Ekiti Governor Oyebanji to Inaugurate Reappointed Commissioners, Special Advisers

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, is set to inaugurate the reappointed commissioners and a number of Special Advisers in a ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 4:00 PM.

The event will take place at Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti. This was confirmed in a statement released to newsmen on Monday by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Olayinka Oyebode.

Governor Oyebanji had recently forwarded a list of 18 former commissioners to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation, all of whom have been recalled following the dissolution of the State Executive Council on August 10, 2025.

The reappointed commissioners to be inaugurated include:

Prof Bolaji Aluko

Rt. Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun

Mr Akintunde Oyebode

Mr Ajobiewe Kolawole

Chief Folorunso Olabode

Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi

Rt. Hon Karounwi Oladapo

Mrs Peju Babafemi

Mr Atibioke Ojo Olaiya

Chief (Mrs) Tosin Aluko

Mr Awe Abimbola Olufemi

Prof Patrick Tedela

Mr Seun Fakuade

Mr Adedayo Gold Adesola

Dr Kareem Makanjuola Akande

Prof Rasaki Ojo Bakare

Hon Kayode Fasae

Hon Femi Ajayi

The inauguration will also include a newly appointed Special Adviser, Mr. Bunmi Talabi, who previously served as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Projects.

Furthermore, several Special Advisers who were affected by the cabinet dissolution have also been recalled and will be sworn in alongside the commissioners.

The recalled Special Advisers are:

Chief Jide Awe

Arch Tope Ogunleye

Hon Gbenga Agbeyo

Hon Yemisi Ayokunle

Mr Gbenga Oloniyo

Mrs Oluremi Babington

Chief (Mrs) Kemi Olaleye

Hon Abiola Olowokere

Mr Akinleye Sunday

Mr Ayeni Odunayo Adeola

It was noted that the decision to recall all former members of the dissolved State Executive Council was a joint consensus reached by the leadership and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The party impressed upon the Governor the necessity to re-present the former cabinet members for confirmation rather than appointing new ones. This move is reportedly aimed at maintaining stability and continuity, as leaders and stakeholders believe that appointing a new set of commissioners could prove "counter-productive" ahead of the coming governorship election in the State, which is scheduled for June 20, 2026.

The Undeniable Return: Why Ekiti North Constituency II Needs Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju

The air in Ekiti North Federal Constituency II (comprising Ido/Osi, Moba, and Ilejemeje Local Governments) is thick with nostalgia and a fervent desire for the return of a true servant-leader: Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju (IBO). Though a manipulation of the political process led to his momentary exit from the House of Representatives after the 2023 election, his service trajectory and immediate elevation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are compelling testimonies to a character that remains indispensable to his people.

Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju is widely recognized not just as a politician, but as a responsible father, a principled public servant, and a committed philanthropist. His good character is evident in his inclusive approach to politics and his unwavering commitment to his constituents.

He is A Responsible Father and Role Model: IBO understands that leadership begins at home. His dedication to his family mirrors his commitment to the collective welfare of the community, setting a strong moral and ethical standard for the youth in the constituency.

He is A Quintessential Philanthropist: Throughout his tenure and even now, his impact has transcended legislative duties. He has actively engaged in extensive empowerment programmes, including the provision of 200 Brand New Laptops and essential training for youths and teachers in Ekiti State, demonstrating a deep-seated belief in human capital development and the "Renewed Hope" agenda.  

Hon. Olarewaju's solid academic background forms the bedrock of his pragmatic approach to governance. As an accomplished lawyer (Barr.), he brings a meticulous, constitutional, and law-abiding perspective to every challenge.  

During his time representing the constituency in the 9th National Assembly, he distinguished himself as a lawmaker with substance, serving meritoriously as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services. Notably, he ranked high among Ekiti State's federal lawmakers in terms of legislative productivity, sponsoring a significant number of bills. This proven capacity to contribute meaningfully to lawmaking is precisely what Ekiti North II is missing.  

Justifying His Appointment

The most powerful justification for Hon. Olarewaju’s return lies in the immediate recognition of his value by the highest office in the land. Following the 2023 election, and despite the political maneuvering that led to his loss, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu immediately appointed him as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters.  

This swift appointment was not a consolation prize; it was a strategic move rooted in necessity and trust. As noted by the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, the appointment recognized IBO's "steadfastness, political maturity and high level integrity," and the President’s need for an experienced, decent, and pragmatic politician to serve as the critical liaison between the Presidency and the House of Representatives. This immediate elevation confirms that the loss in the constituency was a political setback, not a repudiation of his competence or character. The President knows his value; the constituency should reclaim it.

The fact remains: Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju has established a track record of performance, accessibility, and developmental politics that resonates deeply with the people of Ido/Osi, Moba, and Ilejemeje. The missing link in the current representation is the dedicated and effective leadership that he provides.

IBO is A Champion of Empowerment: His consistent empowerment drives, even while serving in a federal appointment, prove that his connection to the grassroots is unwavering.  

IBO is A Bridge to the Presidency: His current role has positioned him closer to the apex of power, giving him unparalleled access and influence to attract Federal projects and opportunities back to the constituency, a key advantage Ekiti North II should not forfeit.

Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju’s return to the House of Representatives is not merely a political ambition; it is the logical next step for a constituency that deserves the very best of representation. It is time for the people to harness his high-level experience, political sagacity, and presidential trust to secure a brighter future.

Moses Owoyemi 

Writes From Ado-Ekiti

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Supports 250 PWDs in Ekiti with N200,000 each

…Launches Renewed Hope Initiative for PWDs

The First Lady of Nigeria and National Chairman of Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday empowered 250 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Ekiti State with N50,000,000 grant to boost their economic independence and improve their livelihoods.

Each of the PWDs was presented N200,000 cash at the event which held at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti.

Speaking at the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu who was represented by the Wife of Ekiti State Governor and RHI State Coordinator, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, highlighted the importance of inclusion and equal opportunity, stressing that the initiative was part of a broader national vision to ensure that no one is left behind in the social and economic development of the country.

Senator Oluremi, who also launched the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment for PWDs to commemorate the International Day of PWDs, said the Economic Empowerment Programme which held simultaneously across the 36 states, would provide business recapitalization grants of N200,000 to 250 PWDs in each State and the Federal Capital Territory to help strengthen their existing businesses, enhance their livelihoods and achieve greater self-reliance.

While maintaining that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which seeks inclusive growth and shared prosperity, the Wife of the President explained that over the past two years, the initiative has supported more than 100,000 women petty traders and small business owners, support agriculture, education, health as well as provide emergency relief to vulnerable communities, victims of disasters and internally displaced persons across the country.

Expressing her profound gratitude to Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji and His Wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji for their support and for complimenting the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at ensuring that no one is left behind in the development agenda of the country, the First Lady also assured that the empowerment programe would now be an annual event for the PWDs to mark their day.

“Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully. As Helen Keller, the renowned American disability rights advocate, once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” These words remind us that a truly inclusive society is built when we stand together, creating opportunities that empower everyone to contribute their unique gifts to our collective progress.

“Today, the Renewed Hope Initiative will provide the sum of two hundred thousand naira (N200,000) Business Recapitalization Grants to two hundred and fifty (250) Persons with Disabilities in each State and the Federal Capital Territory to support small business owners to recapitalize their existing businesses and strengthen their means of livelihood.

“This programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which seeks to promote inclusive growth and shared prosperity by ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind, especially those whose needs are often overlooked and It is worth noting that, over the past two years, the Renewed Hope Initiative has supported over one hundred thousand (100,000) women petty traders and small business owners, including persons with disabilities, with direct financial grants to grow their businesses”. She asserted.

 The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to Ekiti State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Bimpe Aderiye, Special Adviser, Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, among others top government functionaries.

Ekiti Governor's Aide, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, Bags M.Sc. in Public Administration from Lead City University

In a significant stride for professional development within the Ekiti State Government, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, the Director General of the Bureau of Local Content, has successfully completed his postgraduate studies, earning a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Public Administration from the prestigious Lead City University, Ibadan.

Hon. Ijidale, a key appointee in the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, added the M.Sc. to his academic profile, underscoring the commitment of Governor Oyebanji's team to intellectual growth and enhanced capacity building.

The Director General’s completion of the advanced degree is seen by observers as a move that will further equip him with the necessary administrative and policy expertise to drive the mandate of the Bureau of Local Content. The Bureau is a crucial government agency responsible for ensuring that local talents, resources, and contractors in Ekiti State are prioritized in the execution of public contracts, thereby fostering economic growth and job creation within the state.

The M.Sc. in Public Administration, a program available at Lead City University, provides rigorous training in public sector management, policy analysis, and governmental operations skills directly relevant to Hon. Ijidale's role in implementing the state's local content laws and regulations.

The attainment of this Master's degree by the Governor's aide reflects positively on the Governor Oyebanji-led administration, which consistently emphasizes competence and continuous learning among its officials.

Hon. Ijidale’s academic achievement is expected to translate into more efficient service delivery and improved policy implementation within the Bureau of Local Content, ultimately benefiting the people and indigenous businesses of Ekiti State.

Olarewaju Hails President Tinubu on Gen. Musa’s Nomination as Defence Minister

Former House of Representatives member for Ekiti North Federal Constituency 2 and Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters, Hon. Ibraheem Kunle Olarewaju, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating General Christopher Gwabin Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.

In a statement, Olarewaju described the nomination as a “timely and strategic decision” that underscores the President’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence architecture and addressing the country’s ongoing security challenges. He said the appointment reflects a careful consideration of the nation’s current security landscape and the need for experienced leadership at the helm of the Ministry of Defence.

“General Musa is a seasoned military officer with a proven track record of professionalism, discipline, and strategic foresight. His leadership will undoubtedly bolster our national security efforts and contribute significantly to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty,” Olarewaju said.

The former lawmaker expressed optimism that General Musa’s wealth of experience in the armed forces would enable him to implement robust strategies to curb insecurity across the country. He highlighted that the nominee’s deep understanding of military operations, coupled with his strategic acumen, makes him particularly suited to navigate the complexities of modern security challenges.

Olarewaju also appealed to the Senate to expedite the confirmation process, stressing that swift approval would allow General Musa to assume office without delay and commence critical interventions in the security sector. He emphasized that the nation requires competent and proactive leadership to tackle the persistent threats to peace and stability, especially in regions affected by insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities.

The lawmaker further commended President Tinubu for prioritizing merit and competence in the selection of key government officials. According to Olarewaju, appointing leaders with proven expertise sends a strong message of commitment to effective governance and national development.

President Tinubu had, in a letter to the Senate, formally forwarded General Musa’s nomination as the successor to Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who resigned earlier this week. The nomination comes at a crucial time when the country is grappling with multifaceted security challenges that require decisive leadership and innovative strategies.

His military background and prior leadership roles position him to coordinate effectively with various security agencies, streamline defence policies, and enhance operational efficiency within the Ministry of Defence.

Olarewaju concluded by reiterating his full support for the nomination and expressed hope that General Musa’s tenure would mark a new era of professionalism, accountability, and results-driven leadership in Nigeria’s defence sector.

Badaru Abubakar, Defence Minister, Resigns

Nigeria’s defence minister, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned his appointment, with immediate effect.

In a letter dated December 1, sent to President Bola Tinubu, Abubakar said he was quitting on health grounds.

President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and thanked Abubakar for his services to the nation. 

President Tinubu will likely inform the Senate of Badaru’s successor later this week.

Badaru Abubakar, 63, was a two-term governor of Jigawa state from 2015 to 2023. He was appointed as a minister on August 21, 2023, by President Tinubu. 

His resignation comes amid President Tinubu’s declaration of a national security emergency, with plans to elaborate on its scope in due course. 

-Bayo Onanuga,

Special Adviser to the President,

(Information and Strategy)

December 1, 2025

EKSG allays fear over insecurity in neighbouring states, says gov’t on top of security situation

Ekiti State Government has urged residents of the State to go about their lawful businesses without any fear of harassment or intimidation as government is in full control of security situation in the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Brig-Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd.) made this assertion in Ado-Ekiti on Monday during the quarterly security meeting involving heads of security agencies and chairmen of the 16 local government councils and 22 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), assured residents not to panic over reports of activities of banditry in neighbouring states, stressing that Governor Biodun Oyebanji is on top of the security situation in the state.

General Ogundana affirmed that Ekiti State remains the safest state in the country based on the various measures government has put in place, especially at all the border towns to provide adequate safety for residents.

He commended residents of the state for providing necessary intelligence needed by various security outfits. This, he said, has made the state surmount all security challenges.

He also assured residents that Ekiti borders are well-secured with military and police presence against any incursion adding that the State's intelligence and surveillance network remained strong and well-coordinated.

“We've been having some unusual activities along the states bordering with Ekiti, particularly Kogi and Kwara states and these incidents have been sending unholy signals to the state to the extent that it is creating panic among the people and then we met with Mr Governor and he directed that we should meet with all the stakeholders, so we met with traditional rulers and other stakeholders.

“Today, we are meeting the local government chairmen to be able to listen to them and ascertain what their plans are and , so that we can work out plans on how to ensure that we have security in all our local governments particularly the areas that are close to these turbulent states.

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“At the same time we want to make sure that all of them are on the same page and to inform the people that the kind of panic that have been created is not true. That is the essence now, so when we finish with them they will go back home and realign their people and tell them to go about their businesses without fear.

“We want our people to be very vigilant and pay attention to small details. When they hear anything they should not cover it up. They are not in the position to assess whether that information is true or not. Let them send the information to the security agencies closer to them so that we'll be able to make an adequate response. 

“We have sufficient resources at our disposal to determine whether information is true or not.

“Like what is happening in Kogi and Kwara State now, we discovered that all the farmers, the herders, the community, everybody is affected now. Everybody is running up and down there, so, we don't want that thing to escalate to us in the Ekiti state, that's why we are making all the necessary efforts to put everybody on the same page so that at least we can move ahead. Gen. Ogundana stated.

Engr. Dawodu Hosts APC Ward 11 Members, Reaffirms Commitment to Unity, Continuity in Ekiti

A stalwart of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Engineer Olaoluwa Dawodu (EOD) over the weekend hosted leaders and members of the Party in Isan/Ilafon/Ilemeso Ward 11, in what has been described as a strategic grassroots engagement aimed at strengthening unity and consolidating support for the party.

The meeting, held in Isan-Ekiti, brought together influential stakeholders across the ward, including a former member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Reuben Awoyemi; the Secretary of the Ifesowapo LCDA, Hon. Olagoke Adetiloye; as well as ward executives, women leaders, youth Coordinators and loyal party members.

In his address, Engr. Dawodu expressed delight at the turnout, noting that gatherings such as this reconnect party members, deepen political consciousness and reinforce collective commitment to progress. 

He reflected on his early political exposure, crediting his father, Hon. Tokunbo Dawodu, for shaping his understanding of leadership and service.

According to him, the values of sacrifice, unity and people-centered politics were principles he learned early in life and they continue to guide his participation in governance and community development. 

He maintained that leadership should go beyond the pursuit of power, but must be rooted in compassion, responsibility and impact.

Engr. Dawodu stressed that Ekiti State had witnessed growth and stability under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, describing his administration as one driven by humility, integrity and visible performance. 

He urged party members to remain united and deliberate in promoting continuity in governance as the state prepares for the next political phase.

He noted that the re-election of Governor Oyebanji should not be viewed as a mere political aspiration but as a collective duty to sustain ongoing development across sectors of the state.

The atmosphere at the gathering was lively as members engaged in strategic discussions on community development, party strengthening and enhanced youth and women involvement in political processes, while the participants also emphasized the importance of ward-level solidarity in securing stronger electoral outcomes.

The meeting ended on a note of renewed commitment, with Engr. Dawodu, assuring stakeholders of continued accessibility and collaboration towards inclusive growth within the ward. 

He appreciated all attendees for their unwavering support and called for unity as the party intensifies efforts to consolidate progress in Ekiti.

Bishop lauds Gov. Oyebanji's resource management ability … As Gov. hails inauguration of Ekiti South Anglican Diocese

The newly enthroned Bishop of Ekiti South Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev’d Francis Bankole has commended Ekiti State Governor; Mr Biodun Oyebanji for the remarkable achievements recorded in all sectors through effective management of the resources accruable to the State

Bishop Bankole, who stated this at the St. Peter’s Anglican Church Cathedral, Ikere-Ekiti on Thursday during his  installation as the pioneer Bishop of the diocese of Ekiti South Anglican Communion following the inauguration of the diocese by the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of the church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion Most Rev’d Henry Ndukuba, stressed that the managerial acumen of the Governor had helped to lift Ekiti State higher in the committee of all states of the federation.

In his inaugural sermon, titled the ‘hand of God’, Rt. Rev’d Bankole called on Nigeria leaders to be accountable for their actions by demonstrating transparency, integrity saying this will help in preventing misuse of the common wealth of the people as well as ensuring that people holding public positions act in the best interest of the people.

The Bishop asserted that humans are not accidental being because whatever happen in the lives of the people is not a  coincidence but  a purposeful act of God, adding that humans need divine guidance to be able to lead according to God’s will and return all thanksgiving and adoration to God.

He used the opportunity to thank God for his faithfulness in ensuring that the diocese came into existence after about 31 years of struggle, stressing that nobody has the capability to block God or hinder his work as he asserted that the creation of the diocese is an act of God and a platform to deliberately expand the kingdom of God through the gospel.

Speaking at the event, Governor Biodun Oyebanji hailed the decision of the Anglican Communion to inaugurate the diocese after over 30 years of struggle to achieve it, saying the new diocese will bring evangelism, welfare, mission effectiveness and improved pastoral care closer to the people in the area.

While congratulating the Rt. Rev’d Bankole for being installed as the pioneer Bishop of the diocese, Governor Oyebanji stressed that the inauguration of the diocese was aimed to decentralize administration that will make the church adapt more effectively to the specific social, cultural, and spiritual situations of the area.

“I understand the importance of this program and it will set an encouragement to the church, I was reading the brief history of the journey from 1994 when Baba Olatawura moved that motion in Ikole which is more than 30 years of struggle to have this diocese, so we can only thank God that this is a vision fulfilled.

“And when I listened to the Bishop, I will just admonish you, that thing that you have struggled for, God has given you, you need to guide it jealously. I can say here and attest to the character of the bishop, I have known him for many years he's a man of honor, he's a man of integrity, and he's a man that carries grace. If you look at his history and what has happened to him you know that it can only be God. I congratulate this diocese for having him as your pioneer Bishop.” He stated.

Also at the event were the legal luminary, Chief Wole Olanipekun, traditional rulers and Bishops and Archbishops from various parts of Nigeria.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI NAMES PROF. OMOJOLA NEW BOUESTI VC

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the appointment of Professor Andrew Babatunde Omojola as the new Vice Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI).

Omojola, a Professor of Animal Science with specialization in Animal Products and Processing/ Food Safety, is until the appointment, the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, Ibadan.

Prof Omojola’s appointment as Vice Chancellor takes immediate effect.

He takes over from Prof Olufemi Victor Adeoluwa, whose tenure as Vice Chancellor of the University ends on January 6, 2026.

Prof Andrew Babatunde Omojola was born in Usi-Ekiti, Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State on August 14, 1962. He attended Notre Dame College, Usi-Ekiti for his secondary school education between 1976 and 1980.

He later proceeded to the University of Ibadan in 1984 where he graduated with a Second Class (Upper division) in Animal Science in 1988. He bagged a Master of Science degree in Animal Science from the University of Ibadan in 1991 and a Doctor of Philosophy in Animal Science from the same University in 1997.

Prof Omojola started his lecturing career as a Lecturer II at the University of Ibadan in 1997, and rose through the ranks to the position of a Professor in 2011.

He has served as Visiting Professor at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana between 2013-2019; External Examiner at the University of Calabar between 2012 and 2016; and at Osun State University, Osogbo between 2015 and 2018.

Prof Omojola also served as Head, Animal Products and Processing Unit, Animal Science Department, University of Ibadan (2000-2023); Director, UI Teaching and Research Farm (2016-2018), Member University of Ibadan Senate (2011-date) and Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, (2023-date). He has also served as Chairman, Committee of Dean, Heads of Departments and Directors.

Governor Oyebanji, who is the Visitor to the University, urges the new Vice Chancellor to bring his wealth of experience as an academic and a seasoned administrator to bear in the bid to further reposition the University as a world class institution of learning, even as he wishes him a successful tenure.

The Governor thanks the outgoing BOUESTI Vice Chancellor, Prof Olufemi Adeoluwa, for his meritorious service to the University and wishes him success in his future endeavors.

 

Signed:

Olayinka Oyebode

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State.

24-11-2025

Adamawa APC Elders Form New Council to Unify Party, Target 2027 Victory

In a significant move aimed at fostering unity and ensuring electoral success, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State has formally announced the formation of the Adamawa Progressive Elders Council.

The Council, whose creation is described as the brainchild of the Leader of the Party in the State, was officially adopted following a major stakeholders' meeting held in Abuja on Saturday, November 15, 2025. 

This meeting brought together influential APC figures from all 21 Local Government Areas of Adamawa, including former Governors, Senators, Ministers, and party elders.

As part of ongoing engagement and public clarification on the purpose and mandate of the new Council, representatives of the leadership of the body held a press conference at Muna Hotel, Yola, on Sunday. 

Those present to address the press included Abubakar Sahabo Bawuro, Alhaji Usman Ibrahim, Rt. Hon. Wale Fwa, Ruth Sylvester Nuhu, Barr. Usman Abdullahi Shelleng and Dr Ahmad Sajoh. 

They collectively reaffirmed that the establishment of the Council was aimed at strengthening unity within the party and preparing the APC for a resounding victory in the 2027 elections.

Speaking during the briefing, the representatives emphasized that the Council would serve as a stabilizing and coordinating force across the state’s political landscape, ensuring that elders play their rightful advisory role while guiding the party away from internal conflicts and divisions.

According to Senator Abubakar Halilu Girei, Vice Chairman of the newly formed Council, the establishment is a direct fulfilment of a key recommendation from the APC Reconciliation Committee, which was previously headed by the late Senator Muhammed Mana.

"The idea behind the establishment of the Adamawa Progressive Elders Council stems from the report of the Adamawa State APC Reconciliation Committee, which made far-reaching recommendations, including the establishment of the Elders Forum," Senator Girei stated during the inaugural meeting.

He added that the party's leader in the state had specifically requested a respected son of Adamawa to mobilise and lead the Council to serve as a unifying force.

The primary goal of the Council is clear: to ensure the APC succeeds in the next cycle of elections. The Council's members expressed a consensus to deliver all necessary votes in 2027 to secure a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and ensure the success of all APC candidates across the board.

The Secretary of the Council's Secretariat, Hon. Bema Olvadi Madayi, reassured members that the Secretariat would develop a roadmap, especially concerning the legitimacy and operational modalities of the Council, which will be addressed in synergy with the party's official leadership.

The inaugural meeting concluded with a 12-point resolution that will serve as the Council's guiding communique.

Key tenets of the resolution include: a commitment to ensure the unity, peace, progress, and success of the APC in Adamawa State; a pledge to ensure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receives the highest lawful votes in the 2027 presidential election; ensuring the APC presents credible and victorious candidates for all Governorship, National, and State Assembly elections in 2027; a mandate that all members of the Council must remain strictly neutral, with no personal political interests other than the success of the APC; and a provision for the elders to play a crucial role as a dispute resolution body to prevent the party from being fractured by internal fighting.

The Council also resolved to ensure a rancour-free atmosphere where justice and fairness prevail in all Congresses and to draw its legitimacy from, and operate in complete synergy with, the National and State Working Committees of the Party.

Additionally, the Council pledged to work assiduously to strengthen the Party and establish a strong reward system to build confidence and trust among members.

You’ve Earned Global Respect, President Tinubu, Oyebanji, Eulogise Ewi at 80th Birthday Thanksgiving

…As Gov Oyebanji says Nigeria Will Soon Defeat Insecurity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday eulogised the Ewi of Ado- Ekiti Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe at his 80th birthday and 35th coronation anniversary thanksgiving service, describing him as a global figure who has earned respect and reference beyond the shores of the country.

President Tinubu spoke just as Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, praised the monarch at a well-attended service held at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel, Ado Ekiti 

Extolling the virtues of the monarch, President Tinubu who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said Ewi’s reign has continued to bring honour, stability and cultural prestige to Ado Ekiti and Ekiti State at large. 

Noting that the monarch’s leadership style has become a point of admiration across the world, the President said Ewi has, over the years demonstrated integrity, wisdom and unmatched commitment to peaceful coexistence.

President Tinubu said “Your Majesty, it is with immense joy and profound respect that I like to congratulate you on two remarkable milestones. Your 80th birthday and the 35th anniversary of your ascension to the revered throne of Ewi of Ado Ekiti. These significant milestones in your journey symbolize more than just the passage of time. They represent an enduring commitment to leadership, characterized by integrity, humility and dignity. 

“Your contributions to preserving and advancing the cultural heritage, unity and development of Ado Ekiti and the entire Ekiti State have been unparalleled and are widely admired beyond the borders of Yoruba land.

“As one of Nigeria's foremost traditional rulers, Your Majesty’s love has been a beacon of principled leadership and a source of inspiration for many, including myself. It is your character and career, matched with your dignified presence, that continually earn you reverence and respect nationwide”.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Oyebanji also extolled the virtues of the respected monarch, describing him as a father to all and a custodian of traditions whose councel has helped in shaping the progress of the State.

The Governor said Ewi’s 80th birthday was a celebration of life devoted to service, compassion and community development, commending the monarch’s role the creation of Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji also used the occasion to reassured Nigerians that the country will soon overcome its current security challenges, expressing optimism that the ongoing efforts of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led- Federal Government are already yielding positive results.

While maintaining that Nigeria has the capacity to defeat all forms of insecurity, the Governor called on residents of the state and Nigerians at large to go about their daily activities without fear, assuring that the President’s commitment to reforming the security architecture would create a safer and more prosperous nation.

“It has been 80 years of grace and 35 years of impact. Kabiyesi, I congratulate you, it can only be God. God’s grace has been sufficient for you and we thank God for his faithfulness.

“Two weeks ago, I was with the President and he spoke glowing about Kabiyesi Ewi and my mind went to that period when he was struggling for the creation of Ekiti State. What he went through, all the sacrifices, many nights of you having to share the same hotel room and bed with your brother others, many days of agony, many days of lack. those of us that are governors will not be governors today if not for your efforts. So on behalf of those of us that have enjoyed that platform, and that still enjoying the platform offered by Ekiti State, we say thank you

“Thank you, Kabiyesi for your support for our government and for supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The president needs our prayer and support more than before now, because he is our own and he is trying his best ensure that he deliver on the promises to the people. It is not possible for a man to embark on this kind of audacious reforms without some people fighting back but by the grace of God, by your prayers and support, we will defeat criminality in this country”. The Governor asserted

Also at the event were, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, former Governor, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, former NBA President, Chief Wole Olanipekun, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi and other notable traditional rulers.

2025 KidsCon: Gov Oyebanji Charges Parents, Schools to Prioritise Children’s Talent Development

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to nurturing the talents, creativity and diverse abilities of children, describing early talent discovery as a major investment in the future of the state and the nation.

The governor stated this in Ado Ekiti during the 2025 edition of the KidsCon Programme, a youth-focused initiative designed to promote creativity, innovation and inclusion among schoolchildren. 

He was represented at the event by the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, 

Princess Adetoun Agboola. 

Delivering the governor’s message, Princess Agboola said the KidsCon inclusion policy is a shining example of what it means to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all children; an approach that aligns perfectly with Ekiti State’s commitment to inclusive education and equal opportunities.

“Our children are valued, talented, and important. Their gifts matter, and we encourage them to keep exploring, learning, and growing. I urged participants to embrace teamwork, fairness and mutual support as they showcase their skills," She said. 

The S A to the Governor added that beyond celebrating talent, KidsCon promotes sportsmanship, kindness and appreciation of diversity; values that the Governor Oyebanji administration strongly upholds.

Princess Agboola commended the organisers for creating what she described as a transformative humanitarian initiative, expressing optimism that the programme’s impact would soon expand beyond Ekiti to other parts of Nigeria. 

She further charged parents and school owners not to limit children to academic routines, but to be intentional about providing skills, exposure and platforms that will help them maximise their potential.

“No talent is small. Every talent should be identified, encouraged, and supported. Parents must be present for their children, especially during talent-development events like KidsCon,” she said. 

She also urged school proprietors to organise periodic talent-based competitions internally to create opportunities. 

Princess Agboola noted that Governor Oyebanji places a high value on programmes that promote creativity, inclusivity and innovation, assuring that the state government would continue to provide an enabling environment through child-friendly policies, improved educational facilities and targeted support programmes to help every Ekiti child thrive.

This year’s edition, held with the full support of the governor, featured students from various schools across Ekiti State; including children with disabilities, competing in different talent categories where Divine Touch International School, Ado Ekiti, emerged as the overall winner of the 2025 KidsCon competition.