Oyebanji Charges ABUAD Graduands on Innovation, dynamism at Convocation.

Oyebanji Charges ABUAD Graduands on Innovation, dynamism at Convocation.

…hails Afe Babalola’s contribution to human capital debt, nation building.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has acknowledged the significant contribution of the Founder and Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola to the development of the state by pursuing infrastructural drive and human capital development with an unmatched passion.

Governor Oyebanji, who spoke on Wednesday at the 14th Convocation ceremony of ABUAD, commended Chief Babalola’s vital support toward the completion of the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Airport. 

The Governor revealed that Aare Babalola particularly funded some key facilities at the airport, including equipment for the control tower and the construction of the car park, which was instrumental in bringing the airport project to operational reality.

Speaking before an audience comprising graduands, academic leaders, and distinguished guests, Governor Oyebanji further described the Chancellor as a visionary icon whose tireless work continues to inspire youths and leaders across generations.

He used the opportunity to also laud ABUAD for maintaining its position as a leading institution of higher learning in Nigeria and across the globe by consistently topping rankings in higher education sustainability, stressing that such repeated recognition proves that ABUAD’s achievements are rooted in genuine excellence rather than temporary luck. 

According to the Governor, the institution’s impact in teaching, groundbreaking research, and community service has firmly established it as a reference point for academic excellence.

Turning his attention to the graduands ,the Governor commended the students for successfully navigating the rigorous and demanding academic environment of ABUAD emphasizing that earning a degree from such a prestigious university is a significant feat.

He charged the new graduates to stand out as distinguished ambassadors and role models in their future professional endeavors. He further urged them to embrace creativity, innovation, dynamism, and adaptability as they enter an ever-changing world and labour market.

Governor Oyebanji noted that in a dynamic global environment, graduates must look beyond traditional classroom curricula and apply their knowledge to emerging fields, ensuring they remain relevant and competitive in an evolving economic landscape.

Addressing the rapidly growing influence of technology, the Governor called on the graduands to intelligently adapt to the artificial intelligence revolution as he advised them to continuously evaluate which services and skills hold value in the modern workforce, encouraging them to maintain a strong sense of curiosity and commit to lifelong learning to navigate new industry realities.

"I want to specially celebrate my father and icon, Aare Afe Babalola on the occasion of his being conferred with the honorary doctoral degree by two international universities from Canada and the United State of America.

" Even in his advanced age, he has not slowed down on his commitment to the task of making life better than he met it. It is therefore not surprising that he continues to attract recognitions and commendations from far and near, in celebration of his invaluable contributions to human capital development in Nigeria and beyond.

" In  a world and a state of permanent effluxion, one needs to be creative, dynamic, adaptive and pragmatic to cope. Therefore, let the value of your degrees manifest in your ability to create, innovate and adapt your knowledge to emerging skill gaps which even the curriculum that graduated you might not have comprehensively or sufficiently envisaged.

"As the world gets led by the artificial intelligence revolution, you also need to intelligently revolutionize the reality of what services and skills get valued in the new world. In a short word, keep the antenal of your curiosity alive and keep learning to fit in." He stated.

In her opening speech, the Vice Chancellor of the University (ABUAD), Prof. Smaranda Olarinde reminded the new graduates that the quality education they received carries significant societal responsibilities and mandates them to lead with sound character.  

 Professor Olarinde stressed that the academic and moral training imparted by the institution was designed to equip students to think critically, act with unwavering integrity, and work diligently across their respective fields. 

Highlighting the practical duties attached to higher learning, the Vice Chancellor called on graduates across all disciplines to embody compassion and social consciousness in their careers. She challenged engineers to prioritize safety in their designs, healthcare professionals to preserve patient's dignity, and law graduates to steadfastly defend justice, maintaining that true individual success brings a profound duty to serve the broader community.

She expressed deep gratitude to the parents for their sacrifice, trust, and sustained financial commitment toward their children's development.

Prof. Charity Aremu, the Vice-Chancellor of Venite University, highlights Research, Pedagogical teaching, and Passionate Leadership as Drivers of Global University Visibility at Babcock University.

Prof. Charity Aremu, the Vice-Chancellor of Venite University, highlights Research, Pedagogical teaching, and Passionate Leadership as Drivers of Global University Visibility at Babcock University.

Prof. Charity Aremu has called for greater investment in research, administrative excellence, and staff development as essential drivers of university growth and global visibility.

She made this known at the one-day Policy and Data Workshop 2026 organised and hosted by Babcock University President/Vice-Chancellor, Prof Afolarin Olatunde Ojewole. The workshop, themed “From Practice to Proof: Policies, Data and Evidence for Babcock Global Standing,” explored how effective policies, reliable data, and measurable evidences can strengthen the university’s global standing.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Aremu emphasised the need for University academia  to intentionally engage in multidisciplinary research with palpable beneficial proofs  across all levels, from faculty and administrative staff to undergraduate and postgraduate students. She noted that building a strong research culture requires deliberate institutional support, effective leadership, and opportunities for continuous professional development.

“The growth of the university lies in the growth of its staff,” she stated.

She explained that empowering staff with the right skills, resources, and research opportunities would improve institutional performance and strengthen academic competencies and competitiveness.

Her contributions underscore the importance of translating university policies into measurable outcomes. Strong research output, effective administration, and staff development can help institutions improve their academic reputation and gain greater international recognition through ranking.

For Venite University, Prof. Aremu’s participation highlights the value of academic leadership and engagement in conversations shaping the future of higher education. Her message reinforces the importance of investing in people, promoting research, and pursuing institutional excellence.

As universities seek stronger global recognition, Prof. Aremu’s central message remains relevant: sustainable growth begins with empowering the people who drive it.

#sdg4qualityeducation
#VeniteUniversity
#visibility
#ranking

ABUAD Honours Cavista Holdings Chair, Olajide with Doctor of Letters.

ABUAD Honours Cavista Holdings Chair, Olajide with Doctor of Letters.

...as Oyebanji, Ooni, Ewi hail businessman’s investments in agriculture, tourism, job creation.

The Chairman of Cavista Holdings, Mr Niyi John Olajide, has received an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) degree from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), with Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, and prominent traditional rulers commending his investments in agriculture, tourism and job creation in the state.

Olajide received the honour during the university’s 14th convocation ceremony on Wednesday October 21st, which was attended by prominent political and traditional leaders, including Oyebanji, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe.

The dignitaries praised Olajide’s contributions to employment generation, industrial development and the economic transformation of Ekiti State.

Oyebanji described Olajide as an accomplished international businessman and a patriotic Ekiti indigene who had chosen to complement the state government’s efforts to attract private investment and industrialise the state.

The governor said Olajide, through Cavista Holdings, the parent company of Agbeyewa Farms and Glocient Hospitality, had invested millions of dollars in Ekiti’s economy, creating employment opportunities and contributing to the development of the state’s agricultural and tourism sectors.

He particularly commended the businessman’s involvement in the ongoing transformation of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort into a world-class tourist destination, saying the investment had the potential to strengthen Ekiti’s position on Nigeria’s tourism map.

Governor Oyebanji said Olajide’s investments demonstrated how private capital could complement government efforts to stimulate economic growth, create jobs and improve the livelihoods of residents.

The governor described him as one of the leading investors in Ekiti, noting that his business interests had generated employment for thousands of people through agricultural, hospitality and other ventures.

According to the governor, the investments had also helped to reposition Ikogosi and its surrounding communities as an emerging destination for tourism and hospitality.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, also praised Olajide’s contributions to Ekiti, describing him as an enigmatic personality whose investments and commitment to his home state deserved recognition.

The monarch said he had personally examined information about Olajide’s background and activities and was impressed by his accomplishments.

The Ooni further commended Olajide’s contribution to employment and community development, expressing the hope that his investments would continue to create opportunities for the people of Ekiti.

The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, said the state needed more entrepreneurs willing to invest their resources and expertise in its development.

The monarch noted that, for more than two decades, Ekiti had looked forward to having more investors willing to complement the developmental contributions of ABUAD founder, Aare Afe Babalola.

He expressed optimism that Olajide’s emergence as a major investor would encourage other successful Nigerians in the diaspora and the private sector to channel resources into the state’s economy.

Olajide is the founder and chairman of Cavista Holdings, a diversified investment company with interests spanning technology, agriculture, hospitality, financial technology and energy.

He is also the founder and chairman of Axxess, a Dallas, Texas-based home healthcare technology company established in 2007. The company has grown into an international enterprise with operations across the United States, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

Through Cavista Holdings, Olajide oversees several businesses, including Cavista Technologies Limited, Agbeyewa Farms, Glocient Hospitality, PayZeep and Matna Foods Limited.

Agbeyewa Farms is a major cassava farming enterprise, while Glocient Hospitality manages Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre. PayZeep operates in financial technology, while Matna Foods is involved in the production of food-grade cassava starch.

The businessman’s interests in agriculture and hospitality have placed him at the centre of efforts to expand private-sector participation in Ekiti’s economic development, particularly in areas where the state has sought to attract investment, generate employment and develop its tourism potential.

Beyond his business activities, Olajide has held leadership positions in international business organisations. He was elected chairman of the board of the Corporate Council on Africa in 2023, a position that places him within efforts to promote trade and investment relations between the United States and African countries.

A graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas, he received the institution’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2015, becoming its youngest recipient at the time. He also co-chaired a $750 million capital campaign aimed at expanding student opportunities and supported the establishment of the university’s Africa Regional Office in Nigeria.

He has served on the boards of organisations in the home healthcare industry and civic institutions in the United States, while his philanthropic activities have focused on healthcare, education, poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment.

His honorary degree from ABUAD, according to the university’s citation, recognises his accomplishments as an entrepreneur, investor, home healthcare innovator, civic leader and philanthropist, as well as his advocacy for improved healthcare access and quality education.

Fayemi mourns Pa Fasoranti, says Yoruba Nation has lost a Principled Leader.

Fayemi mourns Pa Fasoranti, says Yoruba Nation has lost a Principled Leader.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and past Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed grief over the passing of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, leader of Afenifere, describing him as ‘’our father, my school principal under whose influence I grew, and elder statesman whose service, wisdom and principled leadership left an enduring mark on the Yoruba nation and Nigeria.''

In a condolence statement personally signed by him, Fayemi said the passing of Pa Fasoranti represented a significant loss to the Yoruba people, the progressive political tradition and the wider Nigerian community, further noting that the late Afenifere leader distinguished himself through his integrity, fairness and commitment to the welfare of his people.

He described Pa Fasoranti as a leader who carried the enormous responsibility of guiding the Yoruba nation with wisdom, restraint and a deep sense of justice, earning the respect of people across political divides and generations.

“Baba Fasoranti was a remarkable leader whose strength lay not only in his convictions but also in his wisdom, fairness and ability to listen. He understood that leadership, particularly for a people with such a rich history and strong democratic tradition as the Yoruba, demanded patience, courage, inclusiveness and a constant commitment to the common good.

“He provided a steady moral compass at critical moments in our national life and demonstrated that it is possible to remain firm in one's principles while treating others with dignity and fairness. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt,” Fayemi said.

The former governor also paid tribute to the personal mentorship and fatherly counsel he received from Pa Fasoranti over the years, describing their relationship as one of the most valuable influences on his public life.

According to him, the late elder statesman was always willing to share his experience and offer guidance, often providing perspectives that encouraged reflection, moderation and an appreciation of the responsibilities of leadership.

“For me, this loss is deeply personal. Baba Fasoranti was not merely a leader I admired from a distance; he was a mentor and father figure whose counsel I valued immensely. Over the years, I had the privilege of drawing on his wisdom, benefiting from his encouragement and receiving his honest assessment of issues affecting our people and our country.

“His advice was often measured, thoughtful and grounded in enduring principles. He had a way of reminding one that public service must ultimately be judged by its impact on the lives of the people and that no political ambition should supersede the larger interests of society. I will always cherish the guidance he gave me and remain grateful for the privilege of learning from him,” he said.

Fayemi noted that Pa Fasoranti’s legacy extended beyond his leadership of Afenifere to his contributions to education, progressive politics, democratic development and the advancement of the Yoruba people.

He said the late statesman remained an important custodian of the progressive ideals associated with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, particularly the pursuit of social justice, good governance and improvement of the welfare of ordinary citizens.

Fayemi further observed that Pa Fasoranti’s steadfast commitment to democratic values and constitutional government helped sustain the progressive movement through challenging periods in Nigeria’s political history, adding that the late leader’s enduring significance lay not simply in the length of his life but in the values he upheld, the causes he championed and the generations he inspired.

“Baba Fasoranti leaves behind a legacy of courage, integrity, service and devotion to the ideals of justice and good governance. His life reminds us that genuine leadership is not about the pursuit of power or personal recognition, but about the responsibility to serve, the courage to stand by one's convictions and the wisdom to put the interests of the people first.

“The challenge before those of us who remain is to preserve these values and ensure that the ideals for which he stood continue to guide our political and public institutions,” Fayemi said.

The former governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure and Ondo State, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the Yoruba nation and all Nigerians who mourn the passing of the elder statesman.

Ekiti Govt Issues Ebola Alert, Urges Residents to Report Suspected Cases.

Ekiti Govt Issues Ebola Alert, Urges Residents to Report Suspected Cases.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Ekiti State Government has issued a health advisory to residents following the confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, urging the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected cases to health authorities.

The advisory, issued by the state Ministry of Health and Human Services on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, outlined preventive measures and emergency response procedures to guard against the possible spread of the disease.

According to the advisory, the Federal Government confirmed the case following laboratory tests conducted on a woman who reportedly arrived in Nigeria from Uganda on an international flight.

The patient was said to have received treatment at a private hospital in the FCT before the diagnosis was confirmed and was subsequently placed in isolation for medical care.

The ministry stated that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention had commenced contact tracing, with 44 close contacts identified for monitoring, while surveillance and infection prevention measures had been strengthened.

To demonstrate the state's preparedness, the Ekiti Government said it had intensified public awareness campaigns through engagements with healthcare workers, community leaders, traditional rulers, faith-based organisations, civil society groups and media practitioners.

The state also disclosed that radio jingles had been produced and were being aired on two radio stations, while posters containing information on Ebola prevention had been distributed to members of the public.

Other preparedness measures include training laboratory personnel on the collection, handling and transportation of Ebola samples, strengthening disease surveillance at the state and local government levels, and inaugurating an Ebola Virus Disease Technical Working Group.

The ministry added that an emergency meeting of the technical working group was held on October 13 to assess the state's level of preparedness and accelerate response activities.

It further stated that airport officials and environmental health officers had received orientation on passenger screening and triage at airports and other points of entry.

According to the advisory, healthcare workers had also undergone training in Ebola case management and infection prevention and control, while a functional simulation exercise had been conducted at the treatment centre at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti.

The state government added that members of the state burial team had been trained in safe and dignified burial procedures, while protective equipment, including gloves, face masks and laboratory consumables, had been procured and stockpiled.

Explaining how the disease spreads, the ministry said Ebola could be transmitted through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person, the body of someone who had died from the disease, or contaminated materials.

It noted that an infected person could not transmit the disease before symptoms appeared.

Residents were advised to watch out for symptoms such as sudden fever, severe weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea and unexplained bleeding, particularly among individuals with a travel history to countries affected by Ebola.

The ministry urged residents to practise regular hand hygiene, avoid contact with the body fluids of suspected cases and immediately report possible exposure to public health authorities.

It also advised anyone who developed symptoms after possible exposure to avoid close contact with others and contact health authorities for guidance before visiting a healthcare facility.

The government further urged residents to cooperate with public health officials conducting contact tracing and to avoid spreading unverified information or stigmatising individuals who might be suspected of having the disease.

Reassuring the public, the ministry recalled Nigeria's successful containment of the 2014 Ebola outbreak, expressing confidence in the country's public health response systems while emphasising the need for vigilance and collective responsibility.

The advisory reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to protecting healthcare workers, patients and the general public through preparedness, early detection and prompt response.

Residents who notice anyone exhibiting symptoms suggestive of Ebola, particularly those with a travel history to an affected country or Abuja, were advised to report to the nearest general hospital or call 07049204288, 08160193629 or 07049204334 for assistance.

Ajijola Charges Ekiti APC, Electorates to Deliver Record Votes for Tinubu.

Ajijola Charges Ekiti APC, Electorates to Deliver Record Votes for Tinubu.

An All Progressives Congress chieftain and Executive Director of the South West Development Commission, Chief Lateef Ajijola, has charged APC faithful and the electorate in Ekiti State to mobilise massive support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure an unprecedented number of votes for him.

Ajijola, popularly known as Always Standing, made the call while speaking with journalists in Ado Ekiti, stressing the need for unity, commitment and effective grassroots mobilisation to strengthen the party's support base across the state.

He urged APC leaders, members and supporters to intensify their engagement with residents and eligible voters, noting that collective efforts would be crucial to securing an overwhelming electoral victory for the President.

The APC chieftain emphasised the importance of communicating the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration to the grassroots, encouraging party members to educate the electorate on the administration's achievements and ongoing initiatives.

He also called on party stakeholders at the ward, local government and state levels to work together, strengthen the party's structures and sustain peaceful engagement with the electorate ahead of future elections.

Ajijola stressed that delivering unprecedented votes for Tinubu would require the cooperation of party faithful and the active participation of supporters across Ekiti State.

He expressed confidence in the APC's ability to record an impressive electoral performance, urging members to remain steadfast, united and committed to the party's success.

The APC chieftain reiterated that sustained grassroots mobilisation, effective communication and cooperation among party stakeholders would be vital to achieving the desired electoral outcome for President Tinubu.

Isan-Ekiti Rejoices as Senator Cyril Fasuyi Lays Foundation for Youth ICT Centre.

Isan-Ekiti Rejoices as Senator Cyril Fasuyi Lays Foundation for Youth ICT Centre.

Hope filled the air in Isan-Ekiti on Tuesday as Senator Cyril Fasuyi laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Youth Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre, a landmark project designed to equip young people with essential digital skills for the modern economy.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on the site opposite Command Secondary School, drew an enthusiastic crowd of residents, community leaders, and local youths.

Distinguished guests in attendance included the Onisan of Isan Kingdom, Oba Gabriel Adejuwon; Hon. Kemisola Olaleye; Mr. Mufu Apata; Hon. Awoyemi Reuben; Mr. Goke Adetiloye; and Reverend Ogoji, who offered opening prayers and spiritual remarks.

Speaking at the event, the Onisan of Isan Kingdom, Oba Gabriel Adejuwon, expressed deep appreciation for the intervention, describing it as a legacy project of lasting value for the community's youth. The monarch assured the senator that the people of Isan would reciprocate his kindness through their continued support and votes.

Local residents echoed the monarch's sentiments, hailing the initiative as a timely investment in the future of the younger generation. Many noted that a leader who prioritizes youth development demonstrates a genuine commitment to national progress.

Beyond the ICT centre, community members commended Senator Fasuyi for a broad range of developmental projects he has attracted to Isan-Ekiti and the wider senatorial district. They praised the initiative as evidence of visionary representation—one that directly connects young people to technology, training, and global opportunities.

Several attendees also called on the community to support continuity by backing the senator for a second term, emphasizing that sustained leadership is vital to completing and expanding ongoing developmental projects in the region.