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Governor Adeleke named 2024 Governor of the Year

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Senator Ademola Adeleke, Osun State Governor has been named 2024 Leadership Newspaper Governor of the year.

It was gathered that the Newspaper also endorsed Governor Adeleke for second term in office as Governor of Osun State.

While receiving the top management team of the newspaper at the Government House in Osogbo, the Osun state capital, Governor Adeleke noted that his administration has reduced the infra deficit by over 40 percent adding that his real target Is higher.

He added that his administration has bridged access to primary health care, and his ambition is to also expand health access at medium and tertiary levels.

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He said, “Osun State is constantly getting recognitions for what outsiders and even opposition members regard as our commendable performance.

“In the last one year, our government has been conferred with several awards across the sectors. Aside from reputable newspapers like the leadership stable, we have received accolades from several federal agencies and non-governmental bodies. The consensus from those reviewing our performance and service delivery is that we are true agents of good governance.

“In all these positive ratings, my response has always been to task my team to double their efforts. In the face of overwhelming positive reviews and high approval ratings , I am compelled to drive my team harder. When recently some opposition figures confessed to our positive ratings, I still believe we have a lot of grounds to cover.

“I am not allowing the praises to enter my head. While it may be true that I have delivered a four year task in under two years, I am propelled to do more because Osun has been left behind on many fronts. As I have reduced the infra deficit by over 40 percent, my real target Is higher. As I have bridged access to primary health care, my ambition is to also expand health access at medium and tertiary levels. While our records across the sectors are laudable as your newspaper has acknowledged, the ultimate goal is to accelerate infra upgrade alongside the boosting of soft investment for the well being of our people.

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“I appreciate your candid endorsement of our performance. It is important to note that your yardstick for recognizing us correlates with similar reasons adduced by others. Our huge governance records are undeniable facts especially in workers welfare, infrastructure delivery, educational expansion, health care access improvement, solid mineral sector reforms, digital economy initiatives, agricultural mechanisation among others.

“I want to assure the public that our administration is not slowing down. Very soon, I will flag off ongoing remodeling of Osogbo stadium to assume international standard. Prior to the ongoing stadium project, we have engineered the creation of Osun Sport Commission and Osun Sport Fund through appropriate legal and policy framework.

“Very soon, I will be flagging off the dualisation of phase one of Odoori – Post office road at Iwo. The contractor for Iwo -Osogbo road has mobilized to site. We plan to complete the two projects within the life of this administration. Meanwhile, the dualisation project at Ilesa is progressing while the flyover bridge at Ile Ife is ongoing with appreciable progress. 2025 is billed to be a year of further expansion of good governance for the good of man and humanity.

Speaking earlier, Mike Okpere, the Vice Chairman of Leadership Group noted that the recognition is in order to give Governor Adeleke an insight and encouragement to do a second term.

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“Your excellency you will see that, we didn’t just come down here, we had a meeting before the award and that is why we are here, so this trip is to notify you formally for this award and we personally invite you on the 8th of April at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Asokoro where this award will be handed on over to you.

“Our Reputable Person of the Year is Aliko Dangote, you all are aware of the investment he just concluded, by bringing fuel production into Nigeria because of that and many other things, we chose him as our person of the year.

“Other person’s that would be sharing the merit are other Governors that have touch people’s lives, among them is the Governor from Akwa Ibom, the Governor of Enugu state, the Governor of Jigawa state and the Governor of Kano state.

“We didn’t call this Leadership Governor of the year, we call it Governor of the year, in order words what we are saying is that, this recognition will give you an insight and encouragement to do a second term.

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“As a newspaper company, we don’t endorse Governors but when we see something we say it, your Excellency sir, our duty is almost done or I want to present the notification and official invitation.”

Other members of the Leadership Newspaper team includes, Mr Abraham Nda Isaiah, Director, Leadership Group, Mr. Ibidiran Ayokunle, Head Southern Operations, Mr Joshua Dada, Osun State.

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A Chat with Janet Odio Okolo: A Mother’s Journey Raising a Child with Down Syndrome

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Down syndrome: It’s a congenital condition characterized by a distinctive pattern of physical characteristics including a flattened skull, pronounced folds of skin in the inner corners of the eyes, large tongue, and short stature, and by some degree of limitation of intellectual ability and social and practical skills. It usually arises from a defect involving chromosome. Above definition succinctly describes what Janet Odio Okolo had to go through to sustain her daughter. In this chat she narrated her experience to naijablitznews Associate Editor, Gloria Ikibah, excerpts. 
 
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
My name is Janet Odio Okolo. I often introduce myself as a proud mother of a 13-year-old girl, Isioma, who lives with Down syndrome. I call her my “star girl.”  
Professionally, I’m into catering and equipment rentals. I provide catering equipment like plates, cutlery, chafing dishes, and more to other caterers. Alongside that, I run a few side businesses to support my family.
 
 
What has been the most rewarding part of raising a child with Down syndrome? And how has it impacted your life and perspective?
 
Raising Isioma has helped me discover parts of myself I didn’t know existed—patience, empathy, selflessness.  
 
She has taught me to see people beyond the surface, to understand others deeply and kindly. These qualities have added great value to my life and relationships. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, and I am better for it.
 
 
There are often different perceptions about Down syndrome. What’s yours?
 
I had prior knowledge about Down syndrome before Isioma was born, so it wasn’t a total shock. People have different opinions—some based on facts, others rooted in myths.  
 
But for me, Isioma is God’s creation. I didn’t create her, but she came into my life with purpose. I embraced her fully, and that acceptance has made the journey smoother.
 
 
Can you share a particular challenge you’ve faced raising Isioma and how you overcame it?
 
There are challenges, no doubt, but I’ve chosen to see them as opportunities for growth. One that stands out is watching her peers, cousins, friends progress faster. At 2 or 3 years old, they were on the same level, but over time, many of them moved ahead academically and developmentally.  
 
It used to bother me. Some of them are now in secondary school or boarding houses, while Isioma is still in primary school. But I remind myself that every child moves at their own pace. With the right support, Isioma will get there, and she’s already doing very well.
 
 
How do you think society can better support and include individuals with Down syndrome?
 
Support must go beyond the family, it must come from the entire society. These children live in communities, go to school, attend church, and access healthcare.  
 
In schools, there should be inclusive programs tailored to their pace. Let them participate in games, cultural days, and other activities. Don’t exclude them because they “can’t dance” or “can’t sing.” Involve them.
 
In the neighbourhood, encourage inclusion during play. For instance, a friend told me her son who also has Down syndrome is often excluded from football because he scores own goals. But I say: be patient, teach him the rules, guide him. That’s what inclusion looks like.
 
In churches, let’s involve them in prayers, praise, and worship. Make them feel seen and valued.  
 
Hospitals should be more patient and friendly with these children. That environment should make them feel safe and open.  
 
And for family members and friends support can be as simple as offering to look after the child for a weekend so the parent can rest. That kind of emotional and practical support goes a long way.
 
 
What are your hopes and dreams for Isioma? What steps are you taking to help her achieve them?
 
Oh, I have big dreams for her! And she has dreams too. For example, Isioma loves the runway, she loves to strut like a model.  
 
So, I’m investing in that. I got her a coach to help her build on this interest. My goal is for her to be independent one day, to earn a living through something she enjoys.  
 
Parents need to pay attention, observe what their children love, then build on it. Some want to bake, sing, sew, or dance. Equip them with skills. That’s what I’m doing with Isioma. Even if I’m not around tomorrow, I want her to be confident and self-sufficient.
 
 
What advice would you give to parents who’ve just received a Down syndrome diagnosis for their child?
 
The first step is acceptance. Don’t live in denial. Don’t say, “God forbid” or “I reject it.” That only delays the journey to support.  
 
I remember when Isioma was about six months old, I took her to a popular hospital. The pediatrician just looked at her and bluntly said, “This child has Down syndrome.” She didn’t offer any emotional support, she just dismissed me. That experience hurts.   
 
But instead of giving up, I started researching. I saw a lot online that was scary and discouraging, so I decided to create my own path for her.  
 
To new parents: it’s not a death sentence. With love, care, and professional support, your child can thrive. Don’t fall for superstitions, stigmatization, or spiritual manipulation. Focus on solutions. Be your child’s biggest cheerleader, and others will follow your lead.
 
 
How supportive are your other children?
 
They’re very supportive, although due to age differences and school schedules, they weren’t always around. But whenever they’re home, they show her so much love. They treat her like their little queen. The bond is strong, even in limited time.
 
 
What are your expectations from the government and society at large?
 
There are government policies for people with special needs, but the problem is implementation. These policies often remain on paper.  
 
We need action. Especially in healthcare, many of these children have underlying conditions that require consistent medical attention. Parents, especially indigent ones, can’t always afford this.
 
Recently, I saw a young girl with Down syndrome at a fish market, begging. She looked unkempt. I was with Isioma, and people noticed the connection. I tried to reach out to the girl’s mother to offer help even if not financial, at least advice and direction.  
 
Children like that are vulnerable to abuse, exploitation, and neglect. We need the government to provide safe spaces, education, healthcare, and skills training, especially for families who can’t afford it.
 
 
Finally, any last words to society about children with Down syndrome?
 
They are not a mistake. They are not a burden. They are people with potential just like every other child.  
 
Let’s remove the stigma. Let’s embrace inclusion. Let’s create a world where they are seen, heard, and loved for who they are.
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Hon. Nnamchi Begins Street Lights Deployment In Isi Uzo(Photos)

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Honourable Paul Sunday Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo Federal Constituency in the 10th House of Representatives, has fulfilled his promise to illuminate communities in Isi Uzo Local Government Area.

The lawmaker has just begun the deployment of high-density solar-powered street lights in Ikem Nkwo, marking the beginning of a massive rollout of the street lamps across the communities in Isi Uzo.

This initiative, which started in Enugu East Local Government Area in 2024, aims to support the fight against insecurity in the state which according to him was to add to what Chief Security Officer of Enugu State Barrister Peter Mba had done to secure the state to attracts foreign investments.

The lawmaker expressed concern over banditry attacks, particularly by herdsmen, in some communities within Isi Uzo and Enugu East Local Government Areas in the recent pasts.

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He believes that illuminating these areas with high-density street lights would help address the insecurity adding that he was prioritizing border and farming communities in Isi Uzo, where banditry has displaced residents and restricted farming activities.

Communities in Ikem, Eha-Amufu in Isi Uzo which borders Enugu and Benue State and Ugwogo-Nike in Enugu East have been vulnerable to these attacks due to their strategic locations.

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May Day: Kalu Hails Workers, Applauds Their Role in Nation Building

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By Gloria Ikibah

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has extended warm wishes to Nigerian workers as the country marks the 2025 edition of International Workers’ Day.

Kalu praised workers across various sectors for their commitment and resilience, describing them as the engine that keeps the nation moving. He acknowledged their sacrifices and unrelenting drive, especially during tough economic times.

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In his message, he highlighted the efforts of the current administration under President Bola Tinubu to improve the welfare of public servants. He referenced the National Assembly’s prompt backing of the new minimum wage as a sign of the government’s seriousness about workers’ wellbeing.

The Deputy Speaker appealed for continued patience and understanding from Nigerians, noting that the ongoing economic reforms, while challenging, are designed to bring long-term relief and prosperity.

Kalu also called for unity, and said the country can only overcome its present difficulties if citizens and leaders work together in good faith.

He therefore  urged workers to keep the faith and remain steadfast in their duties, assuring them that brighter days are on the horizon, and wished Nigerian workers a peaceful and fulfilling May Day celebration.

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