NSITF Board Chairman, Hon. Sola Olofin, Celebrates Senator Oluremi Tinubu at 65

The Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) Management Board, Hon. Sola Olofin, has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on the occasion of her 65th birthday.

Hon. Olofin described Senator Tinubu as a woman of uncommon grace, resilience, and compassion whose life of service continues to inspire countless Nigerians, particularly women and youths across the nation.

According to him, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has, over the years, distinguished herself as a mother of the nation, a seasoned legislator, and an advocate for social justice, education, and empowerment. He noted that her impact, both as a three-term Senator and now as First Lady, reflects her deep commitment to the development of Nigeria and the wellbeing of her people.

“On this special day, I heartily celebrate our dear First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a woman of virtue and vision. Her dedication to uplifting the less privileged, championing women empowerment, and fostering unity and progress in our nation stands as a legacy for generations to come,” Hon. Olofin said.

He further prayed for God’s continued guidance, protection, and strength for the celebrant as she supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in steering the affairs of the country.

Hon. Sola Olofin, on behalf of the NSITF Management Board, extended warm wishes to Senator Tinubu for a long life filled with good health, divine wisdom, and greater accomplishments in service to humanity.

NSITF Board Chairman, Hon. Shola Olofin, Applauds President Tinubu’s Role in Restoring Fubara, Amaewhule, and Others

The Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) Management Board, Hon. Shola Olofin, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive and reconciliatory intervention in restoring Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, and other key political stakeholders in Rivers State to their rightful positions.

Hon. Olofin, in a statement made available to newsmen, described President Tinubu’s action as a demonstration of true statesmanship and commitment to the unity, peace, and stability of Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He noted that the resolution brokered by the President has not only restored harmony within Rivers State but has also rekindled the confidence of Nigerians in the ability of the Federal Government to promote justice, fairness, and inclusiveness across the federation.

He further explained that the Rivers political crisis had threatened governance and development in the state, but President Tinubu’s timely leadership ensured that the situation was handled with wisdom, tact, and a deep sense of responsibility.

“President Tinubu has once again proven himself as a leader who places national interest above personal or partisan considerations. His bold intervention in restoring Governor Fubara, Speaker Amaewhule, and other leaders is a testament to his vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria,” Olofin said.

The NSITF Chairman also appealed to all stakeholders in Rivers State to embrace the renewed peace and work together for the progress and development of the state. He emphasized that politics should not be allowed to overshadow the delivery of good governance and dividends of democracy to the people.

Hon. Olofin reaffirmed his commitment, as Chairman of the NSITF Management Board, to continue supporting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in advancing social protection, workers’ welfare, and economic stability across the nation.

He urged Nigerians to rally behind the President and give him the needed support to implement policies that would bring lasting prosperity and unity to the country.

Ekiti Gets First Inclusive School as Oyebode Hands Over Adaptive Learning Facilities in Ikole-Ekiti

History was made on Thursday as the Irepodun Community Pilot School, Ikole-Ekiti, was officially handed over to the state government as the first inclusive school in Ekiti. 

The project, spearheaded and donated by the Former Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Akintunde Oyebode, features retrofitted adaptive classrooms and facilities designed to provide children with special needs equal access to quality education alongside their peers.

The newly completed facility was handed over to the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion, headed by Princess Adetoun Agboola, in a colourful ceremony witnessed by dignitaries including the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye (representing Governor Biodun Oyebanji), Special Adviser on Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, former Attorney General, Barr. Wale Fapohunda (SAN), Hon. Dapo Karounwi, the Elekole in Council, represented by Chief Olotin and community leaders, among others. 

Hon. Oyebode, while addressing pressmen, said his vision for the project was driven by compassion and the urgent need to reduce the struggles faced by children with disabilities in accessing education.

“This project is about giving every child a fair chance. Before now, children with special needs in Ikole and neighbouring towns had to travel far to find inclusive schools. This new facility eliminates that burden and ensures they can learn in a supportive environment close to home,” he said.

He explained that the classrooms were carefully designed to meet inclusive education standards, stressing that the gesture was not charity but an investment in human dignity and the future of Ekiti State.

The Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, described the event as a major milestone in Ekiti’s journey toward mainstreaming children with disabilities. 

She noted that the Federal Ministry of Education had urged states to develop actionable work plans for Inclusive Education and Ekiti was already taking bold steps in that direction under Governor Oyebanji.

“Inclusive education ensures that children with disabilities learn in the same classrooms as their non-disabled peers. It fosters empathy, equity and opportunity. Hon. Oyebode has again shown his commitment to people with disabilities in Ekiti by initiating this groundbreaking project,” Agboola said.

She further disclosed that parents of registered children had been given tokens to purchase uniforms, a step she said would encourage immediate enrollment and early resumption of the children in school. 

Speaking on behalf of Governor Oyebanji, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye praised the initiative, describing it as a vital complement to the administration’s people-centred policies.

He said the project shows that private individuals and government can work together to create an inclusive and enabling environment for every child, saying Hon. Oyebode has shown great compassion, with a call on other well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters to emulate the gesture of giving to society. 

Hon Aribasoye reaffirmed the commitment of the Ekiti State Government to providing an enabling environment for the people living with disabilities across the state. 

Also speaking, Special Adviser for Information, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, highlighted the importance of private contributions to public development. 

He noted that government cannot provide all infrastructure alone, stressing that initiatives like Oyebode’s are a great addition to humanity.

High Chief Shayo Okunola, who represented the Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, conveyed the monarch’s appreciation to Hon. Oyebode, describing him as a worthy ambassador of the town; just as he assured him of the community’s continuous support in his political journey.

He expressed the belief that the opening of the school means that children with special needs no longer have to endure long commutes to access quality education without discrimination.

Craneburg pledges job security for Ekiti indigenes, as Government strengthens partnership on the Local Employment Drive

Craneburg Construction Company Limited has given fresh assurances that Ekiti State indigenes engaged on the ongoing Ekiti State ring-road project will remain employed and will be redeployed to other company projects after the contract ends.

The pledge came during a working visit to the company’s Lagos head office by the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content, Mr Olalekan Ijidale, who was received by Craneburg’s Head of Procurement, Mr Fouad G. Boulos.

Mr Ijidale commended Craneburg for complying with the state’s local-content guidelines and actively recruiting Ekiti indigenes across national offices and project sites. 

He explained that Ekiti is the only state in the country with Bureau of Local Content, noting that the policy had created jobs for many indigenes and produced a “tremendous” socio-economic impact by helping to prevent capital flight from the state.

“Our people have been benefiting from projects executed in Ekiti because the money is from the taxes they pay. They are the ones financing all projects being executed across the state, and they must benefit from their efforts. When companies hire locally and invest in local skills, families are supported, and the state’s economy grows,” Ijidale added.

He re-emphasised the State government's commitment to institutionalise local content, a policy he described as central to protecting local jobs, compensating the taxpayers and keeping project value within the state.

Responding, Mr Boulos reiterated Craneburg’s commitment to the workforce already hired for the ring-road project, saying the company would continue to engage Ekiti workers even after the project’s completion and would redeploy them to other worksites where needed. 

He also pledged to inform the Bureau of Local Content whenever vacancies arise that could be filled by Ekiti indigenes.

Both parties agreed to maintain close communication to ensure smooth redeployment of workers and to monitor ongoing compliance with the state’s local-content framework.

Ekiti Insists on Local Content in Public Projects, Warns Contractors on Compliance

The Ekiti State Government has declared that ongoing public projects in the state capital must translate directly into jobs and business opportunities for local artisans, vendors, and small businesses.

Director-General of the State Bureau of Local Content, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, who announced this when he led an enforcement and monitoring exercise on Monday, said the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji would not tolerate contractors sidelining Ekiti people in the execution of government contracts.

“Our mandate is simple: every public project must deliver real socio-economic benefits to our people. Contractors must engage local artisans, hire local labour, and source materials from within the state wherever possible. This is not negotiable,” Ijidale warned.

During the inspection, the Bureau engaged Rutnael Projects Limited, the contractor handling the remodelling of the historic Adekunle Fajuyi Memorial Park, where the project manager, Arch. Akinola Olayinka, assured officials that Ekiti workers would be fully involved and that materials would be sourced locally. 

“We are committed to compliance. Ekiti people will be engaged and we will document all local procurement as the work progresses,” he pledged.

The monitoring team also visited five other major projects, including the proposed Government House Chalet handled by Solarboard Construction Company, the new Senators’ Lodge within the Government House premises by Aloreck Construction Company Limited. 

Other places were the rehabilitation of Ado–Ijan–Iluomoba–Imesi Road (Phase I) by Dipcrest Construction Company Limited, the rehabilitation of Okemesi–Ido Ile–Ita Ido Ekiti Road by Banky Construction Company and the construction of Ekiti State Indoor Sports Hall by Aron Nigeria Limited.

Hon. Ijidale emphasised that the Bureau will not rely on verbal promises but on verifiable evidence, stressing the need for contractors to submit updated implementation schedules, payrolls of local artisans, procurement records and sub-contracting plans within two weeks. 

He added that spot checks, documentation reviews, and engagement with artisan associations would be used to track compliance.

“The aim is to create jobs, strengthen local supply chains, and grow the capacity of our artisans and small businesses. Any contractor that fails to meet these requirements risks sanctions,” he warned.

According to him, the state’s broader vision is to ensure that public investments leave lasting economic value for Ekiti residents beyond roads, buildings and monuments. 

“Projects must not only be delivered on time and to specification, but they must also deliver tangible benefits to the people of Ekiti. That is the standard we will enforce,” he submitted.

Oyebanji, at JTB Retreat, harps on effective, equitable tax system….reaffirms commitment to National Tax Reform

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has called on members of the Joint Tax Board (JTB), the apex body for all tax authorities in Nigeria, to ensure effective and equitable tax system in the country, in a bid to ensure the fulfilment of the Tax Reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently passed by the National Assembly.

The Governor stated this at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Joint Tax Board Strategic Retreat held at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Ikogosi-Ekiti on Friday. 

Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed the commitment of his administration towards the implementation of the National Tax Reforms, noting that the importance of a robust tax system in driving economic growth and citizens’ welfare cannot be over emphasized. 

The Governor commended President Tinubu for proposing a far-reaching reform aimed at lifting the living standards of citizens which, according to him, is truly transformative and a collective fulfilment of the social contract that reinforces democratic governance for the existence of the country.

He explained that the key objectives of the bill are aimed at deepening the tax base, enhance revenue mobilization, simplify compliance procedures, foster transparency and accountability across revenue agencies, as well as encourage digitalization in tax administration. He added that the implementation of the bill next year will reshape process of revenue mobilization and delivery of sustainable development.

Governor Oyebanji charged participants at the retreat which included Executive Chairmen of Internal Revenue Services of the 36 states of the federation to effectively deliberate on the implications of the law to national development which he described as a pivotal shift towards a resilient and self-reliant economy to achieve transformative policy.

Commending the State’s Internal Revenue Service led by its Chairman, Mr Olaniran Olatona for their professionalism and strategic innovation, the Governor gladly revealed that his administration had been able to gear up internally generated revenue of the state from N650Million to over N2Billion within 26 months serving as base for providing critical funding to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

“With the signing of these Tax Reform Bills by the President, and the planned commencement of implementation starting from January 2026, we have been presented with a historic opportunity to reshape how our country mobilizes revenue, fosters compliance, and delivers sustainable development. 

“The courage and vision of Mr President deserve our highest commendation as we align with his determination to reposition Nigeria for greatness. These reforms will shape the trajectory of Nigeria’s economy for years to come.

“We, in Ekiti State, are committed to implementing these national reforms effectively and efficiently. We recognize the importance of a robust tax system in driving economic growth and enhancing citizen welfare. During your stay, I encourage you to see how we have channelled every kobo generated into projects that directly impact the lives of our people—a key factor in the high levels of voluntary compliance we have witnessed. 

“In a tangible show of support for our Internal Revenue Service, I am pleased to announce that I will be commissioning the new, Ekiti Revenue House within the next four weeks.

“Beyond this retreat, I invite you to see Ekiti as a prime destination for investment. We offer a stable, reform-minded government, a highly literate and trainable workforce, vast opportunities in agriculture, The Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ), tourism, and solid minerals, all within a secure and peaceful environment conducive to business growth. 

In his remarks, the Chairman, Joint Tax Board, Mr Zacch Adedeji, who commended Governor Oyebanji providing effective leadership for internal revenue service to thrive in the state noted that the theme of the retreat, “Re-imagining the Nigeria tax eco-system: harnessing the four tax reform laws as game changers in tax administration” was apt and critically chosen to enforce President Tinubu’s tax reform nationally.

Adedeji, who was represented by the Coordinating Director of Federal Internal Revenue Service Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar. commended Ekiti state citizens for their voluntary compliance to tax payment because of the performance of the Governor whom he said has done the right thing by investing the people’s money on their welfare which helped in moving the internally generated revenue of the state high.

The Chairman, Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Olaniran Olatona expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji who had been a pillar of support to the process of internally generated revenue in the state which he promised to effectively used for the development of the state and which have brought about voluntary compliance to tax payment by residents of the state.

Olatona noted that the tax system was already equipped for a dynamic change that will bring improvement to the lives of the citizens since it was the first time the country was experiencing such massive reform expected to be beneficial to all.

Also at the event were the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode and Executive Chairmen of Internal Revenue Service of the 36 states of the federation.

Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Condemns Tragic Murder of Mrs. Modupe Alasin, Calls for Swift Justice

First Lady of Ekiti State and Chairperson of the State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, , Dr Olayemi Oyebanji has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the tragic killing of Mrs. Modupe Alasin of Efon Alaaye, who was allegedly murdered by her husband following a domestic dispute.

Describing the incident as “an appalling act of cruelty and a heartbreaking loss,” the First Lady decried the continued prevalence of gender-based violence in homes and communities, reaffirming the state government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating all forms of violence against women and girls.

“This is not just another case of domestic abuse. It is a clear violation of human rights and a tragic loss of a woman whose life should have been protected and not taken. The circumstances of her death are both painful and unacceptable. Our prayers are with her children, family, and all those left behind,” she said.

Dr. Oyebanji has directed the Ekiti State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee to urgently scale up preventive measures, survivor support services, and community outreach efforts.

She emphasized the need for a collective and coordinated response that reaches deep into every community.

She also called on the Ekiti State Police Command to carry out a comprehensive and impartial investigation, stressing that justice must be swift and uncompromising.

“The law must take its full course. The perpetrator must be held accountable, not only for Modupe’s death but to send a strong message that violence has no place in our state.”

Dr. Oyebanji urged all residents of Ekiti State to take a stand against violence in all its forms. “To every woman who feels unsafe or unheard, please speak out. Your voice matters, and help is available.

“The Ekiti GBV Response Mechanism is active, and we urge you to report any threats or abuse.”

Ekiti Government Pushes Inclusive Education Agenda, Trains Principals, Head Teachers on Transformative Strategies

In a bold move to ensure no child is left behind in the state’s education system, the Ekiti State Government has commenced a three-day intensive training for principals and head teachers of public schools on transformative inclusive strategies.

The training, themed “Transformative Inclusive Strategies in Ekiti State Public Schools”, was organised by the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and began on Monday, September 1, 2025, at Lady Jibowu Hall of the Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti. 

One of the resource persons, Dr. Esther Oyefeso, emphasized that every learner is unique, with strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to fit well into the mainstream system. 

She introduced participants to practical methods of achieving inclusive learning, stressing the importance of collective efforts and positive attitudes from school leaders, teachers and communities.

Also speaking on the topic, “Inclusive Strategies and Plans for Ekiti State”, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, described inclusion as a mindset and about belonging to a community without restraint. 

Princess Agboola also drew points from global frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006), the UNESCO Salamanca Statement (1994) and the UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, alongside Nigeria’s National Policy on Education and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2019 as well as the current interventions provided by the Federal Ministry of Education. 

She also outlined key steps for schools, including creating Special Educational Needs (SEN) registers, appointing SEN coordinators, developing individualized education programmes (IEPs), ensuring accessibility to all public buildings and continuous teacher training.

Princess Agboola equally commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration for its proactive stance on inclusivity, including establishing therapy centres for children with disabilities, adding that the government is determined to ensure that no child stays out of school. 

Declaring the programme open, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, reaffirmed the Government's commitment to building an education system that leaves no child behind.

She charged principals and head teachers to serve as agents of change towards ensuring that the government's inclusivity drive translates from policy to practice in every classroom.

Professor Adubiaro noted that Inclusive education is not just about placing children with disabilities in mainstream schools; it is equally about transforming leadership, teaching and school culture to celebrate diversity and foster empathy, encouraging participants to make the most of the training.

On his part, the chairman of the Ekiti Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS), Mr. Olaniran Olatona, echoed the call for support, saying people with disabilities could excel in all spheres if given the right environment. 

He pointed out that the three-day workshop is expected to equip the participants with the skills and perspective to create classrooms where every child, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute to the future of Ekiti State. 

The Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, also lauded the administration’s efforts, urging parents and teachers to nurture the dreams of children with special needs alongside their peers.

She advocated total inclusivity in education whereby the children with special needs would be allowed to be in the same schools with their able-bodied counterparts, adding that this is the only way true inclusivity can be said to have been achieved.

Present at the programme are the PS Education, Mr Michael Omolayo who represents the Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Adebimpe Aderiye, Mr. Michael Boluwade, PS TESCOM and Mr. Femi Dada the Acting PS SUBEB.

Adegbodu Twins Set to Thrill at Town Tavern Lounge Pre-Opening Show in Ado-Ekiti

Ado-Ekiti is set for another night of premium entertainment as the management of Town Tavern Lounge has announced a live pre-opening band performance by the popular gospel fuji sensation, the Adegbodu Twins, coming up on Friday, September 5, 2025.

In a statement issued by the organisers, the event, tagged “Sip, Relax and Repeat”, will be held at the newly constructed Town Tavern Lounge located at Km 8, beside Pastoral Centre, off Ikere Road, Ado-Ekiti.

According to the statement, the pre-opening performance is also part of activities designed to build excitement and give fun lovers a taste of the world-class leisure and hospitality experience the lounge promises to deliver.

The Town Tavern Lounge is designed as a modern relaxation hub featuring a soothing ambience, premium sound system, spacious interiors, a mini football pitch and VIP-style services; all under the management of Mister Heybee Hospitality Solution, renowned for its customer-friendly “S.T.A.R.” service culture.

The organisers further urged fun seekers across Ekiti and beyond to reserve their tables ahead of the show by calling 07031139374.

The anticipated performance by the Adegbodu Twins is expected to add sparks to nightlife, redefine leisure and entertainment in Ekiti, as well as usher in a new experience for the lounge's valued guests.

EKSG Debunks Kayode Ojo’s claim of N80m fire station donation to Ekiti Airport

Ekiti State Government has dismissed claims by an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Engr. Kayode Ojo, that he donated a fire service station worth N80 million to the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport project. 

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, described the claim which was made during a press briefing by Kayode Ojo’s campaign organisation in Ado-Ekiti earlier in the week, as untrue, misleading, and designed for self-glorification. 

Oyebode who spoke at the 2025 Press Week and Annual Public Lecture of the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, also urged journalists to always scrutinize claims made by political office seekers and separate the truth from falsehood before going ahead to publish or broadcast as news. 

Oyebode said the state government has a record of total spendings on the airport project, adding that there is no record of any donation of a fire station by Engr Ojo.

“I can say categorically here that the claim by Engr Ojo on that fire station is incorrect, false and misleading. Available records in the Governor’s Office and the Office of the Technical Adviser on Airport Project show that the claim of false. 

“The only individual who made personal contributions to the Airport project is our revered leader and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN). In spite of the fact the elder statesman didn’t want his donations to be made public, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, had at different forum acknowledged Aare Babalola’s contributions. 

“The records of project and spending at the airport are very clear. The project has remained a product of the state government’s vision to grow our agro-economy and open Ekiti to the world.

“The claim by Engr Ojo is baseless and there is no record of such contribution either by the immediate past administration or the incumbent administration. And if indeed Engr Ojo made such a contribution, let him come forward with evidence of the contribution, including the receipt and the name of the person that received the donation on behalf of government. 

“What I do know and confirm from the office of the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd) is that the fire station was completed at the airport last year July, fully paid for by the Government. 

The Governor’s aide also challenged Ojo and other aspirants in the governorship race to present tangible records of their contributions to Ekiti’s growth and development prior to their aspiration. He also urged them to toe the path of honour by making claims they can substantiate and make their campaign issue- based. 

“Many of those jostling for the governorship seat today have not contributed meaningfully to the development of their local communities, let alone the state. It is not enough to make unsubstantiated claims during electioneering; the people deserve to see real evidence of service and contribution.

“At this critical period as the state moves closer to the governorship election, we appeal to journalists to always fact-check politicians’ claims before publication.” , Oyebode added at the event which was also attended by former Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Senator Babafemi Ojudu; Special Adviser on Information to the Governor, Rt Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, representative of Oluyin of Iyin, Oba Adeola Ajakaye and other dignitaries.

The Chairman, NSITF Management Board, Hon. Sola Olofin, Leads Delegation to APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe

The Chairman, Management Board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Hon. Sola Olofin, who is also the National Convener of BAT Vanguard—one of the largest support groups advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda—on Monday led a delegation of his team to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, at his residence in Abuja.

The visit was to commiserate with the APC National Chairman on the demise of his beloved mother and to convey heartfelt condolences on behalf of the NSITF Board and the BAT Vanguard family. 

Hon. Olofin prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and for divine strength for the bereaved family.

In the same vein, Hon. Olofin also congratulated Prof. Nentawe on his appointment as the APC National Chairman, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his leadership, integrity, and service to the party. 

He pledged the continued support of BAT Vanguard in strengthening party unity and advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Responding, Prof. Nentawe expressed appreciation for the solidarity visit and assured of his commitment to inclusive leadership that will further strengthen the APC and sustain its role as the nation’s leading political party.

Signed 

Zach C. Hyellamada 

PA to the Chairman NSITF Management Board

EFON DAY 2025 HIKE AND LEISURE FIESTA: MORE THAN A LEISURE EXPERIENCE

The 7th Edition of the Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, themed ”Hike and Dine in the Clouds, ” by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, was held on April 21, 2025, at Sagbonke Hill (the mountain of clouds) in Efon Alaaye. At this breathtaking destination, hikers experienced mist-covered trails and conquered high-altitude peaks. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji flagged off the event, which drew over 2000 hikers and nature enthusiasts. 

The programme was designed to promote eco-tourism and showcase the natural beauty of Efon's mountainous landscape. Efon Alaaye is more than just a town. Providence has uniquely positioned it with its peculiar landscape. It is an entry point and gateway to Ekiti State, the Land of Honour. Describing tourism as a vital sector of the economy, the Governor emphasised his administration’s commitment to repositioning Ekiti’s tourism sector to world-class standards.  

This landmark event brought Sagbonke Hill to the limelight, igniting the interest of visitors, investors, and tourism experts. Sagbonke Hill is a breathtaking natural beauty and a tourism, religious, and economic blessing.

Building on this momentum, Thursday, 21st August, 2025 was another set day for the Hike and Leisure in the Clouds fiesta organised by the Efon Alaaye Development League as part of activities to mark 2025 Efon Day. Defying the light showers, young and old hikers gathered in the premises of the ancient palace of His Royal Majesty, Obalufon Alayemore Alaaye of Efon kingdom, at the Erekesan Square, Efon Alaaye, as early as from 7:00am. The medical team of the Ekiti State Ministry of Health was present for basic health assessment of hikers before the exercise and provided medical care as necessary safety guide during the hiking.

Equipped with backpacks and walking sticks, the trek began through the famous and spiritual Oni River ( known widely for its healing and therapeutic power since the days of Apostle Ayo Babalola). 

Participants briefly stopped at the river, and Prince Adeyemi-Adejolu narrated the story about the river. The journey continued, and the ascent of the hill began some kilometres after the river. It was a great adventure to pass through the hilly bush path, and it took about one hour and 30 minutes to arrive at Sagbonke Hill.

 Indeed, nature is kind to Efon-Alaaye. The amphitheatre-like terrain of the hill peak is well-tended by farmers. Hikers had a helicopter view of Efon Alaaye and neighbouring towns like Erinmo, Erin Ijesha etc from the hill. 

The natural amphitheatre provided a naturally air-conditioned and lush environment that allowed me to appreciate the unique environment and the natural endowments. Descending the hills through the old road leading to Federal Government Girls College, Efon Alaaye was equally inspiring. 

The area is blessed with rocks, natural springs of water and vegetation. There were sounds of gushing waters from the rocks and grounds oozing water out too, with birds singing and the sounds of creeping creatures. It is indeed the display of splendour in God’s manifold creative power!

The second but real hiking experience to the mountain of clouds is memorable and life-changing. Sagbonke Hill has become a go-to destination for older adults and young ones interested in hiking for health reasons. 

The 2025 Efon Day Hike and Leisure event's success demonstrates the potential of tourism to boost the local economy and promote cultural heritage. It is my pleasure to have been part of the real hiking event in company of visiting and experienced hikers/tourists from Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt.

 Programmes of this nature will hopefully contribute significantly to the economic and social development of Efon Alaaye and Ekiti State. It is a worthy experience that should be repeated as often as practicable.

Olapeju Babafemi,

22nd August, 2025

Group commends Governor Oyebanji for leveraging on one of the legacies of former Governor Kayode Fayemi to Increased Ekiti IGR

The foremost Ekiti State grassroots sensitisation and mobiliser movement for good governance has commended the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji for intuitively and creatively leveraging on the existing long term sustainable development plan of the immediate Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Dr. John Olukayode Fayemi to significantly increase the Internally Generated Revenue of the State to ranked among the best in the country.

In a statement released by the group, the group showered encomium on the immediate and present administration for increasing the Ekiti State Internally Generated Revenue from N650million to N2.3billion monthly according to the circular released by the Joint Tax Board (JTB) at its 155th meeting at Zuma Rock Resort, Suleja which ranked Niger State and Ekiti State first in the 2023 Annual Growth Rate Ranking.

We will recall that on the 4th of October 2022, the progressive administration of former Governor  Kayode Fayemi has unveiled a 30-year development plan for Ekiti state, to have a continuity in governance that would better the lives of the people.

Kayode Fayemi had instituted a long term development plan of 2021 - 2050 rooted in the Development for the next 30 years, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), development and job creation, human capital development, agriculture and rural development etc. The result of which are manifesting in Ekiti today.

The sporadic increase in Ekiti State IGR has been attributed to the continuity of good governance in prudent management of the State resources, financial re-engineering, deployment of digital tools and motivation of revenue collection agency by Governor Oyebanji.

The group- *OYEBANJI STREET VANGUARD* (_OSV_) hereby commended the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, and his entire cabinet members, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Inland Revenue Service (EIRS) and the entire good people of the state for this feat.

Finally, the group in a statement released by the Convener enjoined all Ekiti people to continue their support for this political stability built on continuity of good governance as represented by the present administration without going back to our Egypt. 

FORWARD EVER, BACKWARD NEVER!!!

Signed:

HC Ade 

The Convener, OSV