Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, marked his administration’s second anniversary on Wednesday by announcing key accomplishments across various sectors, including the settlement of N12 billion in pension debts.

In a state broadcast to commemorate the milestone, Adeleke revealed that his government had paid off pension arrears totaling N12 billion in just two years, significantly surpassing the N11 billion settled by the previous administration over a 12-year period.

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“During the two years of our administration, we have successfully cleared N12 billion in pension debts, a feat that far exceeds the N11 billion settled by the previous government over 12 years,” Adeleke stated.

The governor also highlighted strides made in healthcare, with a focus on preventive care. “We pursue a preventive healthcare policy which places emphasis on access to health care,” he said, noting that his administration had upgraded 200 of the state’s nearly 400 primary healthcare centers.

These upgrades included the installation of solar power, boreholes, and the provision of medical materials.

Further strengthening the state’s healthcare system, Adeleke pointed to the success of two major Imole medical outreach programs, which have collectively served over 100,000 beneficiaries.

A third edition is already in the works, and the state has also enrolled 29,000 pensioners in a health insurance scheme to cover their medical expenses.

The governor also outlined major water supply initiatives, revealing that 332 boreholes had been drilled across Osun’s 332 political wards, with another set of boreholes currently under construction.

“332 boreholes were also delivered across the 332 political wards in the state, and another 332 borehole project is ongoing,” he said.

On the agricultural front, Adeleke spoke about his administration’s efforts to revitalize the state’s farming sector, including the revival of farm settlements and the launch of cocoa and cashew expansion projects.

To further support agriculture, the government has purchased 31 tractors to kick-start a state farm mechanization plan.

In education, Adeleke celebrated the establishment of the University of Ilesa, which has received take-off grants and accreditation for its courses.

“The University of Ilesa has also become a reality with take-off grants and accredited courses,” he said.

Additionally, the governor reported the rehabilitation of 99 secondary schools, the completion of four abandoned projects at Osun State University, and the launch of a new anatomy laboratory at the institution.

The upgrading of six technical colleges is also underway.

Looking ahead, the governor reassured citizens that his administration remains focused on completing ongoing projects and addressing the needs of the people.

“Our work is far from over,” Adeleke emphasized. “We are committed to ensuring the continued development of Osun State.”

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday traveled to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to represent Nigeria at the opening ceremony of the International Exhibition of Extractive and Energy Resources (SIREXE 2024).

The six-day conference, taking place at the Abidjan Exhibition Centre from November 27 to December 2, 2024, focuses on “Policies and Strategy for the Sustainable Development of the Extractive and Energy Industries.”

Shettima’s visit follows an invitation from Côte d’Ivoire’s Vice President, Tiémoko Meyliet Koné, according to a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Stanley Nkwocha.

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The Vice President is expected to use the platform to highlight Nigeria’s advancements in hydrocarbon exploration and production while engaging with global leaders and industry stakeholders.

“This is an opportunity to share Nigeria’s experiences and successes in the oil and gas sectors,” Nkwocha stated.

Organized by the Government of Côte d’Ivoire, SIREXE 2024 serves as a global meeting point for policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to discuss sustainable practices in extractive and energy development.

Vice President Shettima is scheduled to return to Abuja later on Wednesday after attending the conference’s opening events.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Africa Regional Director-elect, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, has died.

His death, which occurred on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, has sent shockwaves through the global health community.

Born in 1969, Dr. Ndugulile was a distinguished Tanzanian politician and public health expert.

In August 2024, he was elected as the next Regional Director for WHO Africa, following a vote by African member states during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo.

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He was set to succeed Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who has led the organization for a decade, with his appointment scheduled for confirmation in February 2025 during the WHO Executive Board meeting in Geneva, Switzerland.

Dr. Ndugulile’s sudden death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from global and regional leaders.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his grief on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“Shocked and deeply saddened to learn about the sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, @WHOAFRO Regional Director-elect. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, and the parliament and people of #Tanzania.”

Outgoing Regional Director Dr. Matshidiso Moeti also paid tribute, calling his death a great loss:

“I’m deeply saddened and shocked about the sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, @WHOAFRO Regional Director-elect. It’s an immense loss. My entire team @WHOAFRO and I send our sincere & heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, the government, and the people of Tanzania.”

Dr. Mulombo Kazadi, the WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, reflected on the timing of the loss, stating:

“We didn’t need this now. We are devastated. Sad news for Africa and the world. We give glory to Almighty God because only Him knows why. We thank God for his life and the inspiration he brought albeit for a very short time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Tanzanian President Samia Hassan also joined in mourning, describing Dr. Ndugulile’s passing as a profound loss for both the country and the continent.