Olarewaju Praises Matriarch of Gbajabiamila Family at 96.

Olarewaju Praises Matriarch of Gbajabiamila Family at 96.                                 By Ahmed Salami

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (House of Reps), Hon. Ibraheem Kunle Olarewaju, has celebrated the 96th birthday of Alhaja Chief (Dr.) Lateefat Olufunke Gbajabiamila, mother of Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila , Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In the statement signed and made available to the journalists, Hon. Olarewaju described Alhaja Gbajabiamila as “an extraordinary woman whose life embodies resilience, integrity, faith, and devotion to family and community.”

He praised her for a lifetime of nurturing, guidance, and unwavering commitment to raising generations grounded in strong moral values. “Her life is a remarkable testimony to the power of love, discipline, and perseverance. She has lived fully, inspired greatly, and continues to be a source of wisdom and strength to her family and all who know her,” the statement read.

Hon. Olarewaju also credited her for raising children who have distinguished themselves in public service, noting that her values are reflected in the leadership, dedication, and integrity of Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.

“Through her guidance and example, she has instilled in her children the principles of service, humility, and excellence principles that continue to influence governance and leadership positively,” he added.

Conveying his warm felicitations, Hon. Olarewaju extended personal congratulations to Alhaja Gbajabiamila and her family, wishing her continued good health, joy, and fulfillment.

He emphasized that reaching such a milestone is a rare achievement, deserving of admiration, and urged that her life and legacy be recognized as an inspiration for both family and society at large.

Hon. Olarewaju further noted that Alhaja Gbajabiamila’s influence extends beyond her immediate family, describing her as a matriarch whose life has positively impacted her community.

“Her guidance, wisdom, and example have shaped not only her children but countless others who have had the privilege of knowing her. She stands as a symbol of dedication and selfless service,” he said.

He concluded by reflecting on the enduring lessons her life offers, stressing that her faith, resilience, and values remain a beacon for younger generations.

“Alhaja Gbajabiamila’s life reminds us of the importance of family, integrity, and service. Her legacy is one that will continue to inspire and guide long into the future,” Hon. Olarewaju stated.

REASON WHY ARCHITECT OGUNLEYE TEMITOPE AJISAFE (RST) DESERVE TO BE CHOSEN AS A CANDIDATE FOR EKITI CENTRAL 1 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE.

REASON WHY ARCHITECT  OGUNLEYE TEMITOPE AJISAFE (RST) DESERVE TO BE CHOSEN AS A CANDIDATE FOR EKITI CENTRAL 1 HOUSE  OF REPRESENTATIVE.

1. Experience: He brings valuable experience in governance and community service, understanding the needs and challenges of the constituents.

2. Vision: He has a clear and actionable vision for local development, focusing on education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

3. Community Engagement:   RST is known for his active involvement in the community, listening to the concerns of the people and advocating for their needs.

4. Integrity: He has a strong reputation for honesty and transparency, which is essential for restoring trust in government.

5. Innovative Solutions: RST is committed to implementing innovative solutions to address social and economic issues, fostering growth and progress.

6. Advocacy: He has a track record of advocating for policies that promote equality, job creation, and social justice.

Supporting  OGUNLEYE TEMITOPE AJISAFE means choosing a candidate dedicated to serving and uplifting the community.

Ekiti Central Deserve The Best

RST ITESIWAJU

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RST MEDIA TEAM

BAYO AJAYI: A SYMBOL OF INTEGRITY AND TRANSFORMATION IN EKITI SOUTH FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY II.

BAYO AJAYI: A SYMBOL OF INTEGRITY AND TRANSFORMATION IN EKITI SOUTH FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY II.

The narrative of progressive leadership in Ekiti South Federal Constituency II cannot be told without highlighting the remarkable contributions of Bayo Ajayi, a man widely recognized for his integrity, compassion, and visionary commitment to the people. Over the years, Ajayi has consistently invested his resources, time, and influence toward improving lives across diverse socio-economic strata of the constituency.

A seasoned professional, accomplished politician, and altruistic humanitarian, Ajayi’s political philosophy transcends rhetoric. His actions are deeply rooted in purposeful service, tangible results, and measurable impact.

●Commitment to Education:

Education remains a cornerstone of Engr. Ajayi’s developmental agenda. Recognizing knowledge as the bedrock of societal transformation, he has supported numerous students, particularly the less privileged, helping them meet academic needs including JAMB registrations and other financial requirements.

Some of his notable educational initiatives include:

●Annual free JAMB registration for secondary school students, with incentives for outstanding academic performers.

●Sponsorship of over 50 students in Ekiti State Technical Schools, reflecting his belief in technical education as a pathway to sustainable development.

●Donation of 1,000 specially designed exercise books to children with disabilities, aligning with the inclusive education vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

●Financial support for students in higher institutions, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic progress.

●Human Capital and Youth Development:

Understanding that societal progress is tied to people, Bayo Ajayi has prioritized human capital development. His empowerment programs have supported vulnerable groups, including elderly women and widows, through financial assistance and material support to improve livelihoods.

As a sports enthusiast, he has also promoted youth development through athletics. Recently, he donated two sets of football jerseys and financial support to Ekiti United FC, helping nurture young talents and boost sports development across the state.

●Political Loyalty and Progressive Governance:

Bayo Ajayi is a steadfast supporter of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration. He actively rallied behind the “BAO Agenda 2026,” setting up a campaign office in Emure Ekiti and providing vests, caps, and other materials to mobilize grassroots participation.

Demonstrating further commitment, he donated a branded Hilux vehicle to support the second-term campaign of Governor Oyebanji, reinforcing his dedication to continuity, stability, and progressive governance in Ekiti State.

●A Leader for Transformation:

Bayo Ajayi’s track record is built on action, not promises. His philanthropic footprint, political loyalty, and people-centered approach have positioned him as a credible and visionary leader, ready to champion the aspirations of Ekiti South Federal Constituency II at the federal level.

With Bayo Ajayi (IMOLE 1) , history finds a leader whose words are validated by deeds—a servant-leader committed to transformative progress, youth empowerment, infrastructural development, and sustainable projects.

Ekiti South Federal Constituency II needs a leader like Bayo Ajayi, and his candidacy is widely seen as the answer to accelerated development and meaningful representation.

Ojuawo Supports Local Government Candidates with Financial Assistance.

Ojuawo Supports Local Government Candidates with Financial Assistance.

In a strategic move aimed at easing the nomination process for local government candidates within his constituency, Hon Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, has provided financial support to the Chairmanship, Vice Chairmanship, and thirty-two (32) Councillorship candidates across the constituency.

Hon. Ojuawo, an Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) explained that the gesture was intended to assist the candidates in completing their nomination processes at Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC), ahead of the forthcoming local government elections.

He described the intervention as part of his continuous commitment to strengthening grassroots governance and ensuring a smooth, inclusive, and participatory democratic process at the local government level. According to him, empowering candidates at this critical stage will enable them to focus more on issue-based campaigns and effective engagement with their constituents.

Speaking on behalf of all the beneficiaries, Hon. Olu Adamolekun, the Chairmanship candidate for Ikere Local Government, expressed profound gratitude to Hon. Ojuawo—fondly known as O’nfo Lókè—for his timely support. He described the gesture as a demonstration of genuine leadership and selfless service to the people. He offered prayers for continued success, strength, and greater achievements for Hon. Ojuawo in all his endeavours.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Ekiti Moves to Align Cocoa Production with Global Standards Under TRACE Programme.

Ekiti Moves to Align Cocoa Production with Global Standards Under TRACE Programme.

The Ekiti State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has said it will enforce stricter standards in cocoa production as part of efforts to align the state with global best practices under the TRACE project.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, announced this at a two-day stakeholders’ workshop organised in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The event brought together cocoa farmers, processors, regulators, and industry stakeholders to discuss sustainable production and traceability requirements.

Mr Boluwade described cocoa as central to Ekiti’s rural economy and said the government was determined to reposition the sector to meet international market standards, particularly in environmental protection, responsible land use, and product traceability.

He said the TRACE initiative would educate stakeholders on modern production techniques and compliance with global supply chain standards while discouraging encroachment on protected forest reserves.

“Strict adherence to due process will enhance the credibility of Ekiti cocoa in the international market, improve farmers’ incomes and strengthen investor confidence,” he said.

The commissioner noted that the initiative forms part of Ekiti State’s broader strategy to modernise its cocoa industry and strengthen cash crop production in line with global best practices.

According to him, the Oyebanji Administration is making conscious efforts to revive and expand the cocoa sector — historically one of the state’s key agricultural strengths — through several state-led programmes, including the distribution of subsidised and improved cocoa seedlings to farmers.

He said a major initiative provides up to 50 per cent subsidy on cocoa and other tree crop seedlings to encourage planting, replace old or burnt trees, and attract new farmers, particularly youths, into cocoa farming. 

The government also supports farmers with agrochemicals and pest/disease control inputs to boost yields. Noting that other measures taken the administration include modernisation, training, and capacity building for farmers on climate-smart and modern agronomic practices aimed at improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience.

Mr Boluwade added that Ekiti had been selected as a model state for the European Union’s Deforestation-Free Cocoa Initiative (EUDR), which ensures cocoa produced for export complies with sustainability standards, including being grown without deforestation. The state’s forestry regulations and land management plans are being aligned to meet these requirements.

Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Babatope Ojo, said compliance challenges were largely linked to limited awareness among farmers. He said the ministry would intensify extension services and capacity-building programmes to bridge knowledge gaps.

Mr Ojo also highlighted collaboration with the Ekiti State Forestry Commission to prevent illegal farming in protected areas and ensure cocoa expansion does not undermine environmental sustainability.

The ministry’s Director of Tree Crops, Tope Alao, said the workshop provided practical guidance on traceability systems, including farm mapping, record keeping, and compliance procedures. He noted that clear documentation of cocoa origin and supply chains is increasingly required to access premium international markets.

Mr Wale Awoyemi, representing the USDA under the TRACE project, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting productivity, quality improvement, and traceability mechanisms in the state.

Participants described the workshop as timely and pledged to adopt the new standards, comply with traceability requirements, and support efforts to protect forest reserves while increasing cocoa output.

The Workshop marks a significant step towards the Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's agenda on cash crop production in conformity with the global best practices. 

“Your Promotion Centres on Affirmation of Hard Work, Accountability and Total Commitment” —Mrs Akinbobola.

“Your Promotion Centres on Affirmation of Hard Work, Accountability and Total Commitment” —Mrs Akinbobola.

By Asubiojo G. O.

In the quiet dignity of service and the sacred corridors of responsibility, the Administrative Head of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah Bosede, delivered a charge that resonated beyond celebration — a message that stirred conscience and awakened purpose.

Addressing both newly promoted junior staff and senior cadres across all departments, she described promotion not as a ceremonial gesture, but as a divine affirmation of diligence, discipline, and unwavering dedication.

Promotion, she noted, is responsibility elevated,cum integrity acknowledged.

It is commitment brought into the light.

She urged staff to embrace renewed dedication and steadfastness in their official duties, reminding them that every action taken in service becomes a legacy written in time.

“You are building a future fortress for yourselves and your families while in service,” she declared. “Your records today will serve as a reference point for the coming generation.”

Her words carried both warmth and firmness — a reminder that no officer should engage in any conduct capable of tarnishing the noble image of the Local Government Service or jeopardizing their destiny.

Mrs. Akinbobola further aligned the moment with the broader progressive vision of His Excellency, Governor Abiodun Oyebanji (BAO), whose administration continues to prioritize timely approval of promotions for deserving staff across Local Governments and State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. A leadership she described as humane, pragmatic, and people-centered.

She also expressed profound appreciation to the Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel Abejide, for his visionary stewardship and unwavering commitment to strengthening the Local Government system. She commended the Commission’s prompt implementation of promotion approvals for both junior and senior cadres, alongside the consistent payment of outstanding deductions, salaries, and leave bonuses — actions that reinforce dignity within the service.

According to her, such responsive governance must be met with heightened productivity, loyalty, and excellence from beneficiaries.

Adding his administrative perspective, the Director of Administration, Prince Peters Adegoke, encouraged staff to remain punctual, disciplined, relevant, and forthright in the discharge of their responsibilities. He emphasized that trust between management and staff is not accidental — it is built on integrity, diligence, and consistent performance.

The Prince Adegoke concluded with a solemn reminder: "Promotion is not an arrival; it is an ascent. It is not a resting place, but a higher altar of service."

Indeed, in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, promotion is more than advancement — it is  affirmation.

2027 Election: Oyebanji, Fayose Woo Ekiti Voters for President Tinubu.

2027 Election: Oyebanji,  Fayose Woo Ekiti Voters for President Tinubu.

.....as APC receives PDP defectors.

 

As the All Progressives Congress (APC) perfects its political strategies ahead of the June 20 Ekiti State governorship poll and the 2027 general elections, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has urged Ekiti people mobilise maximum support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

The re-election of President Tinubu for a second term, according to Governor Oyebanji, would further boost the fortunes of  Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole, adding that the President would, in his second term, have ample opportunity to consolidate the gains of the various economic reforms he has introduced, which  have accelerated growth and development in the country.

Governor Oyebanji who stated this at a rally in Ikere-Ekiti, on Monday where a former House of Representatives Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Henrich Akomolafe, was received into the APC fold together with hundreds of his supporters, said he was confident that he will emerge victorious on account of his impressive performance and level of  acceptability by the people.

He, however urged the people of the state to double the volume of votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the January 20, 2027 presidential poll, stressing that the era of delivering about 300,000 votes in presidential election is no longer acceptable.

“For us to show our love and support for President Tinubu, we should target about 600,000 votes for him. This will only be possible if we all go out and get our voters cards and mobilise from house-to-house canvassing support for the President. Anything less than 600,000 votes is not good enough for us in Ekiti. So, we have a lot of work to do.

"Our votes shouldn't be less than 600,000 in the coming governorship election to give us a hope about what will happen in the presidential poll, because President Tinubu has tried for us in Ekiti.

"All that we are seeing in terms of projects today were made possible because of the support I get from President Tinubu. We can't afford to give him 300,000 votes or less, we must up our game and deliver nothing less than 600,000 votes.

"To achieve this, our people should go and get their PVCs to be able to deliver massively for the party", Oyebanji added.

At the event, attended by political heavyweights across party divides, former Governor of the state, Dr Peter Ayodele Fayose, who is a leading light in the PDP, said he had no regret supporting Governor Oyebanji in his effort to develop Ekiti State, adding that while he would not join APC, he would mobilise support to ensure Oyebanji got a second term in office.

Similarly, Fayose, who said nothing could stop President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in January 2027 polls, said he would continue to mobilise support for the President’s electoral victory.

"With or without defections, President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji have won their elections. They have done creditably well and Ekiti people are not ingrates. We will repay them with electoral victories.

"I have called my colleague former Ekiti governors before I came here. I am here representing their interests. Governor Oyebanji has made it easier for President Tinubu to have higher votes in Ekiti in the 2027 elections. Governor Oyebanji is really an Omoluabi governor and a unifier and we are ready to support, not minding what anyone will say.

"The governor has no opposition in this coming election. But there are records to break. Nothing stops you from winning back- to -back, and win all the wards with exceeding votes. Looking at it critically, you have locked down everywhere, especially Ado and Ikere-Ekiti. So, nobody should come here and talk about rigging. It is obvious, we have no opposition to Governor Oyebanji here in Ekiti and Mr President has our total support in the 2027 elections". Declared Fayose

The former Governor, who is Akomolafe's political  leader, said he will continue to encourage whoever wishes to defect to APC to back Oyebanji, and the President to do so,  especially those that have value to add.

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji explained that electioneering campaign was being delayed because of the fasting being undertaken by Muslims and Christians across the globe.

The Governor also urged APC members and candidates of other political parties to tow the path of peace during the electioneering.  "Please, in this election, we don't want bloodshed and violence. They will lie against us, but don't worry, we will reply them with votes". 

Oyebanji assured the Akomolafe and all his supporters of unfettered access to all the rights and privileges inherent in APC, saying the party doesn't pander to primordial sentiment of one being a new comer or a decampee.

Commending Akomolafe for his political strength, Oyebanji, said: "You a practical and influential politician. You are a young man who has done well and I am proud of you. I will surely take care of your interest and I thank former Governor Fayose for allowing you to join us. I am grateful.

"This is the first time since I became the governor that I will receiv someone into the party. If it is winning election, I can predict we have won. But we can't be delivering 300,000 votes this time, we must be looking at over 600,000 votes to send a signal to President Tinubu that we are solidly behind him".

Describing his defection as a child of necessity, the defector, Mr. Henrich Akomolafe, disclosed that he was spurred to join the APC owing to the accelerated development being witnessed under the Oyebanji administration.

Earlier, the Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, who represented the State Chairman of the party, Barr Sola Elesin, commended Akomolafe for his aggressive mobilisation and grassroots connection.

Elesin added that other resourceful  people in opposition parties are trooping into APC owing to the party's accommodating spirit, urging those who are still left behind to join the train and back the moving vehicle being piloted by Governor  Oyebanji.

Dignitaries at the political gathering were: Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Chairmen of Ikere Local Government, Hon Olu Adamolekun, Ikere LCDA, Hon Rufus Olorunfemi,   Commissioners, Special Advisers, political leaders, members of the State Working Committee, among others.