Ekiti State @29 and the Trajectory of a Journey of a Million Miles.

Ekiti State @29 and the Trajectory of a Journey of a Million Miles.

Ekiti State was created on October 1, 1996, from part of the old Ondo State during the regime of General Sani Abacha. Its creation came in response to the persistent calls by the Ekiti people for a separate administrative entity that would better address their unique socio-cultural and developmental aspirations.

Since then and following the sacrifices of past and living agitators, the state has continued to grow and evolve with a focus on governance, development, and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Over the years, Ekiti has recorded significant progress in areas such as economic development, infrastructure, education and technology, healthcare, housing and urban renewal, industrial growth, agriculture, and food security. These achievements have not only improved the lives of the people but have also positioned the state as a key factor in Nigeria’s political and economic space.

Politically, the democratic journey of the state began under the leadership of Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, the first civilian governor, who laid the foundation for progressive governance. Although the trajectory experienced setbacks at some point, when enduring values were traded for short-term populism under the guise of stomach infrastructure, Ekiti soon regained its progressive footing. The administration of Dr. Kayode Fayemi restored core values, introduced landmark initiatives, including a 30-year Development Plan, and bequeathed the state a worthy successor.

Today, under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji BAO, Ekiti is experiencing steady and tangible growth across critical sectors. This seamless transition has created stability and continuity, which remain catalysts for the state’s steady development. It is this culture of continuity that has united stakeholders across the spectrum former governors, deputy governors, serving and past members of the National Assembly, the 25-member State House of Assembly, APC leaders at the state, local government, and ward levels, as well as well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters at home and abroad all clamouring for the sustenance of this momentum under a stable political atmosphere.

As the saying goes, slow and steady wins the race, not the one who attempts to climb the whole stairs in a single stride. The development of Ekiti has been deliberate, step by step, not a journey of progress followed by regression. Indeed, the journey of a million miles begins with a single step, and Ekiti’s journey so far has proven that consistency and continuity are the surest paths to greatness.

As Nigeria celebrates another Independence Anniversary, Ekiti State also proudly marks 29 years of resilience, progress, and hope.

Happy Independence Day to Nigeria.

Happy Anniversary to Ekiti, our beloved motherland.

HC Ade

Writing from Ado Ekiti on behalf of OSV