A Continental Triumph: Why Ahmed Sajoh’s APRA Fellowship Matters for the Future of Public Service.

A Continental Triumph: Why Ahmed Sajoh’s APRA Fellowship Matters for the Future of Public Service.

The recent induction of Ahmed Ibrahim Sajoh as a Fellow of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) on 3 July 2026 is far more than a prestigious professional designation; it is a profound celebration of a man whose life has been a blueprint for excellence, integrity, and mentorship. As one who navigates the challenging corridors of New Media and government service, I find in Ahmed Sajoh not just a colleague, but a beacon of intellectual courage and a standard-bearer for ethical communication.

What makes this honour truly befitting is that it recognizes a leader who has mastered the art of building bridges. Whether he was transforming government communication during his tenure as Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Adamawa State or providing incisive, balanced analysis on the most pressing issues facing our nation today, Sajoh has consistently demonstrated that the true power of communication lies in its capacity to foster trust and promote democratic consolidation.

Beyond his staggering professional achievements, I am compelled to celebrate the man himself. Ahmed Sajoh is a wonderful father and a profoundly supportive mentor who has dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation of communicators. His willingness to guide young professionals with patience and wisdom is a hallmark of his character, he is a leader who grows by lifting others. In a media landscape often fractured by sensationalism and misinformation, his voice has remained a steady, cerebral presence, offering clarity where there is confusion and truth where there is doubt.

To see him receive this continental affirmation is a moment of immense pride for us all. The APRA Fellowship is a fitting tribute to his years of service, but for those of us who have benefited from his mentorship and been touched by his kindness, this is also a deeply personal celebration of a wonderful man. Sir, your legacy of integrity and strategic brilliance continues to inspire us, and I have no doubt that your influence will resonate across the African continent for generations to come.

Gabriel Adesoji (AngelGabby)

Special Assistant (New Media) to the Governor of Ekiti State

Gov Oyebanji, Niger Governor Bago, Others Bid late Chief Daramola Farewell.

Gov Oyebanji, Niger Governor Bago, Others Bid late Chief Daramola Farewell.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji and his Niger State Counterpart, Mohamed Umaru Bago, on Friday joined other dignitaries to pay last respect at the final burial ceremony of renowned educationist, Chief Francis Adebayo Daramola.

The late Chief Daramola, father of former member of House of Representative, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, was a frontline member of the Ekiti Council of Elders, and the first elected Chairman of Oye Local Government between 1991-1993.

 

Other dignitaries at the funeral include, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afute, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, former Governor Segun Oni, former Governor Ayodele Fayose, Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party at the Just Concluded Ekiti Governorship election, Dr Wole Oluyede, members of the National and State Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, among others.

Speaking at the burial service held at the St John’s Church, Anglican Communion, Ire Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji described the late Chief Daramola as one of the distinguished educators who helped shape the foundation of quality education in the old Western Region and Old Ondo State, adding that  the deceased lived a fulfilled life marked by integrity, service to humanity and commitment to the development of his community, the state and the country at large.

The Governor noted that the commitment of the late Daramola to education, mentorship and community service had left an enduring impact on countless lives and would continue to serve as a beacon for future generations.

Also in his remarks, Niger State Governor, Mohamed Umaru Bago described the funeral as a celebration of a life well spent, saying the late Chief Daramola lived an exemplary life devoted to education, community service and the development of humanity

Noting that attaining the age of 99 years with such an enduring legacy was a testament to God’s grace and impactful life the deceased lived, the Niger Governor urged the children and family of the deceased to take solace in the outstanding legacy left behind

In his homily, the Bishop of Ekiti Anglican Diocese, Rt Revd Andrew Olusola, described the late Chief Daramola as an accomplished educationist and devout Christian whose life was marked by selfless service, integrity and commitment to the growth of the church, education and humanity. He added that  the deceased lived a fulfilled life, impacting countless lives through his dedication to mentoring young people and serving his community

While noting that the late Chief Daramola’s enduring legacy of discipline, humility, and service to humanity would continue to speak for generations to come, Bishop Olusola reminded the congregation that life on earth is temporary and charged everyone to live purposefully with eternity in view.

The Ire Ekiti community hailed the late Daramola as a pace setter and a source of inspiration being the town’s first University graduate. They prayed for the repose of his soul. 

Other groups including the old students of Christ’s School, Ado Ekiti; Ekiti Elders Coucil, Inland Club, among others also paid tributes to the late educationist.

From Hope Restored to Hearts Comforted: Senator Cyril Fasuyi Visits Released Eda Oniyo Victims, Extends Support.

From Hope Restored to Hearts Comforted: Senator Cyril Fasuyi Visits Released Eda Oniyo Victims, Extends Support.

The Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, has paid a heartfelt visit to the recently released Eda Oniyo victims currently receiving medical care at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti. During the visit, the lawmaker expressed profound gratitude to God for their safe return and reassured them of his unwavering commitment to their welfare.

The visit, marked by deep compassion and solidarity, reflects the Senator’s core philosophy that true leadership is demonstrated not just in moments of triumph, but in the readiness to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the people during times of pain and uncertainty. 

Addressing the victims, Senator Fasuyi described their release as an answered prayer and a source of immense relief to their families, the Eda Oniyo community, and the entire Ekiti North Senatorial District. He thanked God for preserving their lives and prayed that this difficult experience would quickly give way to complete healing and renewed hope.

To ease their recovery, the Senator presented substantial cash assistance and food items to the victims, urging them to remain resilient as they begin the journey of rehabilitation. He also offered fervent prayers for their speedy recuperation, emotional restoration, and continued divine protection.

It will be recalled that Senator Fasuyi was among the first prominent leaders to visit Eda Oniyo immediately after the unfortunate incident occurred. At the time, he personally identified with the affected families, shared in their grief, and assured them that they would not face the trying period alone. His return to visit the victims post-release underscores a leadership style rooted in consistency—standing with constituents both in seasons of anguish and in moments of relief.

Senator Fasuyi reaffirmed his uncompromising commitment to the peace, security, and well-being of every community across Ekiti North. He also extended his appreciation to the Ekiti State Government, security agencies, and all critical stakeholders whose tireless efforts and collaboration ensured the successful rescue and safe return of the victims.

Signed:

Cyril Fasuyi Media Team

Ekiti Women’s Affairs Commissioner Calls for Stronger Mentorship as SWAN Installs New Chairperson. ‎

‎Ekiti Women’s Affairs Commissioner Calls for Stronger Mentorship as SWAN Installs New Chairperson.

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‎The Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, has called for stronger mentorship programmes to encourage more girls, especially those in secondary schools, to pursue careers in accounting and other professional fields.

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‎Mrs Babafemi made the call on Thursday at the second investiture ceremony of the Chairperson of the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN), ICAN Ado-Ekiti and District Society Chapter, held in Ado-Ekiti.

‎She commended SWAN for its contributions to women's empowerment and professional excellence, describing the association as a vital platform for promoting ethical leadership and increasing women's participation in the accounting profession. 

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‎According to her, exposing young girls to accomplished female professionals through structured mentorship will inspire them to aspire to leadership positions in accounting and other sectors where women remain underrepresented.

‎The commissioner also pledged the continued support of the Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development for women professional bodies, as encapsulated in the Human Capital Development Pillar of the Governance Agenda of the Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji Administration, and intensified efforts to strengthen women's leadership across sectors.

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‎The event featured the investiture of Mrs Monisola Kolade as the second Chairperson of SWAN, ICAN Ado-Ekiti and District Society Chapter, alongside the inauguration of the society's new executive council.

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‎Delivering a keynote lecture titled "The Excellent Woman," Dr Abiodun Rogiyat Agbaje urged women to pursue excellence through integrity, discipline, hard work and continuous self-development. 

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‎She described excellence as a conscious lifestyle built on strong character rather than perfection, encouraging women to embrace financial independence, mentor younger professionals and strike a balance between career and family responsibilities.

‎In separate goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Olaniran Olatona, and the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services Department, Office of the Governor, Dr Oyeyemi Kayode Ojo, commended SWAN for promoting professionalism, ethical leadership, and women's empowerment. 

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‎They urged the newly invested chairperson to provide visionary leadership and nurture the next generation of female professionals.

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‎Earlier, the National President of SWAN, Mrs Ngozi Osakwe-Ogo, charged the newly inaugurated executive committee to lead with accountability, integrity, innovation and entrepreneurship. 

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‎She also assured members of the National Executive Council of their continued support in strengthening the society and advancing its objectives.

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OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES SWDC BOSS, AKINOLA ON 70TH BIRTHDAY.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES SWDC BOSS, AKINOLA ON 70TH BIRTHDAY.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of South West Development Commission (SWDC), Dr Charles Akindiji Akinola on his 70th birthday.

The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, said Dr Akinola has made a great impact as a multi-sectoral technocrat, public servant and public policy strategist of note.

Reflecting on the antecedents of the birthday celebrant, Governor Oyebanji said Dr Akinola can look back with pride and fulfillment and thank God for 70 years of fruitful and result-oriented contribution to statecraft and nation building.

He hailed Dr Akinola for his selfless service to his native Osun State which he served meritoriously as Chief of State to the Governor between 2018 and 2022, where he was central to policy coordination, governance reforms and executive decision-making.

Governor Oyebanji pointed out that Dr Akinola's worth and pedigree were appreciated by his fatherland with his appointment as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Marine and Blue Economy with an unforgettable role in shaping Nigeria's emerging ocean economy agenda, maritime governance and economic diversification.

The Ekiti helmsman added that Dr Akinola's emergence as the pioneer Managing Director/Chief Executive of South West Development Commission further demonstrates President Bola Tinubu's faith in his competence and capacity to drive a coordinated policy thrust to make the geopolitical zone a model in the key sectors and better standard of living for its people.

He expressed delight that Dr Akinola since his assumption of office as the SWDC boss has been using the position to champion regional integration, economic renewal and institutional innovation in Nigeria to the applause of his countrymen and women.

The Governor charged Dr Akinola to use the occasion of his milestone birthday to rededicate himself to continued service of mankind, the nation, and the South west geopolitical zone in years ahead.

He prayed God to grant Dr Akinola long life, sound health and energy to continue to be a great asset to the nation and its people.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate this great achiever and wish him many more productive years in the service of our great nation”, the statement added.

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES RECONSTRUCTION OF ADO-IJAN-ILUMOBA-IKOLE ROAD.

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES RECONSTRUCTION OF ADO-IJAN-ILUMOBA-IKOLE ROAD.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reconstruction of the Ado-Ijan- Ilumoba- Ikole road.

The road project is to be funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Project Fund of the Federal Government. 

The letter communicating the President’s approval for the road construction was dated July 1, 2026, addressed to the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi, Chairman of Nigeria Revenue Service, Mr Zach Adedeji and copied to Govenror Biodun Oyebanji. 

The new development. Is coming barely seven months after construction work commenced on the Itawure-Aramoko-Ado Ekiti road following the President’s approval. 

The Ado-Ijan-Ilumoba-Ikole road, which connects the South West region with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and provides access to the Federal Polytechnic, Afe Babalola University, Ekiti Agro Allied International Cargo Airport, Ekiti Knowledge Zone, and Federal Institute of Transport Technology, has been in a deplorable condition for many years following persistent neglect by previous administrations. 

President Tinubu, had in a recent meeting with Governor Oyebanji and the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, promised to prioritize the construction of the road through its inclusion in the Renewed Hope Projects. 

Governor Oyebanji thanks President Tinubu for fulfilling his promise to intervene on the road. He describes the development as another evidence of the President’s love and support for Ekiti State, as well as his commitment to the infrastructure upgrade across the country in line with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Road infrastructure is a critical aspect of the development agenda of the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration. The administration had, in the last three and a half years, constructed over 285 kilometers of inter- city and intra-city roads including the 1.2 kilometers flyover. It has also constructed 135km of rural roads through RAAMP. This is in addition to recently awarded road contracts at different stages of completion. 

The State is also collaborating with the Federal Government and international development partners for road infrastructure upgrade in line with the Shared Prosperity Agenda of the administration.

EKITI STATE POLYTECHNIC, AGBEYEWA FARMS MOVE TO SEAL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP ON IMPROVED CASSAVA PRODUCTION, MECHANISATION.

EKITI STATE POLYTECHNIC, AGBEYEWA FARMS MOVE TO SEAL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP ON IMPROVED CASSAVA PRODUCTION, MECHANISATION.

In a strategic move aimed at strengthening agricultural innovation, enhancing food security and promoting practical agricultural education, Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, has expressed its readiness to partner with Agbeyewa Farms in the cultivation of improved cassava varieties and the deployment of modern agricultural mechanisation.

The proposed collaboration, which is expected to transform agricultural practices within the institution and the state at large, was disclosed by the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Sunday O. Ajeigbe, during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Agbeyewa Farms to the institution on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

The Agbeyewa Farms delegation was led by Alhaji Lawal Dauda, who described the proposed partnership as a mutually beneficial initiative capable of positioning the Polytechnic as a major player in modern agricultural development.

Addressing the visiting team, Dr. Ajeigbe reiterated the institution's commitment to forging productive collaborations with reputable organisations that share its vision of advancing agricultural education through innovation, research and technology-driven farming.

According to the Rector, the Polytechnic is determined to expose its students to contemporary agricultural practices capable of boosting productivity, improving food production and creating employment opportunities for young people.

Dr. Ajeigbe further observed that agriculture remains a critical pillar of economic development, stressing that institutions of higher learning must continue to embrace partnerships that bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical industry experience.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Alhaji Lawal Dauda, assured the Polytechnic of Agbeyewa Farms' readiness to establish a sustainable and impactful relationship with the institution.

He described Agbeyewa Farms as a globally oriented agricultural enterprise committed to transforming agriculture through innovation, improved seedlings, modern technology and best farming practices.

According to him, the proposed partnership would provide the Polytechnic with an opportunity to gain international recognition in agricultural development while exposing students and staff to global best practices in cassava cultivation and mechanised farming.

Alhaji Dauda expressed optimism that the collaboration would not only improve agricultural productivity within the institution but also contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of Ekiti State through increased cassava production, value addition and capacity building.

He expressed confidence that the collaboration would create opportunities for research, technology transfer and practical training for students.

The meeting also provided both organisations with the opportunity to explore areas of mutual interest and discuss practical frameworks for implementing the proposed partnership.

Present at the meeting were the Deputy Rector, Dr. E. A. Ajayi; the Registrar, Mrs. A. Y. Adewunmi; and other top management staff of the institution.

_Martins Olowoyo_

Head,Corporate Affairs

EKSPOLY