Don't Distract Oyebanji With 2030 Guber Ambitions, Tinubu Warns at Gov's Thanksgiving Service.

Don't Distract Oyebanji With 2030 Guber Ambitions, Tinubu Warns at Gov's Thanksgiving Service.

...I 'll  serve with more humility, patience,  Oyebanji assures.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has cautioned members of the political class in Ekiti against constituting unnecessary distraction to the Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji through early declaration of interest in the 2030 governorship contest,  saying such declaration could cause internal contradictions capable of derailing governance. 

The President gave the admonition as Governor Oyebanji promised to undertake more transformative initiatives to rejig the economy and tackle poverty, unemployment and deprivation as his second term begins.  

Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, were inaugurated for a second term at a well attended inauguration ceremony graced by President Tinubu, held at the Ekitiparapo Pavilion, New Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti on Friday.

Speaking on Sunday during a special second term inauguration thanksgiving service, held at the Anglican Cathedral of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado Ekiti, Tinubu appealed to politicians to consider the larger interest of the state, rather than having a primordial entitlement of being eligible to contest for the governorship seat.

The President, represented by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, commended Governor Oyebanji for ending the first term gloriously, urging him to continue to pilot the affairs of the State with the spirit of inclusivity and respect for all citizens as demonstrated in the first term. 

Speaking against early declaration of intents for governorship in 2030, Tinubu declared that it would be a great disservice for anyone to exhibit such within the next three years, so that the governor can remain focused to deliver democracy dividends to the people.

"To the political class, let us show love to this administration. Let us show love to Ekiti. Loyalty to Governor Oyebanji is loyalty to Ekiti. It is when we are loyal that we won't distract him or start declaring to occupy his seat so early. 

"Let me say this, whoever says he wants to become the governor in the next three years is an enemy of progress. Let us bear in mind that the moment you declare interest in governorship, there will be distraction. Don't let us see politics as the only industry in Ekiti. Let us think of other things and look at the larger picture and the interest of Ekiti ".

Tinubu, who urged Governor Oyebanji to remain focused, humble and accessible the way he demonstrated in his first term, urged the governor to resist the temptation of changing character from good to bad in his second term.

"I appeal to you, continue to be whom you are. Let no one, not the traditional rulers, not the former governors, not the political class, not the civil servants, not the women or youth groups change whom you are. You are not the first governor to run for a second term, but to the glory of God, You were the first to hand over to yourself. Others fought hard to come back. This was a grace. 

"Whoever breaks the jinx of second term after you will have you as a reference point. There is power in continuity, so you must work hard to ensure continuity in this state. God will help you to perform better".

Addressing the congregants, Oyebanji thanked Ekiti citizens for their solid backing  and assured that he will deliver more democracy dividends, by focusing chiefly  on Industrialisation and shared prosperity to the people. 

However, the Governor said industrialisation can only thrive and expand geometrically when people cooperate on issue of land acquisition, saying there are sacrifices to make when development processes are being aggressively undertaken. 

"Let me assure you that my second term will be better than the first term with emphasis on Industrialisation and prosperity for our people. In our first, we had put infrastructures in place to attract investors to this state. With industrialisation, employment will be here and everyone will prosper. 

"But government alone can't do it, so we are partnering with our traditional rulers on the issue of land. Investors won't come when people are not ready to release lands and if there is no cooperation from the people, there will be problem. There are sacrifices we have to make to bring industries here. 

"I know I am confronted with the burden of  87.7% of total votes cast you gave me in the last election. I know that the only way I can go is for me to serve  Ekiti in the way that glorifies God. I promise before God and man today that I will serve you with humility, listen to you and connect with you. 

"It is my desire that after my exit, I should be able to walk tall like my predecessors are doing".

In his homily , the Bishop, Diocese of Ekiti, Anglican Communion,  Rt.  Rev. Andrew Olusola Ajayi, urged the Governor to perceive the position he occupies as being held in trust for the people, showering encomiums on him for ending the first term gloriously.

To smoothen governance in the second term , the Cleric appealed to the citizens to fulfil their obligations through payment of all taxes and levies, as well as complying strictly to laws guiding governance.

"Do you know what God wants from you in this second term, it is for you to serve  Him and humanity. You are not the owner of Ekiti State, but a steward. You must give reverence to the man who will judge you. Nobody can deceive God, so you must fear than man that enthrones you. This position is for you to serve God and humanity.

"The second one is about power. You know that power is transient. So, making people happy should be your utmost interest. You shouldn't change your principle. I know you are not materialistic. Politics without principle amounts to nothing. Render selfless service and help the people to grow better. 

"People are talking good things  about you. Please, continue in this goodness. You should also maintain your integrity. You are a man of integrity, you must know this. Two things must go together : integrity of heart and stiffness of hands. You don't deceive people that is why Ekiti people trust you". 

At the spiritual procession, the First Lady of Ekiti State, Prof. Olayemi Oyebanji and her team of choristers rendered a special number, demonstrating her unshakeable belief in God as the pillar and cornerstone of Governor Oyebanji's second term tenure. 

At the event were former Governors Niyi Adebayo,  Ayodele Fayose  Segun Oni, and Kayode Fayemi, represented by his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi.  Members of the National Assembly that graced the service included: Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Hon Femi Bamisile, Hon Sola Fatoba, Hon Biodun Omoleye, 

Others  dignitaries included : former commissioners, former Special Advisers, traditional rulers, faith leaders, leaders of organised labour, traders, civil servants, among others.

Engr. Bayo Ajayi Congratulates Oyebanji, Afuye on Second-Term Inauguration.

Engr. Bayo Ajayi Congratulates Oyebanji, Afuye on Second-Term Inauguration.

An All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart from Emure-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Engr. Bayo Ajayi, has congratulated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, on their inauguration for a second term in office.

Engr. Bayo Ajayi, who attended the swearing-in ceremony with great joy, described the occasion as a significant milestone in the political history of Ekiti State and a testament to the confidence reposed in the administration by the people.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the ceremony, the APC chieftain commended Oyebanji's administration for its commitment to good governance, people-oriented policies, infrastructural development and inclusive leadership.

Governor Oyebanji taking the oath of office administered by the Chief Judge of Ekiti State during his second-term inauguration ceremony.

He described the governor as a compassionate, accessible and development-driven leader whose administration has continued to prioritise the welfare of citizens and promote peace, unity and shared prosperity across the state.

Ajayi also praised the deputy governor, Afuye, for her contributions to the administration's success, expressing confidence that their renewed mandate would usher in greater development, improved opportunities and sustainable growth for Ekiti State.

He urged the people of Ekiti State to sustain their support for the Oyebanji-led administration, remain steadfast in their belief in its vision and work collectively with the government to achieve greater progress.

According to him, the second term presents another opportunity to consolidate the achievements of the first term and deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

OYEBANJI EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO TINUBU, EKITI PEOPLE, NIGERIANS OVER SUCCESSFUL SECOND-TERM INAUGURATION.

OYEBANJI EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO TINUBU, EKITI PEOPLE, NIGERIANS OVER SUCCESSFUL SECOND-TERM INAUGURATION.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the people of Ekiti State and Nigerians at large for their support and goodwill during the successful inauguration of his second term in office on Friday, October 16, 2026.

The Governor, in a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti on Saturday, said he was deeply humbled by the overwhelming show of love, solidarity and goodwill that accompanied the historic occasion.

On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ekiti State, the Land of Honour, Governor Oyebanji conveyed his profound gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support for the state, which, he said, continues to translate into tangible growth and development across various sectors.

He noted that the remarkable milestones recorded by his administration during its first term would not have been possible without the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, which had increased the financial resources available to subnational governments for development.

The Governor said: “We owe Mr President a huge debt of gratitude for his love and support for Ekiti State. The impact of his policies and the resources made available to subnational governments have contributed significantly to the achievements recorded by our administration.”

Governor Oyebanji also expressed appreciation to the Vice President, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, for attending the inauguration on behalf of the President and presiding over the ceremony. He noted that the Vice President’s presence marked his third visit to Ekiti State in 2026, adding that he had witnessed firsthand some of the tangible outcomes of the administration’s development efforts during his previous visits.

The Governor extended special appreciation to the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON; Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau; National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda; and members of the party’s National Working Committee for their support and participation in the historic event.

He equally thanked his colleagues across the country who honoured the state with their presence, including the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma; Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, Usman Ododo of Kogi State, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Dr Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State and Umar Namadi of Jigawa State.

He also appreciated the Governors of Osun and Kaduna States, who were represented at the ceremony by their deputies.

Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to former Governors of Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Chief Ayodele Fayose, Engr. Segun Oni and Dr Kayode Fayemi, as well as Erelu Bisi Fayemi, for their presence and support.

He also acknowledged the contributions of distinguished national leaders and eminent personalities, including former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Segun Osoba; former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande; former Ondo State Governor, Dr Rahman Mimiko; former APC National Vice Chairman, Chief Pius Akinyelure; former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN; former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; Chief Niyi Akintola, SAN; Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Senator Dayo Adeyeye; Hon. Bisi Kolawole; and Osun State First Lady, Chief (Mrs.) Titilola Adeleke.

The Governor further appreciated the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; serving and former members of the National Assembly; the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake; the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa; the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; members of the State Assembly; and former members of the State Executive Council.

He reserved special commendation for the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Emir of Borgu, Dr Muhammed Sani Haliru Dantoro, for honouring the state with their presence. He also thanked Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, and other members of the council for their support.

Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the judiciary in Ekiti State, under the leadership of the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Adekanye Ogunmoye, for its support. He particularly acknowledged Justice Ogunmoye for administering the oaths of office and allegiance during the inauguration, as well as the retired Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Honourable Justice Oyebisi Omoleye, for her presence and support.

He also commended the State Council of Traditional Rulers, chaired by the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, HRM Oba Adu Adejimi Alagbado, for its continued cooperation with his administration. Special appreciation went to all traditional rulers in the state, particularly the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, for their royal presence at the inauguration programmes and their sustained support for the government.

The Governor equally thanked the heads of security agencies in the state for their effective collaboration, which ensured a peaceful and hitch-free week-long inauguration programme.

He extended his appreciation to heads of institutions, managing directors and chief executives of banks and other financial institutions, labour leaders, professional bodies, trade associations, the media, drivers’ unions, commercial motorcycle operators, market leaders, Iyalajes and Iyalojas for their contributions to the success of the event.

Governor Oyebanji also acknowledged the governorship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Wole Oluyede; the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Chief Joseph Anifowose; and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Mr Isaac Alade, for their goodwill.

He said the successful inauguration marked the beginning of another phase of service to the people, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building on the achievements of the first term and pursuing policies and programmes that would promote shared prosperity, inclusive development and improved living standards for all Ekiti citizens.

“Together, we shall continue to work towards shared prosperity for all Ekiti citizens and make our dear state the number-one destination of choice for those seeking a place to live, work, invest and relax,” the Governor said.

He concluded by reiterating his profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his support and goodwill towards Ekiti State.

“Once again, we thank our dear President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

“May God continue to bless Ekiti State. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”, the statement added.

OYEBANJI MAKES FIRST APPOINTMENT, RE-APPOINTS SSG, COS, CPS.

OYEBANJI MAKES FIRST APPOINTMENT, RE-APPOINTS SSG, COS, CPS.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the re-appointment of Prof. Habibat Adubiaro as Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo as Chief of Staff, and Mr Olayinka Oyebode as Chief Press Secretary (CPS), following his inauguration for a second term in office on Friday.

The appointments, which take immediate effect, are the first made by the Governor since his inauguration.

Prof. Adubiaro, a Professor of Chemistry and seasoned administrator, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Ibadan. She obtained her master’s degree and PhD from the University of Ado-Ekiti, now Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, in 2004 and 2010, respectively.

She began her professional career at the defunct Oodua Textile Industry, Ado-Ekiti, in 1995, shortly after completing her National Youth Service. In 1999, she joined the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, where she spent several years teaching and advancing through the academic ranks.

In February 2013, she joined the Federal University Oye-Ekiti as a Lecturer in the Department of Industrial Chemistry. Her academic career culminated in her promotion to the rank of Professor of Chemistry, officially announced in January 2025, with effect from October 1, 2022.

Her research interests include food chemistry and organic synthesis, particularly the chemical composition, nutritional properties and functional characteristics of plant-derived food materials.

Prof. Adubiaro has a longstanding record of public service in Ekiti State. She previously served as Special Adviser on Women Affairs to the Ekiti State Governor between 2003 and 2004 before her appointment as Secretary to the State Government by Governor Oyebanji on October 16, 2022.

As SSG, she played a central coordinating role in the state administration, bringing her experience in governance, institutional administration and policy implementation to bear on government operations.

Mr Adebayo, the re-appointed Chief of Staff to the Governor, hails from Usi-Ekiti in Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State. A former banker and financial management expert, he combines academic training in Forest Resources Management and Agricultural Economics with advanced business education and extensive experience in banking, corporate management and public service.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Resources Management and a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan. He subsequently obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, United States. He has also attended executive programmes at Harvard Business School, INSEAD and the Kellogg School of Management.

Adebayo began his professional career at Arthur Andersen, where he gained experience in accounting, auditing and financial consultancy across various industries. He later worked with Merrill Lynch Private Wealth Management Group in Los Angeles, United States, gaining experience in investment management and wealth advisory services.

He subsequently built a career in commercial banking, serving in various leadership and specialist roles at Wema Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA), First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and the defunct Enterprise Bank, where he served as Executive Director.

In November 2022, Adebayo joined the Oyebanji administration as Special Adviser on Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management. He was appointed Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management in August 2023, contributing to budgeting, economic planning, fiscal coordination, development planning and performance monitoring.

On December 31, 2024, Governor Oyebanji appointed him Chief of Staff, effective January 2, 2025. In that capacity, he supported the coordination of executive administration, facilitated engagement between the Governor’s Office and other government institutions, and helped drive the implementation of government priorities.

Mr Oyebode, the re-appointed Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, has extensive experience in journalism, media management and strategic communication.

A graduate of English and Literary Studies from the then Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti, (now Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti), Oyebode holds a master’s degree in Peace and Security Studies from the same institution. He is also an alumnus of the International Journalism Institute, Berlin, Germany, and the Austria Study Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution (ASPR), Schlaining, Austria.

He began his journalism career with the Post Express newspaper, Apapa, Lagos, in 1996. He subsequently worked with The Punch and The Nation newspapers, where he rose to the position of Assistant Editor (Politics).

Oyebode joined the Ekiti State Government in December 2010 as Special Assistant on Media to the Governor. He was appointed Chief Press Secretary in June 2011 and served in that capacity until the end of the first administration of former Governor Kayode Fayemi in October 2014.

Between 2015 and 2018, he served as Special Adviser on Media to the Minister of Mines and Steel Development. He later returned to Ekiti State as Chief Press Secretary to the Governor from October 2018 to October 2022.

On October 16, 2022, Governor Oyebanji re-appointed him Chief Press Secretary. In 2023, he was additionally appointed Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, combining the two responsibilities until the end of the administration’s first term on October 15, 2026.

Governor Oyebanji congratulated the appointees on their re-appointments and urged them to deploy their wealth of experience, professional expertise and institutional knowledge towards effective service delivery and the continued development of Ekiti State.

Signed: 

Olayinka Oyebode

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

October 16, 2026

Fagboyo Congratulates Adebayo on Reappointment as Ekiti Chief of Staff.

Fagboyo Congratulates Adebayo on Reappointment as Ekiti Chief of Staff.

An All Progressives Congress chieftain in Osi-Ekiti, Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Pharm. Mrs Funmilayo Rachael Fagboyo, has congratulated Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo on his reappointment as Chief of Staff to Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

Fagboyo, in a congratulatory statement made available to journalists on Friday, described Adebayo's reappointment as a recognition of his dedication, competence, administrative experience and commitment to the success of the Oyebanji administration.

She said the decision to retain Adebayo in the strategic position reflected the confidence reposed in him by the governor and underscored the importance of continuity, loyalty and effective coordination in the implementation of government policies and programmes.

Pharm. Mrs Funmilayo Rachael Fagboyo.

The APC chieftain praised Adebayo's diligence, hard work, organisational ability and understanding of the demands of public service, noting that the office of the Chief of Staff required tact, discipline, discretion and a strong commitment to the governor's vision for the state.

According to her, Adebayo's reappointment provides an opportunity to strengthen the administrative machinery of government, improve coordination among government officials and ensure the effective implementation of policies aimed at advancing the development of Ekiti State.

Fagboyo expressed confidence that Adebayo would bring renewed energy and dedication to the responsibilities of his office, particularly in supporting the governor's determination to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people during his second term.

The APC chieftain further described the reappointment as a well-deserved recognition of Adebayo's service and commitment, expressing optimism that he would continue to discharge his responsibilities with professionalism, humility and a strong sense of duty.

She urged him to sustain his record of hard work and remain committed to the collective aspiration of the Oyebanji administration to build a more prosperous Ekiti State through inclusive governance, sustainable development and improved service delivery.

Fagboyo wished Adebayo a successful and productive tenure, expressing confidence that his continued service would contribute meaningfully to the effective administration of government and the realisation of the governor's vision for our dear State.

Fagboyo Congratulates Oyebanji, Afuye on Second-Term Inauguration.

Fagboyo Congratulates Oyebanji, Afuye on Second-Term Inauguration.

An All Progressives Congress chieftain in Osi-Ekiti, Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Pharm. Mrs Funmilayo Rachael Fagboyo, has congratulated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, on their inauguration for a second term in office.

Fagboyo, in a statement made available to journalists on Friday shortly after the swearing-in ceremony, described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the political history of Ekiti State and an opportunity to consolidate the achievements of the administration and accelerate the state's development.

Pharm. Mrs Funmilayo Rachael Fagboyo.

She said the governor's re-election reflected the confidence of the people in his administration and their desire for continuity, stability and sustainable development across the state.

She expressed confidence that the renewed mandate would enable the administration to build on its achievements, strengthen ongoing development initiatives, promote peace and unity, and create more opportunities for residents.

She urged the government to sustain its commitment to inclusive governance, transparency and sustainable development, while ensuring that the benefits of democracy reach every part of Ekiti State.

The APC chieftain reaffirmed her commitment to the ideals of the All Progressives Congress and pledged her continued support for the Oyebanji administration in its efforts to promote good governance and advance the socio-economic development of the state.

She wished Governor Oyebanji and his deputy a successful and impactful second term, expressing hope that their renewed mandate would translate into greater achievements, prosperity and an improved quality of life for the people of Ekiti State.

EKITI AT 30: TOPE ADEBAYO'S BLUEPRINT FOR LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

EKITI AT 30: TOPE ADEBAYO'S BLUEPRINT FOR LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

Raheem Akingbolu

From a modest home in Igbara-Odo to the boardrooms of several companies, lawyer and investor, Tope Adebayo tells Ekiti’s lawmakers that the state’s next 30 years will be shaped less by concrete and steel than by the opportunities it creates for its people, writes 

 

When Tope Adebayo addressed the Ekiti State House of Assembly during activities marking the state’s 30th anniversary, he resisted the temptation to dwell on projects, budgets and government achievements. Instead, he told the story of a young boy from Igbara-Odo whose journey, he argued, reflects the possibilities that still exist for thousands of young people across the state.

Born to parents who never had formal education, Adebayo’s beginnings were modest. His educational journey took him from Igbara-Odo to Ikere-Ekiti and later to Ado-Ekiti, where he studied law. From legal practice, he moved into business and investment, gradually building interests across sectors and establishing himself as an entrepreneur with a strong belief in human capital.

Today, nearly two decades in business have seen him venture into hospitality, oil and gas, technology, banking and insurance. He serves on the boards of seven companies, while the businesses he pioneered employ more than 200 people. Yet, he insists that his personal achievements are secondary to the lessons they offer about opportunity and social mobility.

That perspective shaped his contribution to the anniversary programme themed, “Ekiti at 30: Reflecting on Our Journey, Charting Our Future.” “My story is not really about me. It is a story of possibilities,” he told lawmakers. For him, development should be measured not only by what governments accomplish, but by how many people are equipped to improve their circumstances.

From there, he turned attention to what he considers Ekiti’s greatest asset. While development debates often centre on infrastructure, natural resources and government spending, Adebayo argued that the state’s real strength lies elsewhere. “The greatest resource of Ekiti is not beneath our soil. It is within our people,” he said, urging greater investment in talent, skills and education.

It is a conviction he has backed with action. Following the 2018 governorship election, where human capital development featured prominently in his campaign message, he sponsored young people to enrol at the technical school in Igbara-Odo. The intervention reportedly increased enrolment by more than 1,000 per cent and revived interest in vocational education within the community.

The initiative has since expanded through the Tope Adebayo Foundation, which provides scholarships and stipends for students. Beyond financial support, the programme seeks to elevate the status of technical education and demonstrate that vocational training can serve as a viable route to economic independence and personal advancement.

For Adebayo, vocational skills should never be viewed as an alternative for those unable to secure university admission. In his view, skilled artisans, technicians and craftsmen often become entrepreneurs and employers of labour. Such individuals contribute directly to local economies, create jobs and stimulate growth. As he put it, “Skills are not a consolation prize. Skills are economic capital.”

At the same time, he believes skills acquisition must be linked to opportunity. Training young people without creating pathways into employment or enterprise merely postpones the challenge. Software developers must be connected to technology markets, while technical graduates should find opportunities within construction, manufacturing and other productive sectors capable of absorbing their expertise.

That thinking extends to the wider knowledge economy. Long regarded as one of Nigeria’s most educated states, Ekiti has an opportunity to transform educational attainment into economic advantage. Adebayo pointed to initiatives such as the Ekiti Knowledge Zone, the Ekiti Start-Up Garage and the Innovation Enterprise Support Fund as platforms capable of nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship.

Agriculture also features prominently in his vision for the state. Although Ekiti possesses fertile land and a longstanding farming culture, he believes too much value disappears from the agricultural chain. The focus, he argued, should shift towards processing, packaging and marketing. His formula is simple: “Let us produce. Let us process. Let us package. Let us market. Let us export.”

Realising that ambition, however, requires a thriving private sector. Government has a critical role to play, but it cannot employ everyone. Investors, Adebayo noted, are attracted by predictable regulations, efficient approvals, reliable infrastructure and ease of doing business. Economic reforms become meaningful when businesses feel their impact and citizens see tangible outcomes.

While advocating further reforms, he acknowledged progress already made under the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the leadership of the House of Assembly. He also credited previous administrations for laying foundations upon which subsequent governments have built. Sustainable development, he argued, depends on continuity rather than constant policy reversals.

He then challenged lawmakers to imagine a different Ekiti, one where young people no longer feel compelled to leave in search of opportunities elsewhere. In that vision, farmers are linked to processing facilities, technology firms operate successfully from multiple towns, and economic growth spreads more evenly across communities throughout the state.

Drawing from his business experience, Adebayo stressed that lasting development depends on strong institutions. Successful organisations do not thrive because of one brilliant decision or individual. They endure because they create systems capable of outliving personalities. The same principle, he argued, should guide governance and development planning in Ekiti.

Ultimately, his message returned to the lesson embedded in his own journey. A boy raised by parents with no formal education became a lawyer, investor, board member and employer of labour. For Adebayo, the true test of Ekiti’s progress over the next three decades will not be how far a privileged few advance, but how many opportunities are created for others to do the same. Looking ahead to the state’s 60th anniversary, he hopes future generations will say of today’s leaders and citizens: “They did not merely inherit Ekiti. They strengthened it