry (OSLSR) as a strategic intervention designed to bridge the gap between skilled labour supply and market demand in the State.

He explained that the digital platform would provide a comprehensive database of skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers across the 33 Local Government Areas of Oyo State, while enhancing access to verified manpower for employers and investors.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant on Industry and Cooperatives noted that the initiative would support evidence-based planning, improve access to business support services, strengthen industrial development and create a more investment-friendly environment in Oyo State.

During the technical session, the Spokesperson for the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER), Mr. Kilanko Olayemi, presented a paper titled “Understanding the Ease of Doing Business: The Role of the Labour Database,” where he highlighted Oyo State’s emergence as the 3rd Best Performing State in Nigeria in the PEBEC 2025 Ease of Doing Business ranking.

The Project Lead for Chemiroy Nigeria Limited,  the Consultant handling

the initiative, Mr. Awwal Lawal, also conducted participants through a practical walkthrough session on the use of the Labour Database website, explaining that the platform would enable residents to securely register their skills, work experience and employment status using mobile devices.

In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of Bola Ige International Business Complex, New Gbagi, Ibadan, Alhaji Adetona Morufu, representing the Babaloja General of Oyo State, and the Chairman of the Association of Nigeria Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT), Alhaji Akinlade, commended the State Government for the initiative, describing it as a major step toward empowering traders, artisans and skilled workers through improved visibility and access to opportunities.

The engagement featured interactive discussions and stakeholder contributions geared towards ensuring the successful implementation of the Oyo State Labour & Skills Registry initiative across the State.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has inaugurated the Babaloja General-in-Council, as part of efforts to strengthen market leadership, promote unity, and enhance coordination among traders across the State.

The inauguration, carried out through the Oyo State Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, took place at the office of the Honourable Commissioner on Monday, and drew market leaders from the seven geopolitical zones of the State- Ibadan Zones 1 and 2, Ogbomoso, Ibarapa, Oyo, and Oke-Ogun Zones 1 and 2.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony held at the Ministry’s Conference Room, the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Honourable Adeniyi Olabode Adebisi, said the constitution of the Council followed a formal request by the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Y.K. Abass, for a unified structure for market leadership across the State.

The Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry directed the Babaloja General to embark on sensitisation programmes across all geopolitical zones, noting that the exercise received widespread acceptance and support from traders.

Honourable Adebisi explained that the Council would serve as a central voice for traders, strengthen communication between government and market stakeholders, and promote peace and orderliness in markets across the State.

Declaring the Council inaugurated on behalf of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Commissioner described the Governor as a pacesetter committed to inclusive governance and sustainable economic development.

He warned that the Government would not tolerate actions capable of disrupting peaceful coexistence among traders, stressing that the inauguration marked a significant step towards resolving longstanding crises within market associations in the State.

In his remarks, the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Y.K. Abass, commended the State Government and the Ministry for facilitating what he described as a historic initiative aimed at unifying traders across all zones of the State.

He assured that the Council would work towards strengthening market structures, resolving disputes amicably, and supporting policies that would drive economic growth and development in Oyo State.

Following the inauguration, traders and members of the Council paid an appreciation visit to the Ministry, where they were received by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade.

The Permanent Secretary emphasized that Government engagement with market associations is guided by due process, structured policies, and proper coordination to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and peaceful coexistence.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for traders to thrive through collaboration and open governance.

The visit was marked by jubilation as traders thronged the Ministry with drumming, singing, and dancing in appreciation of the Government’s efforts towards promoting unity and stability among market associations across the State.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving public health and boosting industrial standards through a strategic partnership with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), with a strong focus on food fortification and compliance among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Speaking while receiving a delegation from SON at the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade, described the collaboration as timely and aligned with the current administration’s priority of ensuring the well-being of citizens.

He noted that effective documentation and structured collaboration among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) remain critical to achieving meaningful results. The Permanent Secretary emphasized the need for clearly defined roles and responsibilities between the Ministry and SON to ensure that policies translate into measurable outcomes.

According to him, “Food fortification is a vital area where we can work together to improve the nutritional status of our people. As the saying goes, ‘if you don’t watch what you eat, you will eat medicine.’ This underscores the importance of this initiative to public health.”

Mr. Okesade further stressed the importance of developing a practical work plan with timelines, joint monitoring mechanisms, and robust data-sharing systems to drive the partnership. He added that the Ministry is open to leveraging existing structures, such as the State Industrial Crisis Management Committee, to support effective implementation and outreach to SMEs.

He reiterated the Ministry’s willingness to participate fully in the initiative, noting that substandard products have had adverse effects on consumers and exporters whose goods are often rejected in international markets.

Earlier, the Director General/Chief Executive of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, in a speech delivered by the Director, South West Region, Mr. Adedayo David, highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing malnutrition through food fortification.

He explained that fortification, adding essential vitamins and minerals to commonly consumed foods such as flour, sugar, salt, and edible oil, remains a practical solution to tackling micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable groups.

Dr. Okeke disclosed that SON has established standards for fortified foods and is introducing a Digital Fortification Quality Traceability system to enhance monitoring, improve compliance, and ensure transparency.

He identified key areas for collaboration with the Ministry to include joint monitoring of fortified products, alignment with state nutrition programmes, data sharing, and public sensitization campaigns.

Also speaking, the Deputy Director, Nutrition, SON, Mrs. Nwafor-Ikenna Victoria, emphasized the critical role of SMEs in achieving compliance with fortification standards. She noted that many cases of non-compliance stem from inadequate traceability and poor product documentation among medium-scale enterprises.

She appealed for the Ministry’s support in identifying and engaging SMEs across the state, stressing that collaboration is essential to drive awareness, ensure compliance, and monitor market activities effectively.

In her remarks, the Director of Trade in the Ministry, Mrs. Modupe Adesina, welcomed the proposed partnership and disclosed plans by the Ministry to establish a Department of Quality Control to further strengthen standards among local producers, especially exporters.

She added that the State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has continued to support SMEs in obtaining export certifications through the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), thereby enhancing their competitiveness in global markets.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to deepen engagement through formal communication, structured planning, and sustained collaboration aimed at improving food quality, safeguarding public health, and promoting industrial growth in Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has commenced a renewed and strategic statewide data collection and collation exercise for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across all the 33 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the State to strengthen economic planning and expand access to Government and international support initiatives.

The initiative was formally flagged off on Wednesday at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Flagging off the programme, the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Olabode Adebisi, stated that the engagement was designed as a “train-the-trainer” session to equip selected participants as aggregators for the Statewide MSMEs data capture exercise.

The Commissioner who spoke through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, explained that the aggregators would be responsible for coordinating data collection efforts within their respective Local Government Areas by working with ten trained agents each, thereby ensuring widespread and efficient coverage across the State.

He noted that a similar exercise conducted in 2024 provided valuable insights but also revealed the need for improved accuracy and validation of data collected.

According to him, “This initiative is aimed at improving the quality and reliability of MSMEs data in Oyo State. We observed gaps in the previous exercise, particularly inconsistencies in critical identification details such as Bank Verification Number (BVN) and National Identification Number (NIN). This training is therefore essential to ensure that all data collected going forward is accurate, verifiable, and fit for planning and intervention purposes.”

He charged participants to approach the assignment with diligence, professionalism, and a high level of technical accuracy to avoid discrepancies that could hinder beneficiaries from accessing Government and development partner interventions.

In his presentation, the Consultant to the Oyo State Government and Chief Executive Officer of Global Sight Services Limited, Mr. Dayo Bello, described the exercise as a critical step toward building a credible and comprehensive MSMEs database for the State.

He emphasized that the data collection covers a broad spectrum of MSMEs, including traders, artisans, farmers, and small-scale industrialists, noting that accurate data remains a key requirement for accessing funding and support from government, federal agencies, and international development partners.

Mr. Bello explained that the decision to undertake a fresh round of data collection was informed by the need to address inaccuracies observed in the 2024 dataset, which limited its effectiveness for programme implementation.

He further assured participants of a seamless and technology-driven process, noting that data captured in any part of the State would be transmitted in real time to a centralized database.

Mr. Bello also reiterated that the exercise would provide equitable opportunities for all MSMEs, including those who may have participated in the previous exercise, to be recaptured under the improved system.

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development and the promotion of local production as a driver of economic growth, disclosing that the Graduate Industrial Self-Employment Scheme (GISES) will commence within the next two weeks.

The disclosure was made through the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Honourable Adeniyi Adebisi, while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the Genspark 2026 Entrepreneurs’ Empowerment Summit and Ibadan Business Exhibition held at the Indoor Games Hall, Liberty Stadium, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.

Hon. Adebisi explained that GISES is a structured revolving loan scheme designed to provide seed capital for unemployed graduates to establish small-scale industrial ventures.

He said that the initiative includes an entrepreneurship development component to equip beneficiaries with practical skills in business identification, management and feasibility analysis, ensuring sustainability.

He noted that the theme of the summit, “Local Production as a Backbone for Thriving Economies; Get Involved,” aligns with the vision of the present administration led by Governor Seyi Makinde, which prioritises job creation, youth engagement, and sustainable economic development.

He emphasised that the State Government remains deliberate in its efforts to reduce unemployment through strategic initiatives such as skills acquisition programmes, vocational training, and support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

He added that empowering young people with market-relevant skills in areas such as manufacturing, agribusiness, and innovation would not only enhance productivity but also position them as drivers of economic transformation.

The Commissioner highlighted ongoing collaborations between the Ministry and relevant agencies, including the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), to train farmers and exporters, as well as government-backed initiatives designed to support emerging entrepreneurs.

He further encouraged participants to leverage these opportunities to build viable businesses and contribute meaningfully to the State’s economy

Speaking also, Chairman of the opening ceremony, Otunba Oyedapo Idowu Richard, underscored the role of the private sector in economic growth, noting that initiatives like Genspark provide opportunities for networking, investment and business expansion.

In her contribution, the Oyo State Manager of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mrs. Iyabo Ojogbede, reiterated the agency’s commitment to supporting small businesses through capacity building, access to finance and policy support.

Earlier In his welcome address, the Convener, Pharm. Abiodun Ajibade, said the summit was designed to bridge gaps in entrepreneurial knowledge and provide mentorship, business insights and networking opportunities for participants.

…Boosts Agro Export Training

The Oyo State Government has begun implementing measures to address bottlenecks surrounding vehicles acquired through hire purchase agreements, particularly those affecting transport operators across the State.

The intervention is aimed at curbing what stakeholders described as “draconian” practises by some vehicle owners who seize vehicles despite substantial payments already made by operators under the popular “work-and-pay” arrangement.

This was disclosed during a stakeholders’ engagement held at the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry on Friday in Ibadan.

The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Mr. Adeniyi Adebisi, explained that the engagement was organised following a resolution of the Oyo State House of Assembly calling on the Government to intervene and ensure fairness, sustainability and transparency in hire purchase operations.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, the Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration to people-centred governance, noting that the engagement was designed to gather practical insights toward developing a balanced policy framework that protects livelihoods while encouraging responsible enterprise practises.

The meeting had in attendance representatives of the Motor Dealers Association of Nigeria (MODAN), the Automobile and Motor Dealers Association of Nigeria (AMDON), the Oyo State Park Management System (PMS), the State Intelligence Department (S.I.D) and other key stakeholders.

Speaking during the session, the Chairmen of MODAN and AMDON, Captain Oluwole Odeleke (rtd) and Asiwaju Olurinde Kolawole, stated that hire purchase, popularly known as “work-and-pay,” remains a widely used model for acquiring income-generating assets such as tricycles, motorcycles and vehicles.

They emphasised the need for clearer operational standards, improved documentation and realistic repayment structures to reduce disputes and strengthen trust among all parties involved in the system.

Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Park Management System, Alhaji Tajudeen Jimoh, highlighted the socio-economic pressures faced by many youths who depend on hire purchase arrangements for economic empowerment, describing the engagement as timely and necessary.

Officers of the State Intelligence Department (S.I.D), Eleyele Police Station, sensitised participants on the provisions of the Hire Purchase Act, urging all parties to embrace transparency, written agreements and lawful procedures in resolving disputes.

Other stakeholders at the meeting agreed that outcomes of the discussions would be harmonised into formal recommendations for legislative consideration and subsequent policy action, aimed at establishing a humane, structured and sustainable hire purchase system in Oyo State.

In another development, the Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic development, enterprise growth and youth empowerment through strategic initiatives focused on agricultural export promotion.

This was made known during a two-day Human Capacity Training on Agricultural Exportable Produce organised by the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry at the Ministry’s Conference Room, Secretariat, Ibadan.

The Commissioner, Honourable Adeniyi Adebisi, explained that the initiative was designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of farmers and exporters, improve agricultural value chains and promote compliance with international export standards.

He added that the programme built upon earlier export cluster development training held in July and August 2025, noting that the Makinde administration recognises agriculture as a strategic driver of economic growth, small-scale entrepreneurship and foreign exchange earnings.

He assured participants that the State Government would continue to provide enabling policies and capacity-building programmes to support farmers, exporters and young entrepreneurs in positioning Oyo State as a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural export economy.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

…as Industrial Crisis Mgmt Comm. task Companies on Labour Rights Compliance

The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to the welfare of workers in the course of its  industry friendly policies in the State.

The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry; Hon. Adebisi Adeniyi made this known during a sensitization visit to the Nigerian Breweries and the Nigerian Bottling Company (Coca-Cola) on Tuesday.

According to him, the sensitization visit is a routine exercise of the  Industrial Crisis Management Committee established by the State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde to ensure workers’ welfare.

The Commissioner who was represented by the Director of Industry; Engr. Mrs. Majeedat Olanrewaju, who led a delegation of the  Committee to both organizations.

The Commissioner explained that the Oyo State  Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, has charged the committee to ensure a good rapport between employers and their staff in companies operating in Oyo State.

He said, “This committee is interested in ensuring that many of the disparities in welfare conditions of permanent and contract staff are bridged in order to ensure a worker friendly and productive working environment in the State.

While  addressing  the management team and the leaders of the labour unions at both organizations, the Commissioner identified welfare and safety concerns and  maintenance of peace as the core interests of the committee.

He therefore  charged the management team at NBC to expand the restaurant facility to ensure a healthier and hygienic dining environment.

During a facility tour at the Nigerian Breweries, the Brewery Manager, Seun Akinwale, as well as the Corporate Affairs Manager, West & Midwest, Danjuma John-Ekele, stated that the company consider safety and welfare of workers as the biggest subject while ensuring adequate remuneration, welfare packages to both permanent and outsourced workforce.

The Union Chairmen at Nigerian Breweries, Comrade Festus Olubiyo and Comrade Lanbe Lukman of the NBC both applauded the smooth working relationship existing between their members  and the organizations.

Highlights of the visit include the inspection of the restaurants, changing rooms, some production lines and some restrooms sections of the business environment.

In their separate responses, the Cooperate Affairs Manager, Mrs. Ifeoma Okoye and the Plant Manager at NBC, Mr. Andrew Barnabas expressed NBC’s readiness to work  with the Government and comply with Government policies to enhance trade and workers’ welfare.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Hon. Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

In a renewed effort to safeguard lives and properties, the Oyo State Government has announced its intention to deepen collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to stem the tide of sub-standard steel and iron rods circulating in the market.

The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, gave the assurance while receiving SON delegation led by the Special Assistant to the Director General/Chief Executive of SON on Strategic Support, Mr. Manji Pius, in his office at the State Secretariat, Ibadan.

He said the partnership will promote public safety, quality assurance, and sustainable industrial development in the State.

Hon. Adebisi said the Oyo State Government under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde has increasingly turned its attention to enforcing building and engineering standards.

He commended SON for its proactive role in safeguarding lives and strengthening industrial integrity through the enforcement of product standards nationwide.

Adebisi emphasized that Oyo State aligns fully with the organisation’s mission, describing quality assurance as a critical component of the State’s economic and industrial growth agenda.

“We appreciate the efforts of SON, especially in addressing issues that affect the safety and confidence of our people. The Ministry is fully ready to partner with you to ensure that substandard products are eradicated from our market”.

He urged SON to consider Oyo State as a strategic location for its proposed laboratory complex, citing the state’s industrial potential and growing reputation as a hub for manufacturing and trade in the South-West region.

Hon. Adebisi further highlighted that “Made-in-Oyo” products have continued to attract both national and international attention, especially during trade exhibitions such as the 2025 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) in Algiers, Algeria, where Oyo-made goods drew significant foreign interest.

He stressed that maintaining product quality and standardization would further enhance the competitiveness of local manufacturers in global markets.

The Commissioner assured that the Ministry would support the process once a formal request is made for land allocation, adding that the establishment of such a facility would enhance regulatory efficiency and attract further investment into the State.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade, described SON’s initiative as crucial to ensuring industrial growth and public safety.

He reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to supporting SON’s mandate, adding that the Ministry would work closely with the organisation through a joint technical committee to develop practical strategies for collaboration, quality monitoring, and public sensitization.

In his remarks,  the Special Assistant to the Director General/Chief Executive of SON on Strategic Support, Mr. Manji Pius, said the visit was aimed at seeking partnership with the Oyo State Government to curb the circulation of low-quality steel materials that have contributed to the alarming rate of building collapses across the Country.

He explained that SON’s ongoing nationwide campaign was designed to combat the proliferation of substandard steel and iron rods, one of the major causes of building collapses in Nigeria.

He disclosed that investigations have revealed that over 85 percent of collapsed buildings in the country were linked to the use of undersized or low-quality reinforcement bars.

According to him, the SON Act No. 14 of 2015 empowers the organisation to set and enforce standards for all manufactured and imported products in Nigeria, including steel and construction materials.

“SON has been carrying out regular inspections and enforcement exercises to ensure that only products that meet the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS 117) are allowed in the market,”

he stated.

Mr. Pius also highlighted that standardization plays a critical role in Nigeria’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), as only products that meet approved national and continental standards will qualify for intra-African trade.

He appealed for Oyo State’s support, particularly in providing land for the construction of a befitting SON office and laboratory in Ibadan to enhance regulatory capacity in the South-West region.

The visit underscored the shared vision of both institutions to promote industrial excellence, ensure product integrity, and strengthen consumer confidence in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Hon. Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

…attracts more than 800 Workers

The Oyo State Government’s pilot digitized Bulk Purchase Initiative has drawn significant attention, attracting over 800 workers in more than 20 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) who have subscribed to the initiative within its pilot phase.

In a statement issued and made available on Thursday to the media, the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, said the welfare program will be implemented in partnership with Foodbank, a subsidiary of Sovereign Technology and Innovations Limited.

He expressed delight at the level of enthusiasm and trust shown by Oyo State workers toward the upgraded welfare scheme implemented in partnership with Foodbank, a subsidiary of Sovereign Technology and Innovations Limited.

He explained that the programme demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring that workers enjoy sustainable and affordable food access using modern technology.

Hon. Adebisi explained that the digitized scheme, which allows workers to order food packages conveniently through the Foodbank App, was designed not only to ease access to quality food items but also to promote transparency and efficiency in Government welfare programmes.

The Commissioner also commended the management of Foodbank, a subsidiary of Sovereign Technology and Innovations Limited, for its professionalism and commitment to ensuring smooth operations of the digital platform and a rewarding experience for every participant.

Hon. Adebisi further explained that the digitized Bulk Purchase Program offers various affordable combo packages ranging from ₦27,080 to ₦106,900 with payment conveniently spread across two monthly deductions.

He emphasized that the programme, which began as  welfare support for festive periods, has now evolved into an all-year-round initiative to strengthen food security and support the purchasing power of Oyo State’s workforce.

“We are pleased with the turnout so far. More than 800 civil servants from over 20 MDAs have already keyed into this upgraded Bulk Purchase Programme, which shows that our workforce truly appreciates Governor Seyi Makinde’s visionary approach to workers’ welfare. This initiative reflects our administration’s belief that technology can be a tool for social support and economic stability.”

“This impressive response underscores how relevant and impactful the initiative is. It was conceptualized to make life easier for our civil servants by providing flexible, affordable food purchase options that can be accessed digitally. We are glad to see that workers are embracing it wholeheartedly. The ministry will continue to work with our partners to ensure seamless implementation.”

“The partnership with Foodbank has been exemplary, and we are proud of the efficiency and innovation they bring into this process. This collaboration reflects Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of leveraging technology for social impact, and we believe this model is one other states can emulate.”

“We are glad that this pilot phase has been met with widespread approval among civil servants. It is a tech-driven solution that directly addresses the current economic realities and enhances workers’ well-being. The Oyo State Government remains committed to promoting welfare initiatives that improve the quality of life of our people while driving inclusive economic growth,” Hon. Adebisi concluded.