BREAKING: 20 Kano athletes and officials die in road accident while returning from national sports festival in Ogun

Tragedy struck as no fewer than 20 atheletes and officials have died in road accident while returning from the national sports festival tagged Gateway Games 2024 in Ogun State.

The tragic incident occurred on Saturday in Dakatsalle town, about 50 kilometres from Kano, as the team was approaching the final stretch of their journey home.

Those who lost their lives in the crash include athletes, a journalist, medical personnel, and sports administrators, according to preliminary reports from emergency responders and eyewitnesses.

The Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Fagge, who confirmed the incident, said many other athletes sustained various degree of injuries following the fatal accident on Saturday.

“As I am talking to you now, we have counted 19 dead bodies,” Fagge said.

Similarly, Ado Salisu, a former Vice President of SWAN, said victims were still being conveyed to Kura General Hospital

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Kano Sector Command, Abdullahi Labaran, also confirmed the accident.

He however said that he could not confirm the number of deaths and injured persons.

“We just received the report of the accident, so, I cannot confirm the exact number of casualties at the moment,” he added.

MOBA LG Chair, Fadugba Commends Gov. Oyebanji for Boosting Business Environment

The Chairman of Moba Local Government, Hon. Fadugba Bamidele has lauded the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, for fostering an enabling environment that has allowed businesses to thrive in the state.

Hon Fadugba gave the commendation on Wednesday during the flag off of “Ikun Milk Day” by Ekiti state Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji which is a weekly free milk programme for primary school pupils in Ikun Ekiti, an initiative by Promasidor Nigeria Limited, the company managing Ikun Dairy farm, as part of the company’s social responsibility to the host community.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the event, The Chairman described Governor Oyebanji as a visionary leader whose programmes and policies have significantly attracted and strengthened public-private partnership in the state.

He maintained that the Governor’s commitment to creating a business-friendly climate has not only enhance economic growth in the state but has also deliver tangible benefits to the grassroots.

The Chairman explained that the Ikun free milk initiative is expected to supply free milk to all the primary school pupils in Ikun Ekiti, thereby improving their dietary intake and overall academic performance.

While expressing his appreciation to Promasidor Nigeria Ltd for their impactful corporate social responsibility and their dedication to improving the lives of children through the Ikun free milk initiative, the Chairman assured the company that the local government would continue to partner and support the company so that they can attain their top potential.

Ekiti 2026: Traditional Chieftaincy Title Holders Endorse Gov Oyebanji’s re-election

The Association of Ekiti State Traditional Chieftaincy Title Holders has declared Governor Biodun Oyebanji as its sole candidate for the 2026 governorship election in the state, citing his transformative policies which have positively impacted the lives of the people as their reason for the endorsement.

Speaking during their annual meeting on Thursday in Ado Ekiti, the Chairman of the Association, High Chief Oluwole Ogunsakin, the Asona of Ikole Ekiti, highlighted key achievements of Governor Oyebanji in infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and agriculture reforms as evidence of his dedication to the state’s progress, which according to him have brought a new lease of life to all communities across the state.

Chief Ogunsakin also commended the Governor for his exceptional commitment to the welfare of the elderly in the state, particularly the free health scheme for senior citizens, describing it as a transformative initiative that ensure the elderly have access to quality healthcare service without financial barriers.

Moving the endorsement motion, which was ratified through a thunderous voice vote, the Elemo of Ilawe, Chief Agbona Gbenga stated that the Governor has brought a tangible progress to all corners of the state, stressing that this efforts have transformed lives and demonstrated the Governor’s dedication to inclusive governance.

Emphasizing the importance of continuity, which according to him is crucial to ensuring the continuation of impactful work, Chief Agbona said the association remains committed to safeguarding the pace of development in the state under Governor Oyebanji’s leadership and vowed to mobilize support across all communities to ensure no individual or group disrupt the ongoing progress.

In his response, Governor Oyebanji expressed his gratitude to the association for their overwhelming support and prayers for his administration, describing the endorsement as a call to further service.

Reflecting on his administration’s journey over the past two and half years, the Governor said he has served Ekiti people with sincerity of heart and has fulfilled all promise made to Ekiti people 

While assuring them of his continued commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy, the Governor promised to intensify efforts to improve the living standard in the state and uphold the integrity of traditional institutions.

The Governor also used the opportunity to charge the Chiefs to be more security consciously and not allow anyone to disrupt the peace of the state as the state approaches election period.

“Let me start by thanking you for your support and prayers and for accepting me as a son and for your cooperation with our royal fathers, I listened to the Chairman’s speech and I was very impressed when he said that the association’s work is to compliment the efforts of the royal fathers.

“Let me also use this opportunity to tell you what we have been doing for the past two and half years, when we came to beg for your vote we told our people that this government will serve them wholeheartedly and since then, I stand before God and you, when I woke up this morning and I was asking myself that is there any area that I have defaulted in my promise to Ekiti people, I said None, I can stand here and say that I have served Ekiti people with all the power given to me by God”. The Governor asserted.

Inaugural Meeting of the State Endorsement Committee: A Unified Voice for Ekiti's Future

In a proactive effort to ensure the continuation of the remarkable initiatives championed by His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the Governor of Ekiti State, a diverse group of distinguished politicians and technocrats has convened to spearhead a unified endorsement campaign. This initiative seeks to amplify the voices of Ekiti citizens by consolidating various endorsements, the latest being from the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN). This overwhelming support for continuity reflects a profound sentiment across the three Senatorial districts of Ekiti State, as demonstrated by APC stalwarts, illustrating a strong desire for ongoing progress in the state.

Among the notable members of the State Endorsement Committee is Hon. Femi Bamisile, a former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly and a respected member of the House of Representatives. Hon. Bamisile, who is widely admired by his constituents and currently serving his second term, has been entrusted with heading the Mobilization Committee. A staunch supporter of Governor Oyebanji, Bamisile's extensive credentials include serving as the Committee Chairman for Delegated Legislation and as the Deputy Chairman of the Malta Friendship Committee in the House of Representatives. His academic achievements, including a PhD in Public Sector Governance and Administration, underscore his unwavering commitment to effective governance.

Rt. Hon. Taiwo Franklin Olatunbosun, a prominent figure in Igbemo-Ekiti and a former Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, will bring a wealth of experience to the Media Endorsement Committee. Renowned for his exceptional communication skills and grassroots connection, Chief Olatunbosun has previously led the Ekiti State House of Assembly Commission and currently serves as the Commissioner for Information. His leadership of the Media Committee is poised to enhance the committee's public image and outreach.

Brigadier-General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd), a veteran of the Nigerian Army and a distinguished security expert, embodies the principles of military discipline and political acumen. His illustrious career includes pivotal roles such as Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Artillery and Chairman of the Peace Committee for Farmers and Herdsmen. General Ogundana’s leadership is vital in maintaining security throughout the endorsement activities. As a Special Adviser on Security, his involvement will provide reassurance to all stakeholders regarding a safe and secure process.

Also contributing to the committee's success is Princess Adetoun Agboola, a Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion. A former educator, Princess Agboola has made significant strides in advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Her transition from teaching to politics has positioned her as a key influencer, and her role within the Mobilization Committee will undoubtedly enhance her impactful contributions to the community.

Mrs. Mary Oso Omotosho, the Director General of Community Communication, is a versatile grassroots politician with extensive experience across multiple political roles. She occupies several key positions within the committee, serving as Secretary of the Media and Venue Committee and as a member of both the Mobilization and Entertainment Committees. Her multifaceted involvement exemplifies her dedication to ensuring the successful execution of the committee's plans.

With such a distinguished group and many more in place, the State Endorsement Committee is well-positioned to unify the diverse endorsements received for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, channeling the collective aspirations of Ekiti citizens into a formidable campaign for continuity and progress. The committee aims not only to facilitate a successful endorsement process but also to reinforce the foundation laid by the Governor, paving the way for sustained development and a brighter future for Ekiti State.

2ND ANNIVERSARY: NIGERIA MAKING PROGRESS UNDER TINUBU, SAYS OYEBANJI

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for providing a remarkable leadership in the last two years.

Governor Oyebanji hailed President Tinubu for stabilizing the ship of the state which he said has been successfully anchored with life-changing policies that are having positive effects on the economy and other key sectors.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, the Ekiti Governor hailed the courage exhibited by the President in tackling the myriads of problems he met on ground, noting the the right solutions provided have brought some relief to Nigerians.

Governor Oyebanji noted that President Tinubu's visionary leadership and conscientious pursuit of his administration's Renewed Hope agenda has been yielding dividends and strengthened the polity to the admiration of many Nigerians.

According to the Ekiti helmsman, it is fulfilling and heartwarming to note that under two years of the Tinubu Presidency, Nigeria is now in a better shape than at any time in the past decade based on microeconomic and macroeconomic indices on ground.

The Ekiti Governor hailed President Tinubu's investment in agriculture, mining, blue economy, tourism and other key sectors which he believes would translate to better standards of living and generate more jobs for Nigerians.

Governor Oyebanji also commended the President for his economic reforms which is making more resources available to the sub nationals, thereby enhancing growth and development across the states of the federation. 

He further expressed gratitude of the people of Ekiti State to the President for assisting the state with empowerment initiatives, capital projects, appointments of deserving Ekiti indigents into prominent positions and siting of a new Federal University among several other benefits.

Governor Oyebanji urged the people of Ekiti at home and in Diaspora to keep supporting the President in working to realize his vision for a greater and more prosperous Nigeria in years to come.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I wish the President a happy anniversary and pray that God Almighty continues to guide and order his steps aright”, the statement added.

CHILDREN'S DAY: BRIGHTER FUTURE AWAITS EKITI CHILDREN, SAYS OYEBANJI

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated children in the state as they celebrate this year’s Children's Day. 

Governor Oyebanji said his administration appreciates the value of children and would stop at nothing to invest in their human capital development for them to be well positioned as leaders and frontliners in different spheres of life.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, the Governor described children as special gifts from God that must be nurtured in the right way for the society to benefit from their God-given potentials.

The Governor who assured that a brighter and a rewarding future await Ekiti children, said there is need for a synergy between government, private sector, families, corporate organizations and religious organizations to invest in the future of the children for the betterment of the society.

He noted that his administration has committed and still commits enormous resources to child care and development in the areas of education, healthcare delivery, safe learning environment, Rights protection and other forms of support to expose them to better standard of living.

The Governor stressed that the free education policy in the state, provision of instructional materials and top-notch infrastructural facilities at public schools are aimed at ensuring that all children have access to qualitative education.

Besides, the Governor further stated that his administration rigorously implements constitutional and legal frameworks to protect the rights of the children which has made the state a model in ensuring that the dignity of the children is upheld.

The Governor urged parents, guardians and teachers to collaborate with his administration to give the children platforms to realize their dreams of becoming great men and women in the future.

He rejoiced with children in the state for witnessing their Day this year which he said brings to the fore the need for stakeholders to provide the right environment for them to flourish and contribute their quota to the development of the state and the nation.

Ex-Gov Mimiko Commends Oyebanji's Transformative Leadership in Ekiti

A former  Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko has praised Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji for his impactful leadership and dedication to the state’s  development, stressing that the state has witnessed unprecedented progress under his leadership

Dr Mimiko, who gave the commendation in Ado Ekiti on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s office in Ado- Ekiti, said Governor Oyebanji has successfully combined competence and character to drive meaningful development in the state.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the visit, Dr Mimiko, who applauded the giant strides made by Governor Oyebanji in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, noted that his rare blend of qualities has enabled him to implement impactful policies, foster unity among stakeholders, and prioritize the welfare of the people.

Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with Oyebanji even before the creation of Ekiti State, Dr Mimiko expressed satisfaction with the pace of progress in Ekiti, noting that Oyebanji had shown preparedness for governance, having undergone the required tutelage and imbibed essential political values.

“Well, let me start by saying that what I have seen in terms of outcomes, I am not disappointed. I feel good about it and like I said Biodun Oyebanji is prepared for the job, he went through required tutelage because apart from the technical competence, there is also the character. This is a man who is good in the head and is good in his heart and that has translated to the transformation we can see in the state.

“The Governor has also deployed his personality cachet which is why every past Governor in the state irrespective of political persuasion have endorsed him for second term which speaks a lot about what he has been able to achieve and also his relationship with people, I am very proud of him”, the former Governor asserted.  

In his response, Governor Oyebanji, who expressed gratitude to the former Ondo Governor for the visit, described Mimiko as his political mentor and the leader  who discovered his political talents, said the visit was long anticipated. 

Governor Oyebanji, while explaining how Mimiko introduced him to politics and instilled in him values of honesty, competence, and integrity, attributed much of his leadership style, including his simplicity and focus on people-centred governance to the mentorship re received from Dr Mimiko.

Speaking about the former Governor, Governor Oyebanji said “Governor Mimiko is a mentor to me and I used to tell people that if Ekiti State was not created, I would have been a critical part of his government. I worked with him closely and I studied him. He was my first political contact and he instilled some values in me. Values of honesty, values of competence, of being satisfied  with little, and values of living for the people were picked from him” the Governor stated.

“You’ re a true democrat”, President Tinubu, Oyebanji, Sanwo-Olu hail Olusi at Chieftaincy ceremony

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji and his Lagos State counterpart, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Saturday hailed the Chairman, Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, as a true democrat and a nation builder who deserved to be celebrated.

The President and the two governors gave the commendation in Ado- Ekiti during Prince Olusi’s installation as Atobatele of Ado-Ekiti by HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, at the Ewi’s palace, Ado- Ekiti. 

 

Speaking at the colourful ceremony, President Tinubu, who was represented by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, described Prince Olusi as a “true democrat” whose selfless service and commitment to good governance have made a lasting impact on the Nigeria political landscape.

 

Commending Prince Olusi’s contributions to democratic and national development, the President praised the octogenarian politician for his steadfast dedication to unity and progress of the country, stressing that his life is a testament to true leadership and patriotism .

"Let me just say on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I congratulate Prince Tajudeen Olusi who has been honoured here today. Prince Olusi is someone who is loved and revered by the President. This is not only a honour to Prince Olusi, it is also an honour to Lagos State and Yoruba land. 

“As far as we are concerned, this is also a lesson to all of us that we should do only those things that will promote the unity of Nigeria." the President asserted

Governor Oyebanji, in his remarks, hailed Prince Olusi as a distinguished leader who has played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s democracy.

The Governor noted that the chieftaincy title conferred on the elder statesman is a befitting recognition of his decades of selfless service to the nation.

While emphasizing that the conferment reflects wisdom of the traditional institution in celebrating deserving individuals, Governor Oyebanji said Prince Olusi’s integrity, leadership, and commitment to the welfare of the people are truly exemplary.

"You are revered in Lagos and it speaks to the kind of person you are. On behalf of the government and people of Ekiti State, we congratulate you on this well deserved honour and when I look at the calibre of entourage from Lagos led by the Governor himself, that speaks to the kind of person Baba is. He is a model of humility, one of the few progressive politicians still standing today and he has mentored a lot of people”, the Governor added. 

Also speaking at the event, Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described Prince Olusi as a unifying figure whose influence extends beyond Lagos State, adding that his commitment to fostering unity and progress has set a benchmark for leadership across the nation.

Governor Sanwo-Olu Described the conferment as honour done to Lagos State and Yoruba land, stressing that Prince Olusi is not just a leader but a builder of structure that promotes growth and stability.

“We just witnessed the traditional installation ceremony of one of our leading political fathers, not only in Lagos or Southwest but in Nigeria, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, a Lagos prince now the Atobatele of Ado-Ekiti, we are indeed happy and this has shown that, first the diversity in accepting the cultural relevance of the two states and it is also an opportunity to thank and acknowledge him. Not only he is one of our political fathers, he is also a man that has earned his place, Sanwo-Olu said.

The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, while conferring the title of Atobatele on Prince Olusi said conferment of traditional titles on illustrious sons of Ado-Ekiti and other individuals are done in recognition of their exceptional leadership and sundry contribution to society, adding that the awards are not merely ceremonial but are meant to build bridges between the past and the present as well as the capacity of traditional institutions to cope with modern challenges.

Oba Adejugbe affirmed that the review of the awardee's educational and cultural credentials, and his contribution to society attested to his leadership qualities, among other considerations that made the Ewi- in -Council unanimously adjudge him worthy of the exalted title and to be traditionally celebrated by Ado-Ekiti kingdom.

The frontline traditional ruler stressed that the lifelong impact of Prince Olusi can be seen in the advancement of education, in community service, and in cultural development having helped in the modernization of traditional curricula, such that both the moral and intellectual aspects of Islamic education are adequately addressed.

In his response, the new Atobatele of Ado Ekiti, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, who expressed his gratitude to Oba Adejugbe and Ewi-in-Council for honouring him with the chieftaincy title, said the recognition would further strengthen his resolve to mentor the next generation of leaders and work tirelessly for the unity and prosperity of the Yoruba land and the country at large

Describing the honour as a significant milestone in his life and a testament to the enduring values of service, unity, and leadership, Prince Olusi stated that the conferment represents a deep cultural ties and shared values that bind the Yoruba people and promote harmony across the nation.