Connect with us

Politics

Otunba Gbenga Daniel Under Periscope 

Published

7 months ago

on

 

 

 

Reminiscent of historical figures, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, in just one year since his inauguration as Senator representing Ogun East in the Red Chambers, is proving once again to be both disruptive and futuristic in his legislative approach, echoing his unmatched achievements as a one-time governor of Ogun State, writes Seunmnuel Faleye.

 

Evoking a similarity to the legendary American lawmaker, Senator Robert C. Byrd, whose tenure in the U.S. Senate spanned over half a century and who was known for his relentless pursuit of infrastructure development in West Virginia, Daniel’s actions are a testament to how a determined legislator can transform the socio-economic landscape of their constituency. In Nigeria, a similar narrative is unfolding with Senator Gbenga Daniel, who is forging a new path with his visionary and strategic representation. Within his first year in the Senate, Daniel has spearheaded the establishment of the Federal College of Aviation Technology in Ilara Remo and the Naval Base in Abigi, Ogun Waterside – both unprecedented federal institutions in the region. These initiatives are poised to be game-changers, infusing new dynamics into Nigeria’s aviation industry and maritime security.

 

During a recent dialogue with journalists at the Iwe Iroyin secretariat, Senator Daniel gave a detailed account of his legislative achievements, emphasizing the dearth of federal institutions in Ogun East. The expanse from Idi Ayunre, the boundary of Ogun State with Ibadan in Oyo State, through Oru, Ijebu Igbo, Ijebu Ode, Ogun Waterside, Ijebu East, Ijebu North East, Odogbolu, Ikenne, Remo North, to Sagamu has long been devoid of federal presence. Senator Daniel’s interventions are not just filling this gap but setting a new standard for impactful representation.

 

As Governor of Ogun State from 2003 to 2011, Senator Daniel left an indelible mark on the region’s educational and industrial scene. He founded the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), the Gateway Polytechnic in Saapade, Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic in Ijebu Igbo, and the Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute (GIPI) in Oni, Ogun Waterside. Additionally, he relocated the Olabisi Onabanjo University to its permanent site in Ago Iwoye, moved the Tai Solarin College of Education to Omu in Odogbolu, and established the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OSUTH) in Sagamu. These institutions, still standing today, underscore his commitment to equitable development.

 

In his senatorial role, Daniel has further elevated his legacy by attracting significant federal investments to Ogun East. The Bill for the establishment of the Federal College of Aviation Technology in Ilara Remo has successfully passed its second reading in the Senate, with a public hearing scheduled for July 8, 2024. This institution is set to be a cornerstone of Nigeria’s aviation sector, addressing the critical need for specialized training. It promises to produce a new generation of skilled aviation professionals, thereby enhancing the country’s aerospace capabilities and positioning Nigeria as a significant player in the global aviation industry.

 

Similarly, the establishment of a Naval Base in Abigi, Ogun Waterside, represents a strategic initiative to bolster maritime security. With a two-billion-naira (N2b) allocation in the 2024 Budget, this naval base will enhance national security, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth in the Ijebu area. It will also play a crucial role in securing Nigeria’s waterways, combating maritime crimes, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of goods along the nation’s critical waterways.

 

Senator Daniel’s legislative approach reflects a profound understanding of the socio-economic needs and developmental aspirations of his constituency. His initiatives are not merely reactive measures but part of a broader, futuristic vision aimed at transforming Ogun East into a hub of educational excellence and maritime security. By leveraging his political acumen, visionary leadership, and long-standing experience as a boardroom honcho and Chairman, Kresta Laurel Limited, Daniel is orchestrating a new dynamic in strategic representation, ensuring that Ogun East reaps the benefits of federal presence and investment.

List of bills presented by Senator Gbenga Daniel and their current status:

 

South West Development Commission Bill

Status: 2nd Reading on the 21st of February 2024

Federal College of Aviation Technology, Ilara Remo

Status: 2nd Reading was taken on the 15th of November, 2023

Terminal Illness Trust Fund Bill

Status: 1st Reading on the 2nd of November, 2023

Media Practitioners Registration Council of Nigeria Bill

Status: 1st Reading on the 27th of February, 2024

Border Communities Development Agency (Amendment) Bill

Status: 1st Reading on the 4th of June, 2024

National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure Act (Amendment) Bill

Status: 1st Reading on the 4th of June, 2024

Hospices (Establishment) Bill

Status: Not specified

Constitution Of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Birth-Right Citizenship) Bill

Status: Not specified

Constitution Of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sovereign Investment Authority and the Sovereign Wealth Fund) Bill

Status: Not specified

Border Communities Development Agency (Amendment) Bill

Status: 1st Reading on the 4th of June, 2024

FCT, Destruction of Mosquitoes and Other Disease-Bearing Insects Bill

Status: Not specified

Finally, Senator Gbenga Daniel’s tenure in the Senate has been marked by a proactive and transformative approach to legislation. His initiatives, including the establishment of the Federal College of Aviation Technology and the Naval Base, underscore his commitment to elevating Ogun East to new heights of development. As these projects come to fruition, they will stand as enduring testaments to his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to his constituents. Like Senator Byrd’s legacy in West Virginia, Daniel’s work in Ogun East is set to leave a lasting impact, driving the region towards a future of prosperity and security.

 

3 / 100
Powered by Rank Math SEO
Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Politics

Ogundimu Congratulates New Lagos Assembly Speaker; Tasks Her On Restoring Assembly’s Dignity

Published

7 days ago

on

January 15, 2025

By

 

Former member of Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Dr Oluyinka Ogundimu, has congratulated the newly-elected Speaker of the Assembly, Rt Honourable Lasbat Mojisola Meranda on her new achievement.

Honourable Ogundimu described Rt Honourable Meranda’s election as well deserved nothing that the fact she was overwhelmingly voted for to lead the House by her colleagues was a testament of the confidence repose in her by them.

“That you were overwhelmingly voted for by your colleagues to lead them is a confirmation of their belief in your ability and capacity to lead them,” Dr Ogundimu said.

He stated further, “and having related, interacted and worked with you closely during the 8th and 9th Assemblies, I have no doubt that you have the ability to restore the Assembly glory and return it to its status of being above common standard of excellence”.

Dr Ogundimu, who was a member of the House in the 7th, 8th and 9th Assemblies, urged the lawmakers to rally round the new Speaker, support her and cooperate with her to make the House great again.

“It’s your collective responsibility to join hands with Rt Honourable Meranda to restore the dignity of the House,” he said

42 / 100
Powered by Rank Math SEO
Continue Reading

Politics

Another Feather To Rasaq Ajala’s Cap, Bags NIPR Shinning Star Award

Published

1 month ago

on

December 15, 2024

By

 

 

Friday, 13 December, 2024, another day of glory for the Chairman of Odiolowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area of Lagos, Honourable Rasaq Olusola Ajala at the prestigious MUSON Centre in the heart of Lagos.

It was the day the General Secretary of Conference 57, umbrella organisation for Council Chairmen in Lagos State bagged the Shinning Star Award for Grassroots Governance presented to him by the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

It was the Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards (LaPRIGA 2024) and the Shell Hall of the MUSON Centre was packed full.

At the event on that day, Ajala was the cynosure of eyes as the entire council management led by the Council Manager, Pastor (Mrs) Folake Otenaike; and the Treasurer, Mr Mujitaba Rufai-Karounwi were on hand to felicitate with him.

Ajala’s amiable but ever humble wife, Alhaja Muheebah Kehinde Ajala, was also on hand to ensure that everything went well in terms of reception for the guests.

The political class led by the Council’s Vice Chairman, Seyi Jakande; the Chairman of the Council’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Tunde Kazeem (TUNKAZ); the Secretary to the Local Government, Alhaji Mujeeb Daramola; and the Supervisor for Health Services, Honourable Nureni Ogunbona were present.

The elected councillors were led by the Leader of the Legislative Arm of the Council, Honourable Rilwan Ajenifuja were also on hand to felicitate with their Chairman.

The award was presented to the Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA Chairman by his teacher and mentor, Pastor (Dr) Peter Ogudero.

The Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of NIPR, Mrs Comfort Obot Nwankwo, described Ajala as an astute grassroots politician who is well connected with his people.

“He is a man of the people, always in their midst and his programmes have always centred on improving their standard of living and enhancing their welfare,” she said.

An elated Ajala, while responding after the presentation of the award, expressed gratitude to the organisers which he described as a recognition from the homefront, “because I’m also a member of the NIPR”.

He assured the organisers and the people of his council that rather than rest on his oars with the award, he will continue to do more to enhance their welfare.

“The reward for hard work is more work and I want to assure you all that we will not rest on our oars with this award.

“This is an award won via collective team work hence I’m dedicating it to the elected, appointed, management and staff of Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA and more, to the people of Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA,” he said

Continue Reading

Business

From Business Maverick to Seasoned Politician: The Enduring Legacy of Otunba Gbenga Daniel

Published

1 month ago

on

December 13, 2024

By

 

In the archives of The Guardian newspaper, a publication dated February 29, 1988, reveals a fascinating story of a young and ambitious businessman, Mr. Gbenga Daniel. At the time, Daniel was the General Manager of H.F-Schroeder (W.A) Limited, a company that distributed Express and Sabiem lifts, Demag cranes, and Hoists.

The article highlights Daniel’s business acumen and strategic vision as he embarked on a European tour to explore new business opportunities. His itinerary included meetings with officials from Express Lift Company Limited in Northampton, Morganite International Limited in London, and Onan International in Peterborough.

Little did anyone know that this young businessman would go on to achieve greatness in multiple fields. After leaving Schroeder, Daniel established his own company, Kresta Laurel Ltd which became the first indigenous lift company in Nigeria. This bold move marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would take him to the pinnacle of success.

Today, Mr. Gbenga Daniel is known as Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), a renowned politician who has made an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape. A two-time governor of Ogun State, OGD has consistently demonstrated his commitment to public service and his ability to drive positive change.

Currently, OGD serves as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing the good people of Ogun East Senatorial District in the National Assembly. His dedication to his constituents and his passion for nation-building have earned him a reputation as a respected and effective leader.

As we reflect on OGD’s remarkable journey, we are reminded that success is often the result of hard work, determination, and a willingness to take calculated risks. From his humble beginnings as a young businessman to his current status as a respected politician, Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s story is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and leadership

44 / 100
Powered by Rank Math SEO
Continue Reading

Trending News