GOVERNOR OYEBANJI DISSOLVES CABINET AHEAD OF FRIDAY’S INAUGURATION.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI DISSOLVES CABINET AHEAD OF FRIDAY’S INAUGURATION.

…Hails EXCO members’ commitment at valedictory session.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has formally dissolved the State Executive Council (EXCO), the highest decision-making body of the State, ahead of the inauguration of his second term in office on Friday, October 16.

The Governor announced the dissolution at a valedictory session with members of the State Executive Council held at the EXCO Chamber, Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti, on Monday.

According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, the dissolution is part of the administrative process of winding down the first-term administration, which ends on Thursday, October 15.

However, the dissolution does not affect the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, the Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode. 

Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to members of the cabinet for their meritorious service and contributions to the development of the State, noting that the government and people of Ekiti State owed them a debt of gratitude for their commitment and selfless service.

The Governor particularly expressed appreciation to God for graciously preserving the lives of all the cabinet members, adding that he did not take that grace for granted. 

At the valedictory session preceding the dissolution, the Commissioners and Special Advisers took turns to thank the Governor for the opportunity to serve in his administration. They also reflected on their experiences as members of the State’s highest decision-making body.

The cabinet members commended the Governor’s leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to the development of Ekiti State, pledging to continue contributing to its progress in other capacities.

Governor Oyebanji was first inaugurated as Governor of Ekiti State on October 16, 2022. Following his re-election on June 20, 2026, his second-term inauguration is scheduled to hold on Friday, October 16, at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti.

OYEBANJI AT NEWLY REMODELED ALMA MATER, HAIL PREMIUM TRUST BANK’S STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP.

OYEBANJI AT NEWLY REMODELED ALMA MATER, HAIL PREMIUM TRUST BANK’S STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Saturday commissioned the ultra-modern Baptist Primary School, Ikogosi Ekiti, recently remodelled by Premium Trust Bank as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative to support education and improve learning environment for Ekiti pupils.

Facilities at the remodelled school include newly built  classrooms, ICT facilities, staff quarters and other supporting infrastructure. It  was officially handed over to the Ekiti State Government by the bank to provide conducive environment for teaching and learning.

Speaking while commissioning the project, Governor Oyebanji expressed deep appreciation to the Managing Director/ CEO of Premium Trust Bank, Dr Emmanuel Emefienim and the management of the bank for the intervention, describing the gesture as a demonstration of the bank’s commitment to education and community development. 

He commended the bank for responding promptly to the need of his alma mater and providing facilities that would improve the teaching and learning environment.

Describing Premium Trust Bank as a partner in progress and a dependable ally in the development of Ekiti State and noting that its intervention was not the first of its kind in the state, the Governor said the commitment of the bank to improving educational infrastructure across the country reflected its understanding that the future of education depended on not only what is taught but also on where and how teaching takes place.

Governor Oyebanji stated that the intervention aligned with his administration's vision for educational transformation, which focuses on where children learn, how they are taught and what they are taught.

He expressed confidence that the improved facilities, alongside efforts to strengthen teaching and curriculum delivery, would help prepare pupils to meet the demands of the 21st century.

While maintaining that the upgraded facilities in school would enhance the quality of teaching and learning while providing pupils and teachers with an environment that support quality academic development, the Governor assured the bank that his government would continue to provide a business-friendly environment that will attract Public-Private Partnership (PPPs) and encourage more private sector investment in the development of the state.

“What we have here today is part of the Social Corporate Responsibility of Premium Trust Bank, Ekiti State Government did not have one naira in this project. I thank my brother the CEO of Premium Trust Bank, Dr Emmanuel Emefienim for facilitating this. 

“ Standing behind me was my classroom while I was in primary six, and I did not know I will be standing here today as a Governor of this state, so you have given hope to people without hope, you are shaping lives, shaping futures and leaders of tomorrow and it is my prayer that in your life time, an alumnus of this school will become something as a result of what you have done here today”.  He asserted. 

Speaking shortly before handing over the project, the Managing Director of Premium Trust Bank, Emmanuel Emefienim commended Governor Oyebanji, for his commitment to education, people-oriented governance and the creation of a conducive environment for investment in the drive to improve educational infrastructure and learning outcomes across the state.

Emefienim, who described the remodelled school as more than a renovated structure, stressed that it represented hope, opportunity and a collective commitment to the future of children.

According to him, every classroom and its improved learning space reflects the belief that every child deserves a safe and inspiring environment to learn, nurture dreams and develop their potential.

The bank’s Managing Director, who explained that education occupies a special place in the Bank’s corporate social responsibility agenda, stressed that the future of every society depends largely on the quality of education provided for its children. He noted that while government provides leadership and policy direction, the private sector also has a responsibility to complement its efforts. 

Also speaking at the event, the senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele commended Governor Oyebanji for building enduring relationships that continue to attract support and development to the state saying the remodelled School's structure is an initiative supported by the Bank as part of efforts to complement the Oyebanji administration’s commitment to educational development.

The Senate Leader described the intervention as a product of the longstanding friendship between Governor Oyebanji and the bank’s leadership, noting that such relationships had continued to yield positive results for the state and its people.

Bamidele praised the bank’s leadership for its generosity and commitment to supporting development, recalling that Dr. Emmanuel Emefienim had provided over a hundred million naira in financial support to the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences when the institution needed assistance. He said the contribution reflected the banker’s character and commitment to public good, praying for continued growth and prosperity for the Bank.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Femi Akinwumi commended the bank for the school's upgrade describing the intervention as a significant contribution to educational development and a demonstration of effective partnership with the administration of Governor Oyebanji. The Chairman added that the school was designed to promote inclusive education and expand access to quality learning opportunities for children.

Ajijola Backs Opeyemi Bamidele for Ekiti Central Senate Seat, Calls for Continuity, Development.

Ajijola Backs Opeyemi Bamidele for Ekiti Central Senate Seat, Calls for Continuity, Development.

Chief Lateef Ajijola, the Executive Director of the South West Development Commission, has reaffirmed his support for Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, urging the people of Ekiti Central Senatorial District to support his aspiration for continued representation in the National Assembly.

Ajijola, popularly known as Always Standing, expressed confidence in Bamidele's leadership and emphasised the importance of compassionate representation, continuity, development and prosperity in advancing the interests of the district.

He called on the people of Ekiti Central to embrace a leadership approach that prioritises their welfare, promotes development and strengthens the delivery of democratic dividends to constituents.

According to Ajijola, effective representation should be measured by a commitment to the people's needs, the pursuit of meaningful development and the ability to create opportunities that improve living standards across the district.

He stressed the need for continuity in leadership, noting that sustained representation could provide an opportunity to consolidate development efforts, strengthen legislative engagement and advance the collective interests of the people.

Ajijola also urged members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti Central to remain united in support of progressive leadership capable of advancing the district's political and socio-economic development.

Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Senatorial District in the Senate, occupies the position of Senate Leader, one of the principal leadership offices in the National Assembly.

Ajijola maintained that the future of Ekiti Central should be anchored on purposeful leadership, people-oriented representation and a shared commitment to prosperity.

He called on constituents to support Bamidele's aspiration, expressing the belief that continuity, when backed by purposeful leadership and a commitment to public service, could contribute to the district's development.

Chief Lateef Ajijola

Executive Director, South West Development Commission

EKITI NORTH MONARCHS COMMEND SENATOR CYRIL FASUYI FOR ELECTRIFICATION PROJECT, PLEDGE SECOND-TERM SUPPORT.

EKITI NORTH MONARCHS COMMEND SENATOR CYRIL FASUYI FOR ELECTRIFICATION PROJECT, PLEDGE SECOND-TERM SUPPORT.

Traditional rulers and community leaders across Ekiti North Senatorial District have commended Senator Cyril Fasuyi for his latest delivery of transformers to;
Ayede (Oye LG)
Usi (Ido/Osi LG)
Oye Ekiti (Oye LG)
Igogo (Moba LG)

The royal fathers praised the initiative as tangible proof of impactful legislative representation and pledged massive grassroots mobilization to secure his mandate for a second term.

Speaking during the presentation, the Olojudo of Ojudo, HRM Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro, noted that Senator Fasuyi’s commitment to community development predates his tenure in the National Assembly. According to the monarch, the Senator has a long-standing history of self-sponsored developmental interventions, making his current delivery a continuation of his service-oriented track record.

This latest distribution builds on a series of prior interventions spanning several communities, including;

Ayetoro Ekiti (Ido/Osi)

Otun Ekiti (Moba LG)

Iye Ekiti (Ilejemeje)

Ido Ekiti (Ido/Osi LG)

Ora Ekiti (Ido/Osi LG )

Ikole Ekiti (Ikole LG)

Ilupeju Ekiti (Oye LG)

Oke-Ijebu/Temidire/Odo-Oro Ekiti (Ikole LG)

Corroborating these remarks, other prominent traditional figures—including HRM Oba Sunday Adewumi (Onigogo of Igogo Ekiti), High Chief Arogbodo (Odofin of Usi, representing the Olusi), and Mr. Adekunle David (Ayede LCDA Secretary, representing HRM Oba Abdulminini Orisagbemi, the Attah of Ayede Ekiti)—stated that the infrastructure will substantially ease electricity deficits in their domains.

The monarchs dismissed recent opposition narratives questioning the Senator's constituency impact, maintaining that the visible projects across their towns speak volumes and serve as the foundation for their unreserved endorsement for a second term.

Other notable dignitaries present at the event included Hon. Afolabi Rotimi, Hon. Sola Ogunsina, Chief Kester Layokun, and Chief Fabuyide

Premium Trust Bank Remodels, Hands Over Baptist Primary School Ikogosi-Ekiti to Govt.

Premium Trust Bank Remodels, Hands Over Baptist Primary School Ikogosi-Ekiti to Govt.

A leading 21st-century financial institution in Nigeria, Premium Trust Bank, has handed over the newly remodeled Baptist Primary School Ikogosi-Ekiti to Ekiti State government. 

The official commissioning and handover ceremony, held on Saturday, attracted Governor Biodun Oyebanji, his deputy, Monisade Afuye, Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, top government functionaries, traditional rulers and many others, was part of Premium Trust Bank initiative to promote inclusive education in the state. 

The governor, who was the special guest at the event, appreciated the partnership, generosity and continuous support of Premium Trust Bank for the advancement of education in the state saying that the collaboration will complement the efforts of his administration in the education sector. 

While describing the kind gesture as humbling, Oyebanji noted that the remodeling will shape future generations in ensuring no child is left out in acquiring basic education.

He said: "It's humbling for me, it's a bit emotional because this is the primary school I went to. I am very grateful to Premium Trust Bank for adopting this institution for their project in their corporate social responsibility scheme. 

"By doing this, they have complemented our interventions in the education sector. As a government in the last four years, we have spent massively education because we believe strongly that knowledge is invaluable and a country cannot grow if the citizens are not knowledgeable. 

"The foundation is at this basic level and with what Premium Trust Bank has done today, they are modelling futures and they are giving hope to a lot of pupils that won't have had the opportunity of studying in this facility. 

"It's not only the remodeling, if you go inside the classrooms, you will see new chairs, new lockers, interactive boards and the teachers are happy. Between the time they started and now, enrollment has spiked by more than 50%. I am so grateful to them."

On his part, the Managing Director of Premium Trust Bank, Emmanuel Emefienim, said the initiative serves as their corporate social responsibility geared towards supporting the advancement of critical sectors in the state's economy.

He disclosed that the partnership with the state government has been mutually beneficial assuring that the financial institution would continue to intervene in other sectors.

His words, "The partnership between us and the state has been mutually beneficial. The governor and his entire team have created a very conducive environment for us to do business here. 

"We are happy with the state and as God enables us, we will continue to intervene in critical sectors like education, health and others. We will certainly extend it beyond Ikogosi-Ekiti."

The Senate Leader extolled the bank for the initiative and called on members of the community to take ownership of the project aimed at promoting educational development in the state. 

Bamidele said, "I know that it's an issue that cannot be over addressed. It is important that the community owns up to this. The bank has done it at the governor's instance but for this to be sustainable, it is important that the community itself see that there is a culture of maintenance. 

"I also believe that is also the responsibility of the Ministry of Education and SUBEB. We have no doubt that it would be well-maintained and the fact that the governor has this place as his own root. 

"It is also something that would be a check and balance effect on all stakeholders that are concerned. It's a joy that will be cherished by everyone including those who have the responsibility to maintain this place."

Chief Ayo Ademilua, the Asaoye Of Ikogosi Ekiti, who spoke on behalf of the community, commended Premium Trust Bank for the gesture describing the initiative as " fulfilled promises, generosity, renewed hope and an enduring investment in the future of our children."

GOV OYEBANJI ATTRIBUTES RE-ELECTION, PEACEFUL STATE TO GOD’S GRACE.

GOV OYEBANJI ATTRIBUTES RE-ELECTION, PEACEFUL STATE  TO GOD’S GRACE.

…As Nathaniel Bassey, Yinka Alaseyori, BJ Sax, others join Gov at praise session.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has attributed his administration’s achievements in the last four years and the remarkable peaceful atmosphere that characterized his re- election for another term during the June 20 election to the grace of God. 

The Governor stated this on Friday when he led Ekiti people in an Eight-Hour special praise session tagged “8 Hour Sacrifice of Praise” organized as part of activities held to usher in his second term administration. 

The Governor spoke just as frontline Gospel artistes including Nathaniel Bassey, BJ Sax  Yinka Alaseyori and the National Praise Team of the Redeemed Christian Church of God stormed Ado- Ekiti for the marathon eight hours of praise. 

Other artistes at the event include Biola Ojuawo, Deborah Ajayi, Bola Discovery Tolu Sax, the Gratitude Tribe and several church choirs. 

The event was attended by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamide, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the State House of Assembly and State Executive Council, MD/ CEO of Premium Trust Bank, Dr Emmanuel Emefienim and royal Fathers, among others.

Addressing the large congregation of worshipers, government officials, political leaders, and other Ekiti people at the event, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to God for his faithfulness to Ekiti State, noting that the remarkable journey of his administration over the last four years were clear evidence of divine grace.

“I actually don’t have much to say today other than to explain the reason I chose to have this eight hour of praise worship to God. When they were crafting the programme for the inauguration, I told my wife that the only thing I wanted and that is extremely important is an eight hours of quality praise and worship to God. Four hours for the last four years and another four hours for the next four years.

“For those of you who know my story, you will know that it can only be God. I am not more than this, It is God that has made it like this, how I became the Governor you know the story, I never wanted to be Governor, I was not aspiring for it, I was the poorest among the contestants but God trusted me for it and I found myself at the seat and in the last four years God has shown Himself mighty and the least I can do is to continuously give thanks to him.

“Even when we were anxious about the primary and the main elections, God showed up, I emerged as our party’s consensus candidate and went on to win the election with a wide margin and in an unprecedented peaceful manner,”he added 

While expressing optimism about the next four years, Governor Oyebanji expressed confidence that with God’s grace and support of the people, his second term would be far more impactful than the first. 

The Governor said he will never be tired of giving quality praise and worship to God for His awesomeness and his manifest presence in the affairs of the State. 

In his goodwill message, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, applauded Governor Oyebanji for his leadership acumen and commitment to the people. He expressed confidence that his administration would record greater achievements in his second term.

Senator Bamidele described Governor Oyebanji’s decision to organise a praise programme to show gratitude to God on behalf of himself and the State  is a reflection of his heart of gratitude to God.

While urging the Governor to remain confident and focused as he commences his second term in office, the Senate leader  expressed optimism that the governor will not only consolidate the achievements of his first term but also surpass expectations. 

Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director/ CEO of Premium Trust Bank, Dr Emmanuel Emefienim, predicted a more prosperous and glorious future for Ekiti State, maintaining that the state would experience greater achievements and testimonies during the Governor’s second term in office, having started on the note of gratitude to God. 

Emefienim, who described the programme as spiritually significant, said the gathering represented more than an expression of gratitude, but a declaration of faith that would have lasting implications for Ekiti State and generations yet unborn. He said the gathering would serve as a lasting memorial for the state, adding that its impact would be felt by present and future generations of Ekiti people.

According to him, the eight hours of uninterrupted praise had set the stage for a new chapter in the state’s history by securing divine grace ahead of the governor’s second term. 

“You have sent grace ahead of the second term. The best way to fight in the spiritual realm is to praise God even before the fight begins. I believe that the next four years, by the grace of God, will be better than the first four”, Emefienim said.

𝐅𝐔𝐓𝐄𝐒-𝐈𝐘𝐈𝐍 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧.

𝐅𝐔𝐓𝐄𝐒-𝐈𝐘𝐈𝐍 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧.

The Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin-Ekiti (FUTES-IYIN), has announced Monday, October 12, 2026, as the resumption date for the 2026/2027 academic session.

The Pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gbenga Aribisala, disclosed this during the institution’s maiden press conference.

Aribisala, while noting that returning students resume Monday, October 12, fresh students will resume Monday, November 2, 2026

“I am happy to inform you that the university completed the first academic session (2025/2026) this month (August), while the 2026/2027 academic session will begin on October 12, 2026,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

Recall that the University began academic activities on 5th January, 2026, and completed the maiden academic session in August.

Speaking on the importance of maintaining a predictable academic structure, Aribisala said the University was committed to ensuring that students progress through their programmes without unnecessary disruption or delay.

He reiterated that the University will continue to maintain a stable academic calendar, ensuring that academic activities, examinations, results processing, and other academic processes are properly coordinated to support the timely completion of students’ programmes.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that the University Management remains focused on consolidating the gains of the maiden session, strengthening academic delivery and creating a conducive environment for teaching, learning, and research.