EKITI 2026: FORMER PDP GOVERNORSHIP FLAGBEARER, YINKA AKERELE, LEADS SUPPORTERS TO BACK OYEBANJI'S RE-ELECTION BID.

EKITI 2026: FORMER PDP GOVERNORSHIP FLAGBEARER, YINKA AKERELE, LEADS SUPPORTERS TO BACK OYEBANJI'S RE-ELECTION BID.

…Cites Performance, Inclusive Governance.

Former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Otunba Yinka Akerele, has declared his support for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, pledging to mobilise his political structure and supporters across the state for the governor's victory in the June 20, 2026 governorship election.

Akerele made the declaration during a meeting at the Governor's Office in Ado-Ekiti, where he formally aligned with Governor Oyebanji's second-term aspiration alongside a large delegation of political associates and stakeholders drawn from across the state.

The delegation comprised former members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, former local government chairmen, former secretaries of local governments, and other political leaders from various parts of the state.

Speaking during the meeting, Akerele said his decision was informed by the remarkable achievements recorded by the Oyebanji administration across critical sectors, as well as the governor's inclusive leadership style, which, according to him, has fostered unity, stability and broad-based development in the state.

He noted that Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people, infrastructure development, workers' welfare and the promotion of harmonious relationships across political, social and economic divides, adding that these qualities have endeared the governor to many Ekiti people regardless of political affiliation.

Akerele said his decision followed wide consultations with his associates and supporters, stressing that backing Governor Oyebanji's re-election was in the best interest of Ekiti State and its continued progress.

He consequently pledged the full support of his political structure and supporters for the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming governorship election.

Responding, Governor Oyebanji welcomed Akerele and members of his group, describing their decision as a demonstration of patriotism and a shared commitment to the continued development, peace and prosperity of Ekiti State.

The Governor said he was encouraged by the growing support his administration continues to receive from individuals and groups across political divides, noting that such endorsements reflect the confidence of the people in the direction and achievements of his administration.

He assured Akerele and his supporters of their full integration into the APC and reiterated his commitment to a style of governance that accommodates diverse interests and places the collective welfare of Ekiti people above partisan considerations.

Also speaking, the APC State Chairman, Barrister Sola Elesin, assured Akerele and members of his group of equal opportunities within the party and pledged the cooperation of the party leadership towards their seamless integration.

Among those who accompanied Otunba Akerele to the meeting were Hon. Idowu Akinbode, former Chairman of Ekiti South-West Local Government, former Local Government Party Chairman and former State Organising Secretary; Hon. Cecilia Ebiesuwa, former Chairman of Emure Local Government and former Local Government Party Chairman; Hon. Ojo Ayeni, former Chairman of Oye Local Government and former State Treasurer; Hon. Fatai Adeyemo, former Secretary of Ado Local Government and former Personal Assistant to the Governor; Hon. Yinka Olomofe, former Chairman of the party in Ado Local Government and former Special Adviser on Water Resources; Hon. Bunmi Adebiyi, former Chairman of Ise/Orun Local Government and former National Ex-Officio and others 

Other dignitaries present at the meeting included the APC State Chairman, Barrister Sola Elesin; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Niyi Adebayo; Rt. Hon. Karounwi Oladapo; Mrs Kemisola Olaleye and Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun.

Venite University Marks World Environment Day with Renewed Commitment to Environmental Protection.

Venite University Marks World Environment Day with Renewed Commitment to Environmental Protection.

Venite University, Iloro Ekiti, in collaboration with the Centre for Culture and Environment Promotion (CCEP) and the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), Ekiti State Chapter, today commemorated the 2026 World Environment Day with a programme themed “Climate Change.”

The event, held at Venite University Main Auditorium, brought together members of the university community, environmental professionals, and stakeholders to discuss growing global environmental challenges and the need for responsible action.

In her address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mrs. Charity O. Aremu, described climate change as a critical global concern requiring the attention of governments, institutions, and individuals. She emphasised the role of universities in advancing knowledge, research, and public awareness on environmental issues, and urged students to adopt environmentally responsible habits while reaffirming the institution’s commitment to a cleaner and healthier environment.

The Chairman of the Centre for Culture and Environment Promotion (CCEP), Dr. Patrick Okpah, highlighted the importance of environmental education and public enlightenment in addressing environmental challenges, noting that lasting solutions depend on informed and active community participation. He commended Venite University for partnering with environmental organisations to mark the occasion.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Environmental Society, Ekiti State Chapter, Dr. Otugboyega Joseph, who is also Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences, Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin-Ekiti, stressed that environmental protection is a collective responsibility. He raised concerns about indiscriminate waste disposal, deforestation, and other harmful practices, urging individuals, institutions, and organisations to support efforts aimed at safeguarding natural resources.

Also speaking, Dr. Oluwabamise Lekan Faboya, Head of Chemistry Department, Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) and Executive Member of NES, discussed the causes and effects of climate change, noting the growing impact of human activities on environmental degradation, rising temperatures, and changing weather patterns. He encouraged students to engage more actively in environmental sustainability initiatives.

The programme featured discussions on environmental responsibility and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 3, 6, 13, and 15, focusing on health, clean water, climate action, and life on land.

The event concluded with a tree planting exercise across designated locations within the campus, led by the Vice Chancellor alongside representatives of CCEP, NES, staff, and students. The exercise was described as a practical demonstration of shared responsibility in environmental protection and highlighted the importance of afforestation in maintaining ecological balance.

The celebration reaffirmed Venite University’s commitment to environmental awareness, sustainability, and community engagement.

#Veniteuniversity #highlight #SDGs #admissionsopen #nigeria #sustainability #2026Goals

Oyebanji Inaugurates Centre for Newborn Health Research and Innovation at EKSUTH.

Oyebanji Inaugurates Centre for Newborn Health Research and Innovation at EKSUTH.

…Says Facility Will Drive Cutting-Edge Research, Reduce Neonatal Mortality.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Friday commissioned a state-of-the-art Centre for Newborn Health Research and Innovation (CeNHRI) at the University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, describing the facility as a major milestone in his administration’s effort to improve maternal and newborn healthcare delivery in the State and the country at large.

Speaking while commissioning the facility, which is the first in Nigeria focusing solely on newborn, Governor Oyebanji said the centre would serve as a hub for cutting-edge research, innovation and clinical excellence aimed at addressing challenges associated with neonatal care and reduce infant mortality rate in the state and beyond.

Governor Oyebanji maintained that the facility reflects his government’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and reducing neonatal mortality, adding that the centre will serve as a platform for innovation, research, capacity building and evidence based healthcare intervention aimed at improving the survival and well-being of mothers and newborns.

Lamenting that thousands of African newborns die annually from preventable causes, particularly within the first few days, the Governor said the centre represents collective response to these challenges through science, innovation and collaboration.

According to him, the facility will serve as meeting point for researchers, clinicians, policymakers, development partners and communities to work together and develop practical solutions that save lives.

Governor Oyebanji said he was confident that the centre would soon produce ground breaking research, train future generation of healthcare professionals and influence healthcare policies.

He thanked the state’s development partners for their collaborations in advancing the health sector in the state.

“Today marks another significant milestone in our collective efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, advance scientific knowledge, and improve the survival and well-being of mothers and newborns across Nigeria and the African continent.

“While this center is located in Ado Ekiti, the capital of the states, its mission extends far beyond our borders. The Center for Newborn Health Research and Innovation has been deliberately conceived as an african focused institutions that will generate knowledge, develop solutions, strengthen health systems and contribute meaningfully to remarkable reduction  in neonatal mortality across the continent.”, he added

Earlier in his remarks, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Mohamed Ali Pate, who was represented by Dr Samuel Oyeniyi, commended Governor Oyebanji and the state government for the establishment of the centre, describing it as timely, strategic and transformative. He noted that the facility represents a bold step in the bid to strengthen healthcare delivery and improve outcomes for mother and newborn in Nigeria.

He said the facility reflects the growing recognition that Nigeria must not only consume global health knowledge but must also produce it.

The Minister added that the Federal Ministry of Health remains firmly committed to reducing neonatal mortality and ensuring that every Nigerian newborn has the opportunity to survive, thrive and reach full developmental potential

He expressed optimism that the centre would serve as a leading hub for research, innovation and collaboration, bringing together experts and stakeholders to generate evidence-based solutions needed to further advance newborn survival and strengthen healthcare across the country.

Also in his address, the Commissioner for Health and Human Service, Dr Oyebanji Filani thanked Governor Oyebanji for his commitment to strengthening the state’s healthcare system through strategic investment in infrastructure, research, and human capital development. He commended the Governor for his visionary and consistent support for initiatives aimed at improving maternal and newborn health outcomes in the state..

Describing the facility as a landmark achievement that reflects the Governor’s administration to position Ekiti as a centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, the Commissioner said the centre would not only enhance clinical practice and training but would also contribute significantly to reducing neonatal mortality and improve overall health outcome for mothers and children in the state and beyond

Oyebanji Signs two new laws, as Assembly marks third anniversary.

Oyebanji Signs two new laws, as Assembly marks third anniversary.

…Restates Commitment to Effective Governance.

Ekiti State Governor Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to a governance system anchored on strong institutions, justice and effective grassroots administration.

The Governor stated this on Thursday while signing into law the Ekiti State Local Government (First Amendment) law, 2026 and Ekiti State Administration of Criminal Justice (Second Amendment) Law, 2026, as part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Seventh Assembly at a brief event held at the Executive Council Chamber , Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti.

Speaking shortly after assenting to the new laws, Governor Oyebanji described the two legislative instrument as critical reforms designed to enhance service delivery, promote accountability and improve institutional effectiveness across the state. He noted that the amendments reflect his administration’s commitment to building strong institutions capable of meeting the aspirations of the people.

The Governor stated further that the Local Government (First Amendments) Law, would enhance effectiveness of local government administration by establishing legislative departments at the local government level, improve governance at the grassroots and ensure that councils are better positioned to deliver democratic dividends to their respective to the citizens. 

He stressed that strong local governments remain vital to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Speaking on the Administration of Criminal Justice (Second bj Amendments) Law, the Governor explained that the amendment aligns the state with the global best practice by embracing the principle of restorative justice, adding that the law reflects a more humane approach to justice delivery, stressing that the people deserve a justice that does not only punish but also heal and restores.

While commending the Speaker and members of the seventh assembly for their diligence, partnership and commitment to the shared prosperity agenda of his administration, the Governor said they have demonstrated that the legislative and executive arms of government can work together without conflict. 

“I’m honoured to join you today as we mark the third anniversary of the 7th assembly of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, three years ago, you received the mandate from the people of Ekiti and today that mandate is bearing fruit, this assembly has proven that effective law making is the backbone of good governance.

“The first as the speaker enumerated is the Local Government Administration Law of 2026 by establishing a legislative office department at the local government level. This law brings professionalism and structure to the very foundation of democracy. Local government are the closest arms of government to our people in the villages and towns, with trained legislative officers, our council will now make better laws, keep better records and deliver better services.

“The second is Ekiti State Administration of criminal justice, second amendment law, 2026. The amendment aligns Ekiti with global best practice by embracing restorative justice. Our people deserve the justice system that does not only punish but also heals and restore. A system where victims are heard, offenders are reform and communities are made whole again”. The Governor stressed.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, who commended Governor Oyebanji for what he described as purposeful and reform-driven governance, noted that the passage and assent to the amended laws reflect a shared commitment between the executive and legislature to strengthen institutions in the state. 

He described the event as more than merely signing documents, but signing of the state’s resolve for stronger local government, a fair justice system and a brighter future for the state.

The speaker said that the two laws would further enhance the effectiveness of the justice system, promote speedy dispensation of fair justice as well as strengthen grassroots governance and improve the capacity of local council to deliver democratic dividends.

Ekiti Launches Women Empowerment Programme, Disburses N234.3m to 142 Groups.

Ekiti Launches Women Empowerment Programme, Disburses N234.3m to 142 Groups.

...Minister says initiative targets five million women nationwide.

....Oyebanji seeks expansion to all LGAs, urges beneficiaries to invest wisely.

The Federal Government, in partnership with the World Bank and the Ekiti State Government, has officially flagged off the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU) in Ekiti State with the disbursement of over N234.3 million in Community Investment Funds to 142 Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) in Efon Local Government Area.

The programme, designed to strengthen women's economic empowerment, financial inclusion and social development, is expected to benefit more than 25,000 women already enrolled in over 1,500 Women Affinity Groups across six participating local government areas in the state.

  

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at the Fajuyi Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, described the initiative as a key component of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at promoting inclusive development, poverty reduction, job creation and social protection.

She commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his leadership and commitment to women's empowerment, noting that the mobilisation of thousands of women into productive economic groups in Ekiti reflected the administration's dedication to inclusive growth and sustainable development.

According to the Minister, women account for more than half of Nigeria's population and contribute significantly to agriculture and the informal economy, yet continue to face barriers in accessing finance, land, technology and markets.

"No economy can afford to exclude the majority of its productive force. That reality informed the Nigeria for Women Project and its Scale-Up Programme," she said.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim explained that the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, in collaboration with the World Bank and participating states, is implementing the second phase of the programme with a target of reaching about five million women nationwide.

She disclosed that while the pilot phase economically empowered about 450,000 women, the scale-up phase seeks to deepen financial inclusion, strengthen enterprise development, build entrepreneurial skills and support community-based economic organisations through Women Affinity Groups.

The Minister noted that Ekiti had already recorded significant progress, with over 1,500 Women Affinity Groups bringing together more than 25,000 women actively engaged in productive economic activities.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji, while addressing the gathering at the programme, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the World Bank and the Ministry of Women Affairs for bringing the initiative to the state.

The governor disclosed that Ekiti fulfilled the eligibility requirements for participation in the programme as far back as 2024 by paying a counterpart fund of N450 million.

He stressed that the programme should be extended to all local government areas of the state given its potential to transform businesses and improve household incomes.

The governor urged beneficiaries to deploy the funds strictly for business expansion and productive ventures rather than non-essential expenditures.

"When this money is invested properly, it will help businesses grow, create prosperity and improve the welfare of families.

That is the vision of President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to ensure Nigerian families live better and feed well," he stated.

Oyebanji assured the Minister of continued collaboration between the state government and the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda and expand opportunities for women across Ekiti.

In her remarks, the First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, described the programme as a landmark intervention that aligns with the administration's commitment to women's development and community advancement.

She said the Women Affinity Groups provide safe platforms for women to save, access support, acquire skills and improve their economic conditions.

According to her, when women prosper economically, families become stronger, children receive better education and care, and communities become more peaceful and prosperous.

The First Lady noted that her own interventions through the Adire Ekiti Hub and the Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Support Foundation (WAOH) had empowered thousands of women through training, grants and business support.

She urged beneficiaries to utilise the Community Investment Funds responsibly and ensure that the resources translate into sustainable businesses and long-term economic growth.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, described the event as a significant milestone in the state's efforts to promote women's empowerment and grassroots development.

She explained that the World Bank-supported programme seeks to improve women's livelihoods through access to economic opportunities, productive resources, social capital and community-driven interventions.

Babafemi disclosed that over 25,000 women have been enrolled into more than 1,500 Women Affinity Groups, while 215 jobs have been created through the programme's implementation in Ekiti.

She announced that 142 Women Affinity Groups in Efon Local Government Area, having successfully met the programme's six-month operational requirement, would each receive N1.65 million under the Community Investment Fund.

Also speaking, the World Bank Task Team Leader and Senior Social Development Specialist, Mr Michael Ilesanmi, said the programme was designed in response to the multiple and complex barriers confronting women in Nigeria.

He explained that the Nigeria for Women Programme adopts a multidimensional approach that combines financial support, skills development, social empowerment and community mobilisation.

According to him, Women Affinity Groups serve as platforms through which women save collectively, access loans, receive training in business and financial literacy, strengthen leadership skills and build supportive social networks.

He noted that beyond economic empowerment, the groups also help women gain greater participation in household and community decision-making, reduce poverty and address social constraints that limit women's full participation in economic activities.

The Chairman of the Multi-Sectoral Coordinating Structure and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, said the programme aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty eradication, gender equality, quality education and decent work.

He described women as the backbone of families and communities, stressing that empowering them would generate positive multiplier effects for households and the wider economy.

Adebayo urged beneficiaries to remain committed to the ideals of cooperation, transparency and accountability while calling on men, particularly husbands, to support women participating in empowerment programmes.

In a goodwill message, Her Royal Majesty, Olori Bosede Adejugbe, described the Community Investment Fund as a strategic investment in women's enterprises, family welfare and community development.

She said Women Affinity Groups had helped women strengthen savings culture, improve access to finance, acquire entrepreneurial skills and build resilience against economic challenges.

Similarly, Chairman of Efon Local Government, Mr Afolabi Segun, lauded the initiative as a strategic investment in the future of women, families and communities, pledging the support of local governments towards its success.

The event featured testimonies from beneficiaries whose lives have been transformed through participation in Women Affinity Groups.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Wosilat Akande, said she used a loan obtained through her group to invest in farming, a venture that eventually enabled her to acquire personal farmland where she now cultivates maize and plantain.

Another beneficiary, Mrs Deborah Ategbero, said access to group loans helped her establish a thriving cowhide (ponmo) business, while Mrs Juliet Iyanuoluwa credited the programme for helping her expand her enterprise through savings and affordable credit.

The Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up is currently being implemented in Efon, Moba, Gbonyin/Ayekire, Ado, Ijero and Oye local government areas, with plans for further expansion as more women groups qualify for support.

Ekiti poll: You Can't match Oyebanji, Fayose Tells opposition Candidates.

Ekiti poll: You Can't match Oyebanji, Fayose Tells opposition Candidates.

....says Tinubu's second term a done deal.

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, has told the opposition  candidates in the June 20 governorship poll in  the state to forget winning the election, saying Governor Biodun Oyebanji enjoys wider acceptability among the electorate to retain his seat for a second term.

On the impending 2027 presidential poll, Fayose predicted a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing opposition's inability to coalesce as a serious issue that will undo their chances and give the ruling party a leverage to retain power till 2031.

Fayose spoke Wednesday evening, while appearing on a political programme aired by nearly all radio stations operating in Ekiti State. 

The former governor, who revealed that  he will soon kick off a meeting with Ekiti electorate across the three senatorial districts, said the political step was conceptualised to further  reinforce support for the governor to be able to triumph in a landslide fashion in the governorship  election. 

Speaking about what endeared Governor Oyebanji to him, despite being the leader of opposition, Fayose said he was elated about the speedy completion of the Ekiti State international cargo airport by the governor and for initiating process for the building of a new flyover in the state capital to reduce traffic gridlock, among other landmark projects that had lifted the state to a higher pedestal.   

Fayose saluted Oyebanji for his humility and for pursuing unity with vigour, especially among the political gladiators and leaders, showering encomiums on former Governor Kayode Fayemi for bringing the governor to superintend over the state at this crucial time.

On the swirling rumour that he was being bankrolled by the state government to undermine the opposition, the former governor posited that he had governed the state twice and needed no pecuniary influence  to back the governor. He added that he was doing so in good conscience and based on past experiences. 

"Ekiti comes first before any political affiliation. We were first Ekitis before any political party. If you believe in me and you believe that  I  represent your interest, come out on June 20 and vote for the serving governor of Ekiti state, Biodun Oyebanji to complete his second term. He is a gentleman and someone who has performed very well. 

"I am a member of the PDP and I remain so. We all knew the party we belong to. Whether we support him or not, Oyebanji will win and APC will be the greatest  beneficiary. I have built image in this state and I have my cult-like supporters. They should all vote for this governor.

"As I am supporting Governor Oyebanji, I am also supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I am not doing this for a fun. I have been his fan for a long time. He remains the most prominent and most beneficial leader in Yoruba race. All lovers of Yoruba should support this president.

"I am speaking from experience. I had defeated two incumbent governors  at different elections. In this coming Ekiti governorship  election, the runner up to Governor Oyebanji won't score up to 40,000 votes. I am a member of the PDP, I am not here to destroy our candidate. That is not my mission here. But I don't want to be a leader that will call a white black or blue. Governor Oyebanji has done well.

"Ekiti can now match any state in the West after 30 years of its creation. Governor Oyebanji  mounted this position with humility and respect. I am not ready to fight him. Was I able to sit with former Governors Niyi Adebayo, Kayode Fayemi and Segun Oni in the past? We were all fighting due to.politival differences. But today, we are one, because we have a governor who can unite us. Why can't I support a man that is uniting people, respecting them and performing well”, he added. 

On the 2027 presidential poll, Fayose predicted a landslide victory for President Tinubu on account of his scintillating performance and commitment to national service in the last three years, despite inheriting a grossly escalated insecurity and  debilitating economy from Muhammadu Buhari's administration. 

Substantiating his prediction, Fayose stated that the fragmentation of the opposition elements, particularly the former Vice President Abubakar Atiku, ex-Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi and ex-Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso and inability to forge a united front, had given the ruling party an edge in the impending poll.  

Similarly, Fayose stated that the emerging cases of shoddy handling of the primaries in the opposition parties, had elicited ripples that may weaken them before the poll, except prompt actions are taken to handle such issues. 

The former governor said the Atiku propelled  African Democratic Party and the Nigeria Democratic Congress being championed by Obi shouldn't make any noise about rigging in 2027, saying their desperation for power had emasculated the opposition. 

"I have not come to Ekiti through road in the last few months. But today, I drove through Ibadan-Ilesa- Akure highway.  The President has nearly completed the highway up to Ilesa extension. This they did with concrete laying. I saw that section that he has done. Those who are on social media spewing negative narratives were only misinforming the masses.  

"Let me say this, if election is conducted today,President Tinubu will win with wide margin. He has done well, forget what you are seeing or reading on social media". 

On the issue of insecurity in Oyo State and the comment he made, blaming Governor Seyi Makinde over kidnapping of some teachers and students, Fayose insisted that he made such statement based on the fact that the governor is the Chief Security Officer of the State who should be alive to its responsibilities. 

Fayose condemned the spate of kidnapping and killings in the country, saying these matters could have long been  abated, if proper and swift actions were taken to suppress the insurgency when it started in 2005 and 2006 around Borno axis of the Northeastern area of the country.

Bemoaning the harrowing experiences of  internal sabotage of government's security efforts , Fayose said the people that were supplying ammunition,  food and other logistics to the criminals, live among the people and that this should stop in the interest of the nation. 

The former governor appealed to the Federal  government to establish a special court to try suspected  kidnappers in the country and ensure that anti- kidnapping law carries capital offence to suppress the situation. 

"When issue of insecurity happens, the Local Government Chairman will escalate such to the state governor. Has governor Seyi Makinde escalated the kidnapping to the President? No evidence of such. The President of America, Donald Trump recently told one of the Governors in America that if he needs his help, he shouldn't hesitate to call on him being the man in charge of America. 

"What we are saying here is about the security of lives and property. Nobody should politicise it. What we are getting on social media was not the right thing. You can't be politicising killings. It is wrong. governor Seyi Makinde should be the one to respond swiftly to the situation and if he needs help, then he will approach  the president for help. That was my position and on that I stand.

"I want to suggest that the Federal government set up a special court to try those arrested for kidnapping, because this pain and suffering of Nigerians are  becoming too much. Justice delay, is Justice deny".

RHI, WAOH Foundation empower 3,300 Ekiti Women at mega empowerment.

RHI, WAOH Foundation empower 3,300 Ekiti Women at mega empowerment.

…N100million cash grants, empowerment items distributed.

The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and WAOH Support Foundation, initiated by the Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, on Wednesday empowered 3,300 Ekiti women with grants for small scale businesses and working tools.

The sum of  N50,000 cash grant was presented to 2,000 women, while another 1,300 women were supported with economic empowerment tools to strengthen women-led businesses and expand economic opportunities at the community level. 

Dr Oyebanji who presided over  the empowerment programme at a grand event termed “Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) empowerment of 2,000 petty traders and Ekiti First Lady’s Mega Empowerment” held at Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Ado Ekiti, reiterated the commitment of President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji to supporting petty traders and improve family livelihoods of widows and the vulnerable people. 

The empowerment items and support distributed include deep freezers, generators, sewing machines, grinding machines, Hair-dressers’ kits, agricultural Inputs such as modern farm sprayers as well as direct cash grants.

According to the Governor’s wife, the initiative is a strategic effort is aimed at strengthening small-scale enterprises owned by women. and expanding grassroots economic opportunities to achieve inclusive wealth creation and poverty alleviation at all levels.

Dr Oyebanji expressed her profound appreciation to Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her numerous interventions in Ekiti State, particularly the commissioning of an ICT Centre at Ekiti State University (EKSU) and a ₦100 million empowerment grant for 2,000 women as well as the various supports the state had received from her initiatives since 2023.

“Today is another clear demonstration of our commitment to improving the lives of Ekiti people, especially our hard-working women, who remain the backbone of our homes, communities and economy. I sincerely appreciate our dear mother of the nation, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, for her consistent love and support for women across Nigeria, and particularly Ekiti State.

“Today, through her generosity, 2,000 Ekiti women will receive cash support of N50,000 to strengthen their businesses and improve their livelihoods, we are deeply grateful for this noble gesture. In addition, precisely 1,300 beneficiaries, and most especially the widows, the vulnerable, will receive cash support. They will also receive various empowerment items on the platform of the WAOH Foundation, including freezers, grinding machines, sewing machines, dryers, hand basins, basins, big coolers, generators and farm implements”, She stated.

The Ekiti State First Lady also expressed her profound gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his people-oriented leadership which continues to attract opportunities and development to Ekiti State. She stated  that the Governor has pledged continued payment of the state’s counterpart funds to ensure that women in the remaining local government areas also benefit from this impactful Nigeria women project Scale-Up Community Investment Fund, jointly funded by World Bank and Ekiti State Government.

Speaking further, Dr Oyebanji used the opportunity to urge all Ekiti residents who are yet to collect their PVC to do so as well as encourage their family members, friends and neighbours to troupe out en-masse on June 20 and cast their votes for Governor Oyebanji as that is the only way they could reciprocate his good gestures to Ekiti people.

Governor Oyebanji, who was represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, expressed his appreciation to Ekiti women, and commended them for their industry and vibrant contributions to grassroots development and the state's economic development. He said his administration has been able to record significant improvements in its health indices by reducing child mortality rate from 40 per 1,000 to 18 per 1,000.

He appealed to the resudenys tine sure they collect their PVCs and to use the appropriate finger during election so as to avoid voided votes.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Mosisade Afuye, Deputy Speaker, Ekiti state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju; Commissioners for Women Affairs and Education, Mrs Peju Babafemi and Dr Bimpe Aderiye respectively; wives of Ogoga of Ikere and Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Eyesorun Ololade Adu Alagbado and Eyesorun Abosede Adejugbe, thanked the Nigeria first Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu for all she does to reposition Ekiti women stressing the need for all residents to be adequately prepared for the June 20 election by collecting their voters cards and reciprocating the good works of Governor Oyebanji in the state.