Oyebanji’s Wiping out Mediocrity from Ekiti Civil Service — Deputy Gov.

Oyebanji’s Wiping out Mediocrity from Ekiti Civil Service — Deputy Gov.

.….Commends establishment of Public Servant Journal.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has declared that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration is initiating policies that are gradually exterminating mediocrity and ineptitude out of the civil service to make it stronger and more productive to serve as dependable engineroom of governance.

Mrs Afuye said this in Ado Ekiti, on Thursday, during the unveiling and launching of a Journal dubbed “The Public Servant”, initiated by the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission.

Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Media Aide, Victor Ogunje, said this accounted for why Governor Oyebanji initiated some far-reaching and positively impactful policies and programmes like prompt payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities to motivate the serving and retired public servants.

“Part of what this government is looking towards is to ensure that it leaves a civil service that can deliver as part of its enduring legacies. The governor believes in promoting meritocracy, rather than mediocrity in service and this reflected in the appointments this government has made in the service.

“Governor Oyebanji has the desire of making the civil service well motivated and make it a place where workers are computer-compliant, where all entitlements like salaries, pensions, gratuities and promotion are considered priorities of government, so that people can be motivated to work and deliver”.

The Deputy Governor applauded the brains behind the journal, chiefly conceived to propagate the policies and programmes of Governor Oyebanji’s administration and its development strides across all the sectors of the economy.

She said the unveiling of this journal further amplified the evidence substantiating Governor Oyebanji’s desire to making the civil service more responsive to the discharge of its onerous duties to the people of the State .

Mrs Afuye said: “I know and I am convinced that this journal will help in promoting and propagating the good exploits Governor Oyebanji is making in the areas of civil service restructuring, as vividly manifested in prompt payment of salaries, pensions, gratuities and other benefits due to workers and retirees.

“It will also reflect and promote other areas of interest like prompt and timely promotion of workers and payment of all associated benefits, encouragement of Inter-Cadre movement, provision of employment to the citizens , robust and smooth government-civil servants’ relations and other initiatives geared toward making Ekiti civil service a model in the comity of states.

“It is my humble belief that the journal will also play a pivotal role as a government’s megaphone to sensitise our citizens on the six pillars of government and how Governor Oyebanji has been walking the talk to touch each of the pillars to accelerate development and increase the standard of living of every Ekiti resident.”

The Head of Service, Engr Sunday Komolafe, represented by the Permanent Secretary in charge of General Administration, Mr. Shittu M.A, urged the LGSC to ensure the sustainability of the journal via cognate intellectual and professional contributions to the media outfit.

Also speaking, a legal Icon and father of the day, Chief Afe Babalola(SAN), promised to support the media outfit financially to bolster its sustainability.

Babalola, represented by the Chairman of Ido/Osi Local Government, Dr. Sola Ogunsina, urged the initiators to ensure that the journal thrives by being diligent and a bit professional in the handling of its editorials.

Expressing the rationale behind the conceptualisation of the journal, the Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State LGSC, who doubles as the Chairman/Publisher of the media outfit, Mr. Babatunde Jegede, said the journal will help in showcasing the good works the government is undertaking at the grassroots.

Jegede stated that the journal is loaded with logically organised articles and newstories centred around the government’s events prosecuted in line with the vision of Governor Oyebanji’s policy and how positively effective those achievements have been.

The Permanent Secretary lauded Governor Oyebanji for approving a whooping sum of N200 million for the recapitalization of the local government Loans’ Board, saying this would go a mileage in motivating the workers to deliver more in their duty posts.

Reeling out the contents of the journal’s maiden edition, Jegede said:

“The activities of the chairmen of the local government and LCDAs are given prominence being critical partners in the running of a local government system.

“Equally, the economic potentials and tourist attractions at the grassroots are equally given a critical focus, because we all owe it a duty to promote our state and the potentials therein to the outside world”.

Oyebanji restates commitment to prompt payment of retirement benefits.

Oyebanji restates commitment to prompt payment of retirement benefits.

 Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue to improve the welfare of its workforce as well as the entire people of the State through prompt payment of retirement benefits to its retired workers.

The Governor stated this yesterday in Ado Ekiti during the payment of retirement benefits to the third batch of retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

  Governor Oyebanji, who was represented by the Head of Service, Engineer Sunday Komolafe, stated that the event was another evidence of the workability and reliability of the Contributory Pension Scheme as the best post –service retirement benefit payment system that offers employees a reliable financial safety net.

He stressed further that the Contributory Pension addressed the long-standing issue of inadequate funds for payment of retirement benefits to retirees under the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS).

The Governor added that the Ekiti State Pension Reform provides that the Contributory Pension Scheme covers all employees appointed into the Ekiti Public service, including State-owned Tertiary institutions with effect from January 1, 2010, adding that such categories of employment should be participants of the pension scheme . 

He explained that the Ekiti Pension Reform Law, No3 of 2022 provides that participants should contribute a minimum of ten percent of monthly Basic salary, Rent, and Transport allowances while the employer would contribute eight percent. 

The Governor assured that the State Government would continue to make concerted efforts to ensure prompt payment of terminal benefits of its employees and called on all employers of labour that are yet to fully integrate its workforce into the Contributory Pension Scheme to do so without further delay. 

While calling of the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) to diligently perform their duties, the Governor enjoined beneficiaries to judiciously utilize their entitlement.  

“Today’s event is another indication of the workability and reliability of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) as the best post-service retirement benefits payment system. It offers employees a reliable financial safety net which addresses the long standing issue of inadequate funds for payment of retirement benefits to retirees under the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS).

“By contributing a portion of their monthly income, employees gradually build a pension fund that grows over time, which ensures a stable income upon retirement. Thus, the Ekiti State Pension Reform Law, No.3 of 2022 provides that the rate of contribution to the scheme should be a minimum of ten percent (10%) of monthly basic salary, rent and transport allowance by the employer and 8percent of same by the employee”, the Governor added 

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary Ekiti State Pension Commission, Mrs Tola Faseluka said the scheme embodies the Ekiti State government’s commitment to providing a reliable and sustainable Penson system that reflect the dedication and hard work of Ekiti Public servants throughout their careers.

She stressed that government subscribed to the scheme in a bid to alleviate the suffering of the retirees and fight poverty among them which at the same time must be remitted seamlessly and on due dates to individual retirees Bank Accounts without any hassles.

In their goodwill messages, the chairmen of Nigeria Labour Congress , (NLC), Comrade Kolapo Olatunde, the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Sola Adigun, and the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Comrade Joel Akiola commended the Ekiti State Government for the payment of over N1.5B gratuity of pensioners since the inception of this administration.

They submitted that government should also continue to give more attention to the payment of the DBS beneficiaries saying that more could still be done in alleviating the sufferings of Ekiti people.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr Niyi Olowolayemo, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues thanked Governor Oyebanji for prompt payment of the gratuity assuring that the beneficiaries would utilize the gratuity in a way that will promote the economic development of the state.

In Preparation for 2023 LG Polls: Engr. Toyin Ojo Pledges Support to Ekiti SIEC.

In Preparation for 2023 LG Polls: Engr. Toyin Ojo Pledges Support to Ekiti SIEC.

Hon. Toyin Ojo, Executive Chairman Ado Central LCDA.

In an encouraging development, the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) has received a warm assurance of support and cooperation ahead of the forthcoming Local Government Election in the state. The promise of assistance was made during a recent meeting by Hon. (Engr) Toyin Ojo, Chairman of the Ado-Central Local Council Development Area, who hosted the Chairman of SIEC, Hon. Justice Cornelius Akintayo (rtd), at the Council's Multi-Purpose hall.

Chairman Ojo commended the Chairman of SIEC for taking the initiative to conduct a sensitization tour across LGAs/LCDAs. This tour aimed to inform relevant stakeholders about the Commission's commitment and preparedness to organize a free, fair, and credible election in the state.

Engr. Ojo highlighted his administration's consistent willingness to contribute significantly to the needs and well-being of the Commission's staff. He pointed to the recent construction and commissioning of a suitable office accommodation as evidence of this commitment.

Furthermore, Chairman Ojo pledged to consider the requests put forth by the Commission to ensure a successful December election. He assured the safety and security of personnel and properties before, during, and after the election.

One specific concern raised during the meeting was whether people in the newly created polling units within his council area would have the opportunity to vote in the upcoming elections. Chairman Ojo sought clarification on this matter.

In response, Hon. Justice Cornelius Akintayo (rtd), the Chairman of SIEC, expressed his appreciation for the genuine commitment and dedication of Engr. Toyin Ojo's administration to the welfare of the Commission's staff in the LCDA. He appealed for continued support from the Council's Chairman.

Justice Akintayo (rtd) explained that the familiarization tour of all council areas in the state was aimed at establishing a robust synergy between the Commission and stakeholders. This synergy is crucial to conducting an acceptable poll devoid of issues like vote buying, thuggery, and intimidation.

Furthermore, the Chairman of SIEC appealed to Engr. Toyin Ojo to provide adequate security for his staff during the election.

Addressing the question raised regarding eligible voters in the newly created polling units, the Chairman of EKSIEC assured Chairman Ojo that every eligible voter would have the opportunity to cast their vote during the polls. He encouraged him to forward any additional complaints to the Commission for further action.

This collaborative and supportive approach between local government authorities and the electoral commission bodes well for the upcoming local government elections in Ekiti State, fostering an environment of transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

"BAOress the Lover of Youth: Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji's Inspiring Commitment to Empowering Ekiti State's Youth"

"BAOress the Lover of Youth: Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji's Inspiring Commitment to Empowering Ekiti State's Youth".

By: Omo Imam Adekunle, Coordinator of the BAO Disciples.

In the heart of Ekiti State, a remarkable figure has emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the youth. Her Excellency Dr. Mrs. Olayemi Oyebanji, affectionately known as "BAOress," stands as an epitome of leadership and dedication to the betterment of Ekiti State and its young population. In this article, we delve into the inspiring journey of Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, exploring her role as a lover of youth and an apostle of good governance.

Her Excellency Dr. Mrs Olayemi Oyebanji, Ekiti First Lady. 

A Scholar and Educator:

Prof Olayemi, a princess from Ado Ekiti, is an associate professor, a seasoned scholar with over 80 publications in the field of Institutional Administration, Higher Education, Quality Assurance in Education, Human Resource Development, and Leadership in Education. The Ekiti Governor's wife, a senior lecturer in the Department of Education Management at the University of Ibadan (UI), boasts over 85 publications in reputable journals to her credit and has produced six PhD graduates and several others at Master's and undergraduate levels.

Championing Education:

One of the cornerstones of Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji's advocacy is the promotion of education. She firmly believes that education is the key to unlocking the potential of Ekiti State's youth. Her "Education First" initiative has seen the implementation of various programs aimed at improving educational standards in the state. These programs include scholarship schemes, supporting school kids with writing materials such as bags, school sandals, notebooks, and initiatives to enhance the quality of teachers in Ekiti State. Earlier, the wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, had showered gifts of school materials on about 400 indigent pupils from the 16 local government areas restating her commitment to ameliorating the suffering of vulnerable people in the state. Dr. Oyebanji distributed brand new schoolbags containing water bottles, mathematical sets, food warmers, six 60 Leaves exercise books, and transport allowance to each of the beneficiaries of the exercise, the majority of whom were orphans under her Back to School Programme for Vulnerable Children.

Empowering Through Scholarships:

Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the Ekiti State Governor's wife, encouraged Sunmonu Olaolorun Daniel, a recipient of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) National Scholarship, to work harder and justify the scholarship award. The advice was given during the scholarship presentation event at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The scholarship, awarded by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, entails a yearly sum of N1 million for four years and a laptop for each awardee, provided they maintain a CGPA of 3.0 and above.

Dedication to Education:

In a remarkable gesture, the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has offered to serve as a lecturer at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD) on a part-time basis to impart knowledge on students and give them academic mentorship.

Skills and Entrepreneurship:

Recognizing that education alone is not enough, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has championed numerous skill acquisition programs. Her administration has equipped young people with valuable skills essential for self-reliance and job creation. These efforts have not only reduced unemployment rates but have also created a sense of empowerment among the youth.

Promoting Youth Entrepreneurship:

BAOress is a staunch advocate for youth entrepreneurship. She has initiated several programs to support budding entrepreneurs in Ekiti State, providing them with access to capital, mentorship, and business development opportunities. This has led to the emergence of a new generation of young, successful business owners, contributing significantly to the state's economic growth.

Healthcare and Well-being:

Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji is equally committed to the health and well-being of Ekiti State's youth. She has played a pivotal role in improving healthcare facilities, making quality healthcare services more accessible to the people. Her "Healthy Ekiti" initiative emphasizes preventive healthcare and wellness programs, ensuring that the youth are physically and mentally healthy.

Recognition and Impact:

Her Excellency's commitment to youth empowerment has not gone unnoticed beyond Ekiti State's borders. She has been recognized on regional and national levels for her tireless efforts in fostering positive change among the youth. Her dedication to good governance and youth development sets a remarkable example for leaders across Nigeria and beyond.

The AGILE Project:

In a remarkable testament to the gains of continuity and unwavering commitment to education, the Adolescent Girls’ Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project has thrived in Ekiti State. This World Bank-assisted intervention project, designed to enhance secondary education opportunities for girls in targeted areas, has achieved significant milestones under the leadership of Governor Olayemi Oyebanji and his wife, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the First Lady of Ekiti State.

The AGILE project was initially facilitated by former First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, before her exit from office. It was subsequently nurtured and expanded by the current administration, spearheaded by Her Excellency, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, ensuring its sustainability and continuous growth.

One of the primary focuses of AGILE has been the improvement of infrastructure in public secondary schools across the state. In a massive undertaking, 203 public secondary schools have witnessed extensive renovation of old buildings, the construction of modern toilets, and the purchase of computers and school furniture, greatly enhancing the learning environment for students.

To further bolster access to technology-enabled education, a total of 910 laptops were procured and distributed to schools during the project's first phase, followed by an additional 1,690 laptops in the second phase. These laptops have empowered teachers and students alike, transforming the way education is imparted and received in Ekiti State.

The latest milestone in the AGILE project occurred today when the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, personally presented cheques totaling an impressive sum of N916,464,672.04 to 10 selected secondary schools in the state. Each school received at least 90 million naira, earmarked for extensive renovations, with a focus on creating additional spaces to accommodate the anticipated increase in enrollment.

In Conclusion, In the persona of Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Ekiti State has found a First Lady whose love for the youth is unwavering. Her multifaceted approach to empowerment through education, skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and healthcare has not only transformed the lives of the youth but has also charted a path towards a brighter future for the entire state. As a beacon of hope, an advocate of good governance, and a true lover of youth, BAOress continues to inspire us all.

I remain my humble self;  Adewumi Sikiru Adekunle popular and political address as Omo Imam Adekunle 

Impenitent BAO Disciples 

Apostle of Good Governance

UNGA: Nigeria Ready To Play Important Role In New Mineral World — ALAKE.

UNGA: Nigeria Ready To Play Important Role In New Mineral World — ALAKE.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, says Nigeria is ready to play an important role in the discussions pertaining to minerals and the energy space. 

Alake who was speaking at a special session on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations General Assembly in New York, said the nation's mineral resources make it one of the top 10 players in the energy sector. 

The minister spoke on the topic: "From critical minerals to energy transition: Africa in the driver's seat" at the event organised by the Corporate Council of Africa. 

He said despite being behind of other African countries in mining, Nigeria’s mineral deposit is valued at over $700bn with a potential to increase. 

Speaking broadly of the continent, Alake said Africa is fit for the driver's seat of the global energy transition driven by critical minerals.

He said, "Nigeria has always occupied a special position in global energy discourse. Nigeria played a vital role as a key oil exporter during the era of hydrocarbon and became a top 10 exporter of oil. As the face of global energy changes, Nigeria once again emerges as a key supplier of gas which we know is an important energy transition fuel today. Last year in the midst of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, Nigeria was one of the top exporters of LNG to Europe and was the 6" largest LNG global exporter in 2022. As you can see, there is a clear trend, whenever Nigeria is active in the global energy space, it emerges a top 10 global player and it will be no different with critical minerals.

"Nigeria is endowed with a vast deposit of minerals critical to our new world. In our new world mobility requires a new form of energy driven by minerals in our new electric vehicle world; technology is more mineral-dependent; our energy source will depend more on the energy converted from the sun and other sources; and energy storage is even more mineral reliant. This trend does not have any reversal in sight and demand will only continue particularly as the world seeks and envisions a lower carbon future where environment, social and governance (ESG) factors are prioritized in governance and investment decisions. Therefore, minerals are at the forefront."

He also traced the transition from different sources of energy to the now prominent renewable sources of energy. 

"The shift from fossil-based energy systems to renewable energy such as wind and solar has meant that minerals that were not a part of general and public parlance have become a part of everyday speech. Today, lithium for example is woven through everyday conversations and this only just the beginning. 

"Without a doubt, minerals are a major focus of our world today and rightly so. Nigeria is well positioned to play an important role in our new world. ur Solid mineral sector is valued at over USD$700bn and we know there is more to be discovered. Endowed with critical minerals, Nigeria should not and dare I say, cannot be ignored.

"We may not have a strong historic mining history like some of our neighbours such as Ghana, Mali and those in the South such as South Africa, Botswana, etc. but things are about to change," he added. 

According to him Lithium hosted pegmatite rocks are available in Nigeria across states such as Nasarawa, Kwara, Oyo, Abuja, Kebbi and much more. Graphite is found in states such as Kaduna.

He also listed states with rare Earth Elements critical for wind turbines and EV motors as Nasarawa and Plateau. 

He added, "Platinum group minerals can be seen in the middle belt such as Benue and other regions. We have nickel in Kaduna and other locations. Zinc which is vital to offshore and onshore wind power generation has been a mainstay in Nigeria and is available in Ebonyi, Nasarawa, Plateau and so many other Nigerian states. 

He further added that the nation was ready for foreign investment in the solid mineral sector, with President Bola Tinubu giving it a prominence. 

"It is clear that Nigeria is important to the world and we are ready for investment, collaboration and partnerships in our solid mineral sector. Our new president, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made the solid mineral development sector vital his administration and we are committed to making it a key contributor to our national GDP. A lot of work has been done in the sector under former administrations and we plan to take it further. Nigeria is prime to becoming a mining destination on the

continent and it will happen in our time."

He listed the incentives available for potential investors as:

1. up to 95% capital allowances of qualifying capital expenditure. 

2. up to 3-5 years tax holidays. 

3. possible capitalization of expenditure on exploration and surveys. 

4. free transferability of foreign currency

through the Central Bank of Nigeria for servicing of foreign loans and remittances of foreign capital and much more.

He said the country was interested in joint ventures with foreign major mining companies to explore the critical minerals.

Many leaders in the public sector, financial services and mining sectors were present at Roundtable session. Some of them include Minister of Solid Minerals and Mines from Namibia, Ambassadors of Tanzania to United States, Ambassador of Zambia to United States, Alexia Latortue from US Treasury Department, Ms Inesha Premaratne from US International Development Finance Corporation, Seth Levey from Glencore, Hannah Gardner from DLA Piper, Daniele Laporta from Gerald Group among others.

Alaba Balogun 

Deputy Director of Press

Ministry of Solid Minerals 

September 20, 2023

Mohbad’s death big blow to us; justice must be served — Ekiti Assembly.

Mohbad’s death big blow to us; justice must be served — Ekiti Assembly.

The Ekiti State House of Assembly has called for a thorough investigation into the death of Oladimeji Aloba, a hip-hop musician popularly known as Mohbad.

The assembly made the call on Wednesday while deliberating on a motion by Babatunde Oke, the lawmaker representing Ikere Constituency I.

Mr Oke, who moved the motion under a matter of urgent public importance, said it was pertinent to unravel the circumstances behind Mohbad’s death.

”There is a need for a thorough investigation on this issue. We are hearing different stories; we need to know what happened,” Mr Oke said.

Supporting the motion, Babatunde Odowu, representing Ikere Constituency 2, described Mohbad’s death as untimely and a huge loss.

In his speech, the Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye said the musician’s death hugely pained the assembly.

”The situation calls for sober reflection; the entertainer’s death is a big blow to us. We need to ensure that justice is done,” he said.

He prayed to God to grant the family and admirers of the late musician the fortitude to bear the loss.

EKSG begins a crackdown on unauthorized building structures.

EKSG begins a crackdown on unauthorized building structures.

....Seals two gas plants, eatery in Ado Ekiti. 

....Sets to commence ‘operation show your building plan’.

Ekiti State Government has cautioned residents of the State against erecting buildings and other structures indiscriminately and without necessary government approval. 

The State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Hon. Karounwi Oladapo, gave the warning on Tuesday as officials of the Ministry sealed some buildings and structures in Ado- Ekiti that were erected in contravention of the extant rules on safety and structural integrity.

Some of the structures that were sealed by officials of the ministry include gas plants of two popular filling stations- AA Rano in Adebayo area and NNPC along Iworoko road as well as a two- storey building housing a popular eatery in Adebayo area.

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the exercise, Hon Oladapo said that government would no longer take it lightly with anyone who carry out construction without building permit. He added that owners and developers of such buildings would face the wrath of the law for ignoring government directives. 

Karounwi who berated owners of illegal structures who are in the habit of molesting officials of government, said  such owners would henceforth be made to face the full weight of the law. 

The Commissioner called on all owners of properties with no government approval to urgently carry out necessary regularization, stressing that the ministry had concluded  plans to meet defaulters with stringent measures.

He added that government would soon launch “operation show your building plan” and embark on awareness campaign in all the local government areas, where officials of the ministry would meet the stakeholders and those buildings without plan were to be regularized in accordance with the law.

Hon. Karounwi explained further that any building that would be erected in the state must first get the approval of government. He said the exercise  was not about an individual, but to ensure safety and security of the people. He added that government would not wait for any calamity to befall the state before taking necessary actions. 

On flooding, the Commissioner reiterated the commitment of Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration to ensure that residents were no longer allowed to build structures that would disturb free flow of water leading to avoidable cases of flooding.

“If you look around, you will see we have a lot of planning problems in Ekiti State, particularly, Ado-Ekiti. People just put up building and structures indiscriminately without any recourse and regard to the building code and urban and regional planning law of 2011. 

We want to send the right signal to Ekiti people that never again would anybody, no matter how highly placed, put anything on the ground without seeking to obtain the development plan, without having an approved building plan. Anybody who does that becomes a criminal because you do that in contravention of the law, and the ministry will not hesitate to take such individual to court.

“What we did today was just a starting point and the ministry is not going to relent, some properties were sealed up today and the ministry had contacted the owners several times for them to do the needful. The truth about it is that even before you embark on any development, the ministry must approve of it, but on this instants, they refused to seek the approval of government and the government was not aware of the type of structure they want to put on ground and whether it is compatible with the existing land uses or where they want to build is in consonance with the building code of the state or in line with urban and regional planning law.”