OGILO SKOPE (the speaking pen 🖊️)

  Ondo State Governor Approves Upgrade of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to University of Agriculture Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has given the green light for the transformation of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, into a University of Agriculture and Agribusiness. The announcement was made in a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, who explained that the decision followed a review of the institution’s initial upgrade proposal.  Under the previous administration, plans were in place to convert the polytechnic into a University of Management Science and Technology.  However, upon assuming office, Governor Aiyedatiwa opted to reposition the institution as a center for agricultural innovation and food security. According to the statement, the governor emphasized that the newly upgraded university would serve as a model for the state’s agricultural and food security initiatives.  To facilitate the transition, a committee will be ...

Ekiti Wins Gold in Table Tennis at South West Games, Hon. Akinlayo Kolawole Pledges N400,000 Reward. Ekiti State has emerged victorious in the table tennis event at the just-concluded South West Private Secondary School Games, held at Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State. Omogoye Ayomide (boys' category) and Kolade Bright (girls' category) secured gold medals, further cementing the state's dominance in the sport. In recognition of their achievement, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Table Tennis Association and Member representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency, Hon. Akinlayo Kolawole, has pledged a cash reward of ₦200,000 to each medallist upon their return. Hon. Kolawole, a staunch supporter of grassroots sports development, had earlier donated ₦5 million over the weekend to bolster the newly inaugurated state table tennis association, aligning with Governor Biodun Oyebanji's vision for sports advancement in Ekiti.

  Olamide Awoyinfa reported that Abuja-based Green Lock FC has made history by advancing to the final of the prestigious Evolution Cup for the first time ever.  The team, under the astute guidance of Coach Bolarinwa Idris, has displayed tactical brilliance and remarkable team cohesion, proving his expertise as a master strategist. Green Lock FC topped their group with an impressive 10 points, winning three matches and drawing one. The team showcased their attacking prowess, netting seven goals while maintaining a disciplined defensive structure.  This balance between offense and defense is a testament to the tactical acumen of Coach Idris, who has seamlessly blended youthful talent with well-structured gameplay. Beyond results, Coach Bolarinwa Idris' impact is evident in the individual performances of his players. Under his mentorship, four of his players have clinched Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, highlighting his ability to nurture and elevate talent.  His kee...

Ekiti State Table Tennis Association Inaugurates Members, Receives Chairman's Support The Ekiti State Table Tennis Association has officially inaugurated its members under the leadership of its newly appointed chairman, Honourable Akinlayo Kolawole, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency. The inauguration ceremony, which took place at the Inland Club in Ado Ekiti, brought together key stakeholders in the sports sector.  Among the notable attendees were Dr. (Mrs.) Olusola Osetoba, the Technical Advisor on Sports Development to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, table tennis experts, coaches, former players, and members of the Ekiti State Sports Commission. The event followed the recent approval by the Ekiti State Executive Council for a N7 billion indoor sports hall project, signaling a renewed commitment to sports development in the state.  In alignment with this initiative, the Table Tennis Association reaffirmed its dedication to foster...

  A prominent journalist in Ekiti State, Comrade Rotimi Feyisina, has called on well-meaning individuals and organizations to extend their support to vulnerable children, especially those with disabilities. Feyisina made this passionate appeal during his visit to ONAOPEMIPO Centre for Children and Youths with Special Needs in Iwaro Quarters, Ado-Ekiti, as part of activities to commemorate his birthday. During the visit, Feyisina presented material and cash donations to the Centre.  Moved by the plight of the children, he urged the government, philanthropists, and members of the public to provide assistance to improve their living conditions. Receiving the donations on behalf of the children, the founders of the Home, Pastor and Mrs. Ojo Olumide, expressed  gratitude to Feyisina for his kind gesture. They also encouraged other members of society to follow his example by contributing towards the welfare of children with disabilities. Highlighting the challenges faced by the...

Olanlege, CEO Phoenix Athletics Sports Club News broke recently: the Ekiti State Government has approved a massive N7.6 billion contract for a state-of-the-art Indoor Sports Hall!  Yes, you read that right – a huge investment in Ekiti sports.  This exciting project is slated for completion within 52 weeks, a testament to Governor Biodun Oyebanji's commitment to youth development through sports, as confirmed by Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun.   According to the government, this initiative has been in the works, with a N60 million consultancy fee approved back in 2024.  Just last week, on Valentine's Day no less, the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium saw tractors excavating the natural grass field – a surprise even to those within the sports ecosystem.  Rumors are flying about a major upgrade, possibly even a state-of-the-art AstroTurf.  This follows the donation of a brand new coaster bus to Ekiti United and the impressive performance of Ekiti Que...

Ekiti State Commissioner of Police Pledges Support for Sports Development The Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, CP Joseph Aribo, has expressed his commitment to aligning with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s vision for sports development in the state. CP Aribo made this pledge today when the Technical Adviser on Sports Development, Dr. Mrs. Olusola Osetoba, paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Ado-Ekiti. Speaking during the meeting, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police force and the state government to ensure the smooth execution of sports activities.  He also highlighted his personal interest in sports, noting that the police would play an active role in fostering sports development in Ekiti State. “As part of our efforts to support the governor’s vision, we will soon organize a police sports competition in Ekiti State,” CP Aribi announced. He further assured that the police would provide adequate security during all subsequent sports...