In continuation of the Light Up the Rural Communities initiative of Ogun State government, the State Ministry of Rural Development has installed Solar panel street lights in Ogo-Oluwa community, Surulere, Ileese Awo, Abeokuta and Albert Taiwo Matuluko in Ijebu North-East Local Government area of the State.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Adetayo Adewale, said the initiative was in line with the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led administration’s agenda in providing lights for rural communities where the National grid could not get to, saying the provision of solar lights would illuminate the communities, as well as bring positive social change to the rural communities.
The Permanent Secretary, represented by the Director of Rural Electrification, Engr. Ismail Balogun, said the project would contribute immensely to the improvement of lives of the dwellers, affirming that the solar panel lights are dependable and sustainable sources of light for the community roads and pathways.
“We have installed solar street lights in over 30 communities, solar home kits in over 10 communities, while Mini Grids, grid extension and repair of low transformers are also being done”, he submitted.
According to him, solar lighting had also been installed in over 12 Primary Healthcare Centres across the Local Government Areas in the State, as he reiterated the commitment of the government to ensuring a better life for rural dwellers.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman Ogo-Oluwa community, Mr. Odumala Okanlawon, appreciated the State government for the gesture, promising that the community would maintain and guide the amenities jealouly.
Speaking on behalf of Albert Taiwo Matuluko community in Ijebu North-East, the Chairman, Mr. Temitope Ekundayo, lauded the government for its quick response to the yearnings of members of the community, adding that they would look forward to more dividends of democracy.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Government has dissociated from information being disseminated on social media regarding the availability of admission forms for a 2-Year Midwives Training Course.
A release by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Tomi Coker described the information as inaccurate and misleading, warning members of the public to be wary of having their money wasted by mischievous people.
Coker disclosed that there is indeed a Community Midwifery Training Programme in the offing which is a joint initiative of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and the Ogun State Ministry of Health aimed at enhancing the healthcare workforce and reducing maternal mortality and morbidity in the State, particularly in rural areas.
The Governor’s aid added that there are no available forms for sale for the 2023/2024 session, adding that any claims suggesting otherwise are false.
She urged the public to disregard the earlier misinformation and be cautious of unofficial sources, adding that the Ogun State Ministry of Health is committed to transparent and accurate communication regarding its programs and initiatives.
By Victor Kachi
