OYEBANJI TO NAME NEW COURT COMPLEX AFTER FIRST FEMALE CHIEF JUDGE, OMOLEYE.

OYEBANJI TO NAME NEW COURT COMPLEX AFTER FIRST FEMALE CHIEF JUDGE, OMOLEYE.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday disclosed that the new court complex being constructed by the state government would be named after the first female Chief Judge of the State, Hon Justice Oyebisi Folayemi Omoleye, in appreciation and recognition of her outstanding contribution to the justice administration and dedicated service to the State and Nigeria.

Justice Omoleye, who was the first female Chief Judge of Ekiti State, had a distinguished judicial career spanning several decades. She served at various levels before her elevation to the Court of Appeal, where she is retiring having attained the mandatory retirement age of 70.  

Governor Oyebanji who disclosed the government’s plan during a special valedictory court session held in honour of Justice Omoleye at the High Court complex in Ado Ekiti, also presented a Brand new Toyota SUV to the retiring Judge, describing the gestures as a token of appreciation for her service to the judiciary and for making the state proud throughout her career. 

The Governor commended the retiring judge for walking the judicial path without blemish.

He expressed optimism that Justice Omoleye would return to the court premises in the coming month to commission the new court building constructed by the state government and named after her. 

He maintained that the honour would serve as a lasting reminder of her contribution to the judiciary and the state.

The Governor said “This is to express appreciation, this is just a token from the government and people of Ekiti State to thank you for your service, for making us proud and for walking this landmark without blemish. My prayer is that the good Lord will continue to protect you and be with you and in the next few months we expect to see you here to commission the new court building that is going to be named after you. congratulations ”.

Earlier in his opening remarks at the valedictory court session, the representative of President of the Court of Appeal, Hon Justice Ali Gumel, described Justice Omoleye as a distinguished judicial officer who had contributed immensely to the development of Nigerian judiciary and justice administration. He commended her professionalism, integrity and commitment to the administration of justice throughout her years on the bench.

He explained that the valedictory session provided an opportunity for judiciary, legal practitioner, family and members of the community to celebrate her years of meritorious service and contribution to the judicial system.

Also in his remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata, (SAN), described Justice Omoleye as an exceptional jurist and an accomplished lawyer, maintaining that Nigerians and Ekiti people owed her a debt of gratitude for her contributions to the administration of justice and the development of legal profession.

Apata said Justice Omoleye’s distinguished career had demonstrated that excellence could be achieved without compromising professional standards, noting that her intellectual development, commitment to service and relentless dedication to the judiciary had distinguished her career on the bench.

In her response, Justice Oyebisi Omoleye appreciated God for guiding and sustaining her throughout her judicial career, saying her journey had never been merely a succession of offices but a series of experience that shaped her understanding of law, service and humanity.

Reflecting on her years in public service, Justice Omoleye who served as Chief Judge of Ekiti State between 2003 and 2006, before her elevation to the Court of Appeal where she spent 20 years, said she was leaving active service with “gratitude and no regret.”

She described public office as a responsibility entrusted to an individual for a period and not a personal property, she stressed that office is always larger that the occupant. 

 Justice Omoleye expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji, former Governor Adeniyi Adebayo and others who stood by her throughout her career, saying the Governor’s presence at the valedictory session meant a lot to her.

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olayemi Adelami, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Wole Olanipekun, (SAN), human right lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, (SAN) and other legal luminaries.

Atmosphere of Worship 7.0: Living Faith Church Shagari Set to Make a Joyful Noise.

Atmosphere of Worship 7.0: Living Faith Church Shagari Set to Make a Joyful Noise.

...Choir concert promises music, drama, spoken words, encounters, miracles and an unforgettable worship experience.

 By Johnson Eleko

The Living Faith Church, Shagari, Akure, is set to once again create an unforgettable atmosphere of praise, worship and spiritual encounter as it hosts the 7th edition of its highly anticipated choir concert, Atmosphere of Worship 7.0, this Sunday, October 11, 2026.

With the theme “Make a Joyful Noise,” anchored on the powerful scripture Psalm 66:1, this year’s edition promises to be far more than an ordinary musical concert. It is designed as a celebration of God through soul-lifting music, creative expressions, heartfelt worship, inspiring drama and moments of divine encounter.

The Red Carpet begins at 3:30 PM, while the Main Programme commences at 4:00 PM at the Living Faith Church, Shagari, Akure.

 *A Celebration of Music, Creativity and Worship* 

One of the major highlights of Atmosphere of Worship 7.0 will be a special presentation by Joel Company, which will bring the message of Scripture to life through a captivating playlet and spoken-word presentation.

The programme will also feature powerful moments of encounter and expectation of miracles, creating an atmosphere where worshippers can not only celebrate God but also seek and experience His presence in a personal way.

Adding further colour and spiritual depth to the event, choir members from other Living Faith Church assemblies will also be joining the celebration to bless the congregation with inspiring musical renditions.

It promises to be a beautiful convergence of voices, talents and expressions of worship, all pointing hearts towards God.

 *Leadership and Preparation* 

At the helm of the Choir Unit is Deacons Ruth Ojo, the Head of Choir, while Mrs Faith Oluwatosin serves as the Choir Secretary.

Providing spiritual oversight to the Choir and serving as Chairman of the Planning Committee is Pastor Afolabi Olajide, whose leadership and commitment have been instrumental to the preparation for this year’s edition.

The programme is also under the pastoral leadership of the Resident Pastor and host of Living Faith Church Shagari, Pastor (Dr.) Opeyemi Segunfunmi, who has warmly invited members of the church, residents of Akure and guests from far and near to be part of the celebration.

 “Make a Joyful Noise”

The theme, “Make a Joyful Noise,” drawn from Psalm 66:1, is a call to everyone to respond to God's goodness with unrestrained praise and thanksgiving.

It is a call to lift every voice, every heart and every expression of worship in honour of the One who deserves all praise.

For the organisers, Atmosphere of Worship 7.0 is an opportunity to remind God's people that worship is not merely about singing—it is about encountering God, expressing gratitude, celebrating His faithfulness and creating room for His presence to transform lives.

 Akure, Get Ready!

As the countdown continues, the Living Faith Church Shagari extends a special invitation to families, youths, worshippers, gospel music lovers, friends and residents of Akure and beyond to come and experience Atmosphere of Worship 7.0.

Come for the music.

Come for the drama.

Come for the spoken words.

Come for the praise.

Come for the worship.

Come expecting an encounter.

Come ready to Make a Joyful Noise!

 EVENT DETAILS

Event: Atmosphere of Worship 7.0

Theme: Make a Joyful Noise

Scripture: Psalm 66:1

Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026

Red Carpet: 3:30 PM

Main Programme: 4:00 PM

Venue: Living Faith Church, Shagari, Akure

Come with your family. Come with your friends. Come with an expectant heart.

This Sunday, Shagari will make a joyful noise unto God!

Atmosphere of Worship 7.0 — an atmosphere of praise, worship, creativity, encounter and celebration.

You are specially invited!

 Johnson Eleko

Ajijola Backs Fasuyi, Olarewaju, Omo Akin, Urges Ekiti North Voters to Support Tinubu.

Ajijola Backs Fasuyi, Olarewaju, Omo Akin, Urges Ekiti North Voters to Support Tinubu.

High Chief Lateef Ajijola, the Executive Director of the South West Development Commission, has reaffirmed his support for progressive candidates seeking elective positions in Ekiti North Senatorial District.

Ajijola, popularly known as “Always Standing,” said his commitment to the political development and socio-economic advancement of the district remained unwavering.

He declared his support for Senator Cyril Fasuyi, who is seeking re-election to represent Ekiti North Senatorial District, as well as Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju, candidate for Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, and Hon. Akin Omo Akin, candidate for Ekiti North Federal Constituency I.

Speaking on the need for effective representation, Ajijola said the people of Ekiti North deserved leaders who would prioritise their welfare, attract meaningful opportunities and champion development initiatives capable of improving the lives of constituents.

He urged voters across the senatorial district to maintain unity and support candidates committed to grassroots development, noting that effective representation remained critical to attracting government programmes and other interventions to the area.

Ajijola called on the electorate to turn out in large numbers and vote for the progressive candidates during the elections, saying their victory would strengthen the district's voice and promote the collective interests of the people.

The South West Development Commission executive also appealed to Nigerians, particularly voters in Ekiti North, to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima in the 2027 presidential election.

He said the Tinubu administration's Renewed Hope Agenda had introduced reforms aimed at addressing economic challenges, improving infrastructure, creating employment opportunities and strengthening human capital development.

Ajijola also highlighted federal government interventions in areas including agriculture, digital technology, housing, healthcare and social investment, saying sustained implementation of such programmes could create greater opportunities for citizens.

He particularly commended efforts to expand the digital economy and promote investment through initiatives such as the Digital Free Zones programme, which he said could attract businesses, create employment and position Nigerian companies for greater participation in the global digital marketplace.

The politician urged the people of Ekiti North to remain peaceful and united and participate actively in the democratic process.

He stressed that his relationship with the people of the district went beyond electoral politics, saying his primary concern remained the empowerment of the people and the sustainable development of Ekiti North.

Ajijola said he would continue to support initiatives and political efforts that would promote good governance, effective representation and improved opportunities for the people.

High Chief Lateef Ajijola

“Always Standing”

Executive Director, South West Development Commission

70TH BIRTHDAY: OYEBANJI FELICITATES SOLID MINERALS MINISTER, DELE ALAKE.

70TH BIRTHDAY: OYEBANJI FELICITATES SOLID MINERALS MINISTER, DELE ALAKE.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake on his 70th birthday.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, described Alake as a distinguished son of Ekiti who has made the state proud over the years through sundry contributions to national development. 

The Governor noted that Mr Alake has contributed immensely to the delivery of the Renewed Hope Agenda for national development with his demonstrated commitment to boosting the non-oil revenue.

According to him, the Minister  has proved his mettle and made a great impact as an exceptional journalist and communicator with immense intellectual acumen using his professional platform for the protection of human rights and advancement of democracy.

The Governor said Alake was one of the heroes of restoration of democracy in the county through his robust advocacy in the media at a huge risk to his life during the days of military rule.

He hailed the celebrant's trajectory as a reporter, editor, media manager,  administrator, and public servant with remarkable record as Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State and Special Adviser on Communication to the President before his appointment as Minister.

The Governor said Ekiti will always be proud of the Minister for positively projecting the image of the State and contributing to its growth and development.

He prayed God to grant the Minister long life, sound health and the grace to continue making impact in his service to the country and humanity. 

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate my dear brother, the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake, as he turns seventy today. We wish him a happy birthday and pray that God continues to sustain him with good health and wisdom to continue serving our dear country with greater distinction” , the Governor added.

Governor Oyebanji Rewards Teachers with Disabilities with ₦6.5 Million in Grand World Teachers' Day Celebration in Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji Rewards Teachers with Disabilities with ₦6.5 Million in Grand World Teachers' Day Celebration in Ekiti.

 In a landmark celebration underscoring inclusive governance, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, marked the 2026 World Teachers’ Day in grand style at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion along New Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti. The event placed educators with disabilities firmly in the spotlight, rewarding outstanding teachers and administrators with a combined cash sum of ₦6.5 million.

The celebration, themed “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing its Status and Shaping Our Futures,” served as a testament to the administration’s deliberate commitment to equity, leaving no educator behind in the state's educational transformation.

Demonstrating that ability often transcends physical limitations, several exceptional educators and school leaders from special education institutions across the state were honored with heavy financial rewards. In the special education teaching category, Mrs. Olaniyi Bamidele Ruth (Hearing Impairment) from the Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti, clinched the 1st position and received Two Million Naira (₦2,000,000). Mrs. Adebayo Adenike Comfort (Physically Challenged) from the Government Special School, Ido-Ekiti, took 2nd position with One Million Naira (₦1,000,000), while Mrs. Christianah Ojo (Visually Impaired) from the Government Special School for the Blind, Ikere-Ekiti, secured 3rd position with Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦500,000).

For the administrative category in special schools, Mrs. Adu Olaide Temitope, Principal of the Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti, won 1st position and received Two Million Naira (₦2,000,000), while Mr. Salami Oduntan Rasak, Principal of the Government Special School for Children with Intellectual Disability and Physically Challenged, Ido-Ekiti, took 2nd position with (One Million Naira)₦1,000,000.

Speaking at the event, Governor Oyebanji expressed profound gratitude to the state's teaching workforce for their unwavering support and dedication since the inception of his administration. "I want to sincerely appreciate our teachers for their unwavering support since the inception of our administration. Their commitment and dedication to duty have enhanced and improved teaching and learning outcomes," Governor Oyebanji stated.

He acknowledged key educational stakeholders, including the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), ANCOPSS, ASUSS, APSHON, Nigeria Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) and private school owners, hailing them as reputable partners in progress.

Highlighting the alignment of this year's global theme with his administration's vision, the Governor noted that the state is aggressively modernizing infrastructure to meet the demands of a technology-driven world. He detailed that all 203 public secondary schools now feature ICT laboratories, interactive boards, and 5kVA inverters, with internet facilities already deployed in 125 of them. Furthermore, old school buildings have been renovated across all schools, perimeter fencing provided for 54 public secondary schools, and CCTV cameras installed in 48 schools, with 85 more slated for installation this month.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Olabimpe Aderiye, commended Governor Oyebanji for his visionary leadership, noting that capacity development programs have equipped Ekiti teachers with 21st-century digital proficiency. Dr. Aderiye disclosed that the Oyebanji administration has invested over ₦18 billion in the education sector over the past four years, which includes ₦11.9 billion committed as counterpart funding for conducive learning environments, ₦2.289 billion disbursed for running grants, and ₦546.9 million dedicated to feeding children across the state's three special schools. Additionally, the government expended ₦2.1 billion on the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), ₦955 million on school placement fees, and ₦125 million on NABTEB examinations.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, while speaking to journalists regarding the honors, commended the administration. "Today's honor is truly commendable and deeply heart-warming," she remarked. "I wish to specially applaud the decision to honour hardworking teachers with disabilities and the dedicated administrators in the special schools. This is a powerful statement of inclusion."

Princess Agboola noted that this is the third time Persons With Disabilities have been specifically honored for efficient service delivery, serving as a great source of motivation for the staff. "By honoring PWDs, we are saying that disability is not inability, and that every teacher, regardless of ability, is valued and seen. By honoring the administrators, we are acknowledging that teaching is teamwork. The clerk, the secretary, the bursar, the typist , they are the engine room that makes our schools run. This honor is not just an award; it is a message of dignity, inclusion, and appreciation for all."

The 2026 celebration stands as a historic milestone for Ekiti State, solidifying Governor Oyebanji's reputation as a leader who champions inclusion, empowers educators with disabilities, and builds a sustainable foundation for future generations.

𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗥’𝗦 𝗗𝗔𝗬: 𝗢𝗬𝗘𝗕𝗔𝗡𝗝𝗜 𝗥𝗘𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗕𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗜𝗡 𝗘𝗞𝗜𝗧𝗜 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗡𝟳𝟬.𝟱𝗺 𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗛 𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗭𝗘𝗦.

𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗥’𝗦 𝗗𝗔𝗬: 𝗢𝗬𝗘𝗕𝗔𝗡𝗝𝗜 𝗥𝗘𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗕𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗜𝗡 𝗘𝗞𝗜𝗧𝗜 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗡𝟳𝟬.𝟱𝗺 𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗛 𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗭𝗘𝗦.                                                                        …𝗘𝗸𝗶𝘁𝗶 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝟭𝟴 𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿, 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday doled out N70.5 million to outstanding teachers and administrators in the state in recognition of their impressive performance and contribution to advancing the quality of education in the State.

The Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing modern facilities and other necessary resources that would enhance teachers’ performance in a highly dynamic and technology-driven environment, while improving their welfare and creating better conditions for effective teaching and learning.

At the event which had as its theme “Standing with Teachers: 60 years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing its Status and Shaping our Futures” had Mr Adedayo Adeniyi of SUBEB Model Basic School, Erio Ekiti and Mr Adeniyi Odunayo of Aramoko District Commercial Secondary School, Aramoko Ekiti received a whopping sum of N6 million each as the best in primary and secondary schools categories respectively.

Also 12 teachers got the sum of N2 million each as first runners up, 13 received the sum of N1 million each as second runners up, while 26 teachers were rewarded with N200,000 each as consolation prizes. 

Presenting the cheques at the well-attended event held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji appreciated the teachers for their strong commitment to duty, patriotism, resilience and hard work in promoting education sector as well as their support for his administration.

While explaining that his administration has made significant investment in school infrastructure and technology, the Governor said that all the 203 public secondary schools in the state now have ICT laboratories and 125 have been equipped with interactive boards, 5KVA inverters and internet facilities, while old school building had been renovated and rehabilitate with perimeter fencing.

The Governor also said 48 public secondary schools have also been provided with CCTV cameras, with another 85 schools expected to receive the facility within the month.

Speaking further, the Governor said his administration had demonstrated commitment to addressing personnel gaps in the public education sector through the recruitment of over 9,000 teachers into primary and secondary schools within four years of his first term.

While congratulating the teachers on the occasion of the 2026 World Teachers’ Day, the Governor assured the teachers that he remains committed to protecting their dignity and prioritize their welfare, adding that they remained significant to the government’s development agenda.

The Governor said “ I want to sincerely appreciate our teachers for their unwavering support since the inception of our administration. Their commitment and dedication to duty had enhanced and improved teaching and learning outcomes. I want to thank the State Executives of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Association of Public School Head Teachers of Nigeria (APSHON), the leadership of the Coalition of Private School Owners and all our committed teachers for being reputable partners in progress.

“I must note that the theme, standing with Teachers: 60 years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing its Status and Shaping Our Futures resonates well with our transformative agenda in education sector and our unflinching commitment to enhancing teachers’ professional identity. We shall always provide the modern facilities that will enhance performance in this highly dynamic technology-driven world.

“As of today, all the 203 Public Secondary Schools have ICT laboratories, Interactive Boards, 5KVA inverter and internet facilities in 125 of them. Old school buildings were renovated/rehabilitated in all the schools and perimeter fencing was provided for 54 public secondary schools. Additionally, 48 Public Secondary Schools were provided with CCTV cameras and 85 more schools will have theirs this month”.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Olabimpe Aderiye, commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his commitment to the development of the education sector, saying the administration’s investment in the training and capacity development of teachers had made them digitally proficient and better equipped to meet the demands of 21st-century teaching.

The Commissioner said that in the four years of the Oyebanji administration, the state government had invested over 18 billion on education. According to her the government had spent N11.9 billion as counterpart funding for the provision of a conducive learning environment across the state. She added that N2.289 billion was spent on running grants, while N546.9 million was committed to feeding children in the three special schools in the state.

She further disclosed that government had expended N2.1 billion on the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), N955 million on placement and N125 million on NABTEB, among other investments, stressing that the figures reflected the administration’s sustained commitment to improving access, quality and standards in the state’s education sector.

Also in their separate remarks, the Chairman of NUT, Comrade Egbeyemi Lawrence, representative of ASSUS Chairman, Comr. Austine Adeola and the Coordinating Chairman of Coalition of private schools, Comr. Durojaiye Samson commended Governor Oyebanji for his continued attention to the education sector and his efforts to improve the working environment for teachers and other stakeholders.

Describing the Teachers’ Day as an important occasion for recognizing the dedication, sacrifice and contributions of teachers to the development of the society as well as their roles in shaping the future of the young generation and building a better society, the Chairmen called for continued collaboration among government, teachers and other stakeholders to sustain the progress recorded in the sector.

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secreatry to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, members of the state Executive Council, among others.

Agbeyewa Cup 2026 Kicks Off as 140 Secondary Schools Battle for N2.5 Million.

Agbeyewa Cup 2026 Kicks Off as 140 Secondary Schools Battle for N2.5 Million.

… Fourth Edition of Ekiti's Flagship Schools Football Tournament Begins.

…Champions Set to Pocket N1 Million.

The fourth edition of the Agbeyewa Cup Football Tournament for Secondary Schools kicks off on Tuesday October 6th, 2026, with more than 140 schools drawn from all 16 local government areas of Ekiti State set to do battle for a total prize purse of N2.5 million.

Now firmly established as one of the most anticipated fixtures on Ekiti's youth sporting calendar, the Agbeyewa Cup has grown from a modest schools' initiative into a season-defining showcase of grassroots football talent, discipline, and community pride.

This year's champions will walk away with N1 million, with the first runner-up collecting N750,000, the second runner-up N500,000, and the third-place finisher taking home N250,000 — rewards that underscore Agbeyewa Farms' growing investment in youth development through sport.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Dauda Lawal, Director of Community Engagement at Agbeyewa Farms, said the fourth edition carries both symbolic and practical weight for the state's young footballers.

"We are delighted to host the fourth edition of the Agbeyewa Cup. This year's edition is a promise to Nigerians — particularly those in Ekiti — that they can look forward to a vibrant showcase of talent and excitement at every stage of the competition," Lawal said. 

"Beyond football, the Agbeyewa Cup is about building character, resilience, and community spirit among young people. It reflects our Chairman, Niyi John Olajide's vision of empowering the next generation to thrive both on and off the field."

Also speaking ahead of the tournaments kickoff, the Managing Director/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, Mr. Seyi "Oska" Aiyeleso, described the tournament as a vehicle for opportunity that has long outgrown its footballing origins.

"The Agbeyewa Cup has grown beyond football. It is about creating opportunities for young people to express themselves, develop discipline, build confidence, and showcase their talent," Aiyeleso said. "With 140 schools participating across Ekiti State, we are excited about the reach of this year's competition and the chance to touch more young lives through sport."

He added that Agbeyewa Farms remains committed to initiatives that deepen its relationship with host communities and support the holistic development of young people across the state.

According to the fixture schedule released by the Directorate of School Sports at the Ekiti State Ministry of Education, the 2026 edition will open with preliminary rounds contested across all 16 local government areas. Winning teams from each LGA will then advance through a knockout structure — Round of 16, Quarterfinals, and Semifinals — before the competition culminates in a grand finale double-header at the Kayode Oluyemi Stadium, Ado-Ekiti, scheduled for October 28th, where the third-place playoff and the final will decide this year's champions.

Since its inception in 2023, the Agbeyewa Cup has steadily built its reputation as a proving ground for Ekiti's finest young talent. During the 2023 Inaugural Edition, Christ School, Ado-Ekiti, lifted the trophy as the tournament's first-ever champions. In 2024, Omuo-Ore High School claimed the title, while in 2025 Aramoko District Commercial High School (ADICO) triumphed in a thrilling final to become the reigning champions heading into 2026.

Each edition has raised the competitive bar, drawing larger fields, sharper football, and growing public attention — a trajectory the organizers hope the 2026 tournament will extend further still.

The Agbeyewa Cup is an annual football tournament for secondary schools, organized in partnership with the Ekiti State Ministry of Education. It forms a central pillar of Agbeyewa Farms' corporate social responsibility programme, delivered through its Directorate of Community Engagement, which remains committed to championing initiatives that strengthen communities and transform lives across Ekiti State.

Over four editions, the tournament has evolved into one of the most eagerly anticipated youth sporting events in the state — a testament to Agbeyewa Farms' enduring commitment to empowering the next generation, on the pitch and beyond it.