NALDA Approves Agbeyewa Farms as Mechanization Partner to Advance Large-Scale Agricultural Development.

NALDA Approves Agbeyewa Farms as Mechanization Partner to Advance Large-Scale Agricultural Development.

The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has approved Agbeyewa Farms as its Mechanization Partner, marking a significant milestone in the growing partnership between both organisations to advance mechanized agriculture, strengthen food security, and drive rural development in Nigeria.

The approval, granted under NALDA's Agricultural Mechanization Model and the Renewed Hope Food Security Scheme, covers an initial 1,200 hectares of farmland, with more than 600 hectares already cleared for cultivation. The project, the first of its kind in Ekiti State, will feature high-powered tractors, bulldozers, and modern agricultural implements, alongside critical support infrastructure, including staff accommodation, a warehouse, a police station, and a hospital.

The latest development builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between NALDA and Agbeyewa Farms in November 2025, under which Agbeyewa Farms serves as the anchor operator for the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estate in Ekiti State.

Earlier this year, officials from both organisations inspected the 1,200-hectare NALDA Farm Estate in Oke-Ako, Ikole Local Government Area, reaffirming their commitment to expanding mechanized farming, increasing food production, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable rural development as cultivation activities continue to scale across the estate.

Speaking during the inspection, the Ekiti State Coordinator of NALDA, Mr. Olusegun Ayeni, described the collaboration as a practical demonstration of the Authority's commitment to unlocking Nigeria's agricultural potential through strategic private-sector partnerships. "This initiative reflects NALDA's mandate to open up agricultural land and partner with serious investors who can drive productivity at scale. Our collaboration with Agbeyewa Farms is a clear example of how strategic partnerships can translate into tangible agricultural development on the ground," he said.

Representing the Chairman of Agbeyewa Farms, Mr. Niyi John Olajide during this engagement, the MD/CEO, Seyi "Oska" Aiyeleso commended the Executive Secretary of NALDA, Mr. Cornelius Adebayo, for championing a public-private partnership model that is strengthening agricultural development across Nigeria. "This partnership represents a lasting alliance between the public and private sectors. It provides a strong foundation for sustainable agricultural development while creating opportunities that will benefit communities, investors, and the nation's economy for many years to come," he said.

During the visit, both organisations also reviewed key infrastructure within the estate and discussed expanding mechanized operations through the deployment of additional agricultural equipment, while agreeing to strengthen security measures to safeguard personnel, assets, and critical infrastructure across the growing farm settlement.

EKITI GOVERNMENT CALLS FOR CALM OVER ALLEGATIONS ARISING FROM ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION ENFORCEMENT.

EKITI GOVERNMENT CALLS FOR CALM OVER ALLEGATIONS ARISING FROM ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION ENFORCEMENT.

...Promises Review to Establish the Facts.

The Ekiti State Government has taken note of the various reports, petitions and public statements issued by student bodies and other stakeholders regarding the arrest, prosecution and alleged extortion of some students of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise held on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

Government recognises the public interest generated by the matter and appreciates the concerns expressed by the students, their representatives and members of the public.

While preliminary reports available to Government indicate that the affected persons were apprehended for violating the restriction of movement in force during the environmental sanitation exercise and were subsequently taken before a competent Magistrate Court, where the statutory fines prescribed by law were imposed, Government also notes that serious allegations have been made regarding the manner in which the enforcement exercise was carried out, particularly claims relating to the collection of money and the conduct of some officials.

The Ekiti State Government treats every allegation of misconduct by public officials with the seriousness it deserves. The Biodun Oyebanji Administration maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards abuse of office, extortion, corruption or any conduct capable of bringing the public service into disrepute. No government official is authorised to demand or receive payments outside procedures prescribed by law.

Accordingly, I wish to assure all concerned that the circumstances surrounding the incident will be comprehensively reviewed to establish the facts.

The review will, among other things:

• ascertain whether all enforcement procedures were carried out strictly in accordance with the law;

• verify the process through which the court-imposed fines were paid;

• investigate allegations regarding payments allegedly made into a private bank account;

• determine whether any officer acted outside the scope of his or her lawful authority; and

• recommend appropriate administrative or legal action where any wrongdoing is established.

Government wishes to assure the public that no individual will be shielded from accountability if found to have acted improperly. Equally, no public officer should be condemned solely on the basis of allegations until all the facts have been established.

The Government also reiterates that the monthly environmental sanitation exercise remains an important public health initiative backed by the extant laws of Ekiti State. Compliance with the restriction order is expected of all residents and visitors alike, while enforcement officers are equally expected to discharge their responsibilities professionally, courteously and strictly within the confines of the law.

The Ekiti State Government therefore appeals to all concerned parties to remain calm, refrain from speculative or inflammatory statements, and allow the review process to proceed without prejudice.

The Government remains committed to justice, transparency, accountability and the protection of the rights of every resident, while ensuring that laws enacted in the public interest are enforced fairly, professionally and in accordance with due process.

AJASIN VARSITY MANAGEMENT SAYS ASUU STRIKE BEING ADDRESSED BY GOVT., URGES STUDENTS TO REMAIN CALM.

AJASIN VARSITY MANAGEMENT SAYS ASUU STRIKE BEING ADDRESSED BY GOVT., URGES STUDENTS TO REMAIN CALM.

The Management of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, has given assurances that the ongoing industrial action by the academic staff is being addressed by the state government and would be over soon, even as it urged  its students body to always clarify issues with the Management before going public on matters affecting the institution.

It stated this while reacting to a purported 72-hour ultimatum issued to the State Government by the institution's Student Union Executives to resolve the ongoing industrial action by academic staff of the University.

In a press statement signed by the Deputy Registrar, Information, Protocol, and Public Relations, Mr Sola Imoru, the University Management affirmed that the strike action is being addressed by the state government via an intervention fund which is in the process of being released.

The statement added that, "Management considers the ultimatum unnecessary as the Governor of Ondo State and Visitor to the University, His Excellency, Hon. (Dr.) Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has already approved a special intervention fund to enable the University to meet its financial obligations.

"This development was duly discussed with the leadership of the Students' Union.

"Management, therefore, appeals to all students to remain calm and exercise patience while the payment processes initiated by the Visitor to the University are being concluded."

It stated further that, "The University Management encourages the Students' Union leadership to always seek clarification on matters affecting the University before making public pronouncements.

"Management remains committed to constructive engagements and believes that dialogue is the most effective approach to resolving issues of mutual concern.

"Adekunle Ajasin University remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles of good university governance, transparency, and sustained engagement with all stakeholders."

Four-Book Launch: Commissioner, Pastor, Others Commend Seyifunmi Kolawole’s Works on Growth, Influence.

Four-Book Launch: Commissioner, Pastor, Others Commend Seyifunmi Kolawole’s Works on Growth, Influence.

By Our Reporter

‎It was a celebration of knowledge, leadership and personal development on Saturday as teenage author and personal growth advocate, Miss Seyifunmi Omoyeni Kolawole, officially launched four books at the Afe Babalola Bar Centre, High Court Complex, Ado-Ekiti.

‎

‎The event, themed "Quadrant of Power: A Framework for International Growth and Lasting Influence," attracted academics, government officials, religious leaders, professionals, students and lovers of books.

‎Delivering a keynote message, Pastor Ayokunle Ojo described inspiration as an investment that must never be wasted, urging participants to become agents of positive influence in society.

‎

‎"The very first thing I want to mention is that she has been inspired, and inspiration does not expire. Inspiration is an investment. Whenever we have the opportunity to be inspired, we must ensure that we use that inspiration," he said.

‎

‎According to him, everyone possesses the capacity to influence lives regardless of age, gender or social status.

‎

‎"If a madman can have followers, then you have no excuse not to inspire someone. Influence is affecting the lives of others. You can shape people's attitudes, behaviour, character and development," he said.

Drawing lessons from the Scriptures, Ojo likened influence to the sun, saying just as the sun governs the day, every individual has the potential to bring positive change to society.

‎

‎He encouraged participants not to hide their talents, stressing that writing books remains one of the most enduring ways to mentor future generations.

‎

‎"You do not need a title or political office before you can lead or influence people. You don't need anybody's validation. If you cannot write a book, let your life become the content of one," he added. 

Reviewing one of the books, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, described the publication as engaging, authentic and practical.

‎

‎She disclosed that she completed the book in about three hours because of its captivating style.

‎

‎"I finished it within three hours, not because I was compelled to do so, but because it felt like I was engaging with my best friend. It was so interesting that I sat in my sitting room without any distraction," she said.

‎

‎Babafemi noted that the seven-chapter book carefully explores personal growth, identity, purpose and resilience while drawing from respected authors, including Robin Sharma.

‎

‎She highlighted major themes across the chapters, including self-awareness, purposeful growth, vision, identity, courage, purpose discovery and continuous self-development.

Quoting  one of the book's central thoughts, she said, "The beginning of all growth is awareness."

‎

‎She also praised the author's emphasis on authenticity, saying every message people share should align with their personal values rather than borrowed opinions.

‎

‎Recommending the book to readers, the commissioner described it as a valuable guide for anyone seeking intentional personal development.

‎

‎Speaking at the launch, Miss Kolawole expressed gratitude to God, her parents, mentors and supporters for standing by her throughout the writing journey.

‎

‎She revealed that although three of the books had earlier been released virtually, she desired a physical launch to enable readers to interact directly with the publications.

‎

‎The author recounted several challenges encountered during the writing process, including losing the first chapter of one of her manuscripts and having to rewrite it completely.

‎

‎"There were days I questioned myself. There were days I was tired. I even lost the first chapter of my first book and had to rewrite it. Looking back now, I believe the second version came out even stronger," she said.

‎

‎Kolawole disclosed that she wrote four books within one and a half years, explaining that each publication was inspired by a desire to solve real-life problems.

‎

‎According to her, "The Growth Process" teaches intentional personal development, "The Art of Communication" equips readers with effective communication skills, "The Author's Launchpad" serves as a practical guide for aspiring writers, while "Modern-Day Social Media" examines the opportunities and distractions created by today's digital world.

‎

‎She explained that the inspiration for the social media book came after observing that despite unprecedented connectivity, many people remain distracted and disconnected from genuine wisdom and meaningful relationships.

‎

‎"We are the most connected generation in history, yet many people have never been more distracted. We have information everywhere, but wisdom often seems scarce. That became a conversation I knew we needed to have," she said.

‎

‎Kolawole said the books were products of purpose rather than ambition, adding that every challenge encountered along the journey eventually strengthened her resolve.

‎

‎"These books were never really about writing; they were about solving problems. They came from questions, conversations and moments when I chose to believe. Every challenge was worth it because purpose is not always convenient, but it is always worth pursuing," she said.

‎

‎The event also featured goodwill messages, networking sessions and the public presentation of the four books.

Dignitaries at the event are the Permanent Secretary, Budget and Planning, Barr. Sola Akinluyi, Ag, Solicitor General and PS, Gbenga Adaramola, SAN (designate ) and the Clerk, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Barr. Opeyemi Ajibola. 

Others include Hon Iyabo Okeimen representing Ilejemeje Constituency, also representing the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, RT. Hon. Stephen Aribasoye, General Manager, BSES, Mr Olu Popoola, PS Cabinet, Mrs Oyeyemi Kayofe Ojo and Registrar, Ekiti State Polytechnic, Mrs Abimbola Adewumi.

SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU'S ROAD PROJECT COMMISSIONED, NAMED AFTER LATE OBA ADEBANJI ALABI IN ILAWE-EKITI.

SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU'S ROAD PROJECT COMMISSIONED, NAMED AFTER LATE OBA ADEBANJI ALABI IN ILAWE-EKITI.

Another significant milestone in grassroots infrastructure development was recorded in Ekiti South Senatorial District as the newly rehabilitated Okepa–Irorin Road in Ilawe-Ekiti, facilitated and constructed by the Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Yemi Adaramodu, was officially commissioned by the Chairman of Ekiti South West Local Government, Hon. Richard Apolola.

In recognition of the enduring legacy of the immediate past Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I, the road was officially named in his honour during the commissioning ceremony.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Richard Apolola commended Senator Adaramodu for his consistent investment in people-oriented projects across Ekiti South Senatorial District. He described the Senator as a responsive and visionary representative whose commitment to infrastructure development continues to complement the developmental efforts of government at all levels.

The Local Government Chairman also noted that naming the road after the late Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi was a befitting tribute to a monarch whose reign was marked by exemplary leadership, peace, and remarkable contributions to the growth, development, and unity of Ilawe-Ekiti.

The commissioning of the Okepa–Irorin Road further reinforces Senator Yemi Adaramodu's reputation as a lawmaker committed to translating effective representation into tangible projects while preserving the rich history and cultural heritage of the communities he serves.

~~ ARA Media Team

THE BATTLE IS OVER, THE GOOD WORK CONTINUES: ARCH. TOPE OGUNLEYE (RST) REJOICES WITH GOVERNOR OYEBANJI ON SUPREME COURT VICTORY.

THE BATTLE IS OVER, THE GOOD WORK CONTINUES: ARCH. TOPE OGUNLEYE (RST) REJOICES WITH GOVERNOR OYEBANJI ON SUPREME COURT VICTORY.

The Supreme Court's affirmation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election that produced Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has brought to a definitive close every legal contest arising from the party's nomination process. With this landmark judgment, the distractions of litigation have ended, and the path is now clear for the Governor to concentrate fully on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Ekiti State.

Arch. Tope Ogunleye (RST) has heartily congratulated His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his triumph at the Supreme Court over the suit instituted by Olawumi Olajumoke challenging the APC primary election. He described the judgment as the final seal of legality on the Governor's emergence and a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and the collective interest of Ekiti State.

According to Arch. Ogunleye, the Supreme Court's decision has finally laid every controversy to rest, making it imperative for all well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters to unite behind the Governor as he continues the remarkable strides of his second-term administration.

He noted that Governor Oyebanji has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership, humility, inclusiveness, and an unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Ekiti State. He expressed confidence that with the legal hurdles now behind him, the Governor will be even more focused on expanding infrastructure, improving education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, job creation, and economic prosperity across the state.

Arch. Ogunleye therefore appealed to the people of Ekiti, irrespective of political affiliation, to embrace peace, reconciliation, and unity of purpose. He urged citizens to continue supporting the Governor through constructive engagement and fervent prayers, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of cooperation and stability.

"The battle is over, and the good work continues. This is the time to close ranks and move Ekiti State forward together. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has earned the opportunity to continue his people-centered administration without distraction. I call on all Ekiti people to continue supporting and praying for him as he serves our dear state with renewed dedication. Together, we shall build a stronger, more prosperous, and more united Ekiti," he stated.

Signed:

RST Media Team.

SUPREME COURT AFFIRMATION: A TRIUMPH OF DEMOCRACY AND THE WILL OF EKITI PEOPLE.

SUPREME COURT AFFIRMATION: A TRIUMPH OF DEMOCRACY AND THE WILL OF EKITI PEOPLE.

By Pharm Rachael Funmilayo Fagboyo.

The unanimous judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria on Friday, affirming His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as the valid candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election, marks another defining moment in the democratic journey of our dear state.

This judgment is more than a legal victory. It is a victory for internal democracy, for the rule of law, and most importantly, for the collective will of APC members and the good people of Ekiti State who, on June 20, 2026 gave the Governor a resounding mandate.

From the High Court to the Court of Appeal, and now to the apex court, the judiciary has consistently upheld the integrity of the APC primaries that produced Governor Oyebanji.  By dismissing the appeal filed by Chief Abimbola Olawunmi, the Supreme Court has finally laid to rest all legal issues surrounding the Governor’s candidacy and has further strengthened the legitimacy of the mandate entrusted to him.

Fagboyo, in a statement made available to journalists on Friday after the apex court's verdict, described the judgment as a resounding affirmation of the overwhelming mandate freely given to Governor Oyebanji by the people of Ekiti State during the governorship election.

According to her, the supreme court’s decision has laid to rest every legal contest surrounding his candidacy and the election, paving the way for the Governor to remain focused on delivering more dividends of democracy to the people without distraction.

Fagboyo commended Oyebanji for his inclusive leadership style, people-oriented policies and remarkable developmental strides across critical sectors of the state, noting that his administration had continued to enjoy widespread acceptance because of its commitment to good governance, transparency and sustainable development.

She expressed confidence that the Governor would sustain the momentum of his administration's developmental agenda and continue to justify the confidence reposed in him by the people of the state.

The APC stalwart also urged political leaders, stakeholders and residents of Ekiti State, irrespective of party affiliation, to accept the judgment in good faith and embrace the spirit of unity for the collective progress of the state.

She said, "The Supreme Court has spoken, and its judgment represents the final expression of the law. This is a victory for democracy, the rule of law and, above all, the people of Ekiti State who freely entrusted Governor Oyebanji with the mandate to lead them.

"I appeal to all well-meaning Ekiti indigenes to put politics aside and support the Governor as he continues to pursue policies and programmes that will further enhance the growth, peace and prosperity of our dear state."

Fagboyo reaffirmed her commitment to the ideals of the All Progressives Congress and pledged her continued support for the Oyebanji's administration in his efforts to deliver inclusive governance and sustainable development across Ekiti State.