OYEBANJI GREETS CHRISTIANS AT EASTER

OYEBANJI GREETS CHRISTIANS AT EASTER

...Urges prayers for peaceful guber poll

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, felicitated Christians in the State and Nigeria on the occasion of this year's Easter celebration.

The Governor, in statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ , which is the essence of the Easter celebration, remains the greatest sacrifice for the redemption of mankind, which should be cherished.

He urged Christians to emulate Christ’s virtues of humility, love, perseverance and compassion.

He implored Ekiti residents and Nigerians, especially Christians, to use the Easter celebration to seek the face of God in prayer for continuous peace, progress and prosperity in Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.

The Governor also solicited prayers from the people of the State and other Nigerians for a peaceful and successful conduct of the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti. 

He admonished governorship aspirants, party leaders, other politicians and their supporters to conduct themselves in a peaceful and orderly manner before, during and after the election, stressing that "Ekiti interest supercedes personal and partisan interests."

While thanking Christians in the State for their support for the administration, the Governor urged them to continue to live in peace and harmony with adherents of other religions, noting that good neighborliness, selflessness, and patience were among the lessons taught and exemplified by Jesus Christ.

He said: "I wish all the people of Ekiti State and Christians across the country and other parts of the world, Happy Easter as we celebrate God's greatest sacrifice to mankind.

"Events leading to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ were epochal in the annals of Christianity and humanity. They remind us of his virtues of sacrifice, love, harmony and peaceful coexistence among humanity.

"As Christians, this period offers us an opportunity to rethink our relationships as individuals, as communities and as a nation. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ typifies love, affection and tolerance. 

"I want to urge Christians to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by positively impacting the lives of friends, colleagues, associates, neighbours and family members,” the Governor added.

Ekiti Guber: Breaking succession jinx 'll end era of trial by error - Oyebanji declares*

...as Ekiti indigenes in Ondo bow to deliver over 6,000 votes for his re-election 

Ahead of the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that the implications of breaking the succession jinx in the State is to end the era of trial by error. 

Oyebanji said that the forthcoming poll is beyond victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC), but geared towards sustaining meaningful developments in line with his administration's policy trust, strategies and priorities. 

The Governor made the declaration, on Friday, in Akure, during the 2026 Ekiti Day Celebration organized in his honour by Ekiti indigenes living in Ondo State.

His words: "June 20 is not just a day of voting, it's a day that Ekiti people wants to break a jinx. You will realize that since the creation of Ekiti State, no governor has ran two terms consecutively. 

"All those things have implications for development. When there is a stoppage in government, there is a change in policy, change in strategy and change in priorities of government. So, a new government that comes will want to implement his own programs.

"If by the special grace of God and by your grace, we are able to break that jinx on June 20, that means for the first time since the creation of Ekiti State 29 years ago, we will have a government that has been running for 12 years. 

"The implications of that for policies is that once we go back, we know what we want to do. We have been in saddle for four years and we know what we have done and areas we need to improve upon. We don't have to do trial by error. That is the implication of June 20 for Ekiti people. 

"It's not about just winning an election but the culture of 10 steps forward and 30 steps backwards must stop. I'm glad that my people in Ondo State have taken this baton that enough is enough."

While thanking Ekiti indigenes in Ondo State for the honour bestowed on him and supporting his re-election ambition, the governor pleaded with them to continue to support his counterpart in Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

"He is appreciative of your support and I plead with you that you continue to support him in all his future endeavours and to also thank you for putting your resources together to organize this program. When I got here and saw that these are people that have PVCs, I told myself that my people are ready for business."

On his part, Ondo State Governor, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, represented by the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Seun Osamaye, commended Governor Oyebanji for his impactful leadership and inclusive governance in the state. 

The Governor noted that an executive order has been given to all Ekiti indigenes in Ondo State with Ekiti PVCs to cast their votes, adding his victory at the poll will be overwhelming across the 16 local government areas. 

Earlier in his welcome address, Coordinator of Ekiti Diaspora for BAO in Ondo State, Kehinde Ojo appreciated the governor for his dedication, vision and service in driving development in the state. 

The Coordinator reaffirmed their commitment to support his re-election ambition, saying that over 6,000 Ekiti voters living in Ondo State will be mobilized for the poll. 

According to him, "Your tenure has shown dedication, vision, and service. You've led with integrity and passion, uniting Ekiti State driving development, and uplifting communities. As a leader, you have fostered unity among Ekiti people, driven progress in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, empowered communities through innovative programs.

"We applaud your efforts, especially the Christmas and New Year gifts. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting your vision. We've gathered over six thousand Ekiti indigene to come out and vote for your second term again."

In their separate goodwill messages, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Oyeniyi Adebayo, Special Adviser on Political Affairs, Chief Jide Awe, Director General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mrs Mary Omotosho, ALGON Chairman in Ekiti State, Hon Olusegun Olugbogi lauded the Ekiti indigenes in Ondo State for standing solidly behind the governor's second term.

Highlights of the auspicious occasion is an Award of Excellence bestowed on the governor for his development strides in the state, including cultural display, among others.

Ekiti Guber: We’ll Run Inclusive Campaign That’ll Deliver over 500,000 Votes, says Senate Leader

Ekiti Guber: We’ll Run Inclusive Campaign That’ll Deliver over 500,000 Votes, says Senate Leader

    

 The Senate Leader and Chairman of Ekiti State 2026 Governorship Campaign Council, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has said that the council will run an inclusive, transparent, credible and a well-coordinated campaign strategy designed to deliver no fewer than 500,000 votes in the forthcoming governorship and presidential election.

Senate Bamidele stated this on Wednesday during the council’s meeting in Ado- Ekiti. He said the campaign would be driven by a clear structure that prioritises grassroots mobilisation and effective engagement across all strata of the electorate, ensuring that the party’s message resonate widely.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the meeting, the Senate Leader said all the six members of the House of Representative in the state have been appointed to be federal constituency coordinators in the six federal constituencies in the state.

He added that the council would adopt a focused and issue-based approach, highlighting the achievements of the current administration while presenting a forward-looking agenda to the people of the state.

Stressing that the major campaign would commence soon, the Senate Leader also disclosed that the campaign council has been carefully populated to ensure wide representation across the State and to effectively reach the grassroots.

Senator Bamidele expressed confidence in the performance of the Governor, adding that the administration’s track record would serve as a strong selling point for the campaign. assuring said the achievements recorded by the Governor would resonate with the electorate and translate into massive support at the poll .

He maintained that the strategies already put in place would not only secure victory for the Governor but also set a benchmark for campaign organisation and electoral success in the state.

“We will want to run an inclusive campaign, we will run a political campaign that will not only deliver the Governor as the candidate of the party but a campaign that will prepare the state for the subsequent elections.

“We will not only run a campaign, we are planning to run a fanfare that will also help stimulate the average voters in Ekiti State and the Governor has also emphasized on the need to run his campaign in a way that would have also prepare the people for the presidential elections, national assembly elections as well as the house of assembly election”. The senate leader asserted.

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji said he was satisfied with the progress recorded so far by the campaign council, noting that the efforts of the council and the party’s stakeholders have laid a solid foundation for a successful election.

Commending the strategic planning and grassroots mobilisation already underway, the Governor described them as a key driver that would strengthen the party’s outreach and engagement with voters across the state.

Also speaking, the Director General of the Campaign Council, Senator Cyril Fasuyi said the target is to ensure that the Governor wins by landslide, noting that securing less than 500,000 votes for the Governorship and presidential elections would be considered below expectation

He emphasized that the campaign machinery has been structured to cover all wards and local government areas, ensuring robust mobilisation and effective voter engagement at the grassroots.

OYEBANJI CELEBRATES FORMER NIGERIAN ENVOY TO UNESCO, PROF OMOLEWA AT 85

OYEBANJI CELEBRATES FORMER NIGERIAN ENVOY TO UNESCO, PROF OMOLEWA AT 85

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated former Nigeria's Permanent Delegate and Ambassador to the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Prof Michael Omolewa on his 85th birthday.

Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, celebrated Prof Omolewa’s legacies and contributions to scholarship, education and diplomacy.

He noted the octogenarian scholar’s sacrifices, commitment to academic excellence in the nation's ivory towers of learning contributed to Nigeria's enviable rise as Africa's knowledge powerhouse.

The Governor said Prof Omolewa's history-making feat as the first West African to be elected as President of the General Conference of UNESCO was a remarkable milestone which Nigeria remains ever so proud of.

Describing Prof Omolewa as one of the legends of Adult Education in Nigeria, Governor Oyebanji said his efforts contributed in no small measure in making education accessible to more elderly individuals who did not have opportunities of formal education in their formative years.

He prayed God to grant Prof Omolewa more fulfilled years on the surface of the earth to continue to offer more service to Nigeria in particular and humanity in general.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate our revered academic, diplomat and elder statesman, Prof Michael Omolewa on his 85th birthday and pray that God will sustain him with good health and grace as he continues to inspire the younger generations. “, the statement added.

Ekiti Continues to Lead Subnational Transaparency and Accountability Reports

Ekiti State Government has been adjudged to be the leading state in both local government budget transparency as well as subnational audit efficacy in the new reports published by BudgIT and PLSI, respectively.

This is coming barely weeks after BudgIT reported that the State Government, under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, maintained the top position throughout the four quarters of year 2025 in fiscal transparency.

Ekiti State, in the new BudgIT report, was rated among the top 10 states in the federation that published detailed and accessible budget information for all its Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). 

According to the report, Ekiti stands out by providing individual 2026 budgets for all the 16 Local Government Councils and 22 LCDAs, accompanied by signed PDFs, minutes of Town Hall Consultation meetings, and NCOA-formatted Excel templates.

This approach, BudgIT says, emphasizes transparency and accountability, setting a great example for other states. 

In addition to the BudgIT report, Ekiti also came first in the just realised PLSI Subnational Audit Efficacy Index. The report shows Ekiti has successfully established the independence of the Auditor-General’s office, while also implementing the financial autonomy of the audit function. It acknowledges the effectiveness of the oversight function of the State Assembly, especially its Public Accounts Committee. 

The Biodun Oyebanji administration prioritizes citizens involvement in budget preparation. Aside its quarterly stakeholders engagements held on zonal basis, it holds a consultations across local government areas to get input into the budget preparations, it also mandates each local government to hold similar consultations ahead of their respective budget preparations. 

Details of both the state’s annual budget, and the local government’s budgets as well as government procurements are published on the state websites, in line with the accountability and transparency policy of the administration. 

Commenting on the multiple accolades, Governor Oyebanji says the administration is an open book- made available to all citizens to access. He expresses his appreciation to the people of the State for their demonstrated support and cooperation with the administration adding that the success of the administration’s fiscal policies were made possible by their cooperation. 

He says his administration will continue to promote transparency and accountability in government in addition to prioritizing the wellbeing and welfare of the people.

Signed 

Olayinka Oyebode 

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State 

01-04-2026

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF RENOWNED EDUCATIONIST, CHIEF DARAMOLA

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed his condolences on the death of renowned educationist, school administrator and community leader, Chief Francis Adebayo Daramola.

Chief Daramola, father of Hon Bimbo Daramola, a former member of the House of Representatives who represented Ekiti North Federal Constituency II between 2011 and 2015 and Convener of BAO Walk Monthly programme, passed on Monday. He was aged 99 years old. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, described Chief Daramola’s death as a huge loss to Ekiti State considering his contribution to education and community development.

The Governor said the late senior citizen was a household name in the teaching profession in Nigeria and Ekiti in particular. He recalled that the late Chief Daramola meritoriously served as principal in many prestigious secondary schools in the old Western Region, Western State and old Ondo State in what was regarded as a golden era for the education sector.

The Governor hailed the deceased for his service to the state and humanity after retiring from service including his membership of prominent groups like Afenifere and Ekiti Council of Elders most especially in offering useful advice to the government. 

Specifically, Governor Oyebanji recalled how the late Chief Daramola, then the Principal of Aramoko District Commercial School (ADICO) facilitated his WAEC re- registration at the school, stressing that that singular act shaped his career path as a teenager. 

The Governor commiserated with Hon. Bimbo Daramola and his siblings, noting that the prayers and the thoughts of the government and people of Ekiti State are with the family. 

Governor Oyebanji who, earlier on Monday, paid a condolence visit to the family on Monday, urged the children to be consoled by the good name, worthy legacies and the blessing of ripe old age the deceased enjoyed in his lifetime.

Former NPC Commissioner Ayodeji Ajayi Congratulates New NPC Ekiti State Nominee, Hon. Kolawole Alabi

Former NPC Commissioner Ayodeji Ajayi Congratulates New NPC Ekiti State Nominee, Hon. Kolawole Alabi

Hon. Ayodeji Ajayi the immediate past Federal Commissioner of the National Population Commission (NPC) representing Ekiti State, has formally extended his congratulations to Hon. Kolawole Oladipupo Alabi, following his nomination to the Commission by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The nomination comes as part of the President's recent move to fill seven vacant commissioner positions within the NPC, pending confirmation by the National Assembly.

In a statement reflecting on the significance of the appointment, Hon. Ayodeji Ajayi expressed strong optimism regarding Alabi’s capacity to handle the rigorous responsibilities of the office. While acknowledging the scale of the challenges ahead, the former commissioner noted that the new nominee possesses the competence required to excel in the role. "I wish him the very best," Ajayi remarked. "The work ahead is very enormous, but I am sure he is up to the task."

Drawing from his experience in the commission, Ajayi highlighted the high stakes of the upcoming five-year term, emphasizing that the data collection and policy decisions made by the NPC in the immediate future will dictate the developmental trajectory of Ekiti State for the next half a century. He noted that the decisions taken by the commission in the next five years will affect the state for the next 50 years. He remains committed to the success of the new appointee. "I will continue to pray and support you for the success of the new assignment," Ajayi added.

The nomination of Hon. Kolawole Oladipupo Alabi is now subject to confirmation by the National Assembly. Once cleared, Alabi will join six other nominees in a commission tasked with modernizing Nigeria's population data and managing civil registration systems. For Ekiti State, this transition is viewed as a vital step in ensuring the state’s demographic interests are accurately represented in national planning, with the endorsement from a veteran like Hon. Deji Ajayi signaling a strong continuity of purpose for the state’s interests at the federal level.

Adamawa Elders Hail Yilwatda’s Emergence as APC National Chair, Pledge Full Support

Adamawa Elders Hail Yilwatda’s Emergence as APC National Chair, Pledge Full Support

The Adamawa Progressive Elders Council (APEC) has formally congratulated Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda following his election as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing his victory as a "significant milestone" for the nation’s political landscape.

In a press statement released on Monday, March 30, 2026, the Council, led by its Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), lauded the election as a strategic win for the "progressive family" in Nigeria. The Council emphasized that Professor Yilwatda’s elevation to the helm of the ruling party is not a product of chance but a reflection of his unwavering dedication and the high level of trust he has cultivated within the party ranks.

General Marwa, speaking on behalf of the Council, highlighted Yilwatda’s credentials as a core progressive, noting that his leadership comes at a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history. He characterized the election as a victory for the people and a clear demonstration of the APC's commitment to inclusivity. Marwa expressed absolute confidence in Yilwatda’s ability to lead the party to greater heights while contributing significantly to the nation's overall development.

Beyond the celebrations, the Adamawa Elders issued a rallying cry for internal cohesion. The Council urged all party members and the general Nigerian public to set aside differences and provide the new Chairman with the necessary support to execute the party’s mandate. This pledge includes a commitment to stand by the Yilwatda administration and a focus on steering the APC toward goals that prioritize the betterment of Nigerian society.

The statement, signed by Ahmad I. Sajoh, Head of Media and Publicity for the Adamawa Progressive Elders Council, concludes with a prayer for the Professor’s success. It frames his tenure as a potential turning point for the APC’s organizational growth and national impact. With the backing of influential blocs like the Adamawa Progressive Elders, Professor Yilwatda begins his chairmanship with a strong vote of confidence from the Northeast, signaling a push for stability and inclusive governance within the ruling party.

Marwa, Adamawa Elders Applaud Barrister Idris Shuaibu’s Emergence as APC National Vice Chairman (North East)

The Adamawa Progressive Elders Council has formally congratulated Barrister Idris Shuaibu following his election as the National Vice Chairman (North East) of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released on Monday, March 30, 2026, the Council’s Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the election as a "proud moment" for Adamawa State and a testament to Shuaibu’s longstanding dedication to the party’s grassroots and national growth.

General Marwa highlighted Shuaibu’s previous tenure as the Adamawa State APC Chairman, noting that his ability to navigate the state's complex political landscape prepared him for this regional responsibility. He emphasized that the election underscores Shuaibu's leadership abilities and the significant trust he has earned within the party.

The Elders Council further emphasized that Shuaibu’s new role is critical for the stability and advancement of the North East geopolitical zone. Marwa expressed total confidence in the new Vice Chairman’s capacity to deliver, citing him as a "distinguished son of Adamawa" whose success is a clear indication of the confidence the party places in his ability to contribute to the nation as a whole.

The statement, signed by Ahmad I. Sajoh, Head of Media and Publicity for the Council, concluded with a pledge of unwavering support. The Council offered prayers and committed to standing by the new National Vice Chairman as he begins his journey in the party's National Working Committee (NWC). They remain confident that he will work tirelessly to strengthen the APC and promote the interests of both the North East and Nigeria.

This endorsement from a heavyweight body like the Adamawa Progressive Elders Council, led by General Marwa, provides a significant political boost for Barrister Shuaibu as he assumes one of the most influential roles in the ruling party’s regional hierarchy.

HON. IBRAHIM KUNLE OLAREWAJU CELEBRATES PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU: A TRIBUTE TO VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND THE RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

HON. IBRAHIM KUNLE OLAREWAJU CELEBRATES PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU: A TRIBUTE TO VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND THE RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju, has issued a heartfelt message of celebration to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, praising his transformative leadership and the unwavering commitment to the "Renewed Hope" vision for Nigeria.

Reflecting on the President’s milestones, Hon. Olarewaju saluted the Renewed Hope Agenda, which has successfully transitioned from a phase of stabilization to a period of rapid economic acceleration. He noted that the President's vision, anchored by the ambitious N58.18 trillion 2026 "Budget of Acceleration" is already yielding tangible dividends across critical sectors, including the "Renewed Hope Cities and Estates" program, the Ward Development initiative, and the landmark Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund) that has empowered millions of students.

"Working under President Tinubu’s tutelage as a legislative aide has been a masterclass in governance and resilience," Hon. Olarewaju stated. "His ability to make tough, necessary decisions today to secure the prosperity of tomorrow is a testament to his status as a world-class statesman. My time serving in this administration has deeply impacted my approach to public service, teaching me that true leadership is about courage, consistency, and a relentless focus on the common man."

Hon. Olarewaju further appreciated the President’s stance on a United Nigeria, positioning the country as a leading voice in the Comity of Nations. He specifically lauded the President's continuous support for Ekiti State, a sentiment frequently testified to by the Executive Governor, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. From critical infrastructure projects to agricultural support, the synergy between the Federal Government and Ekiti has remained a cornerstone of progress for the "Fountain of Knowledge."

As the nation celebrates the President’s achievements, Hon. Olarewaju offered prayers for his continued health and vigor. "As Mr. President continues to march the nation forward, we stand resolutely behind him. The foundations being laid today are the bedrock of our future success. As we look ahead to the 2027 Presidential election, it is clear that the journey of renewal must continue to ensure these reforms reach their full, transformative potential."

Hon. Olarewaju concluded by urging all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support of the administration, noting that under President Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria is firmly on the path to becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy.

Signed:

Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju 

Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters

March 29, 2026.

Fayemi Mourns Passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, Consoles Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai

*Press Statement* 

*Fayemi Mourns Passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, Consoles Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai*

Dr Kayode Fayemi, immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, mother of the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi described the matriarch's death as a profound loss, not only to the El-Rufai family but also to all who were touched by her life of humility, faith, and service.

He noted that the late Hajiya Umma lived a life defined by strong moral values, devotion to family, and commitment to community, which he said are evident in her son's life and public service.

Fayemi said, “I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai. Her departure is a painful loss, but we take solace in the exemplary life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind.”

The former NGF Chairman extended his heartfelt condolences to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the entire El-Rufai family, urging them to find strength and comfort in the memories of her impactful life.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul, asking Almighty Allah to grant her Aljannah Firdaus and to give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Signed

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, the Fayemi Media Office

Sunday, March 29th, 2026

Gov Oyebanji Congratulates President Tinubu on 74th Birthday

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his 74th birthday, describing him as a genuine lover of the people, a pathfinder, and a selfless leader who is committed to sustainable development of the country. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, hailed the President for dedicating his life to the defence of democracy and service of his fatherland and fellow countrymen in various capacities which had exacted great sacrifice from him.

He noted that President Tinubu is a man of history with many golden chapters as a professional in the corporate world, a boardroom guru, astute politician, pro-democracy activist and the arrowhead of a movement that fought for the restoration of democratic rule in the country. 

Oyebanji described the President as an uncommon gift and a treasure to the nation, adding that President Tinubu’s footprints remain bold at the subnational and national levels as a Senator in the Third Republic, two-term governor of Lagos State and currently the President and Commander - in- Chief of the Federal Republic, who continues to lead and inspire the citizens with courage and impactful policies and reforms. 

The Ekiti State Governor said his state and its citizens remain thankful to President Tinubu for his support and for the positive impact of his policies on the State and wish him many more years in good health and service to Nigeria and humanity. 

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I wish the President a happy 74th birthday and a lifetime of bliss. Ekiti people remain appreciative of the President’s development strides and are supportive of his various reforms which have brought better life to the people . Our prayer is that God Almighty continues to guide his decisions as he continues to lead the country on the path of greatness and shared prosperity.”, the statement added

EKSG Deepens Ties With NAF, to Boost Airport Devt, Strengthen Security

Ekiti State Government has intensified efforts to strengthen collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force as part of moves to further enhance operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport and reinforce security across the State. 

The State Governor, Mr Biodun  Oyebanji, who made this known  during his working visit to the office of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the Defence  Headquarters, Abuja on Thursday, said Ekiti is home to a world-class airport, making it imperative to collaborate closely with the Nigerian Air Force in order to strengthen security, ensure smooth operations and maximize the facility’s potential for the state’s economic growth.

Governor Oyebanji, who arrived at the Defence Headquarters at 9:35am, was welcomed with a ceremonial parade. He commended the Nigerian Air Force for its professionalism and dedication, maintaining that their continued efforts have helped to safeguard lives, protect critical infrastructure and ensure smooth operation of Ekiti airport.

The Governor explained that his administration has made available 1,000 hectares of land with C of O for the permanent NAF facility around Ekiti airport, adding that government is prepared to provide any other necessary support to ensure full presence and operational readiness of the Air Force at the facility.

Governor Oyebanji said: “We have this long standing discussion with the Nigerian Air Force on how to deepen partnership with NAF and we are grateful to you for posting your men to defend and protect our State but we can do more. We have made available over 1,000 hectares of land to the Air Force and the C of O  is ready and I am here today, personally, to demonstrate the commitment of our government to this collaboration. 

“Ekiti boast of one of the most modern airports in the country which has been attested to by the pilots that have flown to the airport, the quality of our runway, the facilities on ground, our ILS will be ready next month, which is why we have to deepen this collaboration by partnering NAF. We are ready to put in place any assets that are required to make the Air Force to be on ground to increase the security of our people, boost confidence and make the airport more functional”, he added. 

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, in his response, commended Governor Oyebanji for his proactive approach to development and security of Ekiti State noting that the Governor’s commitment to strengthen collaboration with NAF reflects visionary leadership and deep understanding of the importance of security and infrastructure to economic growth.

Air Marshal Aneke explained that the NAF is eager to deepen its collaboration with Ekiti State Government, not only to provide a secure environment around the airport and other critical infrastructure, but also to support initiatives that promote economic growth, regional development and the overall safety of residents and visitors to the State.

While appreciating the Governor for the visit and for leading by example, the Chief of Air Staff hinted that NAF is in discussion with international partners to establish an aircraft repair and overhaul centre at the Ekiti airport. 

He described the plan as a strategic move that would boost the airport’s capacity, create job and further strengthen the state’s aviation and security infrastructure.

Also at the meeting were, the law maker representing Ekiti South federal Constituency I AVM Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo (Rtd), Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akintunde Oyebode; Technical Adviser  on Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd) Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode; and Mr O’Seun Odewale.