Oyo govt awards N25m to the state anthem composers

After the State Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, September 24, the Oyo State Government sanctioned a compensation of N25 million for the creators of the state anthem, “Asiwaju ni Wa,” as disclosed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.

Additionally, the government unveiled intentions to grant land plots and designate roads in honor of the anthem’s composers.

Governor Seyi Makinde commended the foresight of Chief (Mrs) Florence Ajimobi, the spouse of the ex-governor, for commencing the anthem project.

Oyelade also mentioned that the Ministry of Information and Orientation would create a documentary detailing the history of the anthem.

Moreover, the council endorsed the advancement of 1,629 employees, which encompassed nurses who had encountered administrative inaccuracies during the promotion period spanning from 2017 to 2020.

Furthermore, 47 civil servants who were terminated during the prior administration were reinstated, and 124 employees who were sacked in 2012 were granted clemency.

Nevertheless, the council upheld the termination of 823 workers for presenting counterfeit certificates.

Governor Makinde’s government maintains its focus on improving the welfare of workers and correcting past injustices, as highlighted by Oyelade saying, “The council is committed to restoring fairness while also recognising significant cultural contributions like the state anthem.”

This progression stems from the adoption of the anthem ten years ago, which occurred without any compensation provided to its creators beforehand.