Olawande commends NASS over passage of NYSC Trust fund Bill.

Olawande commends NASS over passage of NYSC Trust fund Bill.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande has applauded the National Assembly over the passage of the NYSC Trust fund Bill, noting that the lawmakers have given a significant boost to the efforts to enhance skill acquisition, training and generally empower graduates who take part in the national youth service programme.

Olawande, who noted the painstaking legislative process that culminated in the eventual passage of the bill since it was first presented over two years ago, said it was a huge relief that the 10th National Assembly has now made history with the passage of the game-changing bill that promises to speed up efforts to productively engage Nigeria’s graduate youths.

According to the Minister, the NYSC Trust fund Bill is a great milestone achievement for which everyone who took part in its actualization deserve a great deal of commendation.

"It is refreshing and heartwarming to receive the news of the passage of this important Bill. I congratulate the NYSC family in particular and extend a special appreciation to the sponsor of the Bill, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, for his doggid commitment. Now, we have a good pedestal upon which to stand in our efforts to improve camp facilities, enhance the welfare of corps members and staff of the scheme; as well as reinvigorate the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) initiative of the NYSC,” the Minister said. 

Olawande called on stakeholders in the youth development sector to continue to partner with the youth ministry to evolve ingenious ways to address the challenges of unemployment and skill gap bedeviling the youths, stating that the NYSC trust fund bill could be the beginning of other lofty initiatives aimed at harnessing resources for holistic youth empowerment.

Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Sustains Educational Support for EKSU Students.

Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Sustains Educational Support for EKSU Students.

...Urges them to pay attention to studies.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has urged students to shun social vices and pay more attention to their studies for good foundation of academic excellence. 

She made this known on Tuesday while lecturing the 100 level students of the Department of Educational Management at the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.

Last academic session, Dr. Oyebanji taught 300 level students of Education Management when she commenced her community service while holding office as Ekiti State First Lady.

Dr Oyebanji who taught Introduction to Education Management with the course code EDM 103 explained extensively the basic elements of management which according to her included planning, organizing, staffing, directing, coordinating, reporting, budgeting, controlling and evaluation.

Ekiti State First Lady who said she was on sabbatical leave from the University of Ibadan said she has decided to come back to the Department of Education Management, Ekiti State University, where she started her lecturing career to impart knowledge to students as a way of giving back to the society. 

"I have plan of coming back because I have been assigned two courses, though with another colleague and if you are assigned a course you must finish it and I have not finished the course so I will still come back, it's a community service, it's part of what I do," she said.

Ekiti State First Lady also pledged to give out her best in teaching the class assigned to her as she echoed that a whole lot have changed and many improvement have taken place compared to when she started her career over twenty years ago from the same department.

Dr. Oyebanji however reiterated that that there are three major areas in academics namely teaching, research and community service which means teaching without pay and she has decided to opt for community service as a way of giving back to the society.

There were lots of encomium from scholars like the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Babalola Ayodele, Prof. Mary Adedokun from the university community as they described Dr. Oyebanji as a rare gift and humility personified.

Speaking on behalf of the students,the class governor, Mr. Adeleye Temitope appreciated Dr. Oyebanji for her simplicity and her sound knowledge of the course. He promised to repay the First Lady with their academic performance.

Cyril Fasuyi: A Champion of Integrity and Progress.

Cyril Fasuyi: A Champion of Integrity and Progress.

....Senator Cyril Fasuyi's Remarkable Contributions and Achievements in Ekiti North.

By Ameobi Abimbola. 

In a compelling narrative of integrity and progress, Senator Cyril Fasuyi's journey from his impactful tenure at the Ekiti State Microcredit Agency under the PDP in 2010 to his current role as Senator for Ekiti North exemplifies dedication and leadership. Despite political affiliations, Fasuyi's philanthropic endeavors transcend boundaries, earning him admiration and respect across the political spectrum.

Witnessing Fasuyi's transformative actions in Ido Ekiti, even amidst turbulent political times, instilled a sense of admiration in many, including non-affiliates like Ameobi Abimbola. Fasuyi's unwavering commitment to community welfare distinguishes him as a leader of substance, inspiring optimism and hope for continued progress.

Fasuyi's recent affiliation with the APC symbolizes continuity in his commendable efforts, reinforcing the belief in his commitment to service. His tenure as Senator for Ekiti North has been marked by remarkable milestones, including:

●Empowering 100 Ekiti North youths with livestock poultry projects.

●Training 100 female youths in soap making.

●Facilitating the acquisition of 350 JAMB forms and ICT training at the Federal University Oye Ekiti.

●Awarding scholarships and cash prizes to outstanding Ekiti North students.

●Supporting agriculture in Ekiti North through fertilizer distribution.

●Securing federal job slots for Ekiti North constituents and addressing baseless rumors regarding rice palliative funds.

●Appointing 10 Ekiti North youths as Special Assistants.

In a recent media interaction early last month, Senator Fasuyi unveiled his plans to bring more projects, initiatives, and employment and empowerment schemes to his constituents in the Ekiti North Senatorial District. Emphasizing the importance of preparing and watching out for these upcoming endeavors, Fasuyi outlined his comprehensive agenda spanning education, health, youth empowerment and employment, security, and infrastructure.

Despite facing challenges such as currency fluctuations impacting the Microsoft-certified training program, Senator Fasuyi's dedication to his constituents remains steadfast. His resilience and commitment shine through as he continues to navigate obstacles and strive to fulfill his promises to the people of Ekiti North.

In the realm of politics, criticism is inevitable. However, Senator Fasuyi advocates for constructive and respectful dialogue, urging unity and support as he works tirelessly to uplift not only Ekiti North but also communities beyond. With his unwavering determination and vision for progress, Senator Fasuyi embodies the spirit of leadership and service, inspiring hope and optimism among his constituents.

E LO FOKAN BALE, CYRIL A SE DAADA LEKITI OKE.

Flyover: Oyebanji Begins Payment of Compensation to Property Owners.

Flyover: Oyebanji Begins Payment of Compensation to Property Owners.

....Pledges fairness, justice in payment to all victims.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday, flagged off the payment of compensation to owners of  landed property acquired for the construction of the Okeyinmi Fly Over Bridge in Ado - Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji assured that all legitimate land and property owners that will be affected in the demolition exercise for the construction of the flyover that stretches from Okeyinmi, Ijigbo and Ajilosun junction, will be compensated expeditiously, adding that nobody will be sidelined in the exercise.

The Governor disclosed these in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, while presenting cheques to landlords and business owners, whose property were acquired for the construction and who were captured in the enumeration exercise varied out by the government. 

The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye at the brief ceremony, said his government had spelt out modalities that would remove bottlenecks and ensure speedy payment of compensation to the property owners.

Reeling out the significance of the project, Oyebanji stated that part of the kernel objective and focus of his administration, is to make Ado-Ekiti metropolis an epicentre of flagship infrastructure that would buoy businesses, attract investors and make it befitting of its status as a capital city.

The Governor added that the project would decongest Ado-Ekiti of traffic snarl being envisaged within the business district area in the future and ease the means of doing business in the metropolis.

"One of the driving objectives of this administration is to make Ado-Ekiti among the comity of States' Capitals in Nigeria a smarter city with well-built infrastructure that will improve the socio-economic development of the State.

"Hence, the construction of the flyover is part of the commitment of my administration to provide solid infrastructure to ease means of doing business in the State Capital. 

"The flyover, if completed will go a long way to decongest traffic and enhance effective traffic management and orderliness within Ado-Ekiti metropolis", he said.

Besides the flyover, Oyebanji disclosed that  his government, had embarked on the construction of other major roads like: Omisanjana-Ajebamidele, Jimoh-Aliu, Nova, Ara-Ikole Road, Ikere-Ilawe Road, Igede-Ilawe Road, Ikere-Ise-Emure and Ilawe-Ado Roads, among others, to open up a vista of business and investment opportunities for the state.

"It is my desire that all these projects will be delivered within stipulated time and not abandon for any unknown reasons and at the same time complete all uncompleted projects of the past administrations in the state.

"I want to assure you that the State Government will pay all the affected persons whose properties were acquired by the State Government for construction of the flyover as enumerated by the Bureau of Land Services". 

Speaking further, the Governor said the  State Government will ensure fairness and justice in the payment of the compensation to all the affected persons.

In his submission, Special Adviser on Land Matters, Mr. Akintobi Olusanmi, who described the project as part of the efforts to propel Ekiti's Infrastructures and industrial development, revealed that it will be accorded priority and completed in record time to be able to serve the purpose.

Olusanmi revealed that all the affected land and property owners captured by government, had been instructed to produce their National Identification Number (NIN) and photographs for them to be qualified for the exercise.  

He said the prioritisation and expeditious payment of compensation besides being undertaken in line with the stipulation of the Land Use Act 1978, that it further buttressed  how passionate Governor Oyebanji was to make lives easier and abundant for the citizens.

EKSG To Support Farmers and Agro Processors in The Production and Processing Palm Oil.

EKSG To Support Farmers and Agro Processors in The Production and Processing Palm Oil.

Ekiti State Government has assured palm oil producers in the State of necessary support to enhance production of high quality products that would meet international market standard and boost the State's foreign exchange earnings.

                        

The Commissioner for Trade, Investment, Industry and Co-operatives, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola gave the assurance at a meeting with members of the Association of Palm Oil Producers at Ise Ekiti.

Mrs. Adeola said that her visit to the community was aimed at identifying with them as well as fashioning out ways of collaboration and producing quality products in the area, being the Oil palm belt in the state, adding that Gov. Biodun Oyebanji is prepared to make Ekiti South Senatorial District a hub for palm oil production in the South West.

                                

She emphasized that one of her mandates was to promote and project local production of commodities that would be acceptable in any part of the world.

           

Adeola charged the producers to form credible cooperative groups for them to have access to Government's financial aid to boost their business.

 In his remarks, the Arinjale of Ise Ekiti, Oba. Ayodele Ajayi,  appreciated Governor Oyebanji for his efforts at improving and standardizing local production of commodities in the State, adding that the move would turn around the fortunes of the local producers and launch the state into the global economic landscape.

Also speaking, the Iyaloja of Ise Ekiti, Chief Mrs. Olabisi Okunmolale  advised  palm oil producers to make use of the opportunity presented by the Biodun Oyebanji-led Government to improve on their output

She appealed to the Governor to  facilitate soft loans for members of the association, saying  that the processing of palm oil was capital intensive.         

The Chairman of the Association  Mr. Kaleyemi Oladimeji, who is the founder of Emkala Ventures, a palm oil and cassava processing industry in Ise Ekiti appreciated the Governor for bringing governance to their door steps.

Mr Kaleyemi who said that low and substandard production from members was a result of the malfunctioning and obsolete locally fabricated  processing machines, solicited the intervention of the State Government at acquiring standard palm oil processing equipment and facilitating loans for members, with an assurance that the Association will not disappoint the State Government.

Oyebanji disburses N500million gratuities to pensioners.

Oyebanji disburses N500million gratuities to pensioners.

…..Says commitment to infrastructure devt will not affect workers, pensioners’ welfare.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has assured pensioners in the state that his administration has concluded plans to make disbursement of N200million monthly gratuities to them henceforth, promising to also review pensions in line with current realities. 

Governor Oyebanji, who gave this assurance while disbursing over N500million in gratuity cheques to 152 pensioners in Ado- Ekiti on Monday, also promised to review the monthly pension following the discovery that some pensioners still receive abysmally low amount as monthly pension. 

The Governor expressed his disapproval for the usual gathering of elderly people in a hall for the purpose of disbursing gratuity cheques to them, and directed the PTAD office to ensure they disburse gratuity on monthly basis henceforth.

The Governor, who also assured pensioners that government has started working out modalities to defray over N40Billion owed, said he had already approve N100million each for both state and local government retirees which must be disbursed on monthly basis to deserving pensioners.

According to him, “Forty Billion is just a number, I don’t think that is something we should not be able to resolve, I am in constant discussion with the committee that is doing this, they are almost done, we are looking at the best deal that will be acceptable to you and government. Once, we get to that level, we should be able to make a very definite mark on that number.

“I have approved that local government and state pensioners should be paid N100million every month for gratuity. I have just increased that of local government from N50million to N100million. So, every month, apart from pension, we will be paying N200million and I believe that will go a long way till we resolve the issue on ground. 

“There is no need accumulating the money, it should be paid to the pensioners immediately they receive it. We don’t have to be coming here to be distributing cheques again, I don’t think it is necessary again. I am not doing this for political reason.”

Governor Oyebanji assured citizens of the state that his efforts at infrastructural development of the state would not in anyway affect his shared prosperity agenda for the people as he stressed the need for political leaders to be futuristic in attending to issues that concern the populace.

“On the concern raised by people on some quarters, that infrastructure development programme of his administration would negatively affect his welfare programmes, we are going to do the two together, because Ekiti State belongs to everybody and we must be futuristic. Ado was not like this when the state was created, we agreed to do the flyover because, we did traffic study of that place and we discovered that in the next five years, with the rate Ado is growing and if we wait till then, there will be chaos in town. 

“It was a risk we took to do that and most of our infrastructural programmes are strategically thought out. As a leader, I have learnt to be futuristic, if we spend all our resources on welfare and palliatives, what happen to yet to be born children of Ekiti, so we must lay a very solid foundation for them. That is what we are doing with infrastructure and agriculture. We are investing heavily in agriculture so as to ensure that what happened this year is not allowed to happen next year.”, The Governor said

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji to expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the state saying without him, Ekiti would not have been able to achieve any meaningful development.

“As you are praying for me, please pray for President Tinubu, as president, he inherited both the assets and liabilities, part of the liabilities he inherited is a challenged economy, all these hardship is not caused by the president, but God had prepared him for a moment like this. I keep wondering what would have happened to Nigeria if we had a president that is not Asiwaju, that is not as prepared, that is not as courageous. He is the first president in this country that doesn’t have a godfather, so, nobody can harass him. He stated.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Chairmen, Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Elder Joel Akinola; Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Kolapo Olatunde; Trade Union Congress, Comrade Sola Adigun and Joint Negotiating Council, Comrade Babafemi Ajoloko, commended Governor Oyebanji on his various efforts at changing that narratives by ensuring that workers and pensioners enjoy a new lease of life in the state.

Also at the event were Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe, members of the state executive council, body of Permanent Secretaries among others.

Afe Babalola a blessing to Ekiti, Nigeria - Says Oyebanji.

Afe Babalola a blessing to Ekiti, Nigeria - Says Oyebanji.

....As ABUAD commissions new Multi-systems Hospital in Ado Ekiti. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has lauded renowned legal luminary and Founder, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola(SAN), for his unwavering contribution to philanthropy and nation-building, describing him as a blessing to Ekiti State, Nigeria and this generation. 

Governor Oyebanji, who gave the commendation in Ado-Ekiti on Monday while commissioning the Afe Babalola University Multi-System Hospital Annex, Odo Ado, in Ado Ekiti lauded the nonagenarian's consistent contribution to the development of the state across various sectors.

Emphasizing the pivotal roles played by Chief Babalola in advancing the education sector, agriculture, healthcare, and  socio-economic growth within the state and beyond, the Governor said Babalola has remained the highest tax payer and highest employer of labour after the state government since the creation of the state, thereby making him a key player in the development of the state.

While commending Babalola on the opening of ABUAD Muiti system hospital in the area, Governor Oyebanji called on well meaning Ekiti indigenes home and in the Diaspora to emulate the good gestures of Afe Babalola, maintaining that the fortune of the state would doubled if it has more people like the ABUAD Founder, adding that government alone cannot shoulder development. 

He assured the management of the hospital and the resident that the road leading to the hospital area had already been pencilled down for construction adding that he will not derail from the vision of the founding fathers of Ekiti.

“Health is wealth. What Aare Afe Babalola did was not for himself. He did not forget home. He was the highest taxpayer in the old Ondo state, and since the creation of Ekiti state, he remains the highest taxpayer and the largest employer of labour after government.

“I have heard about the road and daddy has spoken to me about the road and the truth of the matter is that the advert for this road has been placed and by March 24th, they will close the bid and they will award this road before the end of next month”.

In his response, Aare Afe Babalola commended Governor Oyebanji as a worthy Ekiti son who upholds the state’s culture and traditions, praising him for maintaining the vision of the founding fathers.

Babalola, who regretted the fact Oyebanji  did not govern the state much earlier, commended the Governor’s programmes and policies, which according to him, have brought a huge development to the state.

He explained that the hospital was built to improve quality health services, inspire hope, and contribute to health and well-being by providing the best care  at reduced cost to patients in Ado Ekiti and its environment.