Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election

Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election 

…hinges administration’s success on President’s support

Ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship and January 20, 2027 presidential election, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Friday inaugurated a group of 5,000 community canvassers as a significant step towards a massive mobilization of votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Governor Oyebanji at the event, hinged the success of his administration to the massive support the he received from the president.

Addressing the crowd at the colourful event which took place at the Fajuyi pavilion, Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of the two elections at both the state and national levels noting that the June 20, 2026 election would stand as a litmus test of strength for the January 2027 presidential election.

Governor Oyebanji also stressed the need for the party to consolidate its dominance in the state as well as nationally saying he will continue to leverage on his government’s achievements in infrastructural development, agriculture and food security, welfare programmes among others to win over voters during the two elections.

He added that the community canvassers are being inaugurated in preparation for a strong campaign, focusing on grassroots mobilization, door-to-door engagement, and youth-driven strategies with each of the 5,000 canvassers targeting in at least 25 voters each.

The Governor, who commended the genuineness and the patience of the canvassers stressed the need for them to be connected with the electorate to enable them achieve their mandate of 25 voters per canvasser as he was confident that APC will corner no fewer than 500,000 votes in the governorship election and at least 700,000 votes for president Tinubu in 2027.

While also affirming that elections have gone scientific, the Governor posited that the person to person communication would allow the canvassers identify the voters before election and be able to ensure that they all come out physically during the election.

“You are not APC members, you are volunteers, people that were brought together by conviction and by the need to continue with the government that mean well, you have put yourself together, nobody has contributed money towards this, you have put resources together to put this in place and on behalf of my party and the national leader, the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and we are grateful to him.

“I listen to the DG’s speech and she said something that touched my heart, when I was being sworn in as governor of Ekiti state three and a half years ago, I made a promise that I will sit with you, I will listen to you and I will be accessible and God has helped me to keep to those promises. One thing that is clear to me, and I need to tell all of us in political business, is that democracy has an expiry date, every democracy will expire every four years, and there will be need for a renewal of that mandate. If you are conscious that your own term will expire one day and you’ll need to go back to the people, you will listen to them, you will see them, and you will be accessible to them. And today, what we are reaping is the benefits and the gains of the accessibility.

“I listened to all our speakers when they said we have performed and I said yes we have performed, but as a government in Ekiti state, there are two people that we need to give glory to, God almighty for making this possible and president Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for our government in Ekiti state, everything you have seen in the state as achievements wouldn't have been possible without the support, the guidance and the advice of the President. He is a father to all the governors in this country and that is why those governors mostly are now falling in and come into APC because we have a leader that's intentional. For the first time in the history of this country, we have a president that wanted to be president and became president. So, I can assure you that we continue to fire to deliver on our promises to Ekiti people.

“And like one of the speakers said, if you have a President that has done well today, the only way we can say thank you to him is to come out on June 20th to test the microphone at the governorship election with 500,000 votes, that is the minimum we are expecting. So, President, will now know that when it comes to January next year, we will go out and do 700,000 votes. 

“Winning the elections is not the problem, the margins and the numbers we are able to make out for the presidential election, we don't want to leave anybody behind”, He stated.

Earlier, the convener of the event and the Director-General of the Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotoso said the gathering was not just about politics of election but in support of a trusted leadership that has positively affected and touched lives of many and need to reciprocate that good gesture with initiative capable of returning the governor and president to power.

Mrs Omotoso, who disclosed that the canvassers were drawn from communities, groups, and grassroots structures that have made up their minds by conviction added that the initiative has its roots in genuine grassroots support with some generous hearts donating to make this event possible to achieve collective community progress.

According to her, “What we celebrate today in Ekiti is not merely governance, we celebrate a rare kind of leadership that you exude and exemplify. You do not only run an inclusive government; you run a humanitarian government, a government that has saved many from untimely death through timely intervention, a government that has revived forgotten destinies, a government that has restored hope where despair once lived.

In their separate goodwill messages, representatives of private sector development organization, Olabanji Ojo; artisans, Sunday Ogunyebi, Christian Community, CAN chairman, Rev. Dr Aribasoye; Muslim Community, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere; Youth, Ajibola and people with disabilities, Agboola Foluso, non-indigenous ethnic group, Alhaji Sheu Sampam commended the governor for his altruistic postures and promised to come out in their numbers to massively vote for him and the president by intensifying voter outreach, engage stakeholders as well as mobilise support at the community and faith levels.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the state House of Assembly, Executive council

Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election

Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election 

…hinges administration’s success on President’s support

Ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship and January 20, 2027 presidential election, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Friday inaugurated a group of 5,000 community canvassers as a significant step towards a massive mobilization of votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Governor Oyebanji at the event, hinged the success of his administration to the massive support the he received from the president.

Addressing the crowd at the colourful event which took place at the Fajuyi pavilion, Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of the two elections at both the state and national levels noting that the June 20, 2026 election would stand as a litmus test of strength for the January 2027 presidential election.

Governor Oyebanji also stressed the need for the party to consolidate its dominance in the state as well as nationally saying he will continue to leverage on his government’s achievements in infrastructural development, agriculture and food security, welfare programmes among others to win over voters during the two elections.

He added that the community canvassers are being inaugurated in preparation for a strong campaign, focusing on grassroots mobilization, door-to-door engagement, and youth-driven strategies with each of the 5,000 canvassers targeting in at least 25 voters each.

The Governor, who commended the genuineness and the patience of the canvassers stressed the need for them to be connected with the electorate to enable them achieve their mandate of 25 voters per canvasser as he was confident that APC will corner no fewer than 500,000 votes in the governorship election and at least 700,000 votes for president Tinubu in 2027.

While also affirming that elections have gone scientific, the Governor posited that the person to person communication would allow the canvassers identify the voters before election and be able to ensure that they all come out physically during the election.

“You are not APC members, you are volunteers, people that were brought together by conviction and by the need to continue with the government that mean well, you have put yourself together, nobody has contributed money towards this, you have put resources together to put this in place and on behalf of my party and the national leader, the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and we are grateful to him.

“I listen to the DG’s speech and she said something that touched my heart, when I was being sworn in as governor of Ekiti state three and a half years ago, I made a promise that I will sit with you, I will listen to you and I will be accessible and God has helped me to keep to those promises. One thing that is clear to me, and I need to tell all of us in political business, is that democracy has an expiry date, every democracy will expire every four years, and there will be need for a renewal of that mandate. If you are conscious that your own term will expire one day and you’ll need to go back to the people, you will listen to them, you will see them, and you will be accessible to them. And today, what we are reaping is the benefits and the gains of the accessibility.

“I listened to all our speakers when they said we have performed and I said yes we have performed, but as a government in Ekiti state, there are two people that we need to give glory to, God almighty for making this possible and president Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for our government in Ekiti state, everything you have seen in the state as achievements wouldn't have been possible without the support, the guidance and the advice of the President. He is a father to all the governors in this country and that is why those governors mostly are now falling in and come into APC because we have a leader that's intentional. For the first time in the history of this country, we have a president that wanted to be president and became president. So, I can assure you that we continue to fire to deliver on our promises to Ekiti people.

“And like one of the speakers said, if you have a President that has done well today, the only way we can say thank you to him is to come out on June 20th to test the microphone at the governorship election with 500,000 votes, that is the minimum we are expecting. So, President, will now know that when it comes to January next year, we will go out and do 700,000 votes. 

“Winning the elections is not the problem, the margins and the numbers we are able to make out for the presidential election, we don't want to leave anybody behind”, He stated.

Earlier, the convener of the event and the Director-General of the Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotoso said the gathering was not just about politics of election but in support of a trusted leadership that has positively affected and touched lives of many and need to reciprocate that good gesture with initiative capable of returning the governor and president to power.

Mrs Omotoso, who disclosed that the canvassers were drawn from communities, groups, and grassroots structures that have made up their minds by conviction added that the initiative has its roots in genuine grassroots support with some generous hearts donating to make this event possible to achieve collective community progress.

According to her, “What we celebrate today in Ekiti is not merely governance, we celebrate a rare kind of leadership that you exude and exemplify. You do not only run an inclusive government; you run a humanitarian government, a government that has saved many from untimely death through timely intervention, a government that has revived forgotten destinies, a government that has restored hope where despair once lived.

In their separate goodwill messages, representatives of private sector development organization, Olabanji Ojo; artisans, Sunday Ogunyebi, Christian Community, CAN chairman, Rev. Dr Aribasoye; Muslim Community, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere; Youth, Ajibola and people with disabilities, Agboola Foluso, non-indigenous ethnic group, Alhaji Sheu Sampam commended the governor for his altruistic postures and promised to come out in their numbers to massively vote for him and the president by intensifying voter outreach, engage stakeholders as well as mobilise support at the community and faith levels.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the state House of Assembly, Executive council

Fayemi Salutes Awolowo’s Enduring Legacy on Posthumous Birthday

*Press Statement*

*Fayemi Salutes Awolowo’s Enduring Legacy on Posthumous Birthday*

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has paid glowing tribute to the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, on the occasion of his posthumous birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most visionary leaders whose ideas continue to shape the country’s development even today.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi said Awolowo’s life was an example of principled leadership and commitment to the welfare and progress of the Nigerian people.

The former governor noted that Awolowo’s contributions to governance, particularly his pioneering social policies as Premier of the old Western Region, remain among the most enduring legacies in Nigeria’s political history.

According to him, the landmark introduction of free primary education by the Awolowo-led administration transformed the social and economic landscape of the region and laid the foundation for the emergence of generations of professionals, scholars and leaders who have continued to contribute to national development.

Fayemi said Awolowo’s visionary leadership demonstrated the power of progressive ideas and people-centred policies in building a prosperous and progressive society.

“On this posthumous birthday anniversary, we celebrate the life and legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a statesman whose ideas, courage and foresight helped shape modern Nigeria,” Fayemi said.

“He understood early that the true wealth of any society lies in the education and empowerment of its people. His introduction of free primary education was not merely a policy initiative; it was transformative and expanded opportunity for millions of people.”

The former governor also described Awolowo as a moral compass in Nigerian politics, noting that his commitment to integrity, discipline and ideological clarity remains a model for current and future leaders.

Fayemi urged Nigerians, particularly those in leadership positions, to draw inspiration from Awolowo’s life of service, sacrifice and dedication to the common good.

“As we remember him today, we must recommit ourselves to the values he represented, such as good governance, social justice, and the pursuit of a fair and inclusive society,” he added.

He prayed that Awolowo’s legacy would continue to inspire Nigerians to work towards building a nation anchored on justice, equity and shared prosperity.

Signed 

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

Friday, March 6, 2026

Fayemi Salutes Obasanjo at 89, Hails His Service to Nigeria

*Press Statement*

 

*Fayemi Salutes Obasanjo at 89, Hails His Service to Nigeria*

Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and the immediate-past Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 89th birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most consequential statesmen whose service to the nation will never be forgotten.

In a statement on Thursday, Fayemi paid tribute to Obasanjo’s decades of dedication to Nigeria’s unity and advancement of democracy in Africa.

According to the former Ekiti governor, Obasanjo’s leadership at critical moments in Nigeria’s history, including his stewardship of the country as Head of State and later as a democratically elected President, helped shape the nation’s political and institutional trajectory.

“Chief Obasanjo remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s public life and a statesman whose commitment to the unity, stability and progress of our country has been steadfast over the years”, Fayemi stated.

He noted that Obasanjo’s contributions extend beyond Nigeria, citing his consistent advocacy for peace, democratic values, and development across the African continent.

Fayemi said the former President’s courage, forthrightness and willingness to speak truth to power have continued to enrich national discourse and strengthen democratic culture in Nigeria.

“As he marks his 89th birthday, I join family members, friends, associates and countless admirers across Nigeria and the world in celebrating a life devoted to service. 

‘’We remain grateful for his sacrifices and his continuing role as a mentor to many within and outside public life,” he added.

Fayemi prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the elder statesman, wishing him many more years in good health, wisdom and strength in service to Nigeria and humanity.

Signed

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

February 5, 2026

BAO 2026: Governor’s Political Adviser Inaugurates Community Outreach Team for Second Term Bid

The campaign for the re-election of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) gained significant momentum today, Thursday, March 5, 2026, with the official inauguration of the Community Outreach Team for BAO (2026). The inauguration ceremony took place during a strategic meeting between the team, led by Erelu Tosin Aluko Ajisafe, and the Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Governor, Chief Jide Awe.

In her opening address, Erelu Tosin Aluko Ajisafe expressed deep gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering support of the outreach team’s initiatives during previous election cycles. She specifically lauded Chief Jide Awe, describing his guidance as "fatherly and exceptional" throughout their past field operations. While presenting the newly structured 2026 campaign team, Erelu Ajisafe reaffirmed the group's dedication to grassroots mobilization and their readiness to hit the ground running.

Responding to the delegation, Chief Jide Awe commended the team’s track record, noting that their previous efforts were instrumental to the administration's success. However, he challenged the members to elevate their performance for the upcoming contest, stating that the task ahead requires even stronger commitment and selflessness to ensure a landslide victory for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid.

Chief Awe officially inaugurated the team, reiterating the party’s unflinching support to ensure effective and efficient service delivery.

 The event marks a formal mandate for the Community Outreach Team to bridge the gap between the administration and local communities, ensuring a seamless transition into the 2026 election cycle.

Oyebanji Reaffirms Commitment to Ekiti Women’s Empowerment, Says Effective Implementation of NFWP-SU is Non-Negotiable

The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to women’s economic empowerment through the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), describing the initiative as a strategic platform for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is deeply passionate about implementing this program, viewing it as a significant step toward grassroots transformation. The administration is investing in the NFWP-SU because of its firm belief that when a woman is empowered, she is positioned to uplift her home, leading to the overall development of the community and the state at large.

The Chairman of the State Multi-Sectoral Coordinating Structure and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, gave this assurance at the opening session of a three-day team-bonding workshop organised to strengthen networking and collaboration among NFWP-SU officials. Adebayo reiterated Governor Oyebanji’s strong support for the project, noting that the administration remains committed to policies that advance women's economic independence. He emphasised that the effective implementation of the scale-up phase requires the right attitude, professionalism, and teamwork, urging all actors to remain focused on achieving a measurable impact on livelihoods. 

In her keynote address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, described the programme as a transformative intervention designed to empower grassroots and improve household livelihoods through the Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) and other platforms. She charged participants to uphold transparency, accountability, and integrity, ensuring that the resources invested by the state government reach the intended grassroots beneficiaries. This focus on integrity was echoed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Sola Adeluyi, who highlighted the importance of institutional synergy and strict adherence to operational guidelines to ensure the initiative's long-term success and sustainability.

The Ekiti State Project Coordinator, Mrs Toyin Familoni, explained that the ongoing training aims to enhance unity and coordinated service delivery. The event also featured a delegation from Ogun State, led by their Project Coordinator, Mrs Bolanle Fadairo, who shared best practices to promote inter-state learning. By fostering this environment of collaboration and rigorous field coordination, the Ekiti State Government is ensuring that Governor Oyebanji’s vision for a prosperous "Land of Honour" begins at the household level, where empowered women serve as the primary drivers of socio-economic progress.

SCANDAL ROCKS MINISTRY OF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AS "CONSULTANT" BIMBO OLAJUMOKE ADENIYI ACCUSED OF ₦25 MILLION CONTRACT FRAUD

The Ministry of Youth Development has been drawn into a brewing scandal following a formal legal complaint against a woman identified as Bimbo Olajumoke Olawumi Adeniyi, also known as Mrs. Abimbola. A petition filed by Whitehat Law Practice on behalf of Alhaji Bashir Adamu Bakori reveals a pattern of alleged deception and high-stakes financial exploitation. According to the legal documents, Adeniyi allegedly posed as a consultant and staff member of the Ministry, claiming she had the authority to facilitate the award of multi-million naira government contracts for youth development centers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The report suggests that Adeniyi used the 2025 Federal Government budget as a lure, convincing her victim that she could secure lucrative slots for contractors. Under this guise, she is accused of soliciting and receiving a staggering ₦25,000,000 from Alhaji Bakori. Since the payment was made, however, Adeniyi has reportedly failed to provide any evidence of project progress and has become elusive, leading to accusations that the entire operation was a calculated fraud.

The legal firm has now petitioned the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development to officially verify if Bimbo Olajumoke Olawumi Adeniyi is indeed an employee or an accredited consultant. They are also seeking clarification on whether she has any legal mandate to solicit funds on behalf of the government. As the authorities look into these claims, the case serves as a massive red flag regarding the activities of individuals who use high-level government connections to defraud unsuspecting investors of tens of millions of naira. With the victim prepared to provide payment evidence and push for an internal investigation, Adeniyi’s reputation and legal standing are now under intense fire.

‎EKSU Alumnus, Ajayi Olwatosin Empowers 220 Widows with Cash Support in Gboyin-Ayekire

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‎An alumnus of Ekiti State University, Mr Ajayi Sunday Olwatosin, (ASO) has empowered widows in Gboyin-Ayekire Local Government Area of Ekiti State with cash support to boost their livelihoods.

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‎At a brief ceremony held in the council area, Mr Oluwatosin presented ₦20,000 to twenty widows from each of the 11 wards in Gboyin-Ayekire Local Government Area, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 220. 

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‎Speaking during the presentation, the benefactor said the gesture was borne out of his desire to make life easier for struggling members of the community.

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‎He explained that the initiative was also aimed at encouraging well-meaning individuals to extend a helping hand to the less privileged.

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‎Mr Oluwatosin added that the support was designed to complement the efforts of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, in providing relief for the aged and widows across the state. 

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‎He expressed optimism that the funds would help the beneficiaries expand their small businesses and become more financially stable.

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‎In his remarks, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content, Mr Olalekan Ijidale, used the event to commend Governor Oyebanji for what he described as the transformative impact of his administration in Gboyin-Ayekire. 

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‎He noted that Mr Oluwatosin’s empowerment programme aligns with the governor’s grassroots-focused vision of supporting the aged and vulnerable.

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‎Also speaking, the APC Chairman in Gboyin-Ayekire Local Government, Pastor Olatokunbo Adeyeye, lauded Mr Oluwatosin for the intervention, describing it as a demonstration of compassion and commitment to community development. 

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‎He said the initiative would inspire others to emulate similar acts of generosity.

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‎Some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs Victoria Akinola and Mrs Oluwalusi Ajayi, expressed appreciation for the support and prayed for the continued success of Mr Olwatosin, saying the money would be used to expand their businesses. 

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‎The empowerment programme attracted party leaders, community stakeholders and residents of the area.

EKITI FIRST LADY ENGAGES WITH CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION

EKITI FIRST LADY ENGAGES WITH CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION 

In a decisive move to enhance women's political participation, the First Lady of Ekiti State, H.E (Dr) Olayemi Oyebanji convened a strategic meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), as she proposed strategies aimed at enhancing women's political participation. 

 Speaking on Wednesday at a high-level engagement with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Adunni Olayinka Women Centre, Dr Oyebanji asserted that while the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has broken records with an impressive number of female appointments, the work must now transition to measurable grassroots impact. "History will not remember how many meetings we held; it will remember what we changed," the First Lady declared. "Our women are ready. They need more support and, encouragement for enhanced participation in politics."

To bridge the gap between participation and decision-making, Dr Oyebanji proposed a structured roadmap designed to produce tangible outcomes. These strategies include a massive drive to register new women voters across the state and the creation of a Mentorship Hub for young women to nurture the upcoming generation of female political leaders.

 Additionally, the strategic action includes the establishment of a formal Women’s Caucus in the State House of Assembly, the training of women as election monitors to safeguard democratic integrity, and vigorous advocacy for legislative reforms that institutionalise female representation at all levels of governance.

The event featured a powerful show of solidarity from Ekiti’s top female executives and political stakeholders, and representatives of CSOs demonstrating a unified front for the cause. 

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, delivered a stirring address highlighting the "level playing field deficit" caused by political violence, limited financing, and entrenched stereotypes. She praised the First Lady’s vision as a vibrant social worker and advocate who understands that policy must meet community welfare to be effective. Similarly, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, alongside the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, commended Dr Oyebanji for her strategic collaboration with CSOs, identifying them as the most effective "bridge" for carrying the message of inclusive governance to the grassroots.

Adding significant weight to the gathering were notable leaders and dignitaries, including Chief Mrs Ronke Okusanya; the Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju Egbeyemi; and the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola. Also in attendance were the Director General of the Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa; the Director General of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotosho; and the Spouses of House of Assembly Members led by the wife of the Speaker, Mrs Nike Aribasoye. The engagement further saw the participation of the wives of Chairmen, Female Local Government Chairpersons, and various key political stakeholders.

Responding to the call for action, representatives of various CSOs and NGOs expressed their enthusiastic support for the roadmap. In their feedback, the advocates commended Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for setting a high bar in women's involvement through significant political appointments, officially declaring the current administration a "women-friendly and CSO-friendly Government." They pledged their full cooperation with the Office of the First Lady to ensure the message of political participation reaches every corner of the state.

Furthering the call for action, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa delivered a lecture titled "Collaborating for Enhancing Women’s Political Participation." She noted that while Ekiti currently ranks high nationally with a 0.752 score on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index, the transition to elective offices remains the final frontier. The First Lady concluded the engagement by urging all stakeholders to choose "collaboration over competition," committing her office to champion enhanced female participation in politics and public administration.

Ekiti Women Affairs, Trade Ministries Deepen Partnership to Boost Women’s Economic Growth‎

‎The Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, along with the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investments, and Cooperatives, has strengthened its collaboration to advance women’s economic empowerment across the state through the World Bank-assisted Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU).

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‎At a high-level strategic meeting, the Commissioners for the two ministries, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi and Mrs Tayo Adeola, reaffirmed Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's commitment to improving the economic well-being of women, particularly at the grassroots level.

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‎Mrs Babafemi noted that women play a vital role in driving local commerce, contributing significantly to agriculture, trade and small-scale enterprises. 

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‎She commended the sustained efforts of the wife of the Governor in championing women-focused empowerment initiatives across communities in the state.

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‎The Commissioner explained that the multi-sectoral coordinating structure of the NFWP-SU, which includes cabinet members from relevant ministries, reflects the programme’s broad and multi-dimensional impact. 

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‎According to her, the initiative provides a strong platform for women through Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), enabling them to access mentorship, funding, market linkages and other economic opportunities.

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‎In her remarks, Mrs Adeola expressed her ministry’s readiness to work closely with the Ministry of Women Affairs to effectively implement the policies and programmes of the NFWP-SU aimed at strengthening women’s economic capabilities.

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‎Discussions at the meeting also centred on enhancing financial literacy and improving business management skills among women entrepreneurs in line with the programme’s guidelines.

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‎The strategic session was attended by the Ekiti State Project Coordinator of the NFWP-SU, Mrs Toyin Familoni; the Permanent Secretaries of the two ministries, Mrs Olusola Adeluyi-Femi and Mr Bunmi Ejimokun; as well as directors from both ministries.

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‎The meeting concluded with the development of a joint action plan to ensure effective implementation of the programme and sustainable economic growth for women in Ekiti State.

DOUBLE HONOURS: PRINCE AYORINDE EJIOYE CONGRATULATES GOV. OYEBANJI, HAILS LEADERSHIP AND NEW TELEGRAPH AWARDS AS TRIUMPH FOR EKITI YOUTH

Following the back-to-back recognition of the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, by Leadership Newspaper and New Telegraph Newspaper, Prince Ayorinde Ejioye has described the awards as a "well-deserved validation of a leadership style rooted in empathy, vision, and measurable impact."

In a congratulatory message released on Friday, Prince Ejioye noted that the Governor’s emergence as Governor of the Year (2025) and Governor of the Year in Infrastructure is not merely a political milestone but a beacon of hope for the younger generation in Ekiti and Nigeria at large. He remarked that Governor Oyebanji has proven that governance is not about noise, but about the intentional transformation of lives, serving as a living blueprint of what a role model in public service should look like, accessible, result-oriented, and deeply committed to the future.

Prince Ejioye highlighted that the Governor’s "Six-Pillar Development Agenda" has moved beyond policy papers into tangible opportunities for young people. He specifically pointed to several landmark initiatives, including the Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ), which is positioning the state as a digital hub for outsourcing and tech-driven employment, and the Innovation Grant Facility (IGF), which provides the necessary financial cushion for young entrepreneurs and tech innovators. He also lauded the administration's aggressive push for youth participation in the agricultural value chain and the deliberate appointment of young, vibrant minds into key decision-making positions.

Furthermore, Ejioye praised Governor Oyebanji for his humility and political sagacity, particularly his consistent acknowledgment of the fatherly role and leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that Oyebanji’s ability to align Ekiti’s development with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda has ensured that the state remains at the forefront of national progress, especially through massive road projects and strategic power interventions.

Concluding his message, Prince Ejioye remarked that the recent string of awards, ranging from Silverbird and Vanguard to Leadership and New Telegraph, is a clear signal that the people of Ekiti have a "performer-in-chief" at the helm. He urged the youth to remain steadfast in their support of the administration, noting that the shared prosperity promised by Governor Oyebanji is already a visible reality. He maintained that as the youth of Ekiti, they stand firmly with a Governor who sees them not just as the future, but as active partners of today.

CRISIS ROCKS EKITI CITY BOY MOVEMENT: TINUBU’S AIDE ACCUSED OF FOMENTING DISCORD AND LEADERSHIP USURPATION

A volatile leadership crisis is currently tearing through the Ekiti State chapter of the City Boy Movement, the frontline coalition mobilizing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Central to the brewing storm are grave allegations of sabotage, character assassination, and an orchestrated power grab targeting the duly appointed State Director, Prince Ayorinde Ejioye.

Prince Ayorinde Ejioye, a native of Ikole-Ekiti, was formally ratified as the Ekiti State Director on August 14, 2025, at the movement’s National Headquarters in Abuja. His appointment, sanctioned and signed by the Director General, Hon. Tosin Shoga, was a recognition of Ejioye’s unwavering institutional loyalty and strategic contributions to the movement’s grassroots architecture. Shoga specifically cited Ejioye’s vibrancy and reliability as the catalysts for driving the movement’s objectives across the state.

However, the internal stability of the group was shattered on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, when reports emerged that Sunday Asefon, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Student Matters, alongside his associates, allegedly launched a coordinated campaign to delegitimize Prince Ejioye’s leadership. Despite Ejioye having secured the formal blessings of Ekiti youth, the state government, and party hierarchy, insiders suggest this is a calculated coup d’état. Sources within the movement allege that Asefon is attempting to hijack the machinery in Ekiti to position himself as the primary conduit for anticipated capital injections from Barr. Seyi Tinubu.

Supporters of the State Director have slammed Asefon’s maneuvers as predatory and self-serving, arguing that these actions are an affront to the collective progress of Ekiti youth. Critics point to Asefon’s controversial history within the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), accusing him of employing "dark arts" and "mischievous propaganda" to sow seeds of disaffection. The allegations against the SSA include fabricating narratives to erode Ejioye’s standing with Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and Presidency stakeholders, while weaponizing factionalism to create a parallel structure. Many within the coalition have gone as far as labeling him a "traitor," alleging that his actions are motivated by the personal gain of a rumored House of Representatives bid rather than the political vision of the Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and the President.

As tensions reach a breaking point, the rank-and-file members of the City Boy Movement in Ekiti are demanding an immediate and decisive intervention from the national leadership. There is a growing consensus that the integrity of the movement must be protected from "political mercenaries" to ensure the unity and stability of the APC youth wing ahead of future engagements.

Ekiti Youth For PBAT

Moses Owoyemi A

‎Oyebanji Administration Deepens Inclusion, Supports PWDs with Food, Cash Assistance‎

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‎The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and inclusion of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) with the distribution of food items and cash support across the state’s 16 local government areas.

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‎The gesture was carried out by the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, as part of efforts to cushion the effects of economic hardship on vulnerable groups.

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‎The three-day exercise, which commenced on Monday and is expected to end on Wednesday, has items distributed to beneficiaries, including bags of rice, beans, and cash assistance.

‎Speaking during the exercise, Princess Agboola said Governor Biodun Oyebanji places high priority on the welfare and rights of persons with disabilities, stressing that the initiative was driven by compassion and genuine concern rather than political considerations.

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‎According to her, the governor’s administration has consistently demonstrated love and support for PWDs through policies and programmes targeted at improving their quality of life.

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‎She therefore urged beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture by supporting the leader who prioritises their welfare, particularly as the state prepares for the next governorship election.

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‎Princess Agboola also used the opportunity to remind PWDs of the free healthcare programme approved by the governor for persons with disabilities in Ekiti State, encouraging them to visit the nearest primary healthcare centres in their communities to register and enjoy the services at no cost.

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‎She further highlighted other interventions of the Governor Oyebanji administration in the disability sector, including the repositioning of special schools across the state through the provision of modern equipment, recruitment of relevant manpower, establishment of therapy centres and other life-impacting initiatives.

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‎The Special Assistant also spoke on various empowerment and skills acquisition programmes organised for PWDs by the state government, noting that some beneficiaries had already benefited from vocational training and financial support to start small businesses.

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‎One of the beneficiaries, who was trained in catering service management, testified to the positive impact of the programme on her livelihood.

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‎However, Princess Agboola expressed concern over what she described as the poor response of some PWDs to government financial assistance programmes, urging them to take future opportunities more seriously, as such interventions are meant to empower them economically and improve their standard of living.

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‎At the event, many of the beneficiaries, who turned up with their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), pledged their support for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, assuring him of their backing for a second term in office.

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