Year 2024 World Habitat Day, with the theme 'Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future', was jointly celebrated by the Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke and Osun State Broadcasting Corporation on Monday 7th October, 2024 at NUJ Press Center Osogbo.
Recall that, first Monday in October every year has been designated by the United Nations to commemorate the day. It is the day set aside to reflect on the state of our habitat, and also on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. We are also reminded that we have the power and responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns.
Central to the goodwill messages delivered at the occasion, was finding solutions to the various challenges brought about by Overpopulation, Overcrowding, Climate change and Inadequate infrastructural facilities.
The programme got to the peak when the Rector, Dr. Samson Akinbamide Omobayo Adegoke presented a paper titled 'Housing Debacle, Nigerian Workers and the Myth of Benevolent Government'. Dr. Adegoke in his paper reflected on the housing crisis of workers in Nigeria. He proffered solutions to include, workers earning Living Wage instead of Minimum Wage, provision of affordable housing by the government, increased funding for housing, as well as effective government housing policies and regulations.
The Chairman OSCOTECH Governing Council, Prince Diran Odeyemi appreciated guests and dignitaries present at the occasion. Prince Odeyemi also emphasized the importance of a well planned and structured housing to human healthy living. He lauded OSCOTECH and OSBC for jointly celebrating World Habitat Day this year.
Dignitaries at the occasion include the Orangun of Oke Ila, HRM Oba (Dr.) Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin (Aroyinkeye I); Hon. Mrs. Eniola Grace Omotosho, who represented the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo; TPL Adeola Ibiyemi, who represented the Honourable Commissioner for Land and Physical Development, Hon. George Ibitayo; TPL Rotimi Dipeolu, who represented the Chairman, ADRON Group, Aare Adetola Olaniyi Emmanuelking; OSBC Perm. Sec./DG, Mrs. Jolaade Igbaroola; Honourable Ayepola Taiwo Foluso; Deputy Rector, Mrs. Cecilia Kehinde Ijitona; Registrar, Mr Samuel Olufemi Popoola ; Bursar, Mr. Julius Olusegun Makinde; Deans; Directors; Labour leaders and other Staff of OSCOTECH and OSBC.
The programme was co-sponsored by ADRON Group and ATMAN Limited.
Ajilore A.O
SA, Media, Protocol and Public Relations.