Your Second Term is Sure, Ekiti Monarchs Assure Oyebanji.

Your Second Term is Sure, Ekiti Monarchs Assure Oyebanji.

….As govt pledges respect, smooth partnership.

The Ekiti State Traditional Rulers, under the auspices of Majority Obas of Ekiti Land (MOBEL), has predicted a landslide victory for Governor Biodun Oyebanji in his reelection bid in 2026.

The monarchs predicated their prediction on the level of peace, development, stability, and mutual respect being accorded Ekiti people, including all the monarchs by the Governor, saying these have endeared the government to the populace and critical stakeholders.

However, the Ekiti State Government, has promised to prioritize the welfare of the traditional rulers and put mechanisms in place to stop any disrespect that could emanate from any of their chiefs and subjects.

The new leadership of MOBEL, led by its Chairman and Ojurin of Ijurin Ekiti, Oba Afolabi Joachim Ajibola, gave the assurance, on Thursday, while paying a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital.

A statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media to the Deputy Governor ,Victor Ogunje, revealed that the Onikun of Ikun Amure, Oba David Olatunde, who spoke for the monarchs, promised that MOBEL, comprising grades A, B and C hierarchical monarchs, would coalesce actions with government to instil peace and stability in all the towns.

Underscoring their commitment to duties, Oba Olatunde, said what MOBEL firmly stands for is progress, unity and love, among Ekiti residents, regardless of race, creed and religious sentiments, vowing that these shall be fostered in the interest of the citizens.

To fortify traditional institution and elevate its respect, the monarch sought amendment to the Ekiti State Chiefs Law, he described as obsolete and outdated, clarifying that his members are traditional rulers and not chiefs, as being referred to in the State’s Edict.

Oba Olatunde, however, raised the issue of consistent disagreements between some of their colleagues and the chiefs, describing the rising spate as demoralizing and making them feel uncomfortable.

The monarch urged the government to look inwards and fashion our institutional framework and ways to reignite the respect being accorded royalty in the past, by fostering mutual respect in the traditional scheme.

“We are grateful to Governor Oyebanji for prioritising our welfare and for his love, respect and humility to the traditional rulers. I must say that we have been having governments in Ekiti, but this government is different and special.

“We are assuring you that the second term of His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji is sure. Even after you leave office, Ekiti will continue to respect you”, he stated.

Corroborating his colleague, the MOBEL’s Chairman, Oba Ajibola, assured that the new executive would reinforce partnership with the government to foster peace and unity at the grassroots.

Oba Ajibola appreciated the Oyebanji’s administration for its giant strides to ensure that development percolates to all the 140 towns in the state, specifically for prioritizing the welfare of the traditional rulers.

In her response, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Afuye, assured that this government won’t shy away from making the welfare of monarchs occupies a prime space and frontline priorities, revealing that Governor Oyebanji appreciated the enormity of burdens and statutory duties being discharged by the traditional rulers.

Mrs Afuye frowned at the rising brawls between the monarchs and their chiefs, saying the government won’t tolerate any form of disrespect against the traditional rulers, whom she described as the fathers of all.

“This government relies so much on you in ensuring that we enjoy peace. We are pleased with the ways you have been handling some of your duties and how you adjudicated on local issues brought before you.

“We plead that you continue in these manners, we are ready to support you always. Go and home and maintain cordial relationships with your chiefs.

“What we stand for as a government is respect for traditional rulers. Governor Oyebanji had always been emphasizing this, and on that we stand. Respect is reciprocal. Don’t remove your chiefs without the government knowing about it. As long as you are on the side of the law, no Chief can disrespect you”.

Ekiti Special Needs Students Shine at Inter-House Sports Competition.

Ekiti Special Needs Students Shine at Inter-House Sports Competition.

....As Government Urges Parents to Support Special Needs Education for Inclusive Growth.

Parents of children with special needs have been encouraged to provide them with the necessary care and educational support to help them reach their full potential. 

They were also advised to consider enrolling their children in special needs schools to ensure they receive tailored learning experiences.

The Special Adviser to Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, gave this charge during the 2nd Biennial Inter-House Sports Competition of Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti.

Represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Social Inclusion, Alhaji Suleman Fatai, Princess Agboola emphasized that children with special needs should never be isolated due to their conditions. 

She stressed that, with the right support, they can break barriers and achieve greatness, as there are no limits to their potential.

Princess Adetoun further posited that the competition reinforced the message that children with special needs could thrive and contribute meaningfully to society when given the required enabling environment. 

She applauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration for its unprecedented commitment to social inclusion, describing it as a game-changer for children with disabilities in the state.

Echoing this sentiment, the Chairman of Eso-Obe Local Council Development Area, Mr Kole Ayeni, praised the school management for their dedication to inclusivity, ensuring that students with special needs are not left behind. 

He noted that the event was a testament to the state government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of special needs students, recognizing them as valuable members of society.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board of Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, Dr Femi Thomas, described the inter-house sports competition as a remarkable initiative. 

Dr Thomas noted that beyond fostering unity, the event serves as a platform for students to showcase their talents and abilities.

The Wife of the Olukoro of Ikoro-Ekiti, Olori Veronica Adeleye, also highlighted the importance of the event in boosting the confidence of students with special needs. 

She stressed that the competition would serve as motivation for them to strive for excellence and unlock their full potential.

In her remarks, the Principal of Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti, Mrs Olaide Adu, stated that the sports event was designed to enhance the student’s athletic abilities while also promoting their overall growth and development.

She commended the Ekiti State Government for its continued support towards the welfare of staff and students while calling for more sporting equipment to help students reach their full potential and possibly represent the state and country in future competitions.

The event featured a variety of exciting activities, including march past, relay races, cultural dance, choreography, and the egg race, showcasing the students’ energy and enthusiasm.

Oyebanji unfolds infrastructure upgrade plan for EKSU.

Oyebanji unfolds infrastructure upgrade plan for EKSU.

….meet new alumni executives.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has unfolded plans for infrastructure upgrade of Ekiti State University, Ado -Ekiti, in the bid to reposition the institution as a leading university in the country. 

The Governor also declared his willingness to take up voluntary non-academic teaching roles at the University as part of his commitment to mentorship, guidance, and academic excellence. 

Governor Oyebanji stated these on Wednesday in his office while receiving the newly inaugurated Executive members of the Ekiti State University Global Alumni Association led by the President, Ambassador Seyi Idowu. The Governor emphasized the importance of direct engagement between leaders and the younger generation.

Governor Oyebanji who is also an alumnus of the University, said his administration was strategic with the appointment of the Chancellor of the University, the University’s Governing Council, as well as the management of the institution in the bid to reposition the institution for a more enhanced academic excellence. 

While explaining that his administration remains committed to transforming the university into a leading institution in the country, the Governor explained that various infrastructural projects are currently underway including the construction of new faculty buildings ( Arts and Pharmacy) , connection of the institution to the state IPP, among others.

Congratulating the newly inaugurated President and his executive, Governor Oyebanji commended the Alumni association for collaborating with the leadership of the institution in achieving various reforms aimed at  addressing structural and systemic problems as well as conducting a rancour free election, which according to him, is a reflection of the unity of purpose among members.

“As one of you, I will continue to collaborate with you to give you every necessary support. EKSU has given us a lot and we have a duty to also promote and defend the university. I am so glad at the achievement of the university now nationally and globally and I must thank the association for not getting tired of the university, even at a time it wasn’t a thing of pride to identify with EKSU, but today we have built what we can call the best brand with the resilience of the association.

“I see myself as your ambassador and like you said I am trying my best to also ensure that we govern in a way and manner that will open door for all other alumni members to come to this seat. So like I said I will not mind to come and sit down with the students, we can work that out with the Vice Chancellor, to come spend one or two hours with the students”, the Governor asserted.

Earlier in his remarks, the newly inaugurated President of EKSU Global Alumni Association, Mr Seyi Idowu commended various policies and initiatives of the Oyebanji led-administration, particularly in creating enabling environment for businesses to thrive and commitment to standard and quality education at all levels.

 While assuring the Governor that the new alumni leadership will focus on collaborating with relevant stakeholders in achieving the digitization process in the University, the President thanked the Governor for being a good ambassador of the university, hence deserving of the alumni support.

Also at the meeting were, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Olabimpe Aderiye, Special Adviser, Tertiary Education, Prof Akeem Azeez, Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode.

Olayinka Oyebode: Celebrating a Media Icon’s Legacy of Excellence.

Olayinka Oyebode: Celebrating a Media Icon’s Legacy of Excellence.                                             By Olamide Akinwumi.

Mr. Olayinka Oyebode, the Chief Press Secretary and Special Assistant on Media to the Governor of Ekiti State, has been showered with accolades as he marks his birthday, with many highlighting his outstanding contributions to media and governance.

A media strategist of exceptional pedigree, Oyebode has remained a pillar of dedication and service, playing a crucial role in shaping public perception and ensuring the effective communication of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration’s policies and achievements.

Commending his unwavering commitment, Comrade Olamide Akinwumi described Oyebode as a man of excellence, professionalism, and integrity whose resounding dedication to the success of the Oyebanji-led government has been instrumental in strengthening governance in Ekiti State.

“With an exceptional sense of duty, he has shouldered the enormous responsibility of projecting the government’s vision with clarity and precision. His ability to navigate the ever-demanding world of media while upholding integrity is a testament to his outstanding leadership,” Akinwumi stated.

Beyond his strategic role in governance, Oyebode has earned admiration for his humility, diligence, and work ethic. His composure in handling the intricate demands of his office, Akinwumi noted, further cements his reputation as a leader of rare qualities.

“His hard work and commitment to duty are exemplary. He is not just a media strategist but a mentor, an inspiration, and a beacon of excellence. The love and admiration he commands among his peers are a testament to the lives he has impacted,” Akinwumi added.

As he celebrates another milestone, well-wishers have continued to pour in prayers for Oyebode. Many have wished him divine blessings, continued success, and protection from all harm, expressing hopes that his path will remain illuminated with favor and his legacy remembered for generations to come.

©️ Comr. Olamide Akinwumi

Ekiti Airport targets 24-hour flight operation, says Gov Oyebanji.

Ekiti Airport targets 24-hour flight operation, says Gov Oyebanji.

….Says Ekiti economy has improved significantly under his watch.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has revealed that efforts are in place to ensure the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport runs 24-hour operation, in a bid to make the route competitive.

The Governor also expressed delight that the economy of the state has recorded significant improvement in the past two-and-a-half years, promising to do more in order to ensure a more sustainable development of the state and better living standard for the people.

Governor Oyebanji who stated these on Monday night during the March edition of his monthly media chat, "Meet Your Governor", said his government intends to make the Ekiti Airport a major hub, as well as a major driver of the economy, attracting more investors to the state and boosting the economic capacities of the citizens.

He explained that his administration has entered into discussions with three major airlines in the country to commence commercial flights at the airport, facilitate air travel, tourism development, more investment and transportation of cargoes and export of farm produce to local and international destinations.

 

While expressing optimism that at least two of the airlines would operate flights to and from the airport, Oyebanji said his administration also hopes to make the route competitive by working hard to install Instrument Landing System (ILS) that will enable the operation of 24-hour flights in the airport.

 

The Governor said: "The issue is to make the route profitable and competitive for airlines and if the route is profitable, they will bring their planes. Part of what we are doing is to make it an airport of choice and by next year, they will be able to run Hajj and (Christian) pilgrimage.

"To make it an airport of choice, we must put a structure that guarantees 24-hour landing. There is what we call Instrument Landing System (ILS) which enables night operations and also enables planes to land in extreme weather. ILS as at today will cost close to N4.6 billion but we are determined to get it done.

"We are determined that before the end of this year, we will install ILS at the Ado Airport. If we are able to do that, it will be the second airport in Southwest after Lagos Airport that has such a facility so that aircraft can land at night. We are also talking to a vendor that will provide a hangar for airport services, so it's a whole gamut of transaction that is going on."

The Governor also disclosed that a cargo shed is being constructed at the airport to serve as storage facility for farm produce and cash crops. He commended the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele for facilitating its inclusion in the budget.

The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport was given approval for non-scheduled flight operation for six months last December. Governor Oyebanji who said expressed optimism that the airport would be one of the most competitive by the time it commences commercial operations.

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji identified some indices of economic growth witnessed under his administration to include springing up of more businesses in the state made possible by an enabling environment for them to flourish, improved internally generated revenue and receipts from the Federation Account, as well as adequate protection of lives and property.

The Governor who disclosed that the state's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) have moved from about N600 million monthly to over N2 billion monthly, attributed the feat partly to the fact that more residents are now encouraged to pay their taxes, having seen evidence of the government’s effective utilization of proceeds of the taxes in every part of the state.

He explained that his administration has not restricted development strides to only Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, as it is being speculated in some quarters, noting that virtually all parts of the state including the rural areas have been touched. He also  expressed readiness to keep on working for the people of the state  till his last day in office, stressing that he wont be distracted by on going politicking.  

 

Speaking on the state of the treasury, Oyebanji said what the state government and local governments receive monthly are not hidden as they are published by the office of the Accountant General noting that they vary from one month to the other.

He emphasized that his administration does not tamper with the local government funds as the State House of Assembly has an enabling law with established the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) with the monies for the councils coming directly into the account from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

While noting that he does not get involved in how the funds are shared, the Governor pointed out that he only monitors the projects the council chairmen execute with the funds to ensure that they are in line with the needs of the people and they such projects are satisfactory.

Sallah: Ekiti Deputy Gov Seeks Strong Religious Ties Among Nigerians.

Sallah: Ekiti Deputy Gov Seeks Strong Religious Ties Among Nigerians.

...Distributes food palliative to Hausa Muslims.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has called on Nigerians to coalesce efforts with government to fortify the religious bonds that will guarantee the right of citizens to practice religions of his choice.

Mrs Afuye described religion extremism and intolerance as a destroyer of a nation, urging the Nigerian citizens to eschew such evil conduct to build a nation that will be cohesive, peaceful and crisis-free.

The Deputy Governor spoke in Ikere Ekiti, on Monday, while distributing food palliatives to members of Hausa Community to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr at Shasha Market, along Ado-Ikere highway.

A statement released by Mrs Afuye’s Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, revealed that scores of Hausa Muslims, benefited from the largesse distributed by the State’s number two citizen in the spirit of sallah.

In her message to the Muslims domiciled in the market, Mrs Afuye, represented by her Special Assistant on Special Duties, Prince Akinboye Adegboye, eulogised the ethnic nationals resident in Ekiti State, for their solid backing and cooperation with the government of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

She stated that the peace being savoured in Ekiti State could be predicated on the high level of existing tolerance and friendliness among all the leaders of religious bodies .

The Deputy Governor was upbeat that Governor Oyebanji as a lover and respecter of the rights of all religions, will continue to treat all practitioners as equal, saying no religion will be lorded over another or allow to take preeminence in the state.

“I am here to celebrate with you at this Sallah period to demonstrate our love for you. I bring greetings from Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who had during he Ramadan season showed that he held the Muslims in high regards by distributing food palliative and Cash gifts in mosques across the state.

“The governor even held Iftars with leaders of Muslim community in Ekiti, where all the ethnic nationalities were represented. He had assured you that such respect will be sustained, so that you can be relevant in the scheme of things.

“I want to charge you to continue to cooperate with us. Governor Oyebanji is for everybody, whether you are Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa or Fulani. We are one Nigeria and we must work together to make our nation great.

“I rejoice with you on this occasion and wish you long life to witness more of Ramadan season”.

The Sarkin, Hausa Community in Shasha market, Alhaji Musa Yaro, saluted Governor Oyebanji and the Deputy Governor for their detribalized postures, as reflected in their fraternities and smooth working relations with their members.

Yaro pledged that his members will continue to partner the government and other ethnic nationalities in the state to entrench peace and stability in the system.

The Special Assistant to the governor on Ethnic Matters(Hausa), Alhaji Hussain Bawa, appreciated the governor and pledged unalloyed support of Hausa Community to the administration of Governor Oyebanji

“We are pledging our loyalty to the government of our respectable and God-fearing Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. We are also joining others to say no vacancy in the Ekiti government house till 2030”.

Sliverbird Award: Why Oyebanji Deserves the Recognition.

Sliverbird Award: Why Oyebanji Deserves the Recognition.

 By Idowu Ephraim Faleye 

Criticism is essential in a democracy, ensuring leaders remain accountable. Recently, one Mr. Gbenga Ogedengbe’s article questioned Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s Silverbird Man of the Year award, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the recognition and scrutinizing his leadership. While scrutiny is important, it must be fair and rooted in facts. 

The Silverbird Group’s decision to honor Oyebanji was not arbitrary. In today’s digital world, media organizations rely on data, reports, and sentiment analysis to evaluate leaders. The award was given based on tangible achievements, not favoritism. The reality of Oyebanji’s governance tells a story of measurable progress, proactive leadership, and inclusive governance. These verifiable milestones affirm why Oyebanji was a worthy recipient. To dismiss this recognition as mere media bias is to ignore the governor’s measurable impact.

Security concerns were also raised, but crime is not exclusive to Ekiti—it is a universal challenge. No government can completely eliminate it, but proactive measures can mitigate its effects. Under Oyebanji, the state has strengthened community policing, deployed tech-driven surveillance, and reduced kidnapping incidents drastically within a year. While challenges remain, Ekiti is safer today than it was before. Critics who focus solely on isolated incidents fail to acknowledge the progress that has been made.

Another attack on Oyebanji is his accessibility. Ironically, past leaders were criticized for being distant, yet Oyebanji is now faulted for being too engaged. His leadership style fosters unity, ensuring that diverse voices are heard in governance. Monthly town halls, direct feedback channels with youth groups, and collaborations with civil society have led to initiatives like the Ekiti Digital Skills Program, which trains 10,000 youths in technology annually. Far from a weakness, this level of engagement strengthens governance.

Some critics operate under the illusion that leadership requires perfection. No leader, past or present, has ever governed without challenges. The focus should be on consistent progress, and Oyebanji’s administration has delivered on multiple fronts. From healthcare improvements, including the operationalization of 20 new primary healthcare centers, to efficient civil service reforms, his policies prioritize sustainable development over short-term gains. The Silverbird Award recognizes this trajectory, rewarding diligence and inspiring further excellence.

Ekiti’s growth under Oyebanji is a story of resilience, vision, and dedication. Those who nitpick imperfections should also acknowledge the strides made. Awards like this are not given to satisfy cynics but to motivate leaders to continue raising standards. Instead of tearing down progress, Ekiti people should unite to build on it. The recognition is well deserved, not just for the governor but for the entire state, which continues to move forward despite challenges.