Oyebanji has excelled as Ekiti Governor — Senator Adeyeye.

Oyebanji has excelled as Ekiti Governor — Senator Adeyeye.

Former Minister of State, Works and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Dayo Adeyeye, has commended the Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, over “remarkable progress and development in Ekiti in the last 12 months on account of Oyebanji’s pragmatic approach to governance.”

Adeyeye while appraising the leadership of Governor Oyebanji in the last one year in the south west state, thanked him for restoring dignity to Ekiti State and for giving the people a new lease of life.

The former governorship aspirant maintained that he has observed a paradigm shift in the leadership of the state since Governor Oyebanji assumed office.

 

The statement reads in part; “There have been remarkable progress and development in Ekiti in the last 12 months on account of Oyebanji’s pragmatic approach to governance.

“I foresee brighter days ahead for the people of the state because the governor has provided the right environment for all to thrive.

“I also commend Governor Oyebanji for embracing Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) and identifying with their special needs in his administration’s policy options.

“He has made governance accessible to the people of Ekiti state regardless of their socio economic status.

“It’s a thing of joy to observe that the governor has brought a paradigm shift and broader perspective to governance in Ekiti state for the short period he has been in office.

“Oyebanji has embraced inclusiveness thereby unifying key APC members and other stakeholders who are critical to the development of the state.

“I am proud to state that our governor has been governing Ekiti State in line with the progressive agenda of the APC. That’s why he is able to meet the expectations of the people that gave him their mandate and the party that gave him a platform.

“The Ekiti governor has brought a breath of fresh air to Ekitiland by giving priority attention to the welfare of workers and the masses in the state.

“This has engendered peace, unity and stability in Ekitiland as workers now get their wages and state owned institutions get their subventions as appropriate.

“I urge the governor to remain focused on service delivery and to work hard towards sustaining peace, unity and stability for Ekiti to realise its full potential. 

“Governor Oyebanji should continue to set new goals and unlock new opportunities along the way because governance is a journey and not a destination.”

President Tinubu Calls For Strengthening Of Nigeria-EU Relations; Receives EU Energy And Int'l Partnership Delegation.

President Tinubu Calls For Strengthening Of Nigeria-EU Relations; Receives EU Energy And Int'l Partnership Delegation.

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday in Abuja called for the strengthening of cross-sectoral partnership between Nigeria and the European Union (EU) based on the principles of democracy, rule of law, and freedom.

Receiving a delegation of the EU, led by Ms. Jutta Urpilainen, EU Commissioner in charge of International Partnerships, the President welcomed the signing of eight financing agreements between Nigeria and the EU, under the "EU Global Gateway in Nigeria," at a separate event earlier in Abuja.

"Democracy is not an easy process, but we must fight for democracy and struggle for it to win at all times," the President said.

President Tinubu, who emphasized the importance of economic cooperation with the EU in the areas of digital education, traditional energy, renewable energy, and broadband access, equally told the visiting delegation that Nigeria’s economy was going through several long-lasting reforms to render it capable of pulling millions of Nigerians out of poverty.

"We have a young and vibrant population, and we are determined to succeed. If we succeed, democracy succeeds. If we succeed, freedom succeeds," he said.

"We need all of our partners' hands on deck to sail together. We look forward to strengthening our partnerships."

In her remarks, the EU Commissioner in charge of International Partnerships commended Nigeria for playing a pivotal role as a key partner of the EU, not only in politics and economics, but also in shaping the social landscape across the African continent.

The EU Commissioner explained that over the past four years, the EU has been working to transform the nature of its relationship with Africa by shifting away from the traditional donor-recipient dynamic.

She said the EU seeks to establish an equal and mutually beneficial partnership through the "Global Gateway" investment programme as a flagship example.

She noted that this strategy, agreed at the AU-EU Summit in Brussels last year, sets a goal of €300 billion in investments, with €150 billion allocated to Africa.

Thanking President Tinubu for the important role Nigeria played in supplying key energy products during its standoff with Russia in recent times, the EU Commissioner noted that the oil & gas partnership can be expanded while adding that the "Global Gateway" strategy is designed to expedite the green and digital transformations in EU partner countries, with Nigeria standing as one of its most strategic.

''We are investing in critical infrastructure such as energy, transportation, and digital infrastructure, as well as in human capital, education, and research,'' she said.

Other members of the EU delegation include: Ms. Samuela Isopi, Ambassador of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS; Ms. Rita Laranjinha, Managing Director of the Africa and European External Action Service (EEAS); Ms. Lora Borissova, Africa Advisor, Cabinet of EU; and Ms. Maria Pilar Palmero Vaquero, Head of Unit for Western Africa, Directorate-General International Partnerships (DG INTPA).

APC Flag Bearer, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday, Expresses Appreciation to Governor Oyebanji Abayomi and Party Leaders.

APC Flag Bearer, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday, Expresses Appreciation to Governor Oyebanji Abayomi and Party Leaders.

By: Comr. Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a heartfelt message of appreciation, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday, the All Progressive Congress (APC) flag bearer for Ifedara Local Council Development Area, expressed gratitude to Governor Biodun Oyebanji Abayomi and numerous party leaders for their unwavering support in his quest to become the party's flag bearer in the forthcoming local government elections in Ekiti State.

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday commended Governor Oyebanji as a fatherly figure and leader who consistently provides valuable advice and guidance to his loyal supporters.

He extended his appreciation to his ward chairman, Hon. Adelusi Sola Amos, who has played a crucial role in his political journey.

Furthermore, he expressed profound gratitude to his wife, Hon. Mrs. Olayinka Ogunsanya, for her support and understanding.

In a show of respect and appreciation, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday acknowledged the contributions and support of numerous dignitaries and personalities within the All Progressive Congress (APC). These esteemed individuals include Rt. Honorable Hakeem Jamiu, Rt. Honorable Taiwo Franklin Olatunbosun (Ekiti State Commissioner of Information), Hon. Tayo Egunlusi, Hon. Omowumi Samuel, Hon. Bewaji Vincent, Hon. Sina Olawale, Hon. Aluko Femi, Hon. Chief Olubodun, Hon. Adekunle Sola, Hon. Mrs. Bose Adelodun, Mr. Sanjo Adebisi, Mr. Ojo Abiodun, Mr. Adeyemi, and others.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday offered a heartfelt prayer for God Almighty to continue blessing and supporting these individuals.

This message of appreciation underscores the significance of unity, support, and gratitude within the political party and the larger community.

EKSG Approves Reconstruction Of Ikere-Igbara-Odo Road, Installation Of Solar Powered Streetlights On New Ado-Iyin Road, Others.

EKSG Approves Reconstruction Of Ikere-Igbara-Odo Road, Installation Of Solar Powered Streetlights On New Ado-Iyin Road, Others.

The Ekiti State Executive Council on Wednesday approved the reconstruction of the Ikere-Igbara-Odo road as part of efforts to ensure quality and accessible roads across the State.

The State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun who made this known in Ado Ekiti, reiterated the commitment of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to the State’s rapid economic growth and improved social activities.

Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun explained that the approval for the reconstruction of the road is part of the administration’s strategy to sustain a good State road network that would link communities with major roads and ease movement around the State.

He however assured that the State Government would continue to collaborate with the Federal Government towards ensuring proper maintenance and repairs of Federal roads in the State.

Stressing that the bad state of the Ikere-Igbara Odo road is negatively affecting optimal performances of business in the area, Olatunbosun added that reconstruction of the road would effectively link the State to Igbara-Oke in Ondo State.

He said that the road, when completed, is expected to ease free flow of traffic, contribute to economic growth, boost other social activities in the area and provide easy access to the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti.

The Commissioner said that the Executive Council also approved the installation of solar streetlight system on the new Ado-Iyin road, Omisanjana junction to Ajebamidele in Ado Ekiti as well as between Mathew junction and Ajilosun via Agric Olope also in the State capital to ensure good visibility at all times for the safety and convenience of road users.

He noted that the conventional streetlights on Ado-Iyin road had hitherto been powered by diesel generators which attracted an undesirable high operational and maintenance cost due to the high cost of diesel and frequent breakdown of the generators, adding that there is also the concern about the system’s high emission of carbon into the environment.

Olatunbosun explained further that a section of the road from the Government House junction up to the INEC office would be connected to the almost completed IPP station while the lights on the remaining stretch would be changed to solar energy as part of the administration’s effort to cut government’s expenses.

On the approval of installation of solar streetlights on the Omisanjana junction to Ajebamidele road via Shepherd School, the Government spokesman said that the ongoing construction of the road network is aimed at speeding up infrastructure and economic growth in the area, adding that the streetlight is aimed at complementing government’s efforts to boost economic development and inhibit activities of hoodlums.

 

Stressing the strategic importance of the Mathew-Ajilosun road, Olatunbosun noted that it serves as an alternative route connecting two key State facilities, the Agric Olope market and Oba Adejugbe hospital.

According to him, the efforts of the present administration in the State have facilitated rapid economic growth in the area that is bound to increase with the influx of market users and dwellers, adding that the installation of streetlights which is a part of the administration’s 5th pillar for infrastructure and industrialization is meant to ensure security in the area.

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday Commemorates Governor Biodun Oyebanji's Outstanding First Year in Office.

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday Commemorates Governor Biodun Oyebanji's Outstanding First Year in Office.

By: Comr. Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In commemoration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji's first year in office, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday, the All Progressives Congress party's flag bearer for the upcoming Chairmanship election in Ifedara Local Council Development Area, extolled Governor Oyebanji's remarkable leadership.

This inaugural year under Governor Oyebanji's governance has solidified the foundation for his ambitious vision of "shared prosperity" in the state. His administration has diligently worked on various sectors, bringing this concept closer to reality.

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday showered accolades on Governor Oyebanji for effectively implementing an array of people-oriented programs and projects. The substantial improvements in electricity supply, extension of pipe-borne water access, and advancements in healthcare, education, and social services have all resonated positively. Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday firmly believes Governor Oyebanji embodies hope for the entirety of Ekiti State.

He commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his impressive achievements and his unwavering focus on governance, security, and development. Here's an in-depth review of these achievements:

Timely payment of salaries to state and local government workers, totaling N29,278,008,353 between October 2022 and July 2023.

Disbursal of housing loans, N267.07 million, benefiting 1,901 public servants across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

Appointment of 102 junior officers across multiple MDAs, strengthening the workforce.

Prioritizing pensioners' welfare with N10,210,792,973.88 disbursed as pensions to state and local government pensioners from October 2022 to July 2023.

Empowering the Primary Health Care sector with promotions for 1,700 staff.

Granting car loans amounting to N228.3 million to 682 public servants from October 2022 to July 2023.

Beneficiaries of the state and local governments received N435,000,000.00 as gratuity benefits.

Governor Oyebanji's dedication to security and development is also evident:

Crucial vehicle and equipment repairs for operational pick-up vehicles and fire-fighting engines.

Investment in security with the acquisition of armored personnel carriers (APC), patrol trucks, and security equipment, including bulletproof vests, ballistic helmets, tactical boots, and Motorola radios.

Completion of the Emergency Command Centre (ECC), serving as a central point for incident reporting and rapid responses.

Augmentation of security votes for local government council chairpersons to enhance local security efforts.

Ekiti State's recognition as the safest state in Nigeria in 2022, according to the Nigeria Security Tracker (NST).

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday also urged the people of the state to continue supporting Governor Oyebanji's administration with their prayers to ensure continued excellence.

He concluded by praying for Governor Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief Mrs. Monisade Afuye, for God to be with them, granting wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to continue guiding the state's affairs.

Additionally, he commended the governor for fostering true peace and maintaining harmonious relationships among all members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, recognizing his exceptional leadership.

As we celebrate Governor Biodun Oyebanji's first year in office, his unwavering commitment to Ekiti State's betterment remains evident.

Ekiti State House of Assembly Service Commission Focuses on Enhancing Legislative Services.

Ekiti State House of Assembly Service Commission Focuses on Enhancing Legislative Services.

By: Comr. Olamide Akinwumi J. 

The Chairman and Commissioners of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Service Commission, led by Hon. Fasakin Kayode Ajayi, held a significant meeting with the Clerk of the Ekiti State House of Assembly yesterday morning. During this meeting, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing legislative services within the state, aiming to set a benchmark for others to follow.

The current members of the Commission understand the importance of the bureaucracy in the legislature and are dedicated to ensuring that the Ekiti State House of Assembly's services reach a standard that can serve as a model for other sister commissions.

However, the Commission acknowledges that there are challenges it must address to fulfill its duties effectively. These issues have been identified, and the Commission is working towards immediate resolutions to overcome them.

Stay tuned for further developments as the Ekiti State House of Assembly Service Commission endeavors to provide top-tier legislative services in Ekiti State.

At Third Belt and Road Initiative Forum: China Commits To Refinancing, Completing Abuja-Kano, Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri Railways.

At Third Belt and Road Initiative Forum: China Commits To Refinancing, Completing Abuja-Kano, Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri Railways.

•••As President Jinping pledges more investments in Nigeria’s power generation.

In what could best be described as a major milestone for Nigeria at the ongoing Belt and Road Initiative Forum (BRI) in Beijing, China has committed to refinancing and completing the Abuja-Kano and Port- Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects. 

President of Peoples Republic of China, Xi Jinping, made the pledge today while responding to requests made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who, was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, at a bilateral meeting with the Chinese leader in Beijing. 

It would be recalled that since the launch of the projects, China is yet to release funds for the two major railway projects in Nigeria largely due to cutbacks and commitments. 

China had agreed to provide 85 per cent financing for the construction of the Abuja-Kano and Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects, while Nigeria which had the duty of paying the balance 15% paid its part of the funding from inception of the project through appropriations. 

The crucial infrastructure also termed a legacy project has the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation as the contractors named to execute the project. 

The Chinese President who was visibly elated to receive the Nigerian delegation led by Vice President Shettima at the Peoples Building in China, pledged increased investment in Nigeria’s power generation and digital economy called for the protection of Chinese nationals working in Nigeria, saying he would, in turn, ensure that the Nigeria-China bilateral relation is stronger than before. 

President Jinping promised that China will enhance political support and build cooperations in all fields, just as he appreciated Nigeria’s support of one China Policy. 

Pledging to further deepen practical cooperations, the Chinese leader threw his weight of support behind the Renewed Hope Manifesto of President Bola Tinubu and his 8-point economic agenda adding that China will support Nigeria’s exports, especially as it relates to peanuts and others, even as the China – Africa talent initiative remains key in its cooperation with Nigeria. 

In the area of security, President Jinping promised continued crackdown on terrorists, assuring categorically that China is committed to peace in the Sahel region, more so that its long-standing military trainings and MoUs on joint exercises remain sacrosanct. 

Noting that China is committed to peace, President Jinping said, “Like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated recently at the last United Nations General Assembly,  Africa does not need to run away. Africa holds the key to the World. We support Nigeria to play key roles in international relations and upholding allies’ commitments. 

“Mr Vice President, you spoke about upscaling and further upgrading of our strategic relationship, and I totally agree with you. Nigeria is developing with big potentials. I totally agree with you. Our foreign Ambassadors can stay and work out this upgrading”. 

Speaking earlier, Vice President Shettima who delivered the well-wishes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the rail projects as very vital to the President and people of Nigeria, saying it remained a legacy project that would further open up the nation’s economy, create jobs and boost trade and investments across the country. 

The vice President said President Tinubu remains committed to a stronger Nigeria – China tie, addng that it was laddened with respect, non-political interference and mutual international cooperations. 

“Our relationship commenced about 50 years ago, precisely in 1971 and it has been upgraded to a comprehensive partnership but we crave your indulgence, Your Excellency, to further upgrade this relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership because of the importance we attach to our relationship with China.  

“When we met in South Africa at the China Plus 1 summit I was very honest and upright with you. Beyond the infrastructural support we are getting; why we love, cherish and respect China is that you treat us with respect and dignity. You don’t dictate to us who our friends are. We don’t forget our friends. China stood by us through thick and thin from the post-colonial struggles for independence in Zimbabwe, Angola, Mozambique, the struggle for the emancipation of our people in Southern Africa; China stood shoulder to shoulder with the African continent, we thus appreciate your friendship,” VP Kashim submitted. 

President Jinping had before his audience with Vice President Kashim Shettima formally declared the Forum which had numerous heads of states and top government officials open. 

Nigeria Will Leverage On Ties With China To Improve Digital Space, Says VP Shettima 

Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima today said Nigeria will leverage its relationship with China to adopt programmes that will improve the country’s digital space, among other benefits. 

Sen. Shettima also assured member countries of the Belt and Road Initiative of Nigeria’s readiness to “collaborate with the group and other emerging markets to bring about a positive shift in the growth and development of global economies.” 

The Vice President stated these in his keynote address themed, “Digital Economy As A New Source Of Growth”, delivered during the High-Level Forum at the onging 3rd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, China. 

The Vice President who spoke on Nigeria’s efforts at leveraging collaborations with partners to deploy technology in addressing some of its challenges, noted: “We are keen on using the instrumentality of the existing robust Nigeria-China bilateral relations to maximally key into projects under the platform of the Digital Silk Road for the improvement of our digital space.” 

Speaking about Nigeria’s efforts in leveraging the digital space to create jobs and diversify the economy, Sen. Shettima said, “Nigeria has recorded a number of achievements including a digitalized public service, developed banking and e-payment systems, electoral reforms through the introduction of the electronic registration of voters and e-transmission of votes, thus creating ripple effects of job creation and human capacity building opportunities for our teeming youth population.” 

Continuing, the VP said, “We have recently unveiled the new strategic blueprint, accelerating our collective prosperity through technical, as part of the Federal Government’s initiative to accelerate the diversification of the Nigerian economy  by enhancing productivity in critical sectors through technological innovation.” 

He added: “Through this strategic blue print, the Federal Government aims to achieve three key objectives namely: Accelerate the growth of Nigeria as a global technical talent hub and net exporter of talent. One of the goals of this talent hub is to train three million early to mid-career technical talents throughout the next four years (2022-2027); Deepen and accelerate’its position in global research in key technology areas; and Raise the complexity and dynamics of Nigeria’s economy by significantly increasing the level of digital literacy across the country.” 

The Vice President also spoke about Nigeria’s broadband penetration rate from 50 to 70 per cent by the end of 2025 and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s domestic card scheme code named “Afri Go” to rival foreign cards like Master and Visa cards, and stregthen the national payment system. 

The Vice President was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu; Minister of Transportation, Mr Saidu Alkali; Ambassador of Nigeria to China, Baba Ahmad Jidda and others.