OYEBANJI GETS FULL CABINET, INAUGURATES NEW COMMISSIONERS, SPECIAL ADVISERS.

OYEBANJI GETS FULL CABINET, INAUGURATES NEW COMMISSIONERS, SPECIAL ADVISERS.

..…New Cabinet members to proceed on Retreat Thursday.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday inaugurated a new set of Commissioners and Special Advisers to have a full compliment of members of the state executive council .

A total 19 commissioners and 14 special advisers were inaugurated yesterday at the carnival-live event witnessed by current and past office holders, traditional rulers, community leaders and the general public. 

The Governor used the forum to debunk allegations in some quarters that he had been running government without cabinet members  since coming to power on October 16 last year. 

Oyebanji also disclosed that it took him time to form a full cabinet because of his resolve to keep to the promise he made that the people in the grassroots would be involved in the formation of the State Executive Council.

Addressing a mammoth crowd that thronged the Osuntokun Pavilion inside the Government House, Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji explained that his cabinet had been in place since November 2022 with the appointment and inauguration of the first set of Commissioners and Special Advisers who had been holding executive council meetings on regular basis. 

Those inaugurated in November 2022 included the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata; Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode; Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani and nine Special Advisers.

Oyebanji said: "We inaugurated Commissioner for Finance, Commissioner for Health, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and many Special Advisers in November last year and yesterday was our 8th exco meeting and the exco had approved the 2023 Budget and Supplementary Budget.

"It was our agreement that we will not do (more) appointments until the end of the general elections which ended in March. The Committee on Political Appointments submitted its report May 31, the old Assembly ended on June 5 and the new Assembly began on June 6 and the screening of the nominees was part of the first assignment they undertook. 

"I can't understand why party members are alleging that the Governor has refused to form his cabinet. We had one in place. What we are doing today is to expand the state executive council membership in line with understanding we had with the leadership of the party.  I want to be remembered as a governor that tells the truth, and does the right thing. 

The Governor enjoined the new appointees to be connected to the grassroots, pay attention to their political environments and not be a "political moonlighter who is rarely seen at home."

The state chief executive further urged them to develop the right socio-political skills and emotional intelligence to manage expectations with tact and empathy.

He disclosed that the entire cabinet would proceed to a retreat that runs from Thursday, August 10 to Saturday, August 12 "to give them opportunity to share ideas and get educated about the call of public administration procedures and properly understand and dissect the six pillars of his administration.

The new Commissioners and their portfolios are Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade (Agriculture and Food Security), Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo (Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management), Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun (Information), Mr. Adesola Adebayo (Works), Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe (Transportation), Dr. Kofoworola Aderiye (Education), Chief Folorunso Olabode (Local Government Affairs), Mr. Gold Adesola (Youth Development), Mrs. Tosin Aluko (Environment and Natural Resources) and Mrs. Peju Babafemi (Women Affairs and Social Development).

The rest are Mrs. Tayo Adeola (Industry, Trade and Investment), Prof. Patrick Tedela (Capacity Development and Training), Mr. Seun Fakuade (Innovation, Science and Digital Economy), Mr. Kayode Fasae (Wealth Creation and Empowerment), Mr. Femi Awe (Rural and Community Development), Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi (Special Duties), Prof. Ojo Bakare (Arts, Culture and Creative Economy), Dr. Kareem Akande (Regional Development and Intergovernmental Affairs) and Mr. Ojo Atibioke (Chieftaincy and Home Affairs).

The new Special Advisers and their portfolios are Hon. Tade Aluko (State Capital Development Authority), Mr. Gbenga Oloniyo (Housing and Mortgage Development), Mr. Gbenga Agbeyo (Human Capital Development and Allied Matters), Mrs. Kemisola Olaleye (Gender Empowerment and Mobilisation), Hon. Abiola Olowookere (Legislative Affairs), Mr. Femi Ajayi (Independent Project Monitoring), and Mrs. Yemisi Ayokunle (Social Investment Programmes).

The rest are Mrs. Remi Ajayi-Babington (Rural Mobilisation), Mrs. Adetoun Agboola (Special Education and Social Inclusion), Dr. Ekundayo Moyo (Transformation and Delivery), Mr. Odunayo Ayeni (Governance), Mr. Niyi Idowu (Legal Matters), Mr. Olatunji Akinyele (Business Development) and Dr. Akeem Azeez (Tertiary Education).

Responding on behalf of other commissioners, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed in them, she said they were fully prepared to put in their best in the service to the state and its people. 

Other dignitaries at the event include wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Spouse of the Deputy Governor, Mr Lawrence Afuye, former Deputy Governor, Biodun Aluko; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro, head of service, Barrister Dele Agbede; former Senator Tony Adeniyi; former and serving members  of the state House of Assembly among others.

Governor Oyebanji and Code of Conduct Bureau Commissioner Join Forces to Enhance Governance in Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji and Code of Conduct Bureau Commissioner Join Forces to Enhance Governance in Ekiti.        .....Partnership Aims to Elevate Transparency and Accountability, Driving Positive Change for the State's Development.                                   By: Olamide Akinwumi.

In a significant move towards enhancing governance and fostering shared prosperity, Governor Oyebanji of Ekiti State warmly welcomed the Federal Commissioner of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Rt. Hon. Taofeeq Olawale, at the Governor's Office in Ado-Ekiti earlier today. This pivotal meeting marks a key milestone in the BAO administration's commitment to working hand in hand with government agencies and development partners to elevate governance standards and ensure the success of their shared prosperity agenda.

The atmosphere was one of optimism and enthusiasm as Governor Oyebanji and Rt. Hon. Taofeeq Olawale engaged in fruitful discussions that centered around strategies to enhance transparency, accountability, and overall governance in the Southwest region. Both leaders highlighted the necessity of ethical conduct, good governance practices, and collaboration among various stakeholders to bring about positive change in the lives of the people they serve.

Governor Oyebanji expressed his deep appreciation for the presence of Rt. Hon. Taofeeq Olawale, recognizing the Code of Conduct Bureau's vital role in upholding the ethical standards of public officials. He lauded their commitment to fostering integrity in public service and emphasized the importance of such partnerships in achieving the administration's shared prosperity agenda.

Rt. Hon. Taofeeq Olawale, on his part, commended Governor Oyebanji's administration for its dedication to progressive governance and its efforts to drive development initiatives that positively impact the lives of the citizens. He reiterated the Code of Conduct Bureau's commitment to ensuring public officials adhere to the highest ethical standards and contribute to the betterment of the region.

The collaborative spirit evident during the meeting speaks to the shared vision of both the Ekiti State Government and the Code of Conduct Bureau. As they work hand in hand, their synergy is expected to result in strengthened institutions, increased transparency, and ultimately, improved service delivery to the people of the Southwest.

This meeting not only underlines the commitment of Governor Oyebanji's administration to fostering positive change but also showcases the power of collaboration between government agencies and development partners in driving meaningful transformation. As the BAO administration continues on its journey towards shared prosperity, this partnership sets a shining example for other regions to emulate, reinforcing the belief that by working together, governments and agencies can truly make a difference in the lives of the people they serve.

Ekiti State Elevates Agricultural Development with USADF Grants and Technical Training.

Ekiti State Elevates Agricultural Development with USADF Grants and Technical Training.

In a significant stride towards bolstering agricultural growth and rural development, Ekiti State has witnessed a commendable surge, attributed to the visionary approach of Governor Oyebanji. The state marked yet another milestone as it embarked on a Technical and Capacity Building Training for Beneficiaries of the U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF) Grants in collaboration with the Ekiti State Government.

Under the leadership of Governor Oyebanji, the Special Adviser on Agriculture, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, took the reins to inaugurate this transformative training initiative. The training aims to empower beneficiaries with the latest agronomic practices in cassava and rice production, laying the foundation for an agricultural renaissance in the state.

A pivotal moment of the training lies in the announcement that 10 deserving cooperatives will receive substantial USADF grants, amounting to an impressive $100,000 each. This financial boost is poised to serve as a catalyst for these agricultural entrepreneurs, enabling them to upscale their farming enterprises and drive the state's economic engine.

Governor Oyebanji's address to the participants resonated with the commitment of his administration to advancing agriculture's prominence in shaping Ekiti's economic landscape. He urged the beneficiaries to grasp the invaluable opportunity presented by the training and channel the knowledge gained to revolutionize their farming endeavors.

Highlighting the overarching influence of agriculture, the Governor emphasized its potential to trigger a positive ripple effect on the lives of Ekiti's citizens. With agriculture at the forefront of the state's growth strategy, the landscape is gradually evolving, paving the way for thriving rural communities and bountiful yields.

The success of Ekiti's agricultural surge can be attributed to Governor Oyebanji's strategic collaborations and investments in the sector. These endeavors have collectively created an environment conducive to sustainable growth and prosperity. As the state's agricultural potential materializes into tangible results, Ekiti is on the cusp of solidifying its position as an agricultural powerhouse within Nigeria.

With the confluence of USADF grants, technical expertise, and Governor Oyebanji's visionary leadership, Ekiti State is poised to carve out a prosperous future rooted in agriculture. As the region flourishes, the once-burgeoning dreams of agricultural transformation are now tangible realities, setting a promising precedent for sustainable development across the state.

SEXUAL ABUSE: EKITI FIRST LADY URGES PARENTS TO PROTECT CHILDREN DURING HOLIDAYS.

SEXUAL ABUSE: EKITI FIRST LADY URGES PARENTS TO PROTECT CHILDREN DURING HOLIDAYS.

Wife of the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has urged parents to do everything possible to protect their children who are presently on holidays to prevent them from falling victims of sexual abuse.

Dr. Oyebanji who noted that child abuse, especially sexual violations of minors, is very common during holidays,urged parents not to allow their children go spend their holiday in places where their safety can't be guaranteed. 

She made the remarks in Ado Ekiti on Monday during a training for male teachers on Prohibition of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Public Secondary Schools held under the aegis of the Adolescent Girls' Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project.

The First Lady who stated that child abuse and sexual violation of minors is usually perpetrated by close relations like uncles and neighbours, charged parents and caregivers to be vigilant during this holiday to protect their kids from abuse.

Dr. Oyebanji counselled teachers in public schools not to  allow the difficult economic situation in the country make them to be aggressive against students in their care expressing optimism that things will get better very soon.

She pleaded with teachers to be more understanding and empathetic and not allow emotion to drive them to the point of mishandling and transfer of aggression to the students in their care.

The Governor's wife explained that education is pivotal to the success of the state government's human capital development leg of the five pillar agenda of the Biodun Oyebanji Administration which has necessitated the capacity building for the teachers.

Meanwhile, the First Lady said parents, guardians and teachers have roles to play in the reduction of Gender based violence noting that they should not let down their guards during holidays when abusers of children would be on prowl looking for victims among our adolescent girls and boys.

She said: "Our children will be at home during the holidays and many of us will be at work. Even when they go to lessons, they will still come back home. Please, let's keep eagle-eyes on them because those who molest the children are mostly not outsiders,They also can be uncles, close relations and neighbours.

"Let us tell our mothers to stop sending our children on errands anyhow so that those innocent children will not fall victims of abuse 

We need to protect our children who are on break now because the essence of holiday is for them to relax and recharge for the new academic session."

Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Kofoworola Aderiye, said male teachers are important stakeholders in preventing Gender based violence owing to their influence as fathers, husbands and mentors to students.

The Special Adviser who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in her ministry, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, said the time has come to change the narrative on Gender based violence and carry everyone along to reduce the incidence.

A facilitator at the training, Mrs. Omolayo Oyawoye, explained that Gender based violence;especially sexual abuse of minors grew in the society because of the culture of silence noting that the situation is changing with more victims speaking up and enactment and implementation of laws to tackle the scourge.

She urged male teachers to be models to their students and also be champions against abuses at homes and in the schools noting that this will go a long way to keep the students safe from being abused.

The training was attended by leaders of Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), All Nigerian Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), AGILE officials and other stakeholders.

President Tinubu celebrates Super Falcons’ ‘brilliant performance’ despite ouster.

President Tinubu celebrates Super Falcons’ ‘brilliant performance’ despite ouster.

President Bola Tinubu led millions of soccer-loving Nigerians to cheer the Super Falcons for putting up an outstanding performance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

The female national football team lost their round of 16 match against the Lionesses of England, in a fiercely fought match determined on penalties.

In a tweet posted on his verified X account on Monday, President Tinubu acknowledged that the Super Falcons had represented Nigeria well and made the people proud on a global stage, adding that their brilliant performance did not go unnoticed.

“Your brilliant performance did not go unnoticed despite the final outcome. You made Nigeria proud on the global stage”, the President said.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu also celebrated the Super Falcons for their superb performance in their match against the England team.

In a statement by her spokesperson, Busola Kukoyi, Senator Tinubu said she is very proud of the girls, who she said played their hearts out in the Round of 16 encounter of the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The First Lady, who watched the match with the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, and the wife of Senate President, Mrs Ekaette Akpabio, described the match as a tension-soaked encounter, saying the Nigerian girls were no push overs. 

She said the only thing the England side had going for them was simply luck, emphasizing that she is indeed very proud of the performance of the Super Falcons.

The First Lady said she would be waiting to receive them as true heroes on their return home.

The Super Falcons lost 4-2 on penalties to their England counterparts after the completion of regulation time and extra time at the ongoing FIFA Women World Cup Tournament.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji's Unwavering Commitment to Ekiti's Traditional Institution.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji's Unwavering Commitment to Ekiti's Traditional Institution.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji continues to demonstrate unwavering dedication to the preservation and elevation of the Ekiti Traditional Institution. Recognizing the pivotal role that esteemed royal fathers have played in shaping the very foundation of the state, Governor Oyebanji's commitment stands as a testament to his deep admiration for their contributions.

Governor Oyebanji's sincere devotion to upholding and honoring the legacy of the Traditional Institution is rooted in his profound understanding of its historical significance. He holds in high esteem the revered Royal Fathers who have not only carried the weight of tradition but also acted as custodians of the cultural heritage that defines Ekiti State.

With an astute awareness of the integral role played by these distinguished figures, Governor Oyebanji has embarked on a path of collaborative engagement with the Traditional Institution. Through dialogue and cooperation, he aims to strengthen the ties between the state's leadership and its rich cultural heritage. This approach showcases his commitment to bridging the gap between modern governance and the invaluable traditions that have endured for generations.

Governor Oyebanji's endeavors extend beyond mere words; he has demonstrated his dedication through meaningful actions. The enhancement of infrastructure and facilities within the Traditional Institution has been a priority, reflecting his vision for a modern Ekiti State that cherishes its history while embracing progress.

In a recent address to the people of Ekiti State, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the need to preserve and elevate the Traditional Institution, recognizing its role as a unifying force that brings the people together. He highlighted the importance of cultural heritage in fostering a sense of identity and belonging among the populace.

The governor's commitment has garnered support from across various sectors of society. Representatives of the Traditional Institution have expressed their gratitude for his genuine efforts to uphold the values they hold dear. Additionally, citizens have lauded his approach, recognizing that a strong connection to history can serve as a cornerstone for future growth and development.

As Ekiti State continues to evolve, Governor Biodun Oyebanji's steadfast dedication to the preservation and elevation of the Traditional Institution remains a shining example of leadership that respects the past while paving the way for a prosperous future. His vision, coupled with his actions, reinforces the significance of cultural heritage in shaping the destiny of the state and its people.

Ekiti Workers Solidify Relationship with Governor Biodun Oyebanji through Continued Collaboration.

Ekiti Workers Solidify Relationship with Governor Biodun Oyebanji through Continued Collaboration.

In Pic: Comrade Kolapo Joshua, NLC Chairman

In a display of unity and appreciation, the workers of Ekiti State have reaffirmed their strong bond with Governor Biodun Oyebanji, acknowledging his consistent efforts to address their concerns and uplift their welfare. The governor's commitment to proactive measures, rather than reactive agitation, has been met with heartfelt gratitude from the workforce.

Under the banner of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ekiti workers came together to express their deep appreciation for the administration's dedication to improving their lives. Comrade Kolapo Joshua, the NLC Chairman, conveyed their collective sentiment, stating, "Your Excellency, all you have done for Ekiti workers since the beginning of your administration has been through REQUEST and not AGITATION, for this, we appreciate you, sir."

The governor's tenure has seen a focus on fostering an environment of open communication, transparency, and collaboration. Through consistent dialogue and a proactive approach to addressing labor-related issues, Governor Oyebanji has managed to foster a positive atmosphere that empowers workers and encourages their active participation in the state's progress.

Comrade Joshua's statement highlighted the unique approach taken by the administration. Rather than waiting for issues to escalate into agitations, Governor Oyebanji and his team have engaged with workers' concerns preemptively, seeking to find mutually beneficial solutions that contribute to the welfare of the entire workforce.

The Ekiti workforce has indeed witnessed tangible benefits from this approach. Throughout the administration's tenure, workers have experienced improved working conditions, better remuneration packages, and enhanced social support programs. These initiatives have not only improved the livelihoods of workers but have also contributed to increased productivity and a more harmonious industrial climate in the state.

As the relationship between Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Ekiti workers continues to thrive, the state is poised to reap the benefits of a motivated, empowered, and engaged workforce. The governor's commitment to prioritizing the well-being of the workforce and his emphasis on proactive dialogue have set a commendable precedent for governance that focuses on the people's needs and aspirations.