The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has deployed 1,500 personnel to ensure the smooth conduct of the Ondo State governorship election on November 16, 2024. Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed approved this deployment, which is part of collaborative efforts with other security agencies to enforce vehicle movement restrictions on election day.

In a statement from Assistant Corps Marshal and Public Education Officer Olusegun Ogungbemide, the FRSC underscored the importance of maintaining order throughout the election. The deployment includes 25 patrol vehicles, seven tow trucks, and six ambulances, which will be positioned to manage traffic, clear road obstructions, and respond to emergencies.

Corps Marshal Mohammed urged officers to uphold professionalism and respect voters’ rights, warning against any actions that could infringe on democratic freedoms. As preparations continue, the FRSC calls on the public to adhere to vehicle movement restrictions and cooperate with officials to ensure a peaceful and orderly election process.

The official statement highlighted that “As part of efforts to ensure smooth conduct of the upcoming Ondo State Gubernatorial election on November 16, 2024, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, approved the deployment of 1,500 operatives to work with other security agencies to enforce vehicle movement restrictions.

“The directive includes clearing obstructions from roads, performing rescue operations if necessary, and maintaining order at polling stations. Additional resources include 25 patrol vehicles, seven tow trucks, and six ambulances to strengthen restrictions enforcement.

“He reminded personnel to uphold democratic principles, display professionalism, and avoid actions that could infringe upon voters’ rights.”

Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, the son of Nigerian Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has been nominated by Governor Monday Okpebholo as the Health Commissioner-designate for Edo State. Known for his robust academic and professional background in public health and medicine, Cyril’s nomination awaits confirmation from the Edo State House of Assembly.

Early Life and Education

Cyril Oshiomhole began his education at St. Anne’s Primary School and later attended Command Secondary School. His academic journey continued at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS), laying a solid foundation for his healthcare career. Following this, Cyril enhanced his expertise by pursuing a Master’s in Public Health (MSPH) at Tulane University in New Orleans, specializing in Environmental Health, Toxicology, and Disaster Management.

Advanced Studies and International Experience

Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole’s commitment to professional development is evident in his additional studies at prestigious institutions. He completed postgraduate training in Clinical Research at Harvard University and pursued specialized studies in Gastroenterology at Queen Mary University in London. These experiences have equipped him with advanced knowledge in medical science and public health, preparing him to address complex health challenges in Edo State.

The Role of Health Commissioner

If confirmed, Dr. Oshiomhole’s role as Health Commissioner will involve overseeing Edo State’s healthcare policies, public health programs, and medical infrastructure. His diverse background in environmental health, clinical research, and disaster management positions him to make a positive impact on the state’s healthcare system. Governor Okpebholo’s administration has highlighted the need for strong leadership in health, especially following recent appointments aimed at enhancing the state’s governance and public service sectors.

Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole’s nomination as Health Commissioner represents a promising step for Edo State, with his background aligning well with the health sector’s current demands. As the state awaits the Assembly’s decision, many anticipate his potential contributions to public health and safety, driven by his academic and professional accomplishments in medicine and public health.

The House of Representatives will soon deliberate on a bill aimed at creating a sustainable funding source for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to support training and empowerment initiatives for corps members.

Known as “The NYSC Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill 2024,” this legislation, sponsored by a representative from the Nasarawa/Toro Federal Constituency of Nasarawa State, was introduced on the floor of the House two weeks ago. The bill’s main goal is to establish a legal framework to manage and allocate a dedicated intervention fund for NYSC’s skills acquisition, training, and corps member empowerment programs.

Section 2(1) of the bill specifies that the Trust Fund would provide comprehensive support for NYSC personnel, orientation camps, and operational facilities to enhance the efficiency of their services. The fund is proposed to draw from multiple sources, including 0.2% of revenue from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, federal government grants, and contributions from private sector partnerships, international agencies, and NGOs.

Purpose of the Fund

Outlined in Section 5(1), the Fund’s intended uses include:

• Funding corps member skill acquisition and empowerment initiatives.
• Supporting training and re-training for NYSC personnel.
• Enhancing corps member skills for job readiness and productivity.
• Improving resources such as operational books, instructional materials, vehicles, and equipment for NYSC’s objectives.

The bill also proposes establishing a Board of Trustees to oversee the Trust Fund. This board would comprise members from the NYSC National Governing Board, representatives from the Youth Development and Finance Ministries, the private sector, and leaders from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria.

The Board of Trustees will be responsible for managing fund disbursement, setting policies for corps member training and NYSC operational development, and approving project financing through the Trust Fund.

In Section 13(1), the bill grants the board authority to issue contracts according to legal and regulatory standards. The board will also assess NYSC program funding needs, oversee project execution, and monitor project outcomes financed by the Trust Fund.