‎EKSCOTECH Records Major TVET Breakthrough as NABTEB Approves Entrepreneurship Centre as National Skills Qualification Training Provider.

‎EKSCOTECH Records Major TVET Breakthrough as NABTEB Approves Entrepreneurship Centre as National Skills Qualification Training Provider.

‎The drive of the Management of Ekiti State College of Technology (EKSCOTECH), Ijero-Ekiti, to position the Institution as a leading hub for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has received another significant boost, following the approval of the College's Skills Acquisition Centre under the Directorate of Entrepreneurship as a National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Training Provider by the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB).

‎

‎The approval, conveyed in a letter dated 15th May, 2026, confirms that the College successfully met the resource inspection requirements and other assessment criteria prescribed by NABTEB, thereby qualifying it to operate as an accredited Training Provider under the National Skills Qualification framework. The Institution has also been assigned Centre Number 64005 for all correspondence and assessment processes. 

‎The development marks another milestone in the rapid transformation of EKSCOTECH into a foremost Polytechnic committed to producing graduates equipped with practical, industry-relevant and entrepreneurial skills.

‎

‎With the approval, the College now enjoys several strategic advantages, including: ‎Official recognition as a NABTEB-accredited Training Provider for TVET-related programmes.

‎

‎Commencement of the Mandatory Skills Qualification (MSQ) programme for students undergoing skills training in the Directorate of Entrepreneurship, with NABTEB serving as the certification body.

‎

‎Enhanced eligibility to access Federal and State Government grants and intervention funds for TVET-related programmes, while the Institution also awaits additional recommendations from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

Currently, the Directorate offers training in Fashion Design and Tailoring; Cosmetology and Soap Production; Leather Works (Shoe Making and Bag Production); Crop Production; Livestock Farming; Baking and Confectionery; Paint Production; and Beauty Therapy, which comprises Barbing Services, Hair Dressing and Make-up Artistry.

‎

‎Reacting to the landmark achievement, the Rector of EKSCOTECH, Dr. Olufemi Olubamise, described the approval as another clear testimony to the Institution's commitment to excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship-driven education.

‎

‎According to him, the accreditation aligns perfectly with the vision of the Ekiti State Government to empower young people with practical competencies that promote self-reliance, innovation and national development.

‎

‎ "This approval is a major achievement for our Polytechnic and a significant leap in our quest to become a centre of excellence in Technical and Vocational Education. It means our students will not only earn academic qualifications but will also graduate with nationally recognised skills certifications that improve their employability and entrepreneurial capacity."

‎

‎The Rector further noted that the approval would open new opportunities for partnerships, funding and capacity development, while reaffirming the Management's commitment to strengthening the Entrepreneurship Directorate for greater impact.

‎

‎Also speaking, the Director of the Entrepreneurship Directorate, Dr. Abiodun Dada, described the approval as the outcome of diligent preparation, teamwork and the Institution's unwavering commitment to quality assurance.

‎

‎He expressed profound appreciation to the Governing Council, the Principal Officers, and members of staff of the Directorate for their immense support throughout the accreditation process.

‎

‎ "This achievement belongs to the entire EKSCOTECH family. I sincerely appreciate the unwavering support of our Governing Council, the Rector and other Principal Officers, as well as the dedication and commitment of every member of staff of the Directorate of Entrepreneurship. Their encouragement and teamwork made this success possible."

‎

‎Dr. Dada added that the Directorate is fully prepared to commence the implementation of the Mandatory Skills Qualification programme, assuring stakeholders that the Centre would continue to uphold NABTEB's standards while producing highly skilled and globally competitive graduates.

‎

‎The latest approval further reinforces EKSCOTECH's growing reputation as a forward-looking institution that is combining academic excellence with practical, competency-based education to meet the evolving needs of industry and society.

OYEBANJI RETAINS GOVERNING COUNCILS OF STATE-OWNED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS.

OYEBANJI RETAINS GOVERNING COUNCILS OF STATE-OWNED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the retention of the governing councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions for another term, citing their outstanding performance in repositioning higher education in the state.

The Governor said the decision is aimed at sustaining stability, strengthening institutional governance, and consolidating the gains recorded across the education sector.

Governor Oyebanji made this known on Monday while receiving members of the Governing Council of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, led by its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Patrick Aina, at his office in Ado-Ekiti.

According to the Governor, the decision will ensure continuity, policy consistency, and sustained progress in the administration of tertiary institutions across the state.

The Governing  council of  institutions affected by the decision include Ekiti State University, AdoEkiti; Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti; Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti; and Ekiti State College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero- Ekiti. 

Governor Oyebanji expressed satisfaction with the performance of the councils, noting that their visionary leadership, experience, and dedication have significantly improved academic standards and infrastructure development within the institutions.

While noting that his first term will conclude in October, the Governor emphasized the importance of sustaining initiatives and governance structures that have delivered positive outcomes. He added that retaining the councils would further strengthen institutional governance and prevent any disruption to the ongoing developmental momentum.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for tertiary institutions to thrive, stressing that education and human capital development remain top priorities of his government.

“On behalf of the Government of Ekiti State, I am extremely grateful to you for your contributions to the growth of BOUESTI. I am proud of the strides recorded, and it is clear that the future is bright.

“I am aware that this administration is winding down by October, but when a system is working, there is no need to disrupt progress. But let me say this, I am retaining all the governing council of our institutions, I need to say this so that people don't start winding down. I am retaining all of them - BOUESTI, EKSU, lsan Poly and College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero. I am proud of the quality of the council members in those institutions and when a system is working you can't just retard the progress. 

“So, SSG when you are making your announcement, leave these councils  out. I don't want to truncate  or limit the progress that is going on in those institutions. If there is one appointment I made and I'm so proud of, it is the quality of our governing council members”, the Governor said . 

Earlier, Prof. Aina congratulated the Governor on his re-election victory, describing it as a clear affirmation of the trust and confidence the people of Ekiti State have in his leadership, vision, and commitment to development.

He described the re-election as a historic and record-setting achievement, reflecting widespread acceptance of the administration’s people-centered policies and notable accomplishments across critical sectors.

Prof. Aina also noted that BOUESTI has witnessed significant growth and development under the Governor’s leadership, driven by sustained investment and support.

Other officials present at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Niyi Adebayo; Commissioner for Education, Olabimpe Aderiye; and Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode. BOUESTI’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Babatunde Omojola and other principal officers of the institution were also in attendance.

Ekiti reiterates commitment to stronger public health emergency response.

Ekiti reiterates commitment to stronger public health emergency response.

The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained investment in emergency preparedness, workforce development and institutional capacity to build a resilient health system capable of responding to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.

The state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani, said investing in the skills of emergency responders was critical to protecting residents’ health and ensuring a coordinated response to disease outbreaks.

Ekiti reiterates commitment to stronger public health emergency response Filani, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mrs Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, spoke in Ado Ekiti during a three-day Basic Level Public Health Emergency Management training for health professionals, according to a statement made available on Monday.

The training was organised by the ministry to strengthen the state’s capacity to prepare for and respond effectively to disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.

Filani said, “The state government remains committed to strengthening Ekiti’s public health security architecture through continuous capacity development, strategic partnerships and institutional reforms.

“This initiative aligns with the state government’s commitment to national and global best practices in public health emergency preparedness while promoting stronger collaboration among health stakeholders at the state and local government levels.”

The Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board, Dr Olasunkanmi Alabi, said the programme would further strengthen the capacity of health officers and enhance the state’s preparedness for public health emergencies.

The Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Akintunde Ogunsakin, urged participants to maximise the knowledge gained from the training in the discharge of their responsibilities.

The General Manager of the Ekiti State Health Insurance Scheme, Dr Charles Doherty, and the Director of Public Health, Dr Abayomi Ibrahim, commended the state government for the capacity-building programme, describing the training as timely and strategic.

Earlier, the State Epidemiologist, Dr Bosede Alowooye, said the training formed part of the government’s sustained investment in building a resilient and responsive public health emergency management system.

“The programme was designed to equip public health professionals with the skills required to coordinate preparedness, response, recovery and risk communication during public health emergencies.

“The training is one of several strategic preparedness activities undertaken by the ministry in 2026 to improve the state’s emergency response capacity,” she said.

Alowooye recalled that the ministry had earlier conducted a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre simulation exercise to assess the state’s response systems for viral haemorrhagic fevers.

She added that the simulation exercise was followed by a comprehensive review of the State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre Handbook, supported under the Sector-Wide Approach Disbursement Linked Indicator 9.

According to her, participants included Public Health Emergency Operations Centre pillar leads, watch staff, members of the State Rapid Response Team and Local Government Area Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers.

She said participants received training on the core principles of public health emergency management, including emergency coordination, incident management systems, preparedness planning, surveillance integration, logistics, information management and response coordination.

Fayemi Congratulates Soyinka on 92nd Birthday.

Fayemi Congratulates Soyinka on 92nd Birthday.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has extended warm greetings to Nobel Laureate and literary icon Professor Wole Soyinka on the occasion of his 92nd birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday, Fayemi described Professor Soyinka as a towering symbol of intellectual excellence, courage, and cultural pride whose contributions to literature, human rights, and democratic ideals continue to inspire generations of Nigerians and Africans across the globe.

“Today, as Professor Wole Soyinka celebrates his 92nd birthday, I join millions of admirers in wishing this distinguished son of Africa a very happy birthday filled with joy, robust health, and continued fulfilment,” Fayemi said.

The former Ekiti Governor noted Soyinka’s enduring friendship and support over the years, describing it as a source of immense personal and intellectual enrichment.

He said, “Prof. Soyinka has been a consistent voice of conscience, a mentor, and a steadfast friend whose guidance and solidarity I have deeply valued. His commitment to truth, justice, and the defence of human dignity remains a shining light for our nation.''

Fayemi commended the literary giant for his lifetime of advocacy and creative output, which have earned him global acclaim, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, and urged younger generations to draw inspiration from his exemplary life of principle and purpose.

Fayemi prayed for continued good health, strength and longevity for the literary icon, expressing confidence that Soyinka's wisdom and voice would continue to guide Nigeria's public discourse for many more years.

"On behalf of my family and me, I wish Kongi a joyous 92nd birthday, in continued good health, robust vigour and abundant grace. Nigeria remains richer for his presence and his enduring legacy," the statement concluded.

Arch. Tope Ogunleye Mourns APC Chieftain, Pa Gabriel Omodara.

Arch. Tope Ogunleye Mourns APC Chieftain, Pa Gabriel Omodara.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Architect Tope Ogunleye, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran politician and respected community leader, Pa Gabriel Omodara, popularly known as Baba Q.C.

In a condolence message, Ogunleye described the late Baba Q.C. as a man of integrity, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and the All Progressives Congress.

He noted that the deceased was a distinguished teacher, passionate advocate for worthy causes, and an accomplished politician who dedicated his life to serving humanity and advancing the progress of his community.

According to Ogunleye, Baba Q.C. was a father figure whose counsel, encouragement, and support were invaluable whenever he sought elective political office. He added that the late elder statesman was fearless in defending the truth and always stood firmly for what was right, regardless of the consequences.

"Pa Gabriel Omodara lived a life of honour, courage, and selfless service. His exemplary leadership, integrity, and forthrightness earned him the admiration and respect of many across political and social divides," he said.

While lamenting the loss, Ogunleye stated that although Baba Q.C. had departed this world, the values he upheld and the legacy he left behind would continue to inspire generations to come.

He prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort his family, friends, the Ado Progressive Union (APU), the APC family, and all those mourning his demise.

"Adieu, Baba Oninure. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace," he added.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI MOURNS APC CHIEFTAIN, PA OMODARA.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI MOURNS APC CHIEFTAIN, PA OMODARA.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed deep condolences over the death of a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Prince Gabriel Omodara, popularly known as “Baba QC”.

Pa Omodara, a former Chairman of the defunct Ekiti Central Local Government, passed away in the early hours of Sunday, at the age of 93 years.

Governor Oyebanji, In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the late elder statesman’s passing as a significant loss to the APC, the progressive family in Ekiti, the Ado-Ekiti community, and the state at large.

The Governor noted that Pa Omodara was one of the most dedicated leaders of the party, who worked tirelessly with other stakeholders to build a strong and enduring political structure for the APC in the State.

He further described the deceased as a man of integrity and wisdom, whose counsel and leadership would be sorely missed.

Governor Oyebanji also commended Pa Omodara’s invaluable contributions to the development of Ado-Ekiti and Ekiti State, particularly during his tenure as Chairman of the then Ekiti Central Local Government, (which comprised Ado and Ifelodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas). He added that the late politician devoted his latter years to community development and mentoring a new generation of leaders.

Recalling his last meeting with Baba QC, the Governor said the late leader showed no signs of ill health at the time. He, however, emphasized that Pa Omodara lived a fulfilled life, served selflessly, and left behind a legacy of honour, integrity, and enduring impact.

The Governor urged the family of the deceased to take solace in the exemplary life he lived and the lasting legacies he left behind.

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the immediate family of our departed leader, Pa Omodara, the APC and progressive family in Ekiti, and the people of Ado-Ekiti. We pray that God grants Baba eternal rest and gives the family the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the Governor said.

Oyebanji Approves Installation of Three Agro-Meteorological Stations for Ekiti Under World Bank-Supported L-PRES Project.

Oyebanji Approves Installation of Three Agro-Meteorological Stations for Ekiti Under World Bank-Supported L-PRES Project.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the installation of three Agro-Meteorological Stations across the State under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at strengthening climate-smart livestock production and agricultural resilience.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, disclosed this in a statement, describing the move as another milestone in the administration's efforts to deploy technology and innovation to transform the agricultural sector.

Boluwade said the stations would be sited at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Complex, Ado-Ekiti; the State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) Complex, Ikole-Ekiti; and the Faculty of Agriculture, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ikere-Ekiti.

He explained that approval of the BOUESTI location completed the strategic distribution of the three stations across the state's major agro-ecological zones — Savannah, Derived Savannah and Forest — to ensure wider coverage for climate observation, agricultural planning and research.

The stations, he said, will provide real-time data on rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed, solar radiation and other critical weather conditions adding that data generated from the stations would give livestock farmers, extension officers, veterinary professionals, researchers and policymakers reliable climate intelligence to support livestock production, pasture management, water resource use, disease surveillance and climate risk management.

Boluwade added that the stations would also strengthen Ekiti's early warning system for extreme weather events, enabling proactive responses to climate-related challenges, improved evidence-based planning and enhanced productivity across the livestock and agricultural sectors.

He said the initiative reflected Governor Oyebanji's commitment to sustainable agricultural development through innovation, technology and data-driven solutions, and aligned with L-PRES's broader objectives of improving livestock productivity, building climate resilience and promoting sustainable livestock development.

The Commissioner expressed optimism that the project would boost food security, improve livelihoods for actors across the livestock value chain, and position Ekiti as a leading state in climate-smart agriculture.

The L-PRES project, backed by the World Bank, aims to improve livestock productivity and build resilience to climate change among livestock value chain stakeholders across Nigeria