EKSG Deepens Ties With NAF, to Boost Airport Devt, Strengthen Security.

EKSG Deepens Ties With NAF, to Boost Airport Devt, Strengthen Security.

 

Ekiti State Government has intensified efforts to strengthen collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force as part of moves to further enhance operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport and reinforce security across the State. 

The State Governor, Mr Biodun  Oyebanji, who made this known  during his working visit to the office of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the Defence  Headquarters, Abuja on Thursday, said Ekiti is home to a world-class airport, making it imperative to collaborate closely with the Nigerian Air Force in order to strengthen security, ensure smooth operations and maximize the facility’s potential for the state’s economic growth.

Governor Oyebanji, who arrived at the Defence Headquarters at 9:35am, was welcomed with a ceremonial parade. He commended the Nigerian Air Force for its professionalism and dedication, maintaining that their continued efforts have helped to safeguard lives, protect critical infrastructure and ensure smooth operation of Ekiti airport.

The Governor explained that his administration has made available 1,000 hectares of land with C of O for the permanent NAF facility around Ekiti airport, adding that government is prepared to provide any other necessary support to ensure full presence and operational readiness of the Air Force at the facility.

Governor Oyebanji said: “We have this long standing discussion with the Nigerian Air Force on how to deepen partnership with NAF and we are grateful to you for posting your men to defend and protect our State but we can do more. We have made available over 1,000 hectares of land to the Air Force and the C of O is ready and I am here today, personally, to demonstrate the commitment of our government to this collaboration. 

“Ekiti boast of one of the most modern airports in the country which has been attested to by the pilots that have flown to the airport, the quality of our runway, the facilities on ground, our ILS will be ready next month, which is why we have to deepen this collaboration by partnering NAF. We are ready to put in place any assets that are required to make the Air Force to be on ground to increase the security of our people, boost confidence and make the airport more functional”, he added. 

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, in his response, commended Governor Oyebanji for his proactive approach to development and security of Ekiti State noting that the Governor’s commitment to strengthen collaboration with NAF reflects visionary leadership and deep understanding of the importance of security and infrastructure to economic growth.

Air Marshal Aneke explained that the NAF is eager to deepen its collaboration with Ekiti State Government, not only to provide a secure environment around the airport and other critical infrastructure, but also to support initiatives that promote economic growth, regional development and the overall safety of residents and visitors to the State.

While appreciating the Governor for the visit and for leading by example, the Chief of Air Staff hinted that NAF is in discussion with international partners to establish an aircraft repair and overhaul centre at the Ekiti airport. 

He described the plan as a strategic move that would boost the airport’s capacity, create job and further strengthen the state’s aviation and security infrastructure.

He also commended Governor Oyebanji for being proactive and strategic in his administrative and leadership style. “Your development strides are commendable. Only a strategic mind can do what you are doing. And generations unborn will appreciate you for what you are doing for the state”, Air Marshal Aneke added. 

Also at the meeting were, the law maker representing Ekiti South federal Constituency I AVM Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo (Rtd), Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akintunde Oyebode; Technical Adviser  on Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd) Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode; and Mr O’Seun Odewale.

New Southwest APC EXCO Rallies Support for Oyebanji’s re-election.

New Southwest APC EXCO Rallies Support for Oyebanji’s re-election.

 ….Says Ekiti Success ‘ll be Blueprint for Osun, Presidential polls.

The newly elected Southwest Zonal Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed strong confidence in the re-election of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, stressing that his performance has positioned him as a unifying force within the party and beyond.

This assurance was given by the Zonal Chairman, Isaac Kekemeke, in his acceptance speech,  shortly after his emergence at the party’s Southwest Zonal Congress held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos on Wednesday. 

Kekemeke, while addressing delegates, noted that Governor Oyebanji has not only strengthened the party’s internal cohesion in Ekiti State, but has also broadened its appeal across political divides. 

According to him, the Governor’s inclusive style of governance and visible developmental strides have attracted admiration even from opposition elements within the Ekiti State.

He described Oyebanji as a leader whose performance has redefined governance at the subnational level, stressing that the administration’s approach to infrastructure, public service delivery, and stakeholder engagement has restored public confidence in leadership, adding that such achievements have naturally translated into growing grassroots support for the party.

The APC zonal chairman further called for massive support for the party’s candidate in the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, arguing that the developmental trajectory witnessed in Ekiti under Governor Oyebanji provides a clear model of progressive governance that can be replicated.

Drawing a comparison between both states, Kekemeke maintained that the results recorded in Ekiti stand as practical evidence of what disciplined and people-oriented leadership can achieve. He urged voters in Osun to align with the progressive vision of the APC in order to unlock similar opportunities for growth and stability.

"To our governors and delegates, We can assure you that we will do better than we have done before, we will consul better with all of our leaders and the leadership of the National Assembly. We will do much better than we did in the past four years. We ask for your support. We ask for your cooperation. The immediate challenge that we have is that by June, Governor Biodun Oyebanji must return and by August, Oyebamiji must be there in Osun State. Insh Allah. With the leadership of our governor, Governor Oyebanji (BAO ) must break the jinx in Ekiti.

“Our duty as Southwest is to make sure that we give overwhelming victory and support to our President, Asiwaju  Bola Ahmed Tinubu." He remarked. 

Kekemeke reiterated that the APC remains guided by a well-defined ideological framework focused on development, economic inclusion, and national cohesion. He emphasized that Governor Oyebanji has remained consistent with these principles, noting that his administration reflects the core values of the party.

In his remarks, the Lagos State Governor and Southwest Coordinating Governor of the APC, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the election of the new executives as free fair, credible and rancour-free. He explained that the party followed strictly the recent reforms in Nigeria’s electoral framework, particularly the provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act, for enhanced credibility and accounoutability in both internal party processes and the general elections.

The Lagos Governor charged the newly elected zonal executives to adopt a forward looking approach in their leadership. He stressed the importance of unity and strategic planning in strengthening the party’s dominance in the region.

Sanwo Olu particularly urged party leaders to build a formidable structure capable of delivering victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. He noted that the Southwest remains a critical stronghold for the APC and must continue to set the pace in political organization and governance.

"I want to congratulate our brand new zonal chairman of our party, who, we believe, will lift the zone with him and all his officials, higher. 

“We thank God that everything has gone well here today, peacefully and in accordance with the provision of the law. We have followed the rules of engagement, the newly reformed electoral act and the constitution of our great party. 

We all must join our hands together to deliver victory for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu by 2027". He said 

The congress also witnessed the emergence of other key officials, including Alfred Aluko as Zonal Secretary and Daramola Adesuyi as Zonal Legal Adviser.

All the APC Governors from the zone were present at the event which was also attended by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, members of the National and state Assemblies from the zone among others.

APC Convention: Oyebanji Commends Party’s Discipline, Due Process.

APC Convention: Oyebanji Commends Party’s Discipline, Due Process.  

Ekiti State Governor and Chairman, Aspirant Screening Committee of the 2026 APC National Convention, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has commended members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their discipline and adherence to due process, noting that the wiliness of aspirants to subject themselves to screening process demonstrate respect for the party’s laid-down procedure and guidelines. This, he said remains critical to sustaining internal democracy and cohesion in the ruling party. 

Speaking during the screening exercise of aspirants contesting for national offices at the forthcoming national convention on Tuesday in Abuja, the Governor said the conduct of the screening process reflect the internal structure and coordination within APC.

The screening exercise which commenced at about 9:30am started with the evaluation of the national chairman, Prof Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who appeared before the screening panel comprising of former Bauchi State Governor, Isah Yuguda, former Nasarawa State Governor, Umaru Tanko Almakura, former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shuaibu and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu among others.

In his opening remarks, Governor Oyebanji, who described APC as a party founded on discipline and due process, said the adherence of the party chairman and other aspirants to the established rules and their orderly conduct have continued to distinguish the party, adding that such values has helped the party maintain cohesion across different levels.

Governor Oyebanji said ”You set up this committee and we are happy you are subjecting yourself to the rules. This is democracy and it speaks to the fact that our party is a party of orderliness. For the chairman to have come this morning, be here on time, it speaks to one fact that APC is an orderly party”.

In his remarks, the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who was the first to appear before the screening committee, expressed gratitude to the panel for organizing a transparent and orderly exercise. He described the process as a reflection of the party’s commitment to discipline and internal democracy.

The APC National Chairman assured the panel of his readiness to continue to uphold the values and principles of the party, emphasizing that adherence to due process remains central to APC’s growth and cohesion.

Ekiti State Marks 2026 International Day of Forests with Bold "Green Economy" Vision.

Ekiti State Marks 2026 International Day of Forests with Bold "Green Economy" Vision.

In a vibrant display of commitment to environmental sustainability and economic prosperity, the Ekiti State Government celebrated the 2026 International Day of Forests on Tuesday. Under the theme "Forests and Economies," the event highlighted a strategic shift by the Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration: viewing tree planting not merely as a conservation effort, but as a lucrative "green investment" for the citizens of the state.

The celebration commenced with an energetic awareness walk from the iconic Fajuyi Pavilion to the State Secretariat. The procession was led by top government officials, environmental advocates, and enthusiastic students from Iropora High School, Ajolagun High School, and St. Augustine High School.

Representing the Governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, delivered a keynote address that redefined the value of the state’s natural resources.

The Governor’s speech provided eye-opening statistics on the Return on Investment (ROI) for timber, noting that global trends are currently averaging 10% to 20% annual returns. Highlighting specific local opportunities, he noted that a Teak seedling costing less than ₦200 can mature into a pole worth ₦5,000 in just seven years, a value increase of over 30 times. Furthermore, a Khaya (Mahogany) seedling purchased for ₦500 can grow into a log worth over ₦100,000 in 15 years, representing a staggering 2,000-fold return on investment. "The best time to plant a tree was yesterday; the second-best time is today," the Governor urged, noting that Ekiti is the only state in Nigeria with a Private Sector Registered Tree Growers Association, which has already planted over one million stands.

The Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, Mr. Sunday Adekunle, announced several milestones achieved under his leadership, including the securing of forests once feared as dens for bandits, which have now been "opened up" for legitimate economic activity. The state has successfully reforested 250 hectares of land across various reserves, and funds have been by released by Mr. Governor for new forest control posts at Igbara Odo, Omuo, and Efon to curb illegal logging. Additionally, pilot schemes in Ilawe, Efon, and Oke Ako are utilizing economic trees as windbreakers to mitigate erosion and disaster risks.

The event featured unified goodwill messages from key cabinet members and partners. Commissioner for Environment, Erelu Tosin Ajisafe-Aluko, emphasized that the forest is the "meeting point" for health and wealth, while Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, linked forest health directly to food security, warning that weather instability caused by deforestation is a primary threat to local farmers. The Forestry Association of Nigeria (FAN), led by President Owoeye Adekunle Peters, alongside the TGED Foundation and GADEF, pledged continued partnerships to educate the youth on practical forest restoration.

In his vote of thanks, Mr. Adekunle touched on a sobering historical truth, noting that the climate crisis currently being witnessed was predicted as far back as the 1992 Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit. He warned that while the effects of deforestation are not always as immediate as a physical injury, they are far more dangerous to human life in the long run. The 2026 celebration concluded with a call to action for all residents to utilize subsidized seedlings from the Forestry Commission and transform Ekiti into a "Green Economy" powerhouse.

"Every tree planted today is an investment in the future of our environment, our economy, and our children." — Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji

Good News in Education: 14-Year-Old Ekiti Prodigy Emerges 2026 African Spelling Bee Champion.

Good News in Education: 14-Year-Old Ekiti Prodigy Emerges 2026 African Spelling Bee Champion.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

A 14-year-old student from Ekiti State, Adeolu Oluwadamilola Ooreofe, has emerged as the champion of the 2026 African Spelling Bee in the junior category, held in Harare.

Oluwadamilola, a student of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado Ekiti, outperformed contestants from over 20 African countries to clinch the prestigious title, marking a significant milestone for Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.

Her journey to continental recognition began with a first-place finish at the Ekiti State level. She later secured second position at the national competition held in Port Harcourt, earning her qualification for the African stage.

At the continental contest, she competed against top spellers from countries including South Africa, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Malawi, eventually emerging victorious after a series of keenly contested rounds.

For her outstanding performance, Oluwadamilola was awarded a $5,000 educational scholarship and a plaque.

Prior to this feat, the young scholar had recorded several academic achievements, including second place in the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee, second place in the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee, fifth place in the 2025 Africa Spelling Bee, and second place in the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee.

She was coached by renowned tutor Gbenga Julius, who has also mentored another Ekiti-based student to victory at the Nigeria MTN mPulse Spelling Bee competition.

Oluwadamilola is expected to represent Africa at the World Spelling Bee scheduled to hold in China later this year.

Meanwhile, stakeholders have called on both the Ekiti State Government and the Federal Government to formally recognise her achievement, describing it as a moment of national pride and a testament to the potential of Nigerian students when provided with the necessary support and resources.

Oyebanji Upgrades Arts, Cultural Sector with Fresh Fund, Deepens Creative Economy Drive.

Oyebanji Upgrades Arts, Cultural Sector with Fresh Fund, Deepens Creative Economy Drive.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Ekiti State Government has taken a significant step in upgrading the arts and cultural sector with the approval of fresh funding for the Arts Endowment Fund, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, creativity, and economic growth.

Under the leadership of Biodun Oyebanji, the initiative reflects a strategic effort to reposition the creative industry as a major pillar of development, in line with the administration’s Shared Prosperity Agenda.

Speaking in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Rasaki Ojo-Bakare, described the development as a transformative milestone. He noted that although the concept dates back to the era of Ibrahim Babangida, Ekiti has set itself apart as the first state to effectively implement it.

The initiative has continued to attract commendation, as it provides structured financial support to filmmakers, performing artists,  fashion designers, and content creators, thereby strengthening the foundation of a sustainable and competitive creative economy.

Ojo-Bakare explained that the fund, offered at a highly subsidised rate, is designed to promote accountability while empowering beneficiaries to expand their businesses, acquire equipment, and improve productivity. Its revolving nature ensures that more creatives will benefit over time, thereby widening the impact of government intervention.

The initiative also reflects the administration’s commitment to empowering youths, reducing unemployment, and creating wealth through innovation and enterprise within the cultural space.

Beyond funding, the government’s theatre-for-development campaign further demonstrates its innovative use of arts and culture as tools for societal advancement. Through drama, music, and cultural performances, the campaign will address key issues such as voter education and environmental responsibility.

The campaign is expected to complement the efforts of agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency in tackling flood risks, particularly as environmental challenges continue to pose threats in parts of the Southwest.

By leveraging creative platforms for public enlightenment, the administration is not only promoting culture but also strengthening civic responsibility and community engagement among citizens.

As the sensitisation tour begins across the senatorial districts, it is expected to deepen grassroots awareness while showcasing the richness of Ekiti’s cultural heritage.

With these impactful strides, continuity of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration will ensure the sustenance and expansion of these developmental gains, consolidate the progress already recorded, and further position Ekiti as a leading hub for cultural excellence and creative innovation in Nigeria.

Write By Olamide Akinwumi from Ise-Ekiti 

APC Convention: we’ll be fair to all, Oyebanji Assures Aspirants.

APC Convention: we’ll be fair to all, Oyebanji Assures Aspirants.

 

Ekiti State Governor and Chairman, Aspirants Screening Committee of the 2026 APC National Convention, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has assured aspirants contesting for national office at the forthcoming national convention, that the screening committee would ensure that the process is conducted with utmost transparency, fairness and justice to all. 

Speaking with journalists shortly after the inauguration of the screening committee and its inaugural meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Governor Oyebanji assured aspirants that the panel would strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the party.

While emphasizing that all aspirants are bonafide members of the APC and deserve a level playing field throughout the screening exercise, the Governor said that the committee would be guided by the constitution of the party as well as the electoral act in discharging its responsibility

When asked what the aspirants should expect from the screening committee, the Ekiti State Governor said “We are going to be transparent, we are going to be fair and we are going to be just to all of them. They are party members and the party has guidelines that guide what we are going to do, so we are going to do everything in accordance to the constitution of the party and the electoral act”.

Expressing confidence that the committee’s work would further strengthen internal democracy within the APC and position the party for success in the forthcoming general elections, Oyebanji assured that the screening process would be thorough, and in the best interest of the party. 

Earlier, the committee’s Deputy Secretary and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shuaibu, outlined the operational template, disclosing that about 38 aspirants would be screened for various positions.

Shuaibu explained that to ensure a seamless exercise, the National Working Committee (NWC) positions have been divided into three groups adding that each category would be handled by designated members of the screening panel.

According to him, the arrangement would enable the committee to complete the process within the one-day window set aside for the exercise.

In his remarks,  the co-chairman of the committee, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State, noted that the excercise is viewed as a critical litmus test for the party’s internal democracy, stressing that the panel’s work carries weight far beyond party lines, describing it as a “selfless service” to Nigeria’s broader political stability.

Other prominent members of the committee in attendance at the well- attended meeting include: former Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani; former Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda; former Cross River State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade; former Nasarawa State Governor, Umaru Tanko Almakura; Senator Osita Isunaso, and other committee members.