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Tag: Biodun Oyebanji

  • Oyebanji tasks contractors on timely delivery of projects

    Oyebanji tasks contractors on timely delivery of projects

    Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has charged the contractors handling various projects in the state to ensure timely delivery of the projects.

    The governor gave the charge during a meeting with contractors and officials of the state government at the Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti.

    According to a statement by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, Oyebanji reviewed the progress reports on each of the ongoing projects in the state and expressed satisfaction with the level of work done so far.

    The governor, however, urged the contractors to take advantage of the dry season to accelerate work on the projects, adding that his administration was committed to completing all ongoing projects on time and with high quality.

    Oyebanji also assured the contractors of prompt payment for their work, saying that his administration was committed to ensuring that all contractors are paid as and when due.

    Some of the projects reviewed at the meeting include the Ado-Ekiti Ring Road, Ikere-Igbaraodo Road, Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki Road, and Ikole-Ara-Isinbode Road.

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    Others are the Igbaraodo-Ikogosi road, Ikere-Ilawe road, Ado-Ekiti flyover, and International Cultural Centre.

    The governor promised to hold monthly review meetings with contractors and supervisory agencies to ensure that all projects are delivered on time.

    He also urged the contractors to report any challenges they encountered during their work to his office promptly.

    Oyebanji said, “We are committed to completing all ongoing projects on time and with high quality. We urge you to take advantage of the dry season to accelerate work on the projects.

    “We will hold monthly review meetings with contractors and supervisory agencies to ensure that all projects are delivered on time. We also urge you to report any challenges you encounter during your work to our office promptly”, he added. 

  • Agric: Fed Govt appoints Ekiti as pilot state in Southwest

    Agric: Fed Govt appoints Ekiti as pilot state in Southwest

    Federal Government has appointed Ekiti as a pilot state in the Southwest for agriculture, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has said.

    He made this known during the January edition of the monthly Evening of Praise and Worship programme, held at Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti.

    The governor attributed the state’s achievements and transformations to God’s grace, declaring Ekiti a model of good governance, accountability and integrity.

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    He acknowledged divine guidance in driving reforms and initiatives that had lifted the status of the state and its people.

    Oyebanji highlighted significant strides in areas such as infrastructure, education, health care, agriculture and economic empowerment, which had improved the quality of life for residents.

    He said the divine support his administration enjoyed had been instrumental to the milestones it had recorded in the last two years.

  • Oyebanji’s youths development agenda ignites hope for greater Ekiti

    Oyebanji’s youths development agenda ignites hope for greater Ekiti

    Youth development has taken a centre stage in Ekiti with the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji implementing strategic and multifaceted strategies to empower young people and unlock their potentials to the fullest, writes Rasaq Ibrahim

    Without any modicum of doubt, Youths are the solid foundation of both positive and negative picture of any society. The future of any society is inextricably link to the development and empowerment of its young people. Their energies, inventiveness, character and orientation define pace of development of a nation.

    As the drivers of innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship, and social change, thr youth possess the potential to transform their communities and shape the course of history. Through their creative talents and innovative minds, a nation makes giant strides in economic development.

    On the contrary, the countries which fail to realize the importance of the youth lag behind in every aspects of life.Any nation that denies its youth necessary enabling environment to participate in the process of nation- building merely does so at its own perils.

    It is in the reality of this that Governor Biodun Oyebanji have made concerted efforts in galvanizing well synchronized and integrated approaches in putting  in place youth development structures with a very high propensity to be a catalyst for development in Ekiti state.

    In a nation where only few public officials achieve a level of impact that resonates deeply with lives of citizens, particularly the youth, Oyebanji has emerged as an inspiring example of hope, innovation, and responsiveness in governance.

    The governor doesn’t hide his glowing passion and unquenchable love for youth development.This propelled him to make youth development and job creation a critical pillar in his administration policy thrust.

    His avowed commitment to excellence and dedication to the welfare of young people has earned Oyebanji a reputation as a champion of youth development and a beacon of hope for Ekiti State.

    For many, Ekiti State is on the cusp of a youth development revolution. When he assumed office on October 2022 through the people’s mandate, the governor did something that was very enigmatic. He removed Sport section from the Ministry of Youth and made it an independent Commission. This lofty action makes the Ministry of Youth to be fully independent to superintend over the youth affairs.

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    The governor was circumspect of the Nigerian factors that are  capable of thwarting his vision. To make his actions fecund, Oyebanji appointed a competent  Commissioner for Youth Development, Gold Adesola Adedayo, to man the post and drive his vision in this thematic area of  focus.

    Unarguably, the present government has succeeded in ramping up  democratic gains for youths, because Adedayo has strong networks across youth groups in  the country. This he had leveraged on to ignites a future of opportunities for the youths by introducing several initiatives aimed at empowering young people and unlocking their potential.

    At the forefront of this agenda is the “Youth Let’s Talk With BAO” programme, a periodic engagement initiative that provides a platform for robust dialogue between the governor and Ekiti youths. This innovative approach has enabled Oyebanji to connect with young people, understand their challenges, and develop tailored solutions to address them. The program has been hailed as a game-changer, providing young people with a voice and a sense of belonging.

    At the maiden edition of the programme in 2023, Governor Oyebanji promised to make youth fulcrum of his government in terms of job creation, empowerment, governance and political appointments. All these have started coming to manifestations by way of dividends and recognition being savoured by youth.

    The second edition of this interactive engagement was held on July 3, 2024. The initiative will soon be replicated across all 16 local governments, in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) to really expand the scope to the grassroots.

    Job creation is another critical area of focus for the Oyebanji administration. To date, over 20,000 jobs have been created for Ekiti youths,including 4,000 employed into the civil service and 1,000 engaged in commercial farming. The Adire Ekiti Hub, a  brainchild of the First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, had trained as well as empowered about 1,000 in the making of the Adire local fabrics.

    The state government had also through  partnerships with banks secured soft loans for  thousands of  graduates to drive his vision in Medium and Small Scale Business Enterprises to stop dependence on white collar jobs, among other lofty initiatives being devised to halt redundancy within their ranks.

    The government also created a data bank for all unemployed youth, so that the government can be adequately guided on how to get them fixed based on available opportunities and in line with their potentials.

    The establishment of a Youth Resource/ Job Centre has also provided a one-stop-shop for the youths to access resources, and job opportunities. This initiative has not only provided job opportunities but also equipped young  people with the skills and training needed to succeed in the workforce.

    In addition, the Oyebanji administration has expanded bursary and scholarship schemes, increasing the bursary award by 100% and disbursing scholarships to Ekiti indigenes at the Nigerian Law School. This commitment to education has ensured that young people from Ekiti State have access to quality education, regardless of their background or financial circumstances.

    Strategic partnerships have also been forged with various organizations in the country to  empower youths in areas such as Adire making, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. These collaborations have not only provided young people with valuable skills and training but also enabled them to become self-sufficient and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.

    For instance, the partnership with the Industrial Training Fund has enabled over 2,000 youths to benefit from the Supa Artisan Programme, gaining valuable skills and enhancing their employability.

    The Oyebanji administration has also prioritized the welfare and well-being of young people. The establishment of a Youth Parliament has provided a platform for young people to engage in leadership training, education, and civic activities. This initiative has not only empowered young people but also ensured that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.

    Governor Oyebanji’s administration has also made giant strides in enhancing social responsibilities, particularly among youth. One notable project is the construction of 90 units of toilet facilities at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Emure Ekiti, aimed at improving infrastructure and hygiene conditions for youth corps members ¹.

    The government has also initiated a consultative engagement with higher institutions in Ekiti to address student needs and curb violent conduct. Furthermore, the government has provided financial empowerment to youth engaging in leather shoe making, promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth.

    Other initiatives include the Ekiti Broiler Production Scheme, empowering youth in bee-keeping, and a partnership with WEMA BANK to train 100,000 youth and students in MSMEs. The Ministry has also established a forum for security/youth engagement, fostering unity and promoting mutual understanding between security agencies and youth.

    In addition, the Ekiti Youth Parliament has been strengthened through a training program, providing leadership knowledge, education, and enhanced public speaking skills for youth parliamentarians. Governor Oyebanji has promised adequate funding for youth-friendly policies, offering hope for a better future.

    Governor Oyebanji’s youth development agenda is more than just a series of initiatives but rather  a vision for a better future, one that is built on the principles inclusivity, opportunity, and growth. His

    commitment to youth development is a testament to his administration’s focus on creating a brighter future for Ekiti State.

  • Stakeholders endorse Oyebanji for second term

    Stakeholders endorse Oyebanji for second term

    Stakeholders of the  All Progressives Congress in Efon Local Government Area of Ekiti State have thrown their weight behind the second term bid of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

    The APC leaders noted that they  were inspired by Oyebanji exemplary leadership and giant strides in infrastructures, health, agriculture, education, among others.

    The leaders gave their endorsement in Efon Alaaye, the headquarters of Efon Local Government during a programme tagged: “Iyan BAO” to mark  end of the political activities in 2024.

    Speaking with reporters, a member of Ekiti APC Elders’ Forum, Chief Joseph Alake, said that the last three years of Oyebanji has witnessed unprecedented socio-economic development.

    The APC chieftain noted that the people of Ekiti were lucky to have  Oyebanji in the helm of affairs considering his stellar performance towards making the state a better place for all and sundry.

    He lauded Oyebanji for the construction of the second major road leading to the town, which has been left neglected for many years by previous administrations in the state.

    Alake also commended Victor Kolade for sponsoring”Iyan BAO” initiative selflessly since September, 2024, despite not being a political appointee.

    He said, “This is my second attendance for Iyan BAO because I have been indisposed for a while. When I was in Abroad, this Iyan BAO powered by Barrister Kolade is not been seen in the state capital, I am the one sending it to directly. It’s very commendable, it makes mobilisation for our party in Efon to improve and become stronger.

    “We are commending Barrister Kolade because he’s doing these things for BAO. I have personally spent millions of naira here today which is 100k cash gift to each ward to celebrate festive period on behalf of BAO.

    “We are surprised by what BAO is doing, he has exceeded all expectations. And we thank former Governor, Kayode Fayemi for giving us BAO as the candidate that time.

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    “He has constructed a road from Moba post office to Ipolo junction and will soon tar it. They have not tarred the road since when I was small but he’s doing it. We are ready for the second term of BAO and we will make sure he win by voting for him massively”.

    The sponsor of the programme, Kolade said that he came up with the initiative to mobilize support for Governor Oyebanji ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

    He explained that Oyebanji has brought peace and tranquility to the party and the state as a result of his unique leadership style and inclusive approach.

    He said“I’m not an elected and appointed member of the party. I’m just an ordinary member of the party.It’s an intention to mobilise for BAO for his second term.

    “Mr Governor has done so well. He is so humble, he’s honest, straightforward and he deserves to go one more time. I just woke up one day and said what can I to assist his government, that’s why I came up with the idea of Iyan BAO.

    “The Governor has brought peace and tranquility to the state.There was a time an average Ekiti man was not proud of this state but it has become the thing of the past now”, he added.

  • Oyebanji appoints Chief of Staff

    Oyebanji appoints Chief of Staff

    •Governor reassigns others

    Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of a member of his Executive Council (Exco), Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, as his Chief of Staff.

    Adebayo, who is the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, is to assume the role of Chief of Staff with effect from January 2, 2025.

    According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Adebayo is expected to bring in his wealth of experience in finance, management and planning to bear in the coordination of activities of the Governor’s Office.

    Adebayo, who hails from Usi-Ekiti, joined the Oyebanji administration as a Special Adviser Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management in November 2022.

    He was later inaugurated as commissioner in charge of the ministry in August 2023.

    He holds a Bachelor of Science second class upper degree in Forest Resources Management and a Master’s of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan.

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    He also has an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, USA.

    Similarly, the governor has approved the appointment of Mr Femi Ajayi as the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning.

    Ajayi, a one-time Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, is presently the Special Adviser to the Governor on Independent Project Monitoring Office.

    He takes over as commissioner in charge of the Ministry of Budget and Economic, which has now reverted to its original name, effective January 2, 2025.

    The governor has also created the Office of Special Services, to be headed by Prince Wole Ajakaiye as Special Adviser, who was the Director General/Special Adviser SDGs.

    The Office of Special Services will be in charge of SDGs, Independent Project Monitoring and other functions, as determined by the governor.

    In a related development, Governor Oyebanji has approved the appointment of Mr Tajudeen Akingbolu as the Director General, Ekiti State Transport Agency.

    Akingbolu, a former member of the House of Assembly, is to manage the newly floated agency effective from January 2, 2025.

  • Oyebanji assures of better Ekiti

    Oyebanji assures of better Ekiti

    Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has said the visit and prayers of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye to the state will further increase the fortunes of the state.

     Oyebanji stated this in Ilogbo Ekiti during the RCCG programe tagged ‘Light up Ilogbo” which coincide with the Church annual December programe, ‘Let’s  go a fishing’.

    Speaking with reporters, shortly after the Programme, Oyebanji described Pastor Adeboye’s visit as a good omen for the state, government and the people just as the new year approaches with great expectations.

    He maintained that the prophetic declarations made by the RCCG General Overseer  will be evident in the lives of the citizens and his government as the new year unfolds.

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    “Well, like he said during his sermon, he has brought good news to us in Ekiti State and the programe is titled “light up Ilogbo Ekiti” and I have absolute confidence in God that it is not only Ilogbo that will experience the light, but the whole Ekiti will experience it.

    “And this is a very good Christmas gift for us as a state, for him to have stepped his foot on Ekiti soil and I know that good news will follow all of us in Jesus name”. The Governor asserted

    The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who said the visit was his first in the town, announced that God had sent him with good news of blessing, breakthrough, and positive turnaround for individuals, families, and the state as a whole.

    Pastor Adeboye maintained that the period of stagnation and difficulties had come to an end in the state.

    Also at the programe were, Wife of the State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, Clergy Men, Traditional Rulers, and Worshipers from different faith.

  • Biodun Oyebanji: 57 Garlands for the people’s governor

    Biodun Oyebanji: 57 Garlands for the people’s governor

    • By Olayinka Oyebode

    Two major events that happened at two different locations in Ekiti State earlier in the month, again laid credence to the primacy of capacity, character and compassion in the leadership style of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. First was the event at Oke Ako Ekiti, in the north senatorial district, which featured the distribution of cheques totalling N160 million as compensation to land owners whose land were acquired for the commercial farming scheme for young farmers and the flag- off of some newly purchased tractors and other equipment. The second event which came barely 48 hours after was the distribution of cheques totalling N140 million to some young farmers as payment for the farm produce off-taken from them across the six farm clusters.

    The gist here is that the chains of activities- the land acquisition, the compensation and the utilisation of the acquired land, the first harvest and the off-taking of the harvested crops as well as the purchase of tractors and other equipment required for the tractorisation policy of the government was completed within the space of six months of the introduction of the scheme, code-named “Bring Back the Youth Into Agriculture” a programme run in partnership with a private investor.

    Four weeks earlier, in a move aimed at achieving energy independence and ensuring that his administration’s huge investments in power infrastructure achieve the desired result, Governor Oyebanji had granted operational licence to 14 investors which included three distribution companies, four power generating companies, two mini-grid generation companies and five meter asset providers. The pace-setting and strategic move is to enhance power generation, ensure efficient distribution and provide reliable metering for residents. The goal is to move the state from the 20-25 mw it gets from the national grid (which falls short of the estimated requirement of 120mw) and move up to 130mw through a robust state grid, reducing dependency on the national supply and promoting sustainable. locally managed energy solutions. Again, the initiative, which aligns with the 2023 Electricity Act, was achieved within the space of a year that also witnessed a massive power upgrade and re-connection of many communities that hitherto were without power supply to the national grid.

    Remarkably, Oyebanji is quite intentional about putting smiles on the faces of the people. Moved by the plight of Ekiti pensioners in the face of accumulated gratuities inherited from previous administration, the Governor, had in the last two months paid a total 4.5 billion naira to offset part of the outstanding gratuities. This is outside the regular monthly payment of gratuities. Aside supporting and equipping workers in the state to ensure a more excellent service delivery, the Governor put extra smiles on the faces of Ekiti teachers earlier in the year, when he directed that primary school teachers with degree qualifications should enjoy career progression to level 16 like others. This is in addition to extending car and housing loans to them, thereby bringing them out of an age-long policy that had suppressed them. The community of people with disabilities have also found a champion in Governor Oyebanji, who through his inclusion policy has not only created a government department headed by a cabinet –ranked officials and saddled with their welfare. This has resulted in a greater attention for the welfare and human capital development of PWD, with attendant huge investment in the upgrade of the state special schools and establishment of a trauma centre for children with disabilities.

    These, and several other cutting-edge initiatives that authenticate the welfarist approach of his government and underscores his compassionate nature as a leader as well as his sheer determination to create economic opportunities for the people, are what stand Governor Oyebanji out as a true leader of the people, who is happy only when the people are happy and progressing.

    And because the people know that  “BAO” or “Talk- and- do Governor”, as he is fondly called, is passionate about their welfare and wellbeing, they have chosen to celebrate him not only on his birthday, but on daily basis and with the same level of energy and dexterity with which he serves them.

    As the renowned American author and speaker, John C. Maxwell puts it, a leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way”.  Governor Oyebanji has a clear vision, which he communicates quite eloquently with corresponding actions. He walks the talk and he helps the people achieve their vision and purpose as well. This, many people believe, had provoked critical stakeholders in the state, including all former governors, to endorse him for a second term even before he marked his second anniversary in office.

    Those who live by their strength may readily provide an answer to the question bordering on how they surmount obstacles and stay on top of their game. But those who live by the power of the Almighty God and the attendant grace can’t make such boast. Rather, they work hard, they work hand-in- hand with others, and they let God be God over everything- directing each step all the way through the paths that eventually yield boundless rewards. This is the story of the Omoluabi Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as he clocks fifty-seven years old today.

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    Those who have followed Oyebanji’s trajectory right from his undergraduate days, know that his political philosophy is built around the social democratic principle of lifting and supporting the weak and the vulnerable in society as well as the biblical injunction of love thy neighbour as yourself. An apostle of soft leadership, BAO’s  genuine concerns include how transformational leadership can replace transactional politics; how to build strong institutions that will support growth and development; how to make government wear human face; how to get every citizen to contribute to state and nation building, each utilising his talent, time, platform and resources; and what mechanism should be put in place for genuine and effective empowerment of the citizens towards the attainment of shared prosperity for all.

    Governor Oyebanji is disarmingly humble. He proudly wears humility like a garment. He possesses an insatiable appetite for championing good causes. In a recent interviews with state correspondents, he told them the secret of his calmness. According to him, he had committed the state into God’s hands, hence he is not under any pressure. Those who have come in contact with him, and, indeed a vast majority of Ekiti people, believe humility remains his greatest asset.

    As a change agent, BAO believes a leader must live in the hearts of the people by serving them diligently and faithfully, knowing he is accountable to the people and would give account of his stewardship to God one day. He believes trust is a public good without which no great thing can be achieved collectively. Hence, he believes trust has to be earned. As a leader, he embodies creativity, character, competence, and compassion with passion for excellence.

    Born on December 21, 1967, in Ikogosi-Ekiti, Oyebanji had his early education in his home state. He bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the Ondo State University (now Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti) in 1989 and Masters’ degree in Political Science (International Relations and Strategic Studies), from the University of Ibadan in 1992.

    He started his career as a Lecturer at the Department of Political Science, Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti, and worked for four years (1993 – 1997) . He later proceeded to work as Manager, Treasury, and Financial Services at the defunct Omega Bank Plc (now Heritage Bank) till May 1999, when he commenced an illustrious career in politics and governance.

    Since embracing public service in 1999, he has served in various capacities with different administrations. He also served as Secretary to Ekiti State Government between October 2018 to December 2021, when he resigned his appointment to join the governorship race, which he won on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in June 22, 2022. He was inaugurated Governor of Ekiti State on October 16, 2022.

    A devout Christian, Oyebanji sees his career in politics and governance as a divine calling. This philosophy remains his guiding light as he continues to serve God and country diligently as a loyal party man and conscientious public servant.

    In recognition of his inspirational life journey, BAO has received many awards and recognitions. He was named Governor of the Year (2023) by Daily Independent Newspaper and Marketing Edge Magazine. He is also a recipient of the Ekiti Exceptional Achievers (MEEA) Award, granted in recognition of his contributions to the creation of Ekiti State as Secretary, State Creation Committee and Secretary, Ekiti State Development Fund.

    Oyebanji is married to Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, an Associate Professor of Educational Management, University of Ibadan. They are blessed with three children.

    As he celebrates another year of impact, Oyebanji remains an inspiration to both existing and aspiring leaders and a symbol of boundless grace. At 57, his legacy of integrity, innovation, loyalty and generosity of spirit continues to shape political narratives and inspire generations to come.

    • Oyebode is Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State
  • Oyebanji hails Babalola for funding Ekiti Airport facilities

    Oyebanji hails Babalola for funding Ekiti Airport facilities

    Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has hailed the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, for his financial support towards the actualisation of Ekiti Cargo International Airport.

    Oyebanji, gave the commendation in a letter written to notify the elder statesman of the beginning of flight at the airport, following approval by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

    The letter titled: ‘Letter of Appreciation,’ and dated December 18, was delivered to the senior lawyer at the university by the governor yesterday.

    The letter said: “On behalf of the government and good people of Ekiti State, I am delighted to formally express our heartfelt appreciation for the assistance you provided to the Ekiti State Government during the construction of Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport.

    “I am delighted to inform you that on December 11, 2024, we obtained clearance from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority to begin non-scheduled flight operations for six  months from December 13, 2024 to June 15, 2025. Your financial contribution for the purchase of navigational aids (CVOR/DME), control tower communications equipment and the construction of the car pack, was invaluable to the accomplishment, and we are immensely grateful for your willingness to help.”

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    “Sir, I wish to notify you that the NCAA has outlined conditions for the actualisation of the full commercial flight operation status, which includes installation of Instrument Landing System (ILS) to enhance the flight operational capacity of the airport and we will count on your unflinching support.

    “Once again, thank you for your kindness, generosity and commitment to our shared passion and goals of development and prosperity for our dear Ekiti State. You are highly appreciated sir, and please accept the assurances of my best wishes, as always.”

    Responding, Babalola said it was a good beginning, noting that if things had been as the governor was doing in the last three years, “we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

    He lauded Oyebanji for what he described as his commitment on the project. “I thank you for all you have been doing and still doing.”

    He said: “Without a viable and functional transportation system, a state, a country is doomed. When America was discovered, there were no roads. But gradually and eventually, the whole area was tarred and the whole area evolved to becoming a state (country) that is a clear leader in the comity of nations today.

    “You know as much as I do that people can’t come to Ekiti because of the bad road network. As a matter of fact, many organisations that promised to come and invest in Ekiti State cannot actualise their dream because the state is land-locked, airport-locked, railway-locked and industry-locked. But all that is beginning to change and it will change to the advantage of all of us.

    “With this airport, there will be many job opportunities for our people. People coming in and out of the state will buy from our markets. When people are gainfully employed, there will be no hunger. When there is no hunger, there will be no anger. And when there is no anger, there will be no violence.”

    Babalola promised that he, alongside his investments, Ekiti elite and partners, would cooperate with the governor to make the state “one of the best and safest states to operate and invest in, in the country. We will support you in all ways.”

  • Oyebanji approves Aladesanmi as Ekiti Central tutor general

    Oyebanji approves Aladesanmi as Ekiti Central tutor general

    Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of a new Tutor General to oversee public secondary schools in Ekiti Central senatorial district.

    The new Tutor General is Mrs Dorcas Arike Aladesanmi, who was until her appointment, the Principal of Aramoko District Commercial Secondary School, ADICO, Aramoko Ekiti.

    A statement from the office of the Chairman, Ekiti State Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Rhoda Ojo, made available to reporters in Ado Ekiti, said Aladesanmi’s appointment followed the voluntary retirement of the  Tutor General(Central), Mrs. Adekemi Olukuwade, who bowed out of the teaching service on attainment of 60 years mandatory age of retirement.

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    The newly appointed Tutor General, Mrs Aladesanmi is an experienced teacher and seasoned administrator who worked as class teacher, Head of Department, Vice Principal and Principal across the length and breadth of the state.

    Born on 12th June, 1965 at Efon Alaaye, Mrs. Aladesanmi attended St Stephen’s Primary School and C.A.C. Grammar School, both in Efon Alaaye, for her primary and secondary education.

    In pursuit of further studies, Aladesanmi attended the famous Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, an affiliate of the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, where she bagged her Bachelor of Arts, Education in English in 1989.

  • Oyebanji, varsity, firm launch agric development cluster

    Oyebanji, varsity, firm launch agric development cluster

    Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has joined Prof Joseph Ayodele, vice chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU) to launch The Agricultural Option (TAO)  Development cluster in Ekiti.

    The launch was also attended by Dr. Niyi Ojuolape, chair of AgroMall with his team.

    This project, Ojuolape said, is  to promote foundational agricultural development – starting with young people, improve food security, and enhance economic prosperity.

    TAO Agricultural Development Cluster, situated in Ekiti State University, is a three-year programme to engage agricultural students in productive agriculture.

    Ojuolape explained that the students will be exposed to farming, processing and agribusiness, providing them with hands-on training and experience in productive and commercial agriculture.

    It was gathered the programme will not only improve students’ skills but also offer financial benefits of up to two million naira per annum, that can go into tuition or other needs, empowering them to become agricultural entrepreneurs, and improving young people’s interest in agriculture.

    Ojuolape noted that the benefits extend beyond the students as the university will also benefit from the research and development aspects, which will inform curriculum improvement and enhance the university’s reputation as a centre of excellence in agricultural education and national economic development.

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    Furthermore, the cluster will contribute to Ekiti State’s food security and economic prosperity, with an annual economic activity level of about N40 billion. By promoting agricultural development, the project will increase food production, reduce poverty, and create jobs for youths.

    “TAO is excited to partner EKSU and Ekiti State on this project,” said Dr. Ojuolape, of AgroMall, principal promoters of TAO.

    “We believe this project will have impact our students, our university, and our state.”

    Oyebanji said the ceremony marks beginning of an era in agricultural development, saying “we look forward to witnessing the impact of this project on our community”.

    Prof Ayodele reiterated impact of the cluster at EKSU and its potential on national agricultural and economic development.

    and said, “this is a further testament of our focus on delivering  EKSU’s vision of producing graduates that are adequately equipped to handle contemporary socioeconomic and environmental challenges, as the TAO Agricultural Cluster Development Programme will be an additional effort towards solving some of Nigeria’s most pressing socioeconomic challenges of youth unemployment, low economic growth and food security.”