EKITI’LL FOREVER BE GRATEFUL TO YOU. GOV OYEBANJI, SEN BAMIDELE HAIL CHIEF DEJI FASUAN AT 95

EKITI’LL FOREVER BE GRATEFUL TO YOU. GOV OYEBANJI, SEN BAMIDELE HAIL CHIEF DEJI FASUAN AT 95

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, have described the Chairman of Committee for the creation of Ekiti State, Chief Deji Fasuan as a distinguished statesman whose contributions to the creation of the State will remain indelible, assuring that the state will forever be grateful for his commitment to its actualization

Chief Fasuan clocked 95, on Thursday, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of the Stete, chaired the committee responsible for the creation of Ekiti State, with Governor Oyebanji serving as the committee secretary. 

Governor Oyebanji, accompanied by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, House of Representative member, Hon. Ojuawo and members of the state Executive council, Prof Bolaji Aluko and Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, noted the significant role played by the elder statesman in the struggle for Ekiti State. The Governor noted that his leadership and dedication helped advance the aspiration of the people for a separate state. 

He described the nonagenarian as a symbol of patriotism, selflessness and service, whose contribution to the political and administrative history of Ekiti state continue to provide a reference point for present and future generation.

The governor noted that the creation of Ekiti state represents the fulfillment of a long standing aspiration of its people and that the efforts of those who championed the cause, including Chief Deji Fasuan deserved lasting recognition and appreciation.

The Governor said, “thirty years ago, this house was agog because that was the day Ekiti State was created. On behalf of all Ekiti indigene at home and the diaspora, we say that your struggle, sweat and sacrifice has given the platform to serve Ekiti people, we say thank you.

“Throughout the struggle, one thing I learnt from Daddy was his integrity, commitment to excellence, courage, perseverance and sacrifice. Daddy is a tough person but through the process of the struggle, he took insults and was not annoyed for one day.

“I am happy you have seen the transformation in Ekiti in the last 30 years, yes, we have not reach the promise land but we have left Egypt, there is no doubt about that, individually we are developing, collectively we are developing and I am happy that by the grace of God and the benevolent of Ekiti people, I am in the saddle today”.     

Also in his remarks, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele also celebrated the former committee chairman for his commitment to the development of Ekiti State, describing his 95th birthday as an opportunity to reflect on the founding figures whose efforts shaped state history.

The Senate Leader, who noted that Ekiti State had continued to make steady progress, maintained that the state had recorded remarkable improvement in various areas of development in recent years.

While explaining that Chief Deji Fasuan’s greatest joy shoud be the fact that the secretary of the State Creation Committee, Governor Oyebanji, is today the Governor of Ekiti State, Senator Bamidele said the Governor is implementing the ideals and aspiration they shared during the struggle for the creation of the state.

He maintained that Ekiti had witnessed tremendous development in the last four years, particularly through Oyebanji’s effort to bring the various leaders and stakeholders together, thereby achieving the aspiration of the founding fathers for a united Ekiti state.

Oyebanji’s second term will usher in greater devt , inauguration Committee declares

Oyebanji’s second term will usher in greater devt , inauguration Committee declares 

As preparations Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second term inauguration commenced with the official release of programme of activities, the Planning Committee has highlighted remarkable achievements of the administration in the last four years. 

Reflecting on the achievements of the administration since it assumed office in October 2022, the chairman of the Second term inauguration committee, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, who spoke at a press conference in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, said Ekiti people has a lot to look out for as the second term administration would usher in greater development and at a faster pace. 

Adebayo who highlighted activities marking the inauguration, said the programme will be kickstarted with a Jumat Thanksgiving service at the Central Mosque, Ado Ekiti on Friday, October 2nd, while the inauguration ceremony would hold on October 16th.

Highlighting the infrastructure development of the administration, Adebayor, who is also the Chief of Staff to the Governor, noted that the completion of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, which commenced commercial flight operations in late 2025 has created opportunities for investment, tourism, trade, commerce and agricultural exports which has invariably boosted the economy of the state.

He also disclosed that the administration had completed and commissioned over 500 kilometres of inter-city and rural roads, with several other road projects currently at various stages of completion.

According to him, the administration had also provided electricity to parts of Aiyekire, Ekiti East Local Government Areas and the Ikogosi tourism belt, areas which, he said, had experienced prolonged lack of public electricity supply long before the advent of this administration.

On healthcare and education, the committee chairman said the administration had, as of 2026, renovated over 110 primary healthcare centres and all the general hospitals in the state, equipping them with modern facilities.

He added that the government had made significant investments in education, including the comprehensive renovation of 203 secondary schools, including three special schools and 950 primary schools across the state.

The committee disclosed further that the administration had also established nine ICT laboratories in selected secondary schools and technical colleges and constructed new primary schools under the Suburb Model School Project adding that Governor Oyebanji’s administration had continued to support students by paying WAEC examination fees to the tune of Two Billion, one hundred and fifty-eight million Naira (N2,158,000,000) to sixty-nine thousand (69,000) students as well as procurement of free JAMB forms to 12,400 students in four years.

While highlighting the administration’s youth-focused agricultural initiatives, the committee said over 5,000 youths have been engaged in commercial agriculture through the Bring Back the Youth into Agriculture initiative, with participants reportedly realising more than ₦1 billion in profits over the past one and a half years.

The administration, he said, had also disbursed N1.1 billion to 2,777 beneficiaries as credit and operational grants credit, N400million loan disbursed to 443 micro, small and medium-scale enterprises, provided ₦450 million in grants to 10 cooperatives involved in agro-processing and production, and facilitated free Corporate Affairs Commission registration for about 5,400 MSMEs.

Praising the Oyebanji administration on Fiscal responsibility, the chairman also drew attention to the robust fiscal management in the state, saying Ekiti had maintained a strong record of fiscal transparency and responsibility for over two years. He maintained that the state had been ranked first for nine consecutive quarters, from the second quarter of 2024 to the second quarter of 2026, in the State Fiscal Transparency League reports published by BudgIT Foundation.

Projecting into the second term tenure, the committee chairman said the theme of the inauguration, “The Good Work Continues,” reflected the administration’s intention to consolidate existing programmes while introducing further interventions aimed at strengthening the state’s economy and improving the welfare of citizens.

He said recent stakeholder engagements across the three senatorial districts, identified healthcare, electricity, roads, water supply, agriculture, human capital development and economic opportunities as areas requiring sustained consideration stressing that the major target is the expansion of rural road development, with a target of delivering up to 1,500 kilometres of roads through various interventions, including collaboration with development partners.

The chairman used the opportunity to commend the media for the symbiotic relationship with government as he described them as an important bridge between government and the people. He urged journalists to continue to provide accurate and professional coverage of the state’s activities as well as help citizens understand government policies, programmes and projects while providing broad coverage of the inauguration.

He assured the people that the administration would continue to engage stakeholders, improve service delivery and work towards ensuring that the impact of its shared prosperity agenda was felt across the state.

“As we begin preparations for the second term, the emphasis is on continuity and further development. The Governor has stated that the next phase will focus particularly on interventions that add value to the economy, improve productivity and respond to the needs and aspirations of our people. Recent engagements with stakeholders, including the just concluded Budget Tour of the three Senatorial Districts of the State have identified healthcare, electricity, roads, water supply, agriculture, human capital development and economic opportunities as areas requiring sustained attention. 

“The Governor has also stated that this consultative approach, which has been a hallmark of his administration during the first term, will continue through the second term. The Administration has also announced plans to expand rural road development, with a target of delivering up to 1,500 kilometres of roads through various interventions, including collaboration with development partners.” the committee chairman said.

"Gentlemen of the Press, I want to specially acknowledge your role in this process. The media is an important bridge between government and the people. Your responsibility goes beyond reporting events. It includes informing the public accurately and helping citizens understand government policies, programmes and projects.

In attendance at the news conference were other members of the planning committee. They include the Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; Chairman APC, Mr Sola Elesin, Chairman ALGON, Hon Segun Ojo; Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Director General , Bureau of Comminity Comminications, Mrs Mary Oso Omotoso; and Special Assistant on Political Matters, Mrs Toyin Adepoju, among other.

EKITI MOVES TO CUT TRANSPORT FARE BY 50 PERCENT, ROLLS OUT 15 CNG BUSES

EKITI MOVES TO CUT TRANSPORT FARE BY 50 PERCENT, ROLLS OUT 15 CNG BUSES 

….Gov thanks President Tinubu

Ekiti State government on Thursday commenced moves aimed at reducing transport fares by 50 percent across the State, with the deployment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to cushion the effect of transportation cost on residents.

The State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, said the deployment of the CNG buses, which conicided with the Indeoendence Day and 30th anniversary celebrations, marked a major step in government’s move to reduce transport cost for the citizens in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directives. 

He added that the state has commenced the process of cutting transport fare by 59 percent through the rollout of 15 CNG buses donated to the state by the Federal Government as part of efforts to promote affordable and accessible public transportation, adding that the State would expand the fleet of vehicles in order to serve the residents better. 

 Governor Oyebanji who was accompanied by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, at the official flag off of the vehicles at the premises of Ekiti State Transportation Agency in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, said government would continue to explore avenues to reduce the burden of the citizens. 

Speaking with journalists shortly after inspecting the fleet of vehicles, Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the intervention, noting that the provision of the buses would contribute significantly to reducing the burden of transportation on the people. He added that the initiative demonstrates the commitment of both the state and federal government to improving the welfare of the people.

The Governor added that the CNG buses would provide a more affordable means of transpiration for residents across the state, urging the drivers union to ensure that the gains are transmitted to the commuters.

Governor Oyebanji who also inspected ongoing projects in different parts of the state after inspecting the CNG buses, hailed President Tinubu’s economic policies, which he said had allowed more recourses to carry our programme and projects that have direct impact on the people.

“No matter how visionary a leader is, if there are no resources to work with, it will just stay in the realm of a vision. But the President has been helping and supporting us not only Ekiti State but all the states in the country to translate our vision into action and impacts for the people.

“The President charged all state Governors that by October first, we should find a way of reducing transportation cost because most of the implications we are witnessing, transportation contributes a lot to it and what we have done today is just the pilot, 15 CNG buses which is going to be distributed to the unions and the agency will manage it. 

“My appeal is to the Unions, they should allow the gains to translate to the commuters because this will reduce transportation cost by 50 percent. 

Speaking on the deployment of the buses, the Director General of the Ekiti State Transportation Agency, Hon. Tajudeen Akingbolu, said routes had been mapped out for the CNG buses to operate from Ado Ekiti to Lagos, Ibadan, Onitsha and Abuja, adding that the initiative would provide residents with more affordable and reliable interstate transportation while reducing the burden of high transport fare.

OYEBANJI HAILS EKITI'S REMARKABLE STRIDES 30 YEARS AFTER STATE CREATION

OYEBANJI HAILS EKITI'S REMARKABLE STRIDES 30 YEARS AFTER STATE CREATION

...Pays Tributes to state creation heroes, former governors

...Says Ekiti will become Nigeria's Tech Hub in another 30 years

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has hailed the remarkable strides and progress the State has made 30 years after it was created by the administration of the late former military Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha.

Oyebanji in a statewide broadcast to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the State, said although the state encountered many challenges and unpleasant experiences within the period, its people has reasons to celebrate the three-decade milestone because of the remarkable progress recorded in all indices of development.

The Governor noted that despite being among the last set of states to be created in the country and receiving one of the lowest allocations from the Federation Account, "Ekiti leads its contemporary and many before it, including far richer states, in critical matrices of human development."

Ekiti State was created on October 1, 1996 by the late Gen. Abacha, during a broadcast to mark the nation's 36th independence anniversary alongside Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Gombe, Nasarawa, and Zamfara States which took the number of states in Nigeria from 30 to 36.

The feat was achieved after years of epic struggle by eminent citizens of the state among whom were traditional rulers, legal luminaries, politicians, senior bureaucrats, captains of industry and community leaders under the aegis of a body known as Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State.

Speaking during the broadcast, Oyebanji pointed out that many people did not give Ekiti a chance of being created as a state as it stood against "more formidable contenders from the Southwest geopolitical zone”, but the Governor ascribed glory to God for making the creation of the state possible against all odds.

According to him, the creation of the State 30 years ago and 120 years after the Kiriji War completed an epic struggle of independence started by Ekiti forbears in the liberation war of 1877 to 1893. He congratulated all Ekiti sons and daughters and all peoples from other parts of the world who have made Ekiti their home on the occasion of the 30th anniversary. 

The Governor paid tributes to members of the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State led by their Chairman, Chief Oladeji Fasuan; legal icon, Aare Afe Babalola; Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe; other monarchs whom he described as “incubators of the state creation struggle” and lauded the patriotic sacrifices of heroes and heroines of the struggle who had joined their ancestors.

Oyebanji said it was heartwarming that as the then Secretary of the Committee for Ekiti State Creation, through the grace of God and the benevolence of Ekiti people, he is now in the saddle as Governor of the State, as the state turns thirty. describing the experience as "very humbling."

He equally paid glowing tributes to all his predecessors in office: Col. Inua Bawa, Navy Capt. Atanda Yusuf, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Chief Ayo Fayose, Chief Segun Oni, Dr Kayode Fayemi and leaders who served during interregnums like Chief Friday Aderemi, Brig.-Gen. Tunji Olurin, Hon Tope Ademiluyi, Hon Tunji Odeyemi, all former Deputy Governors and all former heads of legislature and judiciary.

Oyebanji restated the commitment of his administration to the ideals of the founding fathers that inspired the creation of the state stressing that "the vision of the founding fathers was to have a State where Ekiti people can utilize their God given natural and human resources in the most efficient, effective and inclusive manner, for the prosperity of our people."

He pointed out that the state's founding fathers envisioned "an industrialized Ekiti, where private sector capital is at the centre of the economic nervous system of the state and where enterprise and productivity are the pillars of prosperity."

While unveiling the theme of the anniversary ‘Ekiti at 30; Celebrating the Past and Creating the Future,’ the governor disclosed that his administration has decided to use the 30th anniversary as the Launchpad for a 30-year Transformation Agenda.

The agenda, according to him, will make Ekiti a leading Centre of Agricultural Production and Agro-Processing, Innovation and Tech Development, Quality and functional Education, Research and Skills Development, Tourism, Culture and Creative Economy and Youth Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development. 

To achieve the vision, the Governor said a conversation with Ekiti Youths on October 7, 2026 at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre, Ado Ekiti, will be staged with the intent to achieve three important things: to remember with gratitude, to assess the present with honesty, and to approach the future with confidence and determination.

He said: "Our agenda is therefore to work aggressively to ensure that the socio-economic infrastructures we have built in these thirty years lead to real economic growth that produces quality employment, crystallize productivity, support enterprise and enhance quality of life. 

"For example, the ongoing multi-billion naira Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ) project is a technological park and economic ecosystem to support the innovative and creative ingenuity of our young population. 

"It is our dream that in another three decades, the tag of Ekiti as a ‘civil service’ state will have yielded to Ekiti as a Tech Hub in Nigeria’ and a major commercial centre for international trade and commerce. 

"This is our promise, and we are resolutely committed to it. The Special Agric Processing Zone (SAPZ) will also take off soon. These two projects, upon completion, will transform the economic outlook of the State and drive our government’s Shared Prosperity Agenda."

The Governor urged the people of the state to troop out en masse during the January 16, 2027 presidential election and use their votes to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in appreciation of his benevolence, support, and favour Ekiti has enjoyed under his presidency since 2023.

GOV. OYEBANJI, OLUYEDE LEAD MEGA RALLY FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU’S RE-ELECTION

GOV. OYEBANJI, OLUYEDE LEAD MEGA RALLY FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU’S RE-ELECTION

….declare President Tinubu Sole Presidential Candidate in Ekiti 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the recently concluded election, Dr. Wole Oluyede, on Tuesday intensified mobilisation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election ahead of the January 2027 presidential election.

At a mega rally and endorsement walk which also marked the formal unveiling of the Oluyede Progressive Alliance for Renewed Hope Agenda (OPARMA), founded by the PDP governorship candidate, held at the Fajuyi pavilion, Ado Ekiti, the two leaders urged Ekiti people to mobilize support for the President, citing the gains of his economic polices, among other factors. 

The rally which attracted thousands of Oluyede’s supporters, political leaders, stakeholders and party chieftains from across the 16 local government areas of the state, was preceded by a walk Oluyede and his supporters from Ajilosun area of the state capital to the Fajuyi Pavilion. 

Addressing the ecstatic crowd of supporters at the rally, Governor Oyebanji, said that the gathering was a demonstration of the ability of Ekiti people to rise above partisan differences and unite when issues concerning the development and progress of the state were at stake. 

He added that re-electing President Tinubu is vital to sustaining stability and attracting further development to Ekiti State.

Describing President Tinubu as the only President who had demonstrated exceptional commitment to the development of the state, the Governor cited various interventions of the Federal Government in the last four years. He urged the people to reciprocate by voting massively for the President in the 2027 presidential election.

While explaining that Ekiti has over one million registered voters, the Governor expressed confidence that the state could deliver as many as 900,000 votes for the President in the 2027 presidential election, particularly with the President emerging as the sole presidential candidate being supported across the state.

Governor Oyebanji also expressed his appreciation to Dr Oluyede for prioritizing Ekiti development above partisan politics by supporting President Tinubu. He said their shared love for the development, peace and progress of the state remained the bond that united him and oluyede beyond political difference.

Explaining why re-electing the President is crucial to Ekiti development agenda, the Governor said “Ekiti will be 30 years in 2 days, what is happening today speaks to the aspiration of our founding fathers of the state, I was the secretary of that committee and in all our meetings, our fathers will say, we desire Ekiti where all of us will be one and nothing will divide us.

“ Let me explain to you why returning Asiwaju is so critical to us in Ekiti, Asiwaju’s victory is very important to us because in our 30 years of history, there is no President that has been so good to us like this President. In less than four years of his administration, we were able to complete Ado – Ifaki road, Ado Akure road has been completed, work is currently going on on Itaore-Aramoko-Ado road and Ado Ijan Ilumoba road.

“Dr Oluyede has said that we will give the President 900,000 votes and with what I am seeing here today and with what you can do, we should be able to give Asiwaju 900,000 votes because we only have two parties in this state, APC and PDP and we have all made up our mind that we are going to vote for Asiwaju”.

Earlier in his remarks, the PDP Chieftain and convener of the Oluyede Progressive Alliance for Renewed Hope Agenda (OPARHA), Dr Wole Oluyede, who explained that he remained a PDP member said his decision to work with Oyebanji in delivering landslide victory for President Tinubu is in the overall best interest of Ekiti State.

Acknowledging the leadership of Governor Oyebanji and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oluyede said their commitment to the peace, stability and development of the state had provided a basis for the people across political divides to come together in the interest of the state.

He said his group would embark on an aggressive grassroots mobilization across the state, including house-to-house campaigns with a target of securing 90 percent of the votes in Ekiti for President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

He also pledged to work with the Governor in mobilizing support across the state, saying he was prepared to contribute to efforts that would deliver a landslide victory for the President.

Also in their remarks, a former Deputy Chairman of the PDP in the South-West, Chief Makanjuola Ogundipe, PDP Chieftans, Mrs Olayemi Adesoro and Chief Johnson Adekunle expressed support for the collaboration, citing Governor Oyebanji's inclusive governance and sterling performance for their decision.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI DISSOLVES BOARDS, TERMINATES APPOINTMENT OF POLITICAL APPOINTEES

PRESS RELEASE

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI DISSOLVES BOARDS, TERMINATES APPOINTMENT OF POLITICAL APPOINTEES 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the immediate dissolution of boards, commissions, and parastatals in the State, as well as the termination of appointment of all political appointees.

Those affected by the termination include Special Assistants, Senior Special Assistants, and Technical Assistants.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, the decision became imperative in view of the gradual winding down of the Governor’s first term in office, ahead of the inauguration of his second term scheduled for October 16, 2026.

However, chairmen and members of statutory boards are not affected by the dissolution. These include the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC), Civil Service Commission, House of Assembly Service Commission, and Judicial Service Commission.

Similarly, the governing councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions remain intact, in line with earlier directives by the Governor.

The Chairmen of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Local Government Service Commission, and Teaching Service Commission are to remain in office, although their respective boards stand dissolved.

Also exempted from the termination of appointments are the Directors-General and Technical Advisors to the Governor.

Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the affected appointees for their diverse contributions to the success of his administration and their service to the State. He wished them continued success in their future endeavours.

OLUYEDE HAILS GOV. OYEBANJI’S EFFORT AT BUILDING A GREATER EKITI

OLUYEDE HAILS GOV. OYEBANJI’S EFFORT AT BUILDING A GREATER EKITI

… As Gov. Says Collaboration With Oluyede in Ekiti's Interest 

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and candidate of the party in the June 2026 governorship election, Dr Wole Oluyede, has commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his efforts towards building a greater Ekiti State, describing the Governor’s commitment to the development of the state as commendable and requiring the support of the citizens. 

Dr Oluyede gave the commendation on Friday when the Governor visited him at his residence in Ikere Ekiti shortly after attending the burial ceremony of late Senator Anthony Adeniyi, SAN. 

Speaking with Journalists shortly after the visit, Dr Oluyede, who contested the June 20 governorship election against Governor Oyebanji said the Governor’s efforts at advancing the state deserve commendation, particularly in the area of security, infrastructure and human capital development. 

He particularly lauded the Governor’s huge investment in the security sector, noting that the sustained commitment had contributed to the peace and security being enjoyed across the state.

Olueyede also hinted that the Governor’s visit also provided an opportunity to discuss ways of further strengthening security across the state and ensuring that the forthcoming general elections are conducted in a free, fair and credible manner.

The PDP chieftain also reiterated support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji, saying he would collaborate with the Governor to ensure that Ekiti State delivers a landslide victory for the President in the January 2027 general election, so that the President and the Governor can continue their good works.

 He said “Myself and Governor Oyebanji have been friends for a long time, we were in the same party, we diverged but we stick together and the Governor is a fantastic gentle man, kind, generous and he’s working hard for a greater and more prosperous Ekiti.

“ I commended him about three days ago, he is working hard on security of the state, his investments in infrastructure is commendable and apart from that, our meeting today is to secure the state further, we want to have free, fair and credible general election. We are also working together to deliver a landslide victory for the President who is doing a fantastic job and the Governor is also doing a fantastic job in Ekiti”.

Also in his remarks, Governor Oyebanji said his collaboaration with Chief Wole Oluyede was in the best interest of Ekiti people, stressing that their shared commitment to the development of the state remained the driving force behind their engagement.

While thanking Oluyede for his good spirit and commitment to the development of the state, the Governor noted that whenever they met, their discussion were always centered on the progress and advancement of the state. 

Governor Oyebanji maintained that the desire to find lasting solutions to the challenges confronting the state was another factor that bonded them together, adding that their common interest was to work towards achieving sustainable development and improving the wellbeing of Ekiti people.

Speaking concerning his long standing relationship with Dr Oluyede, the Governor said “ People don’t know this, myself and Dr Oluyede have come a long way. Dr Oluwole is one of the most committed Ekiti indigenes I have ever met and he belongs to the progressive family, his father is the pillar of the progressive politics in Ikere Ekiti”.

“And I must thank him for his generosity of spirit, for his commitment to the development of Ekiti State, anytime I see Dr Oluyede, he is always talking about the development of the state and that is what binds us together, the spirit of developing the state, finding solution to all the problems and working together in maintaining peace in the state and I am sure in the next few days, Ekiti people will see the result of our collaboration."

We’ve been honest with Budget Implementation for Four Years- Oyebanji

We’ve been honest with Budget Implementation for Four Years- Oyebanji 

…. Says govt targets 1,500 km of roads to ease transportation 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that the excellent budget performances under his administration in the last four years remains a huge testimony to the fact he had kept faith with the people in the fulfilment of promises made to them during budget preparations.

Governor Oyebanji stated unequivocally that he had neither betrayed the people, nor took their needs for granted, considering the strategic ways he captured their requests during town hall meetings preceding annual budget preparations. 

Governor Oyebanji spoke on Thursday evening, during a Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti Central Senatorial District, as part of preparations for the 2027 Budget, held in Aramoko Ekiti, Ekiti West Local Government Area. 

Going down memory lane, Governor Oyebanji said besides budgetary provisions, he made some promises in 2022 during electioneering campaigns, adding he didn't renege on this social contract taking cognisance of the quantum of projects he had executed across the council areas. 

The Governor also assured the people that his administration will use its collaboration with the World Bank through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) to deliver 1,500 kilometers of roads across the state to ease transportation challenges being faced by residents, with 235 kilometres expected to be covered under the third phase of RAAMP schedule to commence after the raining season. 

Bemoaning the burden of perennial flooding and gully erosion in Efon, Aramoko, and Ado Ekiti towns, the governor stated that his government had understudied the erosional occurrences pummeling the state, and now on the verge of mapping out strategy to tackle it headon.

Promising to improve medical facilities at the primary healthcare cadre, the Governor revealed that his government had renovated a total 110 health centres to buoy quality medicare to the people at the grassroots, promising to undertake more to reduce mortality and morbidity indices among the populace .

Expressing joy over the slump in the level of security threats in the state, Governor Oyebanji appreciated the traditional rulers for taking charge of the security situations through intelligence gathering and vigilance of their subjects to respond promptly to threatening and suspicions in their domains. 

"Go and check the records, I didn't betray the people's trust in the last four years. When I made promises, I would fulfil them. I did everything I promised. I am making some promises before you now, which I believe I will fulfil as long as I remain the governor of this state . 

"One thing I can say is that, we are together on this journey to make Ekiti great. I want to assure you that all your requests that will make lives better for you shall be done through direct response from the state or partnership. Some of the rural roads, which is now about 235 Kms were world bank projects that were done in partnership with the state government."

At the interactive session, the representatives of Ado, Ekiti west, Irepodun/Ifelodun, Ijero and 

Efon Local Governments, praised Governor Oyebanji for making Ekiti epicentre of development through prudent management of resources and running of inclusive governance that left no one behind in the scheme of things. 

Specifically, they saluted the governor for proper funding of the Local Council Development Areas that have brought development closer to the populace.

The representatives in their new requests made on behalf of their people, called for execution of more road connectivities, better electricity network , robust healthcare and ambulance services, erosion control, potable water supply, establishment of more public secondary schools in the 2027 budget to make lives meaningful for the citizens.

I ‘ll always respect Ekiti People as My Benevolent Employer, says Oyebanji

I ‘ll always respect Ekiti People as My Benevolent Employer, says Oyebanji 

...as PWDs hail gov's recruitment policy at town hall meeting 

As engagement with stakeholders entered the second day in preparation for the 2027 Budget in Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that he will continue to respect every Ekiti indigene, no matter the status, saying he considered the citizens as his employer who deserve attention at all times. 

The Governor commended the citizens for their sacrifices and support for his administration in the last four years, stressing that the landmark achievements of his administration were as a result of the support of the people. 

Governor Oyebanji stated these on Thursday, during the Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti South Senatorial District as part of preparations for the 2027 Budget, held in Igbara-Odo, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area of the State. 

At the all-inclusive engagement, traditional rulers, community leaders, people living with disabilities and other stakeholders across the district, pledged stronger support for the Governor’s administration in his second term, which begins on October 16, 2026, to ensure speedy delivery of his shared prosperity agenda.

Speaking at the interactive session, Governor Oyebanji said his administration would reintroduce five kilometre roads execution across the local government areas as a way of boosting accessibility and economic development in the rural areas. 

The Governor also promised to fastrack action on the disbursement of funds to market men and women to power commerce and productivity, adding that human capital development will remain a top priority of his administration.

On the consistent agitations for more development in Ekiti East Local Government Area, Governor Oyebanji, alluded to the council as Ekiti's gateway to the Northern region and promised to devise ways of wooing private developers to boost development projects in the area. 

"I have absolute respect to Ekiti people and will never disrespect them. You put us in this job. You are our employer, your voices needed to be heard and listened to. So this engagement is not a waste of time. It is designed to get your input to the development agenda of the government through your involvement in budget preparation. 

"I have listened to you patiently. I agree with our communities that we need to intensify efforts and provide more electricity facilities , effective road connectivities and more educational facilities that improve the welfare and wellbeing of our people". 

Justifying the second term ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Oyebanji boasted that those planning to rig the election and botch the reelection will fail in their evil plot, adding that Ekiti voters will stand by the President on account of his performance and the success of his economic policies.

"You have heard some people boasting that they will win the forthcoming election even without election. This is not going to work in this Tinubu's election. You saw what happened during our governorship election here in Ekiti. The election outcome would have been better, but the BVAS malfunctioned in some areas and some of our elderly people had to go back home after waiting for hours. 

"But in this coming presidential election, we are going to give double of what you gave to us to President Tinubu. I know that we can do it easily. 

"Let me say this emphatically, it is only him that can do this restructuring. He wouldn't have been able to do anything if he wants a second term at all costs, or if he is someone that is not strong willed. This is why he is being commended globally. Our people in Ekiti shouldn't disappoint him". 

Cataloguing the desires of their citizens, representatives of Ayekire Local Government and Onimesi of Imesi Ekiti, Oba Olatunji Olatunde, that of Ekiti Southwest Council, Chief Gbenga Agbona and Deacon Kayode Falola for Ekiti East, called for the revival of the five kilometre road projects to boost people's access, as well as uplift the aesthetic values of each town. 

To buffer flooding and associated disasters, they called on the government to expedite actions on erosion control in some towns in the area, while also help in extending electricity, healthcare facilities, educational utilities and siting of a higher institution in the zone to spur access to higher education.

In the same fashion, representative of Ikere Local Government and Sapetu of Ikere, Prof. Femi Babatola, that of Ise/Orun, Elder Tunji Falana, and Chief Abegunde Adedayo, who spoke on behalf of Emure council's budgetary needs, appealed for increased investments in power, road, health and education sectors, to open a vista of economic prosperity for the populace.

They appealed to government to focus copious attention on security development of the porous border posts , by engaging in consistent forest combing, to dislodge the criminal elements. 

Lauding Governor Oyebanji's recruitment policy, Mr. Damola Ogunleye, who spoke for the People Living With Disabilities, saluted the governor for ensuring that 5 percent of recent teacher’s recruitment were reserved for its members, as recommended by the Governor. He described this as a masterstroke that had helped in alleviating poverty and strengthen the doctrine of inclusivity. 

Revealing the government's efforts to entrench functional education in the system, the Education Commissioner, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, said the state now has a total of 958 primary and 200 secondary schools, with actions being taken to tackle dropout through free education and robust partnership with private institutions. 

Prominent personalities at the event were: the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders; and representatives of various communities.

MY SECOND TERM PROJECTS ‘LL BOOST COMMERCE, PRODUCTIVITY , SAYS OYEBANJI AT TOWN HALL MEETING ON 2027 BUDGET

MY SECOND TERM PROJECTS ‘LL BOOST COMMERCE, PRODUCTIVITY , SAYS OYEBANJI AT TOWN HALL MEETING ON 2027 BUDGET

…Says Ekiti’ll take Tinubu’s re-election seriously

…As monarchs, youths pledge more support for governor

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has assured that projects to be executed in his second term will be deliberately targeted at boosting commerce, enhancing productivity and stimulating sustainable business growth, with a view to deepening value addition and positioning the state’s economy on a higher trajectory.

The Governor also declared that Ekiti State would take the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential poll very seriously, pledging intensified mobilisation to increase the President’s vote tally in the state.

Governor Oyebanji spoke on Wednesday during a Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti North Senatorial District as part of preparations for the 2027 Budget, held in Ifaki-Ekiti.

At the engagement, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth representatives and other stakeholders across the district pledged stronger support for the Governor’s administration in his second term, which begins on October 16, 2026, to enable the delivery of his shared prosperity agenda.

Reiterating his commitment to inclusive governance, the Governor said the consultative approach adopted by his administration would be strengthened in the second term to deepen public participation and reinforce unity across the state.

He emphasized that government investments would be strategically channelled into critical sectors such as healthcare, electricity, road infrastructure and water supply, noting that such interventions would improve living standards and drive economic productivity.

“In our second term, whatever we are going to do must add value, because resources are limited. There must be value addition. We must catalyse productivity and ensure our people are productive. It is only when there is value that artisans like welders and auto mechanics can thrive and become prosperous,” the Governor said.

On local economic development, Oyebanji noted that his administration had made efforts to expand electricity access to some communities, adding that progress had been constrained by existing legal frameworks that limit states to power generation without distribution authority.

He reaffirmed his belief in participatory governance, stressing that community inputs would guide project prioritisation.

“Governance is about the people. We are what we are today because of you. You gave us your mandate, and we must continue to seek your counsel in delivering good governance,” he added.

The Governor also commended traditional rulers for their support, particularly in intelligence gathering, which he said had contributed significantly to improved security in the state. He, however, urged continued vigilance among residents.

Speaking on the 2027 presidential election, Oyebanji called on Ekiti voters to reciprocate President Tinubu’s support for the state by delivering higher votes.

He cited key federal appointments and infrastructure interventions benefiting Ekiti, including the emergence of top-ranking public office holders from the state, as evidence of the President’s commitment.

“We must show appreciation. It will not be enough to repeat previous figures. We must do more in the next election,” he said.

On infrastructure, the Governor disclosed that ongoing collaboration with the Federal Government had facilitated the award of major road projects, including the Ado-Ijan-Ilumoba-Ikole and Ado-Aramoko-Ita-Ore roads, adding that other critical roads would be addressed subsequently.

Providing sectoral updates, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani, revealed that over 300 nurses and 1,500 health assistants had been recruited in the last four years, alongside significant upgrades of primary and secondary healthcare facilities. He added that three new general hospitals had been approved for Ipao, Ikogosi and Awo-Ekiti.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof Bolaji Aluko, disclosed that over 500 boreholes had been constructed across the state, with an additional 110 proposed to ensure equitable water distribution.

In their remarks, traditional rulers and community representatives from across Ekiti North Senatorial District commended the Governor for ongoing development efforts and outlined priority needs for the 2027 Budget, including roads, electricity, water supply, healthcare and security.

They particularly praised the completion of key road projects and recent security interventions, while appealing for accelerated attention to infrastructure deficits in their respective communities.

Speaking for Ikole Local Government, the Alaaye of Oke Ayedun, Oba Femi Aribisala, appealed to government to speedily intervene in the council in the area of road, water and electricity sectors, lamenting that lack of good road access and poor electricity supply were constituting impediments to the growth of local economy. 

Representatives of Moba Local Government and Obaleo of Erinmope, Oba Sunday Aniyi, that of Ido/Osi and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro and that of Oye Local Government and Onisan of Isan Ekiti, Oba Gabriel Adejuwon, called for more attention on roads, electricity, security and water supply to enhance the welfare and well-being of the populace in the 2027 budget.

Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders; and representatives of various community groups.

OYEBANJI HANDS OVER 100 NEWLY PURCHASED OPERATION VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

OYEBANJI HANDS OVER 100 NEWLY PURCHASED OPERATION VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

 ….Vows to sustain Ekiti State’s status as Safest state in Nigeria 

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the state’s status as the safest state in Nigeria, assuring residents that his government would continue to strengthen the security architecture of the state to ensure security of lives and property across the state

The Governor gave the assurance on Monday in Ado Ekiti while presenting 100 newly purchased operational vehicles to security agencies in the state to further enhance their capacity to combat crime and respond effectively to security challenges. 

The beneficiary security agencies include the Nigerian Police, Department of State Service (DSS), Nigeria Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency , Nigeria Prison Service, and the Amotekun Corps. 

Speaking during presentation ceremony held at Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Aso Ekiti on Monday, Governor Oyebanji said the initiative is part of his administration’s sustained commitment to protecting lives and property as well as ensuring that Ekiti maintains the accolade of the safest and most secure state in Nigeria.

The Governor maintained that security had remained a top priority of his administration since assumption of office, noting that his government had, over the years, provided various forms of support to security agencies, including patrol vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, military vests, helmets and other protective equipment.

According to him, the latest provision of 100 security vehicles would further enhance the operational capacity of security personnel, particularly in patrol and field operations.

He added that the intervention is in addition to other investments and monthly financial support provided by his administration to security agencies operating in the state.

The Governor also used the opportunity to commend all security agencies operating in the state for their professionalism, skills and dexterity at combating crime as he urged them to intensify their activities ahead of the forthcoming inauguration slated for October and the presidential election in January. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stressed the need for increased visibility, faster response and greater operational agility added, “To our security chiefs, I say to whom much is given, much is expected. With the introduction of these vehicles, I expect to see increased action, strategic visibility, faster response and greater operational agility on the part of our men and women.”

He further urged security chiefs to ensure that the vehicles and other resources provided by the government were deployed effectively to protect residents and maintain security across Ekiti State.

“Today’s occasion is testament to the resolve of our administration to ensure the security of lives and property in Ekiti State remains the number one priority of our government. Since our assumption in office, we have shown serious commitment to the security of the citizens and this has led to the selection of Ekiti State as one of the most secured States in the country. 

“Two years ago, we also distributed patrol vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, military vests, helmets and other protective equipment to security agencies. Today, we are providing 100 units of security vehicles, primarily for the operations and monitoring of personnel and the implementation of the state’s security initiatives.

“Apart from the vehicles we are providing today, our administration will continue to support security agencies with all necessary resources allocated to their work. We remain committed to our regular monthly financial support to all the agencies, while also enhancing the capacity of our state-owned security institutions. He stated.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Special Adviser Security Matters. Brig. General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd), who said Governor Oyebanji’s administration has continued to demonstrate in practical terms strong commitment to the safety of lives and property in the state as evident in peace the state had continue to enjoy, maintained that the peaceful atmosphere had attracted positive developments to the state.  

While explaining that the sustained peace has also contributed to Ekiti being ranked among the most peaceful and safest state in the country, Gen. Ogundana added that the new operational vehicles would enable security agencies to respond promptly to security challenges and further improve their mobility and effectiveness in protecting lives and property across the state.

In their separate goodwill messages, the representatives of the Commissioner of Police, DCP Mohammed Musa and the Commanding Officer, 148 Battalion, Ikere, Lt. Col. Dimka expressed their appreciation to the Governor for his continued support and cooperation with the security agencies in the state. They said the Governor’s commitment to strengthen the security architecture has contributed immensely to the relative peace and security being enjoyed across the state.

They assured the Governor that the vehicles would be deployed appropriately to further enhance their mobility, responsiveness and operational effectiveness of security personnel particularly in situations where prompt response is critical.

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo and Service Chiefs, among others.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES TINUBU'S WIFE ON 66TH BIRTHDAY

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES TINUBU'S WIFE ON 66TH BIRTHDAY 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on her 66th birthday.

The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said the 66th birthday of the wife of the President offers an opportunity to celebrate her virtues, worth, impact and legacies.

Governor Oyebanji said Senator Tinubu has acquitted herself well in her role as the Mother of the Nation and her compassion has given succour and positively changed the lives of many Nigerians since she became First Lady in 2023.

Governor Oyebanji described Senator Tinubu as a pillar of support for the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GCFR over the years and in the quest for a better, stronger and more prosperous nation.

He hailed the impact of Senator Tinubu as a teacher who contributed to the nation's manpower development, politician, first lady of Lagos State, a distinguished Senator in the National Assembly and now as the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Governor Oyebanji noted that the First Lady, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has touched many lives in virtually all parts of the country in the areas of education, poverty alleviation, empowerment of the vulnerable citizens like the orphans, physically challenged, the aged, market men and women, among others.

He emphasized that beneficiaries of the Senator Tinubu's legacies abound in Ekiti State noting that students from the state benefited from scholarships and laptops computers, female farmers got financial support and farming inputs while widows and senior citizens received foodstuff, cash grants and other largesse through Renewed Hope Initiative.

These, according to him, are in addition to the ICT centre facilitated for the Ekiti State University, Ado- Ekiti by the First Lady, whom he described as a good friend of Ekiti and a strong supporter of the administration’s development efforts in the State. 

The Governor noted that Ekiti State has benefited from Senator Tinubu's milk of human kindness through her personal generosity and the platform of her pet project citing her recent visit to the State during which thousands of traders were empowered and the inauguration of a state-of-the-art ICT Centre at Ekiti State University under the Renewed Hope Initiative.

Governor Oyebanji prayed God to spare the life of the First Lady and grant her long life, sound health and wished her many happy returns of the day on behalf of the government and the good people of Ekiti State.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI TO PRESENT OPERATIONAL VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

PRESS RELEASE

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI TO PRESENT OPERATIONAL VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

In a bid to further strengthen the security architecture in Ekiti State, the State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, will on Monday present newly acquired operational vehicles to security agencies in the State.

The presentation ceremony, which will involve the formal handover of the vehicles to heads of the various security agencies, will take place at the Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House Grounds, Ado-Ekiti.

The provision of the operational vehicles underscores the determination of the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration to rid the State of crime and criminality by equipping security agencies with the necessary logistics and operational support.

This initiative is part of the BAO administration’s sustained investment in the safety, welfare and overall wellbeing of residents, in line with its Shared Prosperity agenda.

Signed

Olayinka Oyebode

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor

20-09-2026