Oyebanji’s Agricultural Revolution: Ekiti Eyes Forex Boom Through Palm Oil, Agro-Exports.

Oyebanji’s Agricultural Revolution: Ekiti Eyes Forex Boom Through Palm Oil, Agro-Exports.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Ekiti State is steadily positioning itself as a frontline player in Nigeria’s agricultural renaissance under the purposeful leadership of Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, with deliberate investments targeted at boosting production, enhancing value chains and unlocking export opportunities.

In a strong validation of the state’s strategic direction, the Agricultural Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (AMEAL) team recently visited Ekiti to understudy how the government is redefining the future of agriculture through evidence based policies and prudent public spending.

A major highlight of the visit was the inspection of the 200 acre Alayna Joel Memorial Farm in Ipoti Ekiti, established by former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Dr Segun Ajibola. The integrated farm stands as a model of modern agribusiness, combining oil palm, cassava, banana and yam cultivation with a fully operational palm oil processing mill.

The initiative aligns with Governor Oyebanji’s vision to deepen partnerships with private investors to scale agricultural productivity. With oil palm as a focal point, Ekiti is charting a bold course toward reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports and positioning the state as a major contributor to foreign exchange earnings.

For decades, Nigeria has lagged behind global competitors in palm oil production, relying heavily on imports from countries such as Malaysia. Ekiti’s renewed drive in the oil palm sector signals a strategic shift that seeks to restore Nigeria’s pride of place in global palm oil markets while cutting import expenditure.

In a major institutional call, key federal financing bodies such as the National Agricultural Development Fund and the Bank of Agriculture must strongly provide financial and technical support, the beauty of their backing will further enhance Ekiti’s agricultural transformation agenda.

Beyond the Alayna Joel Memorial Farm, Ekiti is also home to Agbeyewa Farms, further reinforcing the state’s emergence as an agricultural investment hub. With the operationalisation of the Ekiti Cargo Airport, the stage is set for seamless agro export, opening new windows for revenue generation and global market access.

The Oyebanji administration’s approach reflects accountability, sustainability and long term economic thinking, hallmarks of responsible governance.

As Ekiti harvests the gains of deliberate agricultural reforms, one message rings clear, continuity will consolidate these gains, expand export frontiers and secure prosperity for generations to come.

BAO till 2030. Sustaining the Agricultural Revolution. Securing Ekiti’s Prosperity.

Unity in Action: Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji’s Strategic Role in Solidifying the Oyebanji Administration’s Legacy.

Unity in Action: Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji’s Strategic Role in Solidifying the Oyebanji Administration’s Legacy.

​In Ekiti State, a dynamic and purposeful partnership is doing more than just driving progress; it is laying a sophisticated foundation for sustainable governance. Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his visionary spouse, First Lady Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, have emerged as a formidable team. Their synchronized efforts are yielding transformative results that resonate across every local government area, painting a compelling picture of an administration that has earned the right to continuity.

​Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has distinguished herself as a pivotal strategist, successfully mobilizing Ekiti women—a critical electoral demographic—behind the Governor’s vision. Through meticulously curated initiatives, she has unified women across all social strata, creating a grassroots movement that champions the Governor’s second-term bid. Her outreach is a masterclass in inclusive leadership, ensuring that the voices of the people are not just heard, but woven into the fabric of policy.

​A Foundation of Faith and Ethical Governance:

​At the heart of the Oyebanji partnership lies a deep-seated commitment to spiritual and ethical integrity. The First Lady has ensured that state activities are underpinned by a sense of divine purpose, integrating moral considerations into the daily business of governance.

​The now-celebrated monthly praise and worship sessions have become a cornerstone of the state’s cultural calendar. These gatherings serve as a powerful testament to an administration grounded in hope and transparency. This spiritual alignment fosters a sense of moral accountability that mirrors Governor Oyebanji’s promise of "leadership with a conscience," earning the profound trust of the Ekiti populace.

​Empowering the Vulnerable, Elevating the Economy:

​Through her acclaimed Widows and Orphans Hope (WAOH) Project, the First Lady has moved beyond traditional charity toward holistic empowerment. By providing over 400 vulnerable individuals with modern working equipment and financial grants, she is directly advancing the Governor’s poverty alleviation agenda.

​Furthermore, her strategic initiative to train hundreds of citizens in Adire fabric production is a brilliant dual-purpose masterstroke:

●​Economic Self-Reliance: It creates sustainable livelihoods and fosters local entrepreneurship.

​●Cultural Preservation: It positions Ekiti as a hub for indigenous textile arts, showcasing the administration's commitment to industrial growth.

​Her advocacy has also led to a historic milestone: Ekiti State now boasts the highest number of elected and appointed female officials in Nigeria. This achievement is no accident; it is the result of an enabling environment fostered by the Governor, proving that under this administration, gender equity is a reality, not just a campaign slogan.

A United Front for Continued Progress:

​The seamless synergy between the Governor and the First Lady is a rare example of administrative stability. As Ekiti State approaches the next election cycle, Dr. Oyebanji’s influence remains a key driver in maintaining the enthusiastic support of the electorate. With women constituting a substantial portion of the voting bloc, this united front is more than a political advantage—it is a promise of stability and accelerated development.

A Legacy of Visionary Leadership:

​The story of the Oyebanjis is one of dedication and undeniable impact. It demonstrates that when faith, unity, and a commitment to selfless service converge, transformative leadership is the result. As Ekiti State looks toward the future, this duo—fortified by a proven track record—stands ready to steer the "Land of Honour" toward even greater heights of prosperity.

Indeed, the best is yet to come.

Otunba Kayode Fasae

Honourable commissioner

Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment

Ado-Ekiti

Cavista Holdings Appoints Mr. Seyi “OSKA” Aiyeleso as MD/CEO of Matna Foods.

Cavista Holdings Appoints Mr. Seyi “OSKA” Aiyeleso as MD/CEO of Matna Foods.

Following its recent acquisition of Matna Foods Company Limited, Cavista Holdings is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Seyi “Oska” Aiyeleso as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Matna Foods, effective immediately. He will continue in his role as MD/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, a Cavista Holdings subsidiary.

A seasoned executive with over 30 years’ experience in sales, marketing, and operational leadership, Oska Aiyeleso has a proven track record of driving growth and innovation across multinational organisations in FMCG, oil and gas, and the public sector.

Most recently, he has led Agbeyewa Farms, the largest cassava farm in Africa, where he is implementing a 12-point transformation agenda aimed at modernising cassava farming and addressing food insecurity in Nigeria.

Under his leadership, Matna Foods is expected to unlock its full potential, building on more than two decades of expertise in producing international-standard, multi-purpose cassava starch. His dual role across Agbeyewa Farms and Matna Foods is designed to ensure stronger coordination, operational efficiency, and value creation across the cassava ecosystem.

Oska holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Studies from the University of Jos, an MBA from Bayero University, Kano, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate at Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.

Commenting on the appointment, Chairman of Cavista Holdings and Agbeyewa, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, said:

“OSKA brings energy, clarity of purpose, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build strong, sustainable businesses. Having worked closely with him, I am confident that he will lead Matna Foods with the same discipline and passion he has brought to Agbeyewa. This is about growing capacity, supporting our farmers, and creating jobs, while building a cassava value chain that truly works for Nigeria.”

This strategic appointment reflects Cavista Holdings’ commitment to scaling operations, modernising processes where needed, and deepening engagement with farmers, suppliers, and customers across the Matna Foods ecosystem. It also strengthens alignment across the cassava value chain by linking large-scale cultivation with established processing capacity.

Prince Ayorinde Ejioye Rallies Ekiti Youth; Reaffirms Unalloyed Loyalty to BAO and Tinubu.

Prince Ayorinde Ejioye Rallies Ekiti Youth; Reaffirms Unalloyed Loyalty to BAO and Tinubu.

 In a vibrant display of solidarity and renewed purpose, Prince Ayorinde Ejioye hosted a cross-section of Ekiti youth today, effectively consolidating his base following the recent leadership friction within the City Boy Movement. The atmosphere was charged with high spirits as the Prince addressed the controversy surrounding his 2025 appointment, choosing to focus on the future of the party and the state rather than dwelling on the ongoing leadership crisis.

Recall that Prince Ejioye was officially appointed to lead the City Boy Movement in August 2025. However, a period of administrative ambiguity followed, during which a parallel appointment was made without the formal withdrawal of Ejioye’s initial mandate. Rather than allowing the situation to breed division, Ejioye has utilized this period to strengthen his grassroots support and reinforce his commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Addressing the energetic crowd, Ejioye expressed deep gratitude to the youth who championed his cause during what he described as a "trial period." He noted with emotion that despite not having met many of them personally until recently, the organic and overwhelming support he received was a testament to their shared vision for Ekiti.

"The support wasn’t just about a position; it was about the collective voice of Ekiti youth," Ejioye remarked. "That genuine love is what fuels my resolve. I am not discouraged; if anything, I am more determined than ever to ensure the continuity of the progress we are seeing in Ekiti state and our nation."

Ejioye was categorical about his political trajectory, stating that his primary objective remains the re-election of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) in the 2026 gubernatorial polls and ensuring a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. He lauded Governor Oyebanji’s unprecedented youth-centric administration, highlighting that currently, more than 35% of the Governor’s appointees are young people. Ejioye projected that a second term for Gov. BAO could see youth representation rise to 70%, effectively transitioning the "leaders of tomorrow" into the "drivers of today." He emphasized that under the "Biodun Abayomi Vision," Ekiti youth are no longer spectators but active participants in governance.

While his commitment to the Governor and the President remains non-negotiable, Ejioye revealed that he is currently in deep consultations with APC elders and stakeholders across the state. These deliberations concern his next move regarding the unsettled leadership of the City Boy Movement. He extended special appreciation to the APC leadership for their timely interventions, as well as to Seyi Tinubu and the Honorable Olawande Ayo Wisdom, Minister of Youth Development for their genuine passion for youth empowerment and promising to domesticate their national vision right here in Ekiti.

Ejioye concluded by teasing a robust roadmap of activities designed to mobilize the grassroots for the upcoming election cycles. He assured the youth that these strategies are already finalized and will be unveiled in the coming weeks. "We are not backing out," Ejioye declared. "We are only getting started. The manifesto for the youth movement in Ekiti is ready, and when we hit the ground, it will be clear that our tomorrow has started manifesting today." Representing the youth at the gathering, various spokespersons assured Prince Ejioye of their unwavering loyalty, pledging to stand by him "come rain, come shine" as he navigates the next phase of his political journey.

𝗢𝘆𝗲𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗷𝗶 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀, 𝗯𝗮𝗴𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗧𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵’𝘀 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲.

𝗢𝘆𝗲𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗷𝗶 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀, 𝗯𝗮𝗴𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗧𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵’𝘀 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji was on Friday honoured with the Governor of the Year (2025) award in Infrastructure by the New Telegraph Newspaper,  for his visionary leadership and massive infrastructure development in the state.

The award came barely twenty-four hours after the Governor received the Leadership Governor of the year (2025) award in recognition of his transformative leadership and people-oriented development efforts.

Receiving the award at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lagos on Friday, Governor Oyebanji promised to continue to give his best towards the development of Ekiti State through greater investment in key sectors of the economy.

The Governor, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, My Niyi Adebayo, at the event,  stated that his massive investment in infrastructure development of the state was borne out of his belief that infrastructure remains a major catalyst for all round development of any society, stressing that his government’s deliberate efforts in this direction has positioned the Ekiti as a destination of choice for investors.

While noting that his administration prides itself in laying a solid foundation for a more prosperous and socially stable Ekiti State, Governor Oyebanji assured the people of the state that he would consolidate on the gains of the first three years of his first tenure. 

Expressing confidence that he would be re-elected for a second term in office, Governor promised aggressive investments in key areas of the economy such as education, health, human capital development and agriculture during his second tenure.

“This year, we are going to consolidate on the gains of the last three years plus and close out on the first tenure on a high note. By the grace of God we will win a second time come June 20 and I believe that over the next four years, we will see greater investment in education, in human capital development, in the health sector, also further investments in agriculture as well. Once we cover those three sectors, basically we have touched the lives of almost everyone.”

The Governor also reinforced the belief that infrastructure is the ultimate cornerstone for national development stressing that he will not relent at efforts to renew the infrastructural architecture of the state beyond road construction and rehabilitation but also on innovation and technology.

He highlighted some of the achievements of his administration to include reduction in infant mortality rate by more than half from 96 deaths per 1,000 babies under five years old to about 44 or thereabouts, renovation and equipping of all the General Hospitals and over 200 Primary Healthcare facilities in the state, commissioning of over 28 roads totalling 280km and mobilisation of 5000 youths in the Bring Back Our Youths to Agriculture among others.

The Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun affirmed that Governor Oyebanji has been running impactful policies of action which have enliven the lives of the people, stressing  that their trust and confidence were not wasted.

The commissioner explained that the Governor has been able to impact the people in terms of provision of adequate and effective health facilities, electricity, roads network as well as building a veritable economy.

Also speaking , the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode explained that Governor Oyebanji’s  focus on power and road infrastructure is driving huge socioeconomic development in the state, adding that businesses thrive and prosper where there is effective power supply and good road network.

Oyebode said the capacity and capability of the Governor to drive all round development is being attested to by the various awards he had received  over the past three years and the various accolades he continues to receive from residents of the state and development agencies.

Earlier, the chairman of the occasion and former Governor of Ogun state, Chief Olusegun Osoba congratulated all the award winners urging them to use the honour as a serious challenge to continue to contribute to the growth and progress of Nigeria.

Chief Osoba, who expressed optimism that Nigeria has the capability to surmount the various challenges currently facing it called on the honourees to use the platform to continue to support the development of the country

Other award winners at the colourful event include Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, (Distinguished Leadership Award), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, (Innovation), Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, (Education); Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and the Chairman, Nigeria Governors' Forum, (Digital Economy and Skill Development)

Also present at the event were Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo, Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Olabanji Filani, Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs Adetoun Agboola, captains of industries and media executives among others.

Gov. Oyebanji boosts small-scale businesses, gives Ekiti traders N100,000 each.

Gov. Oyebanji boosts small-scale businesses, gives Ekiti traders N100,000 each.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has distributed N100,000 each to selected roadside petty traders in Ado-Ekiti as part of efforts to boost small-scale businesses and improve livelihoods across the state.

The cash support was disbursed to beneficiaries operating opposite At-Waheed School along Irewolede Estate, Ado-Ekiti, through the Bureau of Community Communications.

Speaking during the distribution on Friday, the Director-General of the Bureau, Mary Omotosho, said the initiative was designed to revive micro and small-scale enterprises and bridge the financial gaps affecting traders at the grassroots.

She noted that the empowerment programme reflects the governor’s commitment to economic growth and his administration’s shared prosperity agenda.

Omotosho urged the beneficiaries to utilise the funds judiciously to expand their businesses and increase their earnings, adding that the intervention would further strengthen grassroots engagement.

Since assuming office, Oyebanji has rolled out various empowerment initiatives targeted at small-scale entrepreneurs in a bid to enhance living standards and stimulate economic activities across the state.

Some of the beneficiaries, who expressed gratitude to the governor, commended his leadership style and dedication to good governance, stating that the financial support would help stabilise and grow their businesses.

EKSU INDUCTS 51 MEDICAL DOCTORS AT THE 2024/2025 MBBS SET INDUCTION CEREMONY.

EKSU INDUCTS 51 MEDICAL DOCTORS AT THE 2024/2025 MBBS SET INDUCTION CEREMONY.

It was another exciting moment in Ekiti State University, as the 6th Induction and Oath Taking Ceremony of the 2024/2025 MBBS set where 51 newly qualified Medical Doctors were formally inducted by the  Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria(MDCN). 

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele, praised the inductees for their discipline and resilience, describing the induction as a “moment of joy earned through struggle.” His words:

“Today, you are not only graduates but ambassadors of the College of Medicine. He

 charged them to uphold professionalism, remain connected to the institution, and aspire beyond your MBBS degree. 

He also highlighted government support for medical training in the institution, including 750 medical beds space hostel provided by the Ekiti State Government, 100 additional bed spaces contributed by the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Akande Oladimeji Ajayi, and hostels donated by Senate Leader, Michael Bamidele.

The Vice Chancellor noted further that, this feat stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the authorities of Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti to professional training and ethical standards. These young doctors have demonstrated resilience and exceptional competence and he congratulate them as they step into a noble and demanding profession. 

The Provost of the College of Medicine, Prof. A. O. Ajayi, noted that, the graduates’ journey “was long and demanding, with many initially admitted into other departments in 2017 before transferring to medicine.”

He commended their perseverance despite disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and industrial actions, urging  them to maintain high professional standards.

Delivering the induction lecture, Professor Abiodun Olugbenga Adewuya, a renowned mental health scholar, emphasized professional identity, ethics, and moral courage. He said,  “Being a doctor goes beyond technical skills as empathy, patient autonomy, ethical decision-making, and personal wellbeing are critical. 

Protect your mental health, seek mentorship, and practice with integrity,” he advised and concluded with a pledged of  ₦500,000 to reward the overall best graduating student of the college. 

Prof. Fatima Kyari, the Registrar of Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, represented by the Head of Medical Registration Unit also overseeing the inspectorate unit of MDCN guided the graduates on registration, provisional licensing, and housemanship rules, stressing supervision, referrals, and adherence to regulations. The graduates took the Declaration of Venice, a modified Hippocratic Oath, affirming their commitment to ethical medical practice, and were formally presented as newly qualified Doctors.

In her speech, the Valedictorian, Miss Irusota Edewede Agatha who emerged as the overall best graduating student,  earning four distinctions described the ceremony as an honour and humbling moment. Thanking God, mniversity management, lecturers, clinical instructors, and her family for their support, she noted:  “Our training went beyond academics. Compassion, resilience and service are core values we will carry into our profession”.

The ceremony, which marked the official entry of the inductees into the medical profession, brought together, parents, families, medical professionals and dignitaries, including royal fathers, senators, and representatives of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria took place at the university main auditorium  on Wednesday, 11th February 2026