Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the constitution of a committee to review the implementation of the new minimum wage at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO).

The governor also approved the payment of three months of outstanding salary arrears owed to the institution’s workforce, a decision that stemmed from a series of engagements between the state government, the polytechnic’s management, and labour unions over the harmonisation of payment schedules for members of staff.

According to a statement by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the move was aimed at resolving recurring discrepancies in salary disbursements and ensuring full compliance with the national minimum wage framework.

The committee, headed by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Olaolu Akindolire, has Dr Wunmi Ilawole, Olaleye Phillips, Asonja Festus and Abiodun Ogunduboye as members.

Meanwhile, Aiyedatiwa has confirmed the appointment of Dr Simeon Adegun as the substantive Rector of the institution.

Adegun had been holding the position in an acting capacity since October 2024.

IN another development, the Governing Council of the University of Medical Sciences has ratified the promotion of five Readers to the rank of full professors and a senior lecturer to an associate professor.

The decision was taken during the extraordinary meeting of the governing council last Wednesday.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Adejuyigbe, described the promotions as a testament to sustained academic excellence and meaningful contributions to the society.

Adejuyigbe said that the honourees had distinguished themselves through rigorous scholarship, impactful research, and dedicated service to both the university and the wider community.

HOWEVER, the Ondo State Government has approved the construction of 500-bedded hospital buildings across the state alongside the upgrading of the existing neuropsychiatric facility.

The approvals were disclosed during a media briefing shortly after the State Executive Council meeting, where some of the cabinet members revealed the decision taken.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, said the government had embarked on a comprehensive expansion of healthcare infrastructure through the approval of several bedded hospital buildings.

He said that the move was necessitated by the growing burden of mental health challenges and drug abuse, which has placed considerable pressure on existing facilities.

On traditional matters, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, said the Council approved several recognitions and appointments of traditional rulers across various local councils.

The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, said the Council took far-reaching decisions across critical sectors, including infrastructure, health and local government.

Ajanaku added that security also featured in deliberations, noting that the governor had earlier visited a community affected by a recent security breach to sympathise with residents.