By Comr Olamide Akinwumi J.
In his much-anticipated New Year State Broadcast, the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, expressed gratitude and extended his heartfelt wishes for the year 2024 to the people of Ekiti. Delivering his second New Year address, Governor Oyebanji commenced by thanking the Almighty for the gift of life and the opportunity to witness the dawn of a new year.
Addressing the challenges faced in the past year, the Governor acknowledged the resilience of the people in overcoming economic hardships. He took a moment to appreciate the unwavering support, fervent prayers, and remarkable cooperation received from the people of Ekiti since assuming office in October 2022.
Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to various leaders at all levels, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former governors, legislators, traditional rulers, and leaders of different segments within the state. He also appreciated the federal government and development partners for their cooperation.
Reflecting on the achievements of the past year, Governor Oyebanji highlighted completed projects, including the Ado Central Bus Terminal, Governor’s Office Extension Remodeling, and Ekiti Traditional Rulers’ Chambers. Infrastructure projects such as channelization and erosion control in various local governments, a 3.6MW Independent Power Plant, and the reconnection of communities to the national grid were among the achievements.
In the education sector, the Governor outlined ongoing rehabilitation efforts, distribution of laptop computers, increased teaching staff, and renovation projects. He emphasized the importance of technology deployment to modernize instructional pedagogy in schools.
Healthcare received attention with the completion of new buildings at State Specialist Hospitals and the construction of a neo-natal intensive care facility at Ekiti State Teaching Hospital. Governor Oyebanji assured continued focus on workers' welfare, prompt payment of salaries, and efforts to liquidate outstanding gratuity obligations to senior citizens.
Looking ahead to 2024, Governor Oyebanji outlined key projects, including the Ring Road construction, Ilawe to Ikere Road, Igbara-Odo to Ikere Road, and Ado-Ekiti Central Business District development. The cultural and sports sectors will also witness development with the construction of Ekiti Cultural Center and an Indoor Sport Complex.
The Governor reiterated his commitment to the Ekiti Knowledge Zone and Agric Processing Zone projects, expecting significant funding from the Africa Development Bank. Agriculture and trade, which contribute about 80% to the state's GDP, will receive critical attention to address challenges and enhance the sector's attractiveness.
Governor Oyebanji acknowledged the challenges faced by workers due to economic inflation and assured ongoing efforts to ameliorate the impact. He appreciated government officials, members of the National Assembly, executive council, and the Ekiti State Assembly for their support. The Governor extended condolences to victims of recent violent incidents in Ikere-Ekiti and Governor Rotimi Akeredolu's family.
In concluding his address, Governor Biodun Oyebanji expressed hope for positive economic resurgent in Nigeria and pledged to bring about massive improvements in security, infrastructure, and government services in Ekiti State. He thanked traditional, religious, and community leaders, seeking their continued support and cooperation in the New Year.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji wished everyone a happy and prosperous New Year, emphasizing his commitment to the shared prosperity agenda for Ekiti State.
God bless Ekiti State!
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