Ekiti Govt, Ex-Corps Members Partner NGO to Empower PWDs with 100 Tricycle Wheelchairs.

Ekiti Govt, Ex-Corps Members Partner NGO to Empower PWDs with 100 Tricycle Wheelchairs.

In a major boost to disability inclusion, the Ekiti State Government, in partnership with the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre and two ex-corps members, distributed 100 locally fabricated tricycle wheelchairs to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.

The event, held on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Ekiti State Skill Acquisition Centre in Ilokun, Ado-Ekiti, brought together state officials, humanitarian leaders, and members of the disability community.

The collaboration was catalyzed by two Ex- corps members who served in the state, Mr. Israel Bernard Offong and Mr. Zion Timothy Atser. Explaining their motivation, the ex-corps members noted that their decision to facilitate the intervention stemmed from witnessing firsthand the purposeful leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

"We came to Ekiti to serve, we saw the level of intentionality of what Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is doing to people with disability through the office of the Special Adviser for Special Education and Social Inclusion, and we decided to reach out to Beautiful Gate in Jos, and they yielded," they stated.

The Media Director of Beautiful Gate, Yilgwan Sandra, noted that the organization’s humanitarian footprint spans across the nation, focusing heavily on mobility independence for PWDs regardless of geography or social status. She explained that the tricycles were locally manufactured and assembled in Jos, Plateau State, ensuring that beneficiaries have easy access to local technical support and repairs.

Highlighting the state's progressive policies, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, commended Governor Oyebanji for institutionalizing support for PWDs since assuming office in 2022.

Princess Agboola noted that the administration is the first in the state's history to introduce free medical care for PWDs and officially shoulder the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. She added that the state has integrated PWDs into the civil service, with members of the community attaining administrative cadres and the position of Executive Secretary, while also ensuring all special schools remain tuition-free with regular feeding.

She expressed profound appreciation to the founder of Beautiful Gate and Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Honourable Ayuba Burki Gufwan, for his visionary leadership and dedication to humanity. The Special Adviser lauded Honourable Ayuba as a worthy role model to persons with disabilities, noting that he has proven beyond doubt that persons with disabilities can develop immense capacity. She used the opportunity to challenge all persons with disabilities in Ekiti State to emulate him by building capacity in their various trades and shifting their mindset from focusing on what they can receive to what they can offer.

Princess Agboola also expressed delight that two ex-corps members served in the state had recognized the governor's commitment to PWDs and decided to complement the government's efforts by facilitating the partnership with the Beautiful Gate NGO in Jos. She described the gesture as evidence that government alone could not shoulder the responsibility of catering for the needs of persons with disabilities, while appreciating the ex-corps members for their compassion and support.

Echoing these sentiments, the Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Office of Disability Affairs, Mr. Bayo Odewale, delivered a welcome address praising the Beautiful Gate Group for the partnership. He emphasized that the distribution of mobility aids goes far beyond physical hardware, serving as an instrument to restore hope, promote self-reliance, and foster dignity.

State officials issued clear guidance to the beneficiaries during the event. The Director of Disability Affairs, Mr. Toye Ojo, and NGO representatives stressed that while the wheelchairs were provided free, transporting them to Ekiti cost the state a significant investment. Beneficiaries were sternly cautioned not to sell the chairs and strictly advised against operating the tricycle wheelchairs on highways for safety reasons.

The event concluded with renewed calls from the state government for public-spirited individuals, corporate bodies, and non-governmental organizations to complement government efforts in building a more inclusive society where every citizen can thrive.

OYEBANJI MOURNS SECOND REPUBLIC HOUSE OF REPS MEMBER, PROF. OPEYEMI OLA. OLAKANMI.

OYEBANJI MOURNS SECOND REPUBLIC HOUSE OF REPS MEMBER, PROF. OPEYEMI  OLA. OLAKANMI.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed his condolences on the death of a distinguished scholar, political scientist and Second Republic parliamentarian, Prof. Israel Opeyemi Ola Olakanmi.

Prof.  Opeyemi Ola who represented his constituency in the Federal House of Representatives between 1979 and 1983, died on Monday, November 9, 2026, at the age of 98.

The Governor, in a condolence statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, extolled the contributions of the deceased to scholarship, research and national manpower development through his distinguished academic career at the Universities of Ibadan and Lagos.

Governor Oyebanji described the late professor as a committed disciple of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, noting that he served as one of the intellectual pillars of the Action Group (AG) and the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), under whose platform he was elected to the House of Representatives in 1979.

The Governor also acknowledged his contributions to community development in his hometown, Efon Alaaye, particularly his leadership role in presenting the community’s memorandum before the Arthur Mbanefo Panel in 1996, seeking the creation of Efon Local Government Area.

Governor Oyebanji commiserated with the people of Efon Alaaye, the academic community, associates and family of the deceased, describing his passing as a loss to Ekiti State and the nation.

He said Ekiti State was proud to have produced a distinguished scholar and patriot whose contributions to education, public service and community development would remain a source of inspiration to generations.

The Governor prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed and for God’s comfort for his family and all those mourning his demise.

EKITI RANKS SECOND IN NGF HEALTH BUDGET PERFORMANCE IMPLEMENTATION RATING.

EKITI RANKS SECOND IN NGF HEALTH BUDGET PERFORMANCE IMPLEMENTATION RATING.

…Scores 82.2%, meets NGF’s 67% benchmark.

Ekiti State has emerged second among 34 states evaluated in the Health Budget Performance Implementation Report released by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), covering the first three quarters of 2026.

Significantly, Ekiti was among only three states that met the NGF’s 67 per cent benchmark for health budget performance implementation, underscoring the state’s commitment to effective budget execution and sustained investment in healthcare delivery.

The state scored 82.2 per cent, trailing only Delta State, which ranked first with 84.4 per cent, while Bayelsa State came third with 68.3 per cent.

During the period under review, Ekiti also recorded a favourable performance in overall budget implementation, ranking among the leading states with a 65 per cent performance rating, further reflecting its commitment to fiscal discipline, adherence to budgetary provisions, and commitment to service delivery.

The report indicated that the 34 states collectively expended N1.15 trillion on the health sector during the first three quarters of the year. Ekiti allocated 5.1 per cent of its total budget to the sector, reflecting its prioritisation of healthcare services and infrastructure.

Reacting to the favourable rating, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani, attributed the achievement to the substantial investment in the health sector by the Governor Biodun Oyebanji-led administration, particularly in its commitment to Human Capital Development.

Dr Filani said the ranking was a product of deliberate government policies and sustained investments rather than a mere coincidence.

He disclosed that the administration had, in the last four years, renovated 110 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state to expand access to affordable and quality healthcare at the grassroots.

He added that all secondary healthcare facilities in the state had also undergone comprehensive rehabilitation and been equipped with modern medical equipment and drugs, while plans were at an advanced stage to construct three additional secondary healthcare facilities in strategic locations across the state.

The Commissioner noted that these interventions were designed to strengthen the healthcare delivery system, improve access to medical services and enhance health outcomes for residents.

Ekiti State has also recorded encouraging health indicators, including one of the highest life expectancies and among the lowest neonatal and child mortality rates in the country. These achievements reflect the government’s sustained interventions and coordinated efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of residents.

Beyond infrastructure renewal and equipment provision, the Oyebanji administration has recruited about 1,800 health professionals in the last four years, including medical doctors, nurses and other allied health personnel, to strengthen manpower capacity and improve service delivery across the state’s healthcare system.

The Benefits of Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele's Political Trajectory to Ekiti State.

The Benefits of Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele's Political Trajectory to Ekiti State.

....Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, CON - Senate Majority Leader.

HC Ade.

There are politicians who seek power, and there are leaders whose journey prepares them for power. Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, CON - Senate Majority Leader belongs to the second group.

Born on 29th July, 1963 in Iyin Ekiti, his story began in struggle - from student activism as NANS President, to human rights advocacy and defending democracy during the June 12 struggle. That foundation produced a leader known nationally for courage and consistency.

Between 2000 and 2011, he served Lagos State as Senior Special Assistant to Governor Bola Tinubu, Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development, and Commissioner for Information and Strategy. That executive experience is what he later brought home to Ekiti.

In 2011, he entered the House of Representatives for Ekiti Central Federal Constituency I. In 2019, he was elected Senator for Ekiti Central and re-elected in 2023. On 4th July, 2023, he emerged as Senate Majority Leader - the highest legislative office ever held by an Ekiti man.

The benefit to Ekiti is clear. As Leader, he coordinates all executive bills in the Senate. Under his leadership, the 10th Senate has passed over 108 laws, including the Student Loan Act that created NELFUND.

His greatest legacy is the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin-Ekiti - a generational win that brings admission opportunities, jobs and economic growth to Ekiti.

In Ekiti Central, his impact is visible: over 50 roads, ICU facilities at five hospitals, 12 mini-stadiums, thousands of solar streetlights, and empowerment for thousands of small business owners.

As Chairman of the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on the National Security Summit, he has also championed state police as a solution to insecurity - a position that directly benefits Ekiti.

From student leader to Senate Majority Leader, Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele's trajectory has given Ekiti representation with power, experience with results, and loyalty with access.

According to the popular saying that "you don’t have to figure out the whole road ahead, just trust that your feet know how to take the very next step", for Ekiti, protecting this trajectory is about promotional protecting the interest of Ekiti State at the centre of Nigerian politics.

Come January election, our votes for PBAT and all APC candidates remains our key to unblocking our greatness as a people. 

_Vote President Bola Ahmed Tinubu!_

_Vote MOB and all APC candidates!_

_forward ever, backward never!_

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES EKITI SPEAKER, ARIBASOYE, ON 50TH BIRTHDAY.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES EKITI SPEAKER, ARIBASOYE, ON 50TH BIRTHDAY.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye, on the occasion of his 50th birthday.

In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, the Governor commended the Speaker’s contributions to good governance in Ekiti State, particularly his exemplary leadership and commitment to legislative excellence.

Governor Oyebanji said Rt. Hon. Aribasoye had provided purposeful leadership for the legislative arm of government, resulting in quality representation across the state’s 26 constituencies and a harmonious working relationship among the three arms of government.

The Governor noted that the Speaker had demonstrated considerable capacity in presiding over a productive House of Assembly, as reflected in the quality of legislation, effective representation and robust oversight functions.

He also applauded Rt. Hon. Aribasoye for the innovations introduced into the legislative process under his leadership, particularly digital reforms that have enhanced the visibility and accessibility of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, positioning it as one of the most visible state legislatures on digital platforms in Nigeria.

Governor Oyebanji further commended the Speaker for fostering a cordial and productive relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government, noting that the cooperation had contributed positively to good governance and development in the state.

He urged Rt. Hon. Aribasoye to continue to distinguish himself as a worthy ambassador of his constituents in Ikole Constituency II, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and the people of Ekiti State.

The Governor prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the Speaker, wishing him long life, sound health and greater wisdom to sustain his contributions to the government and people of Ekiti State and humanity at large.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I wish our dear Mr Speaker a happy 50th birthday celebration. I pray that God Almighty will continue to uphold him on the path of honour and greatness, granting him more years of fruitful and selfless service to our state and humanity,” the Governor added.

YAN Ekiti Honours Joke Akinsanmi for Excellence in Legislative Capacity Development, Youth Empowerment.

YAN Ekiti Honours Joke Akinsanmi for Excellence in Legislative Capacity Development, Youth Empowerment.

The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), Ekiti State Assembly, has honoured the Director of Training and International Cooperation at the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Joke Akinsanmi, with a Distinguished Award for Excellence in Legislative Capacity Development and Youth Empowerment.

The award was conferred on Akinsanmi on Monday, November 9, 2026, by the Ekiti State Assembly of YAN, under the leadership of its Speaker, Rt. Hon. Oluwatosin A. S.

The honour recognises her outstanding contributions to legislative capacity development, youth empowerment and professional excellence, particularly her efforts towards strengthening democratic institutions and promoting leadership development.

Akinsanmi is widely regarded as a consummate professional with remarkable strategic insight and leadership capacity. She has also distinguished herself through significant contributions to multimedia journalism and corporate communications in Nigeria.

Her professional achievements have attracted several recognitions. In 2024, The Guardian Newspaper named her among Nigeria's 25 Most Exceptional and Value-Adding Female Professionals in recognition of her outstanding contributions to her field.

Similarly, in March 2026, she received a Leadership Award from the Advanced Management Academy for her remarkable contributions to leadership and professional development.

The latest recognition by YAN Ekiti further underscores her commitment to institutional development, capacity building and youth empowerment.

The award also highlights the importance of recognising accomplished professionals whose expertise and contributions continue to inspire younger generations and strengthen leadership development in Nigeria.

BAMIDELE, FASUYI, AND ADARAMODU: THE PERFECT TRIO TO REPRESENT EKITI IN THE COMING 11TH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY.

BAMIDELE, FASUYI, AND ADARAMODU: THE PERFECT TRIO TO REPRESENT EKITI IN THE COMING 11TH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY.

HC Ade.

As Ekiti State prepares for the coming 11th National Assembly, one question is on the lips of every well-meaning Ekiti son and daughter: who can best represent us in Abuja?

The answer is clear. It is the trio that has already proven themselves - Senator (Dr) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, and Senator Yemi Adaramodu.

These three men are not just politicians. They are tested, trusted, and experienced leaders who understand Ekiti, love Ekiti, and have the capacity to take Ekiti to greater heights.

1. Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele - Ekiti Central: _The Voice of Ekiti in the Senate_

Senator Bamidele, popularly known as MOB, is not an ordinary Senator. As the Leader of the Senate, he is the number one Senator in Nigeria after the Senate President. That position alone is a blessing to Ekiti State. By this position, the soft speaking eloquent Senator remains the highest ranked elected politician from the entire Southern part of the country in this administration after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

Through his influence closeness to the presidency, Ekiti has enjoyed unprecedented attention at the national level - in federal appointments, in projects, and in national policy. He has attracted roads, schools, hospitals, empowerment programmes, and federal presence to Ekiti Central and beyond.

He is a brilliant lawyer, a former Commissioner, a former Member of the House of Representatives, and a man who understands lawmaking from the inside. To replace him would be to throw away Ekiti's biggest advantage in Abuja.

2. Senator Cyril Fasuyi - Ekiti North:_The Quiet Achiever_

Senator Cyril Fasuyi represents Ekiti North with humility, focus and results. He is not a noise-maker, he is a worker.

Since his election, he has remained close to his people - from Ikole to Oye, Ilejemeje to Ido/Osi and Moba. His constituency projects, his empowerment for youths and women, his support for farmers, traders and students, and his constant presence at home speak louder than any campaign promise.

Ekiti North needs a Senator who listens, who is accessible, and who delivers. Fasuyi is that man.

3. Senator Yemi Adaramodu - Ekiti South: _The People's Senator_

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the man of the people, has redefined representation in Ekiti South. From Ikere to Ise/Orun, Emure, Gbonyin, Ekiti East and Ekiti South-West, his impact is visible.

He is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth Development - a position he has used to open doors for Ekiti youths. His bills, motions, constituency projects, scholarships, and empowerment programmes have touched thousands of lives.

Adaramodu understands the pain of the ordinary Ekiti man and woman, because he comes from among them. He is a grassroots leader with a national voice.

Why This Trio Must Return

Experience Matters: In the National Assembly, seniority is power. Ranking Senators get better committees, better projects, and better influence. Sending new and inexperienced people to Abuja in 2027 would set Ekiti back by years.

Unity Matters: Bamidele, Fasuyi and Adaramodu work as a team. They do not fight each other. They speak with one voice for Ekiti. That unity has brought peace and progress to our State.

Loyalty Matters: They are loyal to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, loyal to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and loyal to the people of Ekiti State. They have stood with the Governor in his quest to develop Ekiti.

Performance Matters: From Central to North to South, their records are there for all to see. They have not disappointed us.

Ekiti State cannot afford to experiment in the 11th National Assembly. We need men who already know the road, who already have the contacts, who already have the respect of their colleagues, and who already have the ear of the Presidency.

No need replacing a winning team, this is why Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, and Senator Yemi Adaramodu are the perfect choice to represent Ekiti State in the coming 11th National Assembly.

As ranking Senators, let us support them. Let us stand with them. Let us send them back to Abuja to continue the good work.

_Ekiti First! Ekiti Koya!_- _forward ever! backwards never_