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Tag: Biodun Oyebanji

  • Ekiti cargo Airport targets 24-hour flight operation

    Ekiti cargo Airport targets 24-hour flight operation

    Ekiti Governor Biodun Oyebanji has stated that efforts are in place to ensure the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport runs 24-hour operation to make the route competitive.

    The Governor also expressed delight the economy of the state has recorded significant improvement in the past two-and-a-half years, promising to do more to ensure a more sustainable development of the state and better living standard for the people.

    Oyebanji, who stated these on Monday night during the March edition of his monthly media chat, “Meet Your Governor”, said his government intends to make the Ekiti Airport a major hub as well as a major driver of the economy, attracting more investors to the state and boosting the economic capacities of the citizens.

    He explained his administration has entered into discussions with three major airlines in the country to commence commercial flights at the airport, facilitate air travel, tourism development, more investment and transportation of cargoes and export of farm produce to local and international destinations.

    While expressing optimism at least two of the airlines would operate flights to and from the airport, Oyebanji said his administration also hopes to make the route competitive by working hard to install Instrument Landing System (ILS) that will enable the operation of 24-hour flights in the airport.

    The Governor said: “The issue is to make the route profitable and competitive for airlines and if the route is profitable, they will bring their planes. Part of what we are doing is to make it an airport of choice and by next year, they will be able to run Hajj and (Christian) pilgrimage.

    “To make it an airport of choice, we must put a structure that guarantees 24-hour landing. There is what we call Instrument Landing System (ILS) which enables night operations and also enables planes to land in extreme weather. ILS as at today will cost close to N4.6 billion but we are determined to get it done.

    “We are determined that before the end of this year, we will install ILS at the Ado Airport. If we are able to do that, it will be the second airport in Southwest after Lagos Airport that has such a facility so that aircraft can land at night. We are also talking to a vendor that will provide a hangar for airport services, so it’s a whole gamut of transaction that is going on.”

    The Governor also disclosed that a cargo shed is being constructed at the airport to serve as storage facility for farm produce and cash crops. He commended the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele for facilitating its inclusion in the budget.

    The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport was given approval for non-scheduled flight operation for six months last December. Governor Oyebanji who said expressed optimism that the airport would be one of the most competitive by the time it commences commercial operations.

    Speaking further, Oyebanji identified some indices of economic growth witnessed under his administration to include springing up of more businesses in the state made possible by an enabling environment for them to flourish, improved internally generated revenue and receipts from the Federation Account, as well as adequate protection of lives and property.

    The Governor, who disclosed  Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has moved from about N600 million monthly to over N2 billion monthly, attributed the feat partly to the fact that more residents are now encouraged to pay their taxes, having seen evidence of the government’s effective utilisation of proceeds of the taxes in every part of the state.

    He explained that his administration has not restricted development strides to only Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, as it is being speculated in some quarters, noting that virtually all parts of the state including the rural areas have been touched.

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     He also expressed readiness to keep on working for the people of the state  till his last day in office, stressing that he wont be distracted by on going politicking.  

    Speaking on the state of the treasury, Oyebanji said what the State Government and local governments receive monthly are not hidden as they are published by the office of the Accountant General noting that they vary from one month to the other.

    He emphasised his administration does not tamper with the local government funds as the State House of Assembly has an enabling law with established the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) with the monies for the councils coming directly into the account from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    While noting that he does not get involved in how the funds are shared, the Governor pointed out that he only monitors the projects the council chairmen execute with the funds to ensure that they are in line with the needs of the people and they such projects are satisfactory.

  • ‘My goal is to leave a lasting legacy in Ekiti’

    ‘My goal is to leave a lasting legacy in Ekiti’

    Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has promised to erect lasting legacies across the sectors worthy of pride.

    He said his goal is to live in the hearts of the people through the implementation of people-oriented policies and programmes.

     “I want to be remembered as a governor who always tells the truth. I don’t lie! My goal is to live in the hearts of Ekiti people, and I believe the key to achieving this is by staying connected with them and implementing policies that positively impact their lives.

    “Ultimately, I aspire to be remembered as a governor who brought prosperity to our people, one who demonstrated responsible and responsive leadership,” he said in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

    The governor emphasised the importance of defending the legacies of the pathfinders, who promoted the welfare of the region in the past.

    Oyebanji praised their vision and foresight, stressing that progressive governments should build on the firm foundation laid by the early political leaders.

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    He said: “Chief Obafemi Awolowo is remembered more for his revolutionary policies, such as Free Education, than for symbols like Cocoa House. To me, substance always trumps symbols. While constructing bridges and buildings is important, they must resonate with the people to have a lasting impact.

    “This is why I’m committed to sustaining the agricultural revolution in Ekiti, empowering our youths to earn a responsible living.”

    He added: “Interestingly, we’re renovating most of Awolowo’s Farm Settlements in the state, which were built decades ago. It is remarkable to think that Awolowo had such vision back then, and it’s our duty to build upon his legacy. By renovating these settlements, we’re ensuring they continue to benefit the people of Ekiti.

    “Building on our existing efforts, we plan to establish six more Farm Settlements across Ekiti in 2025. This expansion will not only provide decent accommodations for our over 1,000 employed youths in the sector but also enable them to live on-site, work efficiently, and earn a decent income. Empowering our youths and promoting agricultural development are legacies I’m committed to leaving behind.

    “My goal is to leave a lasting legacy that transforms the lives of Ekiti people. I envision a future where pregnant women can safely deliver their babies at well-equipped Primary Health facilities, staffed with skilled nurses and stocked with essential medications.

    “I also aspire to create a world-class education system where our students can compete with their peers from anywhere in the world. This is the kind of legacy I’m committed to leaving behind.”

     Oyebanji described his mandate in Ekiti as a divine assignment, saying that God gave him the opportunity to exercise power.

    He said he remained grateful to God who ordered his steps and gave him the opportunity to serve Ekiti.

    Oyebanji said: “As a deeply spiritual individual, I firmly believe my role as Governor of Ekiti State is a divine assignment. Those close to me can attest that my faith plays a central role in every aspect of my life.

    “My life is grounded in the philosophy that everything I have is a gift from God, and what He gives, no one can take away. This guiding principle shapes my decisions and actions as a leader.

    “In 2022, becoming the governor of Ekiti State was the furthest thing on my mind. As SSG (Secretary to the State Government), I was focused on my duties, looking forward to returning to my farm and spending time with my family. I genuinely believed my time in state-level politics had come to an end. “But fate had other plans. I’m often referred to as the ‘reluctant governor’ because my ascension to this role was unexpected, even to myself. I’m grateful for this opportunity, which I believe it’s a testament to the power of divine intervention.”

    There is a festival of endorsement in the state, with stakehokders, including politicians, artisans, peasants, workers, women and youth groups calling for a second term for the governor.

    Remarkably, four former governors- Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, tipping him for another term in 2026.

    However, while acknowledging these gestures, Oyebanji said God is the ultimate decider, adding that his life and future are in His hands.

    He said:“I recently addressed concerns about the 2026 elections, which many people have been inquiring about via text messages. However, I maintain that God will guide us in the right direction when the time is right.

    “Honestly, I don’t believe I can determine my future. The only moment I control is the present, and I’ve chosen to trust in God’s plan and timing rather than worrying about things beyond my control, like the 2026 elections. This approach may be untypical for a politician, but it brings me peace. By focusing on the present and trusting in God’s guidance, I’m able to stay grounded and forward-thinking.”

    In demystifying power, Oyebanji, a political scientist and former university teacher, has not allowed power to draw a wool across his eyes.

    The governor adorns the garment of humility, which makes him accessible and grassroots oriented. It is easier for him to feel the public pulse, get feedback on government policies and programmes, and remain connected with the people.

    Tendering and evidence of simplicity, he said: “I always remind myself and my wife that the life of a governor isn’t entirely real. To stay grounded, I’ve made conscious choices. I use a simple Kia as my official car, reserving armoured vehicles for security purposes only. I’ve also maintained existing vehicles rather than purchasing new ones, and kept my convoy small.

    “Notably, I’ve opted out of using Police Despatch Riders to avoid adding to the artificiality of this life. Thankfully, my wife supports my approach, and I’ve found peace in staying true to myself.”

     The challenges of governance are enormous. Oyebanji, for example, alluded to resource constraints. Despite these difficulties, his government has prioritised every sector and been prudent in spending public funds.

    Much attention has been focussed on security. An important incident that resonates is the killing of two traditional rulers and abduction of school children by bandits and kidnappers. The governor is grateful to President Bola Tinubu’s timely intervention enabled the state to apprehend the perpetrators.

    It was nevertheless, a moment of harrowing experience.  He said: “I recall many sleepless nights during the kidnapping ordeal, waking up to ensure every effort was made to rescue the children. Thankfully, they were recovered, and we provided them with rehabilitation support. I’m grateful to God for the successful outcome.”

    For 25 years, Oyebanji had garned invaluable skill and experience in governance and party management as a technocrat, politician and administrator.

    He said: “I believe God has been instrumental in helping me cope with the challenges of governance. My 12-year preparation for this role has also been invaluable, as I dedicated myself to understanding governance at this level. I’m grateful for the guidance and advice of former governors, who have been generous with their counsel, providing valuable support when faced with tough decisions.

    “As governor, I’ve also learned a valuable lesson: the power of listening more and talking less. A leader’s words carry significant weight, and people take them seriously. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of what we say and when we say it. By listening more and speaking less, I’ve come to realize that sometimes silence is the most effective response. This approach not only helps me make more informed decisions but also fosters deeper connections with others.”

    To analysts, Oyebanji is an embodiment of principle,  reliability and transformational philosophy and agenda, with empathetic insight, candour and native intelligence

    Under his leadership, Ekiti is peaceful. There is no hullabaloo. In fact, there is no inter-party tension as prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders – Fayose and Bisi Kolawole – are openly rooting for his second term ambition.

    However, is is more to accomplish for the state before the first term expires. His agricultural initiatives are laudable. So are his infrastructure battles across the pre-existing 16 councils. Ekiti is poor. A focus on integrated rural development programmes can achieve poverty reduction. Lagos does not need to go to Kebbi for rice production. Ekiti is available with vast arable land. Its people are industrious and honest.

    The state has to return to its casj crop farming to boost an export-oriented economy. A reorientation in this area is required and local leaders should assist in making the youths more productive beyond okada business. Also, a local economy springing up from the cottage revolution is not a bad idea.

    It is worthy of salutation that many rural roads are receiving attention. It will aid agriculture and commerce, and facilitate ease of movement.

    It is gratifying that in Ekiti there is no predecessor-successor crisis that could divert the attention of the governor, unlike Rivers State. There is no need to look for trouble where there is none.

  • Ekiti monarch seeks more support for Oyebanji

    Ekiti monarch seeks more support for Oyebanji

    The Olukere of Ikere, Odo Oja in Ikere Local Government Area of Ekiti State Oba Ayodele Abdulganiyu Obasoyin, has called on traditional rulers in Ekiti State to support the state governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, in his efforts to develop the state.

    Oba Obasoyin made the call during a meeting of the Majority Obas of Ekiti land (MOBEL), held in Ikere Ekiti which was attended by over 70 traditional rulers from across the state.

    The Olukere praised Governor Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye for prioritizing the welfare of traditional institutions and ensuring peace as well as development in the state. 

    He encouraged his fellow monarchs in the state to continue cooperating with Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration to achieve the best for their people and communities.

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    “We must continue to support Governor Oyebanji’s administration, as he has shown that he is committed to the development of our state.

    “Governor Oyebanji since inception of his administration has prioritize the welfare of Obas also ensure prevalence of peace and development of our various towns, I think there is the need for us to continue to cooperate with this People’s Friendly Governor as well as support his policies and programmes geared towards actualising his Shared Prosperity Agenda,” Olukere said.

    He also called for more encouragement and constitutional recognition for the traditional institution in ensuring that they discharge their roles in achieving peace and security of the society.

    He expressed optimism that the montly meeting would go a long way to further illuminate minds of both the monarchs as they synergize with the political class for the overall development of the state and country.

    The newly elected Chairman of MOBEL, Ojurin of Ijurin, Oba Joachim Adeyemi Afolabi, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation among traditional rulers.

    Oba Afolabi called for the constitutional recognition for the traditional rulers in order to ensure that they can effectively discharge their roles in achieving peace and security in the society.

    He also enjoined the the traditional rulers in the state to continue to work in unity for the progress and development of the state and Nigeria as a whole.

  • Ekiti disowns fake recruitment portal for teachers

    Ekiti disowns fake recruitment portal for teachers

    Ekiti State Government has dissociated itself from a fake recruitment online portal operated by fraudsters to defraud prospective job applicants.

    Commissioner for InformationTaiwo Olatunbosun said while it is true that Governor Biodun Oyebanji recently approved the recruitment of 1,800 teaching and non-teaching staff into public schools across the State, the State Teaching Service Commission is yet to conclude administrative procedure to advertise the vacancies and has therefore not open any portal for the recruitment exercise.

    Olatunbosun spoke on Thursday while featuring on an audience participatory simulcast on all the local radio stations in the State and environs tagged “Ekiti Loni/Ekiti Today”.

    He said that a recruitment portal opened with the name and logo of the Ekiti State government was handiwork of dubious characters to defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.

    The Commissioner said that the government has its approved media channels for such information and would continue to use the same for all public communication.

    He urged members of the public particularly intending applicants to disregard any information or website currently in circulation that does not emanate from TESCOM to avoid becoming victims of fraudsters.

    Olatunbosun assured that the State Government would continue to be on guard on issues concerning the welfare of citizens, stressing that the focus is to rapidly develop the State and improve the general wellbeing of residents.

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    According to him, the Oyebanji administration adopted a holistic approach in achieving sustainable development, adding that the emphasis is pursuing solutions that benefits the entire system.

    Olatunbosun, who assured that government would continue to employ qualified people into the public service to make it versatile enough to deliver high-quality services and implement government policies in public interest thus ensuring continuity in governance, said the present administration is however, also making the environment conducive for business including Micro, Small and Medium Scale enterprises (MSMEs) and farming to thrive in the State.

    He added that Oyebanji’s administration is determined to strategically create job opportunities, outside the conventional public service white collar jobs, with the aim of truly boosting self-sustenance of people in the State.

    He noted that government is consciously facilitating soft loans and grants for entrepreneurs to enhance MSMEs and making farming attractive with the ongoing Agricultural revolution and introduction of Agripreneurship amongst other numerous steps.

    “The recent adoption of Ekiti Adire as the official attire on every 3rd Wednesday of the month in Ekiti State by the State Executive Council was designed to promote cultural heritage. It was also aimed at creating jobs and provide employment opportunities thus empowering residents interested in the tie and dye craft and increasing revenue generation to the State with the aim of boosting the State economy.

    “The target is to add value and engage other human resources particularly in the rural areas and amongst the underserved,” he said.

  • Ekiti State National Assembly caucus lauds governor on award

    Ekiti State National Assembly caucus lauds governor on award

    Ekiti State caucus of the National Assembly (NASS) has celebrated Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his well-deserved recognition as Silverbird Man of the Year, by the prestigious Silverbird Group.

    A statement yesterday by the Senate Leader/Caucus Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele and Caucus Secretary, Akintunde Rotimi, said: ‘’This esteemed honour is a testament to Governor Oyebanji’s exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment to public service and relentless pursuit of development for Ekiti State.

    ‘’Since assuming office, he has distinguished himself through a governance style rooted in consensus-building, inclusivity and strategic engagement with all stakeholders to drive sustainable progress.

    ‘’Governor Oyebanji’s leadership embodies the core values of the Ekiti people – integrity, diligence and selfless service. His ability to foster unity across political and ideological divides, while prioritising the collective interest of Ekiti, has earned him widespread admiration.“

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    ‘’The caucus is proud that his remarkable stewardship is now receiving national recognition.

    ‘’The significance of this award is further underscored by the calibre of individuals considered for the honour.

    ‘’Governor Oyebanji’s selection among such distinguished personalities reaffirms his growing influence beyond Ekiti State, cementing his status as a transformative leader in Nigeria’s democratic and developmental landscape.

    ‘’The Ekiti State National Assembly Caucus extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency on this well-earned accolade. We also appreciate his collaborative spirit in advancing the interests of Ekiti and reaffirm our unwavering support for his administration’s continued strides toward sustainable growth and prosperity for our people.’’

  • Award: Lawyer greets Oyebanji

    Award: Lawyer greets Oyebanji

    Mr Tope Adebayo, the Principal Partner of Tope Adebayo LP, a leading law firm based in Lagos, has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State on his  recognition as the Silverbird Man of the Year 2025.

     In a congratulatory message issued, Adebayo noted that Governor Oyebanji stands as a beacon of leadership, vision, and commitment to the growth and development of Ekiti State.

    According to him, Governor Oyebanji joins an esteemed group of leaders and visionaries honoured with the Silverbird Man of the Year award for their exceptional contributions to the development of Nigeria since the award’s inauguration 20 years ago.

    “Governor Oyebanji’s honour as the Silverbird Man of the Year Award is a testament to the power of purposeful leadership. His dedication to the good people of Ekiti State serves as an inspiration to us all, and we celebrate this well-earned recognition with him. “This award highlights the governor’s unwavering resolve and tireless efforts in driving transformative policies that have positively impacted the people of Ekiti and the nation at large.

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    “His dedication towards advancing key infrastructural projects, promoting sustainable development and improving the welfare of the people has earned him the respect and admiration of Nigerians across the country.”

    Speaking further, Adebayo emphasised that the governor’s leadership is a shining example of how good governance can drive positive change, not just within a state but across the nation while urging other political leaders to emulate Governor Oyebanji by focusing on transparency, accountability, and service to the people.

    Since it was instituted in 2005 to recognise individuals who have impacted the society, the Silverbird Man of the Year award has become a coveted honour roll in the country.

    He noted that previous winners of the award include former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, (SAN); former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai; former Director-General of NAFDAC, late Prof Dora Akinyuli; business mogul, Chief Mike Adenuga and former Edo State governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole among other.

  • Ekiti adopts adire fabric as official attire for political office holders, civil servants

    Ekiti adopts adire fabric as official attire for political office holders, civil servants

    Ekiti State Government has approved the adoption of adire fabric as the official attire on the third Wednesday of every month.

    The decision was reached at the State Executive Council’s virtual meeting chaired by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

     According to a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, the approval aimed to promote the state’s cultural heritage and preserve traditional craftsmanship.

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      Olatunbosun said the move would also create jobs, increase revenue generation for the state and provide employment opportunities for residents interested in the tie and dye craft.

    He added that the council also approved ₦2,002,062,725.83 for the construction of a standard synthetic football pitch and renovation of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti.

    Olatunbosun explained that the approval was part of the strategic moves of the Oyebanji’s administration in using sports development to discover and nurture talents to national and global reckoning as well as for wealth creation.

    He also said that the council also approved  ₦1,077,784,854.27 for the continuous maintenance of the state-owned cargo airport aimed at accelerating the closure of NCAA audit gaps and corrective action plans.

  • Ekiti 2026: Afenifere endorses Oyebanji for second term

    Ekiti 2026: Afenifere endorses Oyebanji for second term

    The Yoruba socio-cultural and political group, Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), has endorsed the Ekiti state governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for a second term, citing his diligent implementation of the South West Development roadmap.

    The group noted that its decision was not influenced by political consideration, but rather by the governor’s adherence to regional roadmap documents designed by the Development Agenda for Western States (DAWN).

    The Ekiti state coordinator of ARG, Elder Olubunmi Awotiku, spoke on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti while addressing journalists shortly after the statutory meeting of the group.

    Awotiku said that Oyebanji, in the last two and half years, has raised the bar of governance across all sectors, including infrastructures, health, education, social welfare, and human capital development.

    The group coordinator described the governor as a “thorough Omoluabi” who has not deviated from the expectations of the Yoruba people, saying Oyebanji, being one of the founders of the ARG, has not disappointed them.

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    He explained that the group had been monitoring Oyebanji’s administration and was impressed with his commitment to the development of the state.

    Awotiku praised the governor’s inclusive leadership style, which has placed the state on the pedestal of socio-economic development, adding that the governor’s policies and programmes, which conformed to the DAWN development roadmap, have positively impacted the lives of Ekiti people.

    He said, “We are endorsing Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term based on the documentation because we have a paper here called Development Agenda for Western Nigeria strategy roadmap.

    “We are ticking the boxes across all sectors, including health, social welfare, road infrastructure, education, and the rest we have found worthy, and he has performed very well.

    “We want to thank the Ekiti people for cooperating with him. We are not just endorsing him, but we have a document that we are looking at, and it is obvious that he has not deviated from what we have in the document designed for South West states towards development. He is a true Omoluabi.

    “The roadmap document is the expectation of the Yoruba people across different segments and sectors. He has ticked all boxes, looking at his investment in the health sector for people to embrace the government hospitals. Look at the Ado-Iworoko roads, among others.

    “Let me tell you that we are not taking sides, but we want to let you know that Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, being our product as one of the founders of ARG, has done a yeoman’s job”, he added. 

  • Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji deserves second term, Reps member

    Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji deserves second term, Reps member

    A member of the House of Representatives representing Ekiti Central Constituency 1, Hon. Fatoba Olusola Steve, has endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term.

    Fatoba said the governor has performed creditably well and kept the state on the right track of sustainable socioeconomic growth and development.

    Speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, the federal lawmaker noted that the people of Ekiti are now enjoying the fresh air of dividends of democracy in all the key sectors of the economy.

    He praised Oyebanji’s impressive track record within two years, noting that his exploits in education, agriculture, health, and infrastructure have brought a new lease of life to the citizens.

    Fatoba, however, implored the governor to continue with his good works, saying his constituency is ready to ensure that Oyebanji wins the gubernatorial poll come 2026.

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    He said, “The governor has made us understand that continuity is the best form of government and for the fact that if you go to every nook and cranny of Ekiti Central Senatorial District, you will see everywhere constructed.

    “We are backing his continuity because as you can see, all the developments that had taken place from the time of former governors in the state are being consolidated by him. Apart from this, he has brought governance closer to the people in the state.

    “The Ekiti Cargo Airport can now be compared to any international airport. Ado Ekiti is very different, all the goodies of our time will not pass us by.

    “On behalf of my people here in Ado Local Government and the central Senatorial District, we are supporting our dear governor and he should continue his good works”, Fatoba added. 

  • Oyebanji, Ekiti monarch hail ex-gov Fayemi at 60

    Oyebanji, Ekiti monarch hail ex-gov Fayemi at 60

    Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the Olukere of Ikere, Odo Oja have congratulated the former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

    Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, noted that Fayemi’s diamond jubilee offers an opportunity to celebrate the former Governor’s worthy legacies of integrity, service, and honor.

    The governor described Fayemi as a role model, a mentor, a teacher, and a dependable pillar of support whose counsel and support continue to add value to governance and development efforts in Ekiti State.

    The governor said the State was proud of Fayemi and all that he stands for as a shining light, a reformist, a pacesetter, a change agent, and a public servant par excellence who redefined public service in the state, leaving an enduring impact on the polity.

    According to Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti was lucky to have a personality like Dr Fayemi who gave his all in the service of the people and remains passionate about the socio-economic development of the State in and out of office.

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    The governor noted that Fayemi’s immense contributions to the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999 as a pro-democracy activist alongside other prominent Nigerians are well documented and would continue to be a reference point and a source of inspiration to the younger generation.

    Also, the Olukere, in a statement in Ado-Ekiti, noted that Fayemi, who served as two-term governor of Ekiti (2010-2014 and 2018-2022) worked committedly to improve the livelihood of his people.

    He added that Fayemi elevated the good governance narrative in Ekiti State before leaving office and his footprints remain indelible through his developmental programmes which made him the first governor to produce a successor from his party in the political history of the state.

    Olukere acknowledged and appreciated the former Governor for supporting the continuity of the BAO administration in the state till the year 2030, saying Oyebanji’s feats across multifaceted sectors speak volumes.

    The monarch prayed for the immediate past Governor, saying, “as a man of peace, and good in all ramifications, may your Diamond Jubilee take you to higher places and continue to make you a shining light among your peers.”

    “The peace and goodness, which you left behind on October 16, 2022, are bearing fruits for the good and development of Ekiti state.