The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Oyebanji

  • Oyebanji pledges support for journalists in Ekiti

    Oyebanji pledges support for journalists in Ekiti

    Ekiti state governor, Biodun Oyebanji has pledged his administration’s unwavering support to journalists and other media practitioners operating in the state in the discharge of their duties.

    Oyebanji, who underscored the role of the media in the development of the nation’s democracy, re-affirmed his commitment to continue to provide a more conducive atmosphere for journalists to exercise their professional mandate without fear of intimidation and harassment.

    He spoke in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital during the annual public lecture/award ceremony organized by the Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists in Ekiti state.

    The governor saluted the journalists in the state, especially, the correspondent chapel for their role in the development of the state, saying that they have been dispassionately putting his government on its toes in the last twenty-three months for better service delivery to the people of Ekiti.

    At the event, the Senate leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Onimesi of Imesi-Ekiti, Oba Olatunji Olatunde; former state secretary of PDP, Mrs Funmilayo Ogun; the CEO of Cavista Holdings Limited, Mr John Olajide who was represented by Alhaji Dauda Lawal were honoured.

    Other honourees include the Ekiti state Commissioner for Youths, Gold Adedayo, the special adviser to the governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe; and the Social Democratic Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general election, Prince Adebayo Adewole.

    Governor Oyebanji represented by the commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, the governor said that his administration since its inception in 2022 has invested in key sectors of the economy including infrastructure, human capital development, agriculture and industrialization.

    Read Also: Ekiti govt most women-friendly, says Oyebanji’s wife

    He added that an enabling environment has been provided for private investors to operate and contribute to the development of the state, saying this necessitated the coming to the agriculture and hospital sectors by Cavista Holdings.

    He said: “We will continue to promote the principle of inclusiveness which has been the hallmark of our administration since 2022. We have been committed to our six-point agenda which has seen us meeting the needs and aspirations of the people.

    “We are trying to make an Ekiti destination of investment and that is the reason we are calling on private individuals and organizations to partner with the state government towards achieving economic prosperity in the state.

    “We will continue to encourage free speech in Ekiti and let me say that since the inception of this administration, we have not recorded any case of gagging or intimidation of the media, we believe in the role of the media in our society and the democracy.

    “The Correspondent Chapel has been supporting our administration and I can say this everywhere. We know the value they are adding to us and will continue to support the media to be able to discharge their duties in Ekiti.”

    On his part, the chairman of the event, senator Bamidele who was represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Gbenga Banji commended members of the media for their support, noting that he would continue to support the media in the interest of the society.

    The senate leader urged the people to keep faith in the administration of President Bola Tinubu in his efforts to actualize his renewed hope agenda for the country.

    Delivering his keynote speech, the CEO of Cavista Holdings Limited, John Olajide said his organization has committed huge resources to the agriculture and hospitality sectors to achieve sustainable growth and development.

    According to him, “At Cavista Holdings, we believe that our investments should have a positive impact on the communities where we operate. That’s why we have chosen Ekiti as a key location for our agribusiness and hospitality ventures. Our investments in Agbeyewa Farm and Glocient Hospitality, owners of the Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort and Conference Center, are designed to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and showcase the beauty and potential of Ekiti.

    “We believe that by providing employment opportunities, we can empower individuals, families, and communities to thrive. Our investments are designed to be sustainable, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible. At Agbeyewa Farm, we are revolutionizing agriculture in Ekiti by introducing modern farming techniques in the Cassava Revolution, improving its yields, and providing opportunities for local farmers through our in grower and out-grower programs.”

    The Onimesi of Imesi-Ekiti, Oba Olatunji commended the media for his responsibility of offering accurate and timely information to the public, urging them to remain resolute in the interest of the people.

    The traditional ruler urged stakeholders especially the media to support the development of agriculture, especially forestry development, adding that the sector must be given the necessary attention for the country to achieve food security.

  • Oyebanji gets Marketing Edge award

    Oyebanji gets Marketing Edge award

    The management of Marketing Edge Magazine and organisers of the newly rebranded EDGE Awards have named Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, as ‘Outstanding Governor of the Year for Inclusive Leadership and Grassroots Development’ in the 2024 edition of its annual awards and recognitions.

    Oyebanji, who will mark two years in office next month, was unanimously voted for the coveted category by a team of assessors and Editorial Board, who evaluated the governor’s approach to governance, development and leadership, alongside other governors.

    The organisers, who made this known in a statement signed by the Editor-in-Chief of the marketing journal, John Ajayi, at the weekend, said the award was given to the governor in recognition and celebration of his political credentials as a respected technocrat and a renowned public servant, who had not only impacted the people of the state with laudable projects and policies, but also used his exalted position to redefine governance by promoting peace and uniting leaders across the states, irrespective of their political and social backgrounds.

    Read Also: Early morning fire causes scare at UCH

    The management of Marketing Edge Magazine noted Oyebanji’s sterling performances as the governor of Ekiti State, in which office he had distinguished himself through exemplary inclusiveness in governance, as well as his result-oriented, transformative turnaround in the infrastructural landscape of the state, particularly in projects and policies that engendered grassroots development across the state.

    The statement said: “In the last two years, Governor Oyebanji has distinguished himself through exemplary continuing and result-oriented, transformative turnaround in the infrastructural landscape of the state. “

    “Your Excellency parades a record that is already speaking for itself and is being applauded, recognised and celebrated across Nigeria and beyond, over the years.”

    The organisers said they had watched with keen interest the Oyebanji administration’s consistent and result-driven initiatives in the areas of youths’ empowerment through employment creation, agricultural development and daring moves to generate employment and boost personnel capacity in guaranteeing a successful educational development in the state.

  • Oyebanji pledges support for artisans, craftsmen

    Oyebanji pledges support for artisans, craftsmen

    Ekiti state governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue to support artisans and craftsmen in the state.

    The governor spoke in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti state capital on Thursday, September 19, during the closing ceremony of the four-week Artisans Up-Skilling Training Program for selected Mastercrafts persons in in the state.

    Oyebanji represented by the Secretary to State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, emphasised the importance of the informal sectors in economic growth and development, hence the need to upgrade their skills in their vocations to meet the job demand of the 21st century.

    He highlighted the crucial role artisans play in driving small and medium-scale enterprises saying, “The Artisans are the backbone of SMEs in our society. Their skills and creativity are pivotal to the growth of both the local communities and larger industries

    “We recognize that Ekiti State’s prosperity rests significantly on the success of our artisans and private sector players, who are the engines of job creation and economic stability,” he added.

    Governor Oyebanji praised the artisans for their commitment during the training and urged them to embrace innovation and expand their businesses.

    He assured the government’s ongoing support through policy frameworks and infrastructure development. “Together, we will build a prosperous Ekiti State where the dignity of labour is celebrated, and success is shared by all,” he concluded.

    The State Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Dele Ogunsemoyin, highlighted that the initiative aimed to bolster the craftsmanship and entrepreneurship of artisans, who are the backbone of the State’s informal economy.

    “Today marks the conclusion of a rewarding training program designed to empower our artisans and private sector with cutting-edge skills and modern techniques, ensuring their services meet both local and international standards,” she said.

    Read Also: Oyebanji asks lawmakers to engage stakeholders, communities

    Mrs. Adeola encouraged participants to stay proactive and innovative as they transition into the next phase of their professional journeys, adding that the initiative is crucial for the State’s economic growth and the upliftment of its people.

    The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Taiwo Olatunbosun, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusesan Alabi, praised the governor for initiating the timely training.

    He noted that the training had broadened the participants’ knowledge in order for them to thrive, saying “Oyebanji has not only provided us with fish but also taught us how to fish,” Olatunbosun remarked.

  • Media spotlight of Oyebanji’s projects

    Media spotlight of Oyebanji’s projects

    By Odunayo Ogunmola

    It was the same story across the length and breadth of Ekiti State: The roaring of tractors, vibrations of earth-moving machinery and equipment, ear-piercing hits of hammers, chisels and other working tools with contractors, who are in race against time to deliver quality jobs supervising their workmen, most of the times under the scorching sun and the searing heat; these were the common features during the tour undertaken by representatives of electronic, print and online media in the state to projects undertaken by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji affectionately called BAO by the appreciative residents of the state.

    Most of the times, the expectations of the contractors and their workers were to receive Mr. Governor or the commissioners in charge of the supervising ministries or the Special Advisers/Directors General of the Bureaus that perform the supervising oversight of the concerned projects.

    But this time, it was the case of men and women of the fourth estate of the realm.  The journalists were joined by members of the state executive council saddled with the task of approving the appropriations and timeline for all the projects.

    The tour, apart from satisfying the curiosity of the journalists and also holding the government accountable, also gave members of the State Executive Council an opportunity to see the extent of work on the projects awarded during their weekly cabinet meetings and to know how approvals have turned to something concrete.

    The two-day media tour which commenced on September 5 and ended on September 6 had general managers of radio and television stations, officials of the state councils of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), the print and electronic arms of the Correspondents’ Chapel who represent the major national newspapers and radio and television stations with headquarters outside the state and online media practitioners on board.

    Read Also: Latest fashion trends in Nigeria 2024

    They moved across the three senatorial districts covering many communities, towns and local government areas where they stopped at each of the project sites for very incisive assessment of the ongoing ones, the nearly completed ones and the completed ones with very probing questions which the contractors, consultants, civil servant-engineers and their supervising commissioners and special advisers were on hand to answer.

    Apart from the questions fired at these officials, the media executives also felt the pulse of the locals, the men and women on the streets, the residents of the communities and neighbourhoods hosting such projects who had words of appreciation, applause and praises for Governor Oyebanji for “taking development further to the hinterland” and “remembering hitherto forgotten places and putting them in the limelight.”

    Some of the completed projects inspected during the media tour included the Model Smart School at Ekiti Knowledge Zone in Ijan Ekiti; renovation of dining hall and construction of therapy room at the Special School in Ido Ekiti; 100-capacity hostel at Command Secondary School, Isan Ekiti; ICT Centre and Catering Department at Government Technical College, Igbara Odo; renovated classrooms and ICT Centre at Corpus Christi College, Ilawe Ekiti; GRA 3rd Extension Road in Ado Ekiti and the mammogram machine installed at the Funmilayo Adunni Olayinka Diagnostic and Wellness Centre, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti.

    Ongoing projects inspected included the renovation and restructuring of the General Hospital, Ijan Ekiti; Isinbode-Ara-Ikole Road, Ilukuno-Ayegunle Road, Itapa-Omu-Ijelu Road, Ilawe-Ikere Road, Igbara Odo-Ikere Road, Erekesan Market interior-Ewi Palace Link Road, Ado Ekiti New Town Housing Estate, Ado Ekiti Ring Road Phase One, Indoor Sports Hall and International Centre for Arts and Culture with many of the projects intended to be game changers of development and impact on the social and economic lives of the people.

    For example, the Isinbode-Ara-Ikole Road when completed would provide another shortcut to link Ekiti South and Ekiti North senatorial districts while the Ilawe-Ikere Road and Igbara Odo-Ikere Road would be an alternative for commuters who intend to link Ondo and Osun State without having to pass through Ado Ekiti, the state capital. Itapa-Omu-Ijelu Road provides quicker and shorter access to Gede Farm Settlement, an agricultural asset along that axis.

    The Ado Ekiti Ring Road project, which starts from the Ekiti State University (EKSU) end, passes through towns like Iworoko Ekiti, Are Ekiti, Araromi Obbo, Ago Aduloju, coming out through Ijan Ekiti to link the International Agro Cargo Airport and is expected to give rise to well-planned residential quarters and neighbourhoods thereby opening up the corridor for further development.

    Apart from the General Hospital, Ijan Ekiti, the journalists learnt that renovation and overhaul was ongoing in total number of nine general hospitals after the initial nine general hospitals had been done in the first phase. Apart from the massive renovation of the hospitals, the state government also complemented the work with the supply of medical equipment to allow them become centres of quality medical care for the populace.

    The scenario of different strokes for different folks played out during the media tour. While the journalists were on fact-finding mission and cabinet members seeing it as a forum to explain the benefits of the projects, the inspection gave the people in the grassroots who are the beneficiaries an opportunity to endorse Oyebanji for another term in office when he had not declared any intent yet.

    Residents of Ilukuno-Ekiti in Ijero Local Government during the tour declared their readiness to reward the governor with re-election for another term in office in appreciation of work done so far on Ilukuno-Ayegunle Road where one kilometre had been tarred out of the 5.6 kilometres stretch of the road.

    The community leader said his people have resolved to use their votes to re-elect the Governor noting that “he deserves a re-election to encourage him to continue the good work he is doing in Ilukuno and other parts of the state which they are hearing of on daily basis.”

    Also, many residents of neighbourhoods along Faglo-Olorunsogo-De Head Road in Ado Ekiti including Ikingbinsin and Irewumi Communities trooped out in their numbers chanting “BAO for Second Term,” “Four Plus For,” in appreciation of the work carried out on the road including the blasting of the rock at a bend along the stretch to expand the road.

    Many residents of GRA Third Extension in Ado Ekiti trooped out in their numbers during the tour of the completed road project trumpeting their support for another term in office for Oyebanji whom they noted had performed well in office and raised the bar of governance in Ekiti State.

    They noted that although the area, despite being an exclusive residential area for the upwardly mobile people, had suffered untold neglect with the hitherto bad condition of the road before the Oyebanji Administration deemed it fit to carry out its reconstruction for their social and economic benefits.

    While returning to Ado Ekiti on the first day of the tour, the media executives noticed a massive reconstruction of a federal government road, Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki highway. Owing to the fact that the dusk was approaching, the convoy did not stop for a scrutiny of the project but the turnaround was noted and it would definitely be revisited by them in no distant time.

    The second lane on the highway has been completed and now being used by the motoring public while work has shifted to the first lane. The gesture demonstrates Oyebanji’s intervention on federal roads in some parts of the state to alleviate the suffering of residents in intrastate and interstate transportation.

    The frenetic and animated pace of work on the federal highway, which links the state to Kwara, Kogi, Abuja and a major link road to some federal and state educational and health institutions located in Ekiti North senatorial district, is already creating excitement among the people of the state who are hopeful that the construction which has spanned about 15 years owing to administrative and legal issues would soon come to an end.

    The two-day media tour was an eye opener for the media practitioners whose perspectives on the projects have been broadened and are now armed with facts and figures to report what they saw to their readers, listeners and viewers on what Oyebanji is doing with public funds to make Ekiti a better place to reside and invest in.

    •Ogunmola is Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media.

  • Ekiti APC elders pass vote of confidence in Oyebanji

    Ekiti APC elders pass vote of confidence in Oyebanji

    Ekiti State All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders’ Forum, under the chairmanship of Prof. Muyiwa Igbalajobi and Secretary, Babatunde Odetola, has passed vote of confidence in Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

    The endorsement is based on his progressive and dynamic administrative style in governance, as manifested in many areas.

    These include infrastructural development, economic development, road construction and rehabilitation, educational development, religious tolerance, peaceful co-existence among Ekiti State people, care for the elderly, widows, orphans and vulnerable people.

    Read Also: Drama as judge, SAN clash in N1.35b ‘fraud’ trial

    The forum resolved to encourage APC members in the state to embark on ward, local government and senatorial meetings.

    ‘’These meetings will give members opportunity to be informed of the progress, projects and information needed to bring about victory in future elections.

    The forum advised APC family to be dedicated, committed and loyal to the tenets of the party, as established by the founding fathers of the party.

    Members of the forum thanked Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, wife of the governor Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, commissioners, members of the House of Assembly and the APC family in Ekiti State.

    The forum prayed to God to give Governor Oyebanji wisdom, protection and guidance.

    Members of the forum pledged support for his administration till 2030.

  • Oyebanji asks lawmakers to engage stakeholders, communities

    Oyebanji asks lawmakers to engage stakeholders, communities

    Governor Biodun Oyebanji has asked members of the Ekiti House of Assembly to engage stakeholders, including communities, experts, and government bodies, in their activities to shape the future of the state and improve residents’ lives.

    Oyebanji, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habitat Adubiaro, gave the charge at Ikogosi Ekiti on Saturday during a one-day retreat, with the theme, “Legislating and oversight in a challenging time”, organised for members of the legislative body.

    The governor said: “Our legislative body must actively engage with stakeholders, including community members, experts and other governmental bodies. We must ensure we work effectively with executive agencies to ensure that oversight is constructive.

    “Our work is not just about creating policies but about changing the future of Ekiti State and improving the lives of our dear citizens. I wish to urge you to seize this opportunity to refresh and re-strategize and ensure that we are diligent in our legislative oversight functions.”

    Speaker of the Ekiti House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, who said that the retreat was to further equip the lawmakers in their legislative and oversight functions, promised more robust and effective representation and oversight by the legislators in the challenging period.

    Read Also: Oyebanji okays work-from-home policy for Ekiti workers

    “We won’t do less, and we are upping our game. We will ensure that we have laws that are live-impacting and that touch even the vulnerable members of society. We will carry out our oversight functions efficiently and effectively and as well ensure there will be transparency and accountability in governance.” Aribasoye said.

    The Speaker, who said that the lawmakers were still earning what the Fourth Assembly earned, said: “When you look at the humongous requests that members receive every day, you have to manage the expectations of the people and manage your resources so that all will work together and for the common good of our people and the development of the state”.

    The resource persons took the lawmakers through topics including “Financial management and welfare of honourable members” by the Commissioner for Finance, Akin Oyebode; “Legislative and oversight in a troubled time” by Mike Omilusi; and “Drowning in the sea of expectations: The constituent financial pressure and legislative responsibilities of lawmakers in Nigeria” by Akeem Bello.

  • Oyebanji urges unity among Ekiti monarchs

    Oyebanji urges unity among Ekiti monarchs

    Governor Biodun Oyebanji has called for unity among traditional rulers in Ekiti State, stressing that such cohesion is needed to ensure peace and sustainable development across the state.

    Oyebanji advised on Saturday during the 70th birthday thanksgiving service of the Chairman, Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro held at the St John’s Anglican Cathedral, Ido Ekiti.

    He noted that unity among the royal fathers would further pave the way for a more structured and collaborative approach to addressing the challenges confronting the state.

    Stressing the importance of the traditional institutions in maintaining the cultural heritage as well as peace and progress in the state, the governor stated that a united traditional council is essential in promoting government policies at the grassroots, thus enhancing good governance and development.

    He urged the traditional rulers to strengthen unity among themselves, set aside any differences that may hinder the development and progress of the state

    Read Also: Gbenga Adeboye named me Enudunjuyo, says Akeem Oyebanji

    While congratulating the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ilori-Faboro on his  70th birthday, Oyebanji, who paid a glowing tribute to the monarch, lauded his immense contributions to the development of Ido-Ekiti and Ekiti State as a whole.

    Highlighting Oba Ilori-Faboro’s ability to foster harmonious relationships between his subjects, and neighbouring communities, the governor said the monarch’s leadership had helped in strengthening the bond between the traditional institution and the state government, thereby driving progress in the state.

    The Special Adviser/Director-General, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, John Ekundayo noted that the monarch’s reign has led to the socio-economic development of his domain in particular and the state in general.

    He said that the royal father’s 70th-year celebration was not just to mark the passage of time but to celebrate the reign of a first-class ruler that had been marked by an unwavering commitment to pursuing the development and prosperity of the people of Ido-Ekiti.

    He said: “Counting the number of years on the throne, about 15 years, there has been peace, this peace has created an enabling environment for development”.

    “Under the Oba Ilori-Faboro’s leadership, Ido-Ekiti has grown in leaps and bounds. We are celebrating him for the peaceful way he has been leading us, and we are hopeful that he continues to live for more progress,” Ekundayo added.

     Oba Ilori-Faboro expressed his gratitude to the governor and the people of Ekiti State for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to the continued growth and stability of his community and the state at large.

    At the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs), Monisade Afuye; Chairman, Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service, Senator Cyril Fasuyi; members of the State Executive Council, and traditional rulers from different parts of the state.

  • Oyebanji approves work-from-home policy for workers

    Oyebanji approves work-from-home policy for workers

    Governor Biodun Oyebanji has approved a work-from-home arrangement for civil servants in Ekiti state.

    The arrangement is aimed at further cushioning the effect of the current economic situation on workers in the state.

    According to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, under the new arrangement, officers on levels 01- 07 will work from home three days a week.

    Also, officers on levels 08- 12 are to work from home two days a week, while officers on levels 13- 17 will work from home once a week.

    The new arrangement, which begins on Monday, September 9, 2024, excludes essential workers like teachers, core health workers in the hospitals, and security personnel among others.

    The statement reads in part: “Each MDA is expected to produce a workable schedule for staff to ensure that the new work-from-home arrangement does not jeopardize effective service delivery.

    Read Also: Oyebanji okays work-from-home policy for Ekiti workers

    “The arrangement will be in place for two months and is subject to periodic review in line with prevailing circumstances. Also, the arrangement does not affect other palliative measures put in place by the state government including the monthly wage award for workers and pensioners; and the free bus service for workers and students.

    *The Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration is committed to workers’ welfare and will continue to put in place necessary measures to enhance their productivity”, it added.

  • Oyebanji okays work-from-home policy for Ekiti workers

    Oyebanji okays work-from-home policy for Ekiti workers

    Ekiti state governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a work-from-home arrangement for civil servants in the state.

    This was announced in a statement by Yinka Oyebode, the governor’s special adviser on media, in Ado Ekiti on Friday.

    According to the statement, the arrangement is aimed at further cushioning the effect of the current economic situation on state workers.

    “The new arrangement, which commences on Monday, September 9, 2024, excludes essential workers like teachers, core health workers in the hospitals, and security personnel among others.

    “Under the new arrangement, officers on levels 01- 07 will work from home three days a week, officers on levels 08- 12 are to work from home two days a week, while officers on levels 13- 17 will work from home once in a week.”

    Read Also: Oyebanji’s synergy with Ekiti in the Diaspora

    The governor’s aide pointed out that each government agency in the state had been ordered to present a sustainable schedule for the new policy, which must not affect the effectiveness of the workers.

    Oyebode stated: “According to the governor’s directive, each Ministry, Department, and Agency is expected to produce a workable schedule for the staff to ensure that the new work-from-home arrangement does not jeopardize effective service delivery.

    “The arrangement will be in place for two months and is subject to periodic review in line with prevailing circumstances.

    “Also, the arrangement does not affect other palliative measures put in place by the state government, including the monthly wage award for workers and pensioners, and the free bus service for workers and students.

    “The Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration is committed to workers’ welfare and will continue to put in place necessary measures to enhance their productivity,” Oyebode noted.

  • Oyebanji’s synergy with Ekiti in the Diaspora

    Oyebanji’s synergy with Ekiti in the Diaspora

    By Aruleba Oke

    In order not to massage the ego of ingratitude, I would like to extend heartfelt commendations to His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his remarkable initiative in connecting with Ekiti citizens in the diaspora through a recent Zoom meeting. This initiative not only highlights the Governor’s commitment to inclusivity but also underscores his visionary leadership in fostering a people-driven approach to governance.

    The virtual meeting was a testament to the Governor’s understanding of the invaluable contributions that Ekiti indigenes abroad can offer towards the development of our beloved state. By creating this platform, the Governor has opened a crucial channel for the exchange of creative ideas, allowing Ekiti citizens in the diaspora to actively participate in shaping the future of our state. This approach has the potential to harness the diverse experiences and expertise of Ekiti citizens globally, thereby driving sustainable growth and development within the state.

    The significance of this meeting cannot be overstated. It has provided an opportunity for Ekiti indigenes in the diaspora to voice their concerns, share innovative solutions, and collaborate with the state government in a meaningful way. This engagement is a clear indication that the current administration is not only focused on immediate gains but is also deeply invested in the long-term prosperity of Ekiti State.

    I would also like to shine a spotlight  on the organizers of this successul Zoom meeting under the leadership of Dr Adeola Adeleye-Fasuba, Ekiti Diaspora Relations Their efforts in facilitating this dialogue have laid a strong foundation for continuous interaction and collaboration between the state government and its diaspora community. Hon Abike Dabiri, Chairman of Nigerians In Diaspora Commission, is highly appreciated  for her  robust participation in the dialogue.

    The seamless execution of the meeting, despite the geographical barriers, is a reflection of their dedication to ensuring that the voices of Ekiti citizens are heard and valued.

    Read Also: Poor distribution system causing fuel scarcity, says PENGASSAN

    Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s recent Zoom meeting with Ekiti citizens in the diaspora was more than just an exchange of ideas; it was a masterclass in leadership, collaboration, and the power of inclusivity. Here are some key take-home lessons from this significant engagement:

    The Power of Inclusivity in Governance:

    Governor Oyebanji’s initiative to engage Ekiti indigenes abroad highlights the importance of inclusive governance. By reaching out to the diaspora, he demonstrated that every Ekiti citizen, regardless of their location, has a role to play in the state’s development. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and ensures that diverse perspectives contribute to policy-making and implementation.

    Leveraging Global Expertise for Local Development:

       The meeting underscored the value of tapping into the global expertise and experiences of Ekiti citizens abroad. The diaspora community, with its wealth of knowledge in various fields, offers innovative solutions to local challenges. The Governor’s willingness to listen and integrate these ideas into the state’s development plans is a powerful reminder of the benefits of global-local collaboration.

    The Importance of Communication and Transparency:

      Regular communication between the government and its citizens, both at home and abroad, is crucial for building trust and ensuring transparency. The Zoom meeting exemplified how modern technology can be used to maintain open lines of communication, making governance more accessible and participatory. This transparency fosters accountability and strengthens the relationship between the government and its people.

    People-Centered Leadership:

    Governor Oyebanji’s people-driven approach in this meeting highlighted the significance of leadership that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the people. By actively listening to the concerns and ideas of Ekiti indigenes in the diaspora, he reaffirmed his commitment to serving the interests of the citizens. This lesson is a reminder that effective leadership is rooted in empathy, responsiveness, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of the people.

    The Role of Technology in Bridging Gaps:

     The successful execution of the Zoom meeting demonstrated the potential of technology to bridge geographical gaps and bring people together. In today’s digital age, leveraging technology to facilitate dialogue and collaboration is essential for driving development. This meeting sets a precedent for future engagements, showing that distance is no barrier to meaningful participation in the governance process.

    Collaborative Problem-Solving:

     The exchange of ideas during the meeting emphasized the importance of collaborative problem-solving. Governor Oyebanji’s willingness to engage with the diaspora community in addressing the state’s challenges showcases the power of collective intelligence. This lesson reinforces the idea that complex issues can be more effectively addressed when diverse voices and expertise are brought together.

    In conclusion, the Zoom meeting with Ekiti citizens in the diaspora was a groundbreaking event that offered numerous lessons in leadership, collaboration, and the use of technology in governance. Governor Oyebanji’s initiative serves as an inspiring model for other leaders, highlighting the immense value of inclusivity, communication, and global-local partnerships in driving sustainable development.

    • Aruleba Fabamise Oke writes from Ado Ekiti.