Ekiti Women Youths Challenged: 'A Garden, A Home Initiative.

Ekiti Women Youths Challenged: 'A Garden, A Home Initiative.

...As Ekiti First Lady's Vegetable Garden Inspires Food Security Drive.

By Olamide Akinwumi.

In a span of just 30 days, the garden cultivated by Her Excellency, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the esteemed First Lady of Ekiti State, has blossomed into a vibrant source of fresh produce. This flourishing garden, inspired by the renowned "Every Home, a Garden Initiative" spearheaded by Nigerian First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has yielded tangible results, with vegetables planted in March now ready for harvest.

Rooted in the fertile soil of Ekiti, this initiative serves as a beacon of hope and practicality, showcasing the potential for self-sufficiency and resilience amidst economic challenges. Dr. Oyebanji's garden underscores the power of grassroots action and individual responsibility in bolstering food security within communities.

The abundant harvest not only provides sustenance for her family but also sets an example for households across Ekiti State to emulate. With accessible resources and favorable climatic conditions, Ekiti residents are urged to cultivate their own gardens, contributing to a collective effort to combat food insecurity and build resilience.

Recognizing the importance of these proactive measures, efforts are underway to safeguard against food shortages and alleviate economic hardships on Ekiti families. Emphasizing the intrinsic value of self-reliance, citizens are encouraged to embrace the opportunity to cultivate their own food, reducing dependency on external sources.

The success of Dr. Oyebanji's garden serves as a catalyst for action towards enhancing food security in Ekiti State. As the harvest season approaches, the benefits of homegrown produce become increasingly evident, reinforcing the belief that with determination and collective effort, every household can contribute to food security.

The Ekiti State Government has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote self-sufficiency and empower citizens to meet their nutritional needs. Through collaboration and community engagement, the vision of a resilient and food-secure Ekiti State continues to thrive.

#FoodSecurity #BAORESS #EkitiGrowsGreener

Ekiti State Government Champions Inclusive Governance.

Ekiti State Government Champions Inclusive Governance.

....Engages Non-Indigenous Communities for Sustainable Harmony and Development.

Ekiti State stands out among Nigerian states for its diverse population, including a significant number of non-indigenous residents. This demographic richness reflects the state's reputation for peace and harmony, fostered by the inclusive approach of Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration.

In line with the commitment to sustaining this harmonious coexistence and addressing ethnic-related challenges, the Office of Community Communications had a strategic engagement with leadership of non-indigenous communities in Ekiti State earlier today.

Representatives from various ethnic groups, including Idoma, Ebira, Hausa, Tiv, Nupe/Tapa, Urhobo, Igbo and Igala communities, participated in the meeting.

Addressing the meeting, Director-General, Office of Community Communications, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotosho conveyed Governor Oyebanji's appreciation for their cooperation and support for the government.

Mrs. Omotosho emphasized the Governor's commitment to inclusivity, evident in the significant number of non-indigenous appointments made, which empower individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and political affiliations.

However, she urged the community leaders to reciprocate the government's goodwill by encouraging their members to align with the administration's vision and initiatives.

Concerning recent spikes in prices of food commodities and other items, Mrs. Omotosho appealed to community leaders to discourage food hoarding and deliberate act of extortion, emphasizing governor Oyebanji's huge investment in agriculture and its impact on food security.

She proposed collaboration opportunities, such as bulk food purchases from local farmers, to mitigate shortages and stabilize prices.

On the security front, Mrs. Omotosho emphasized the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in crime prevention. She urged leaders to promote data gathering and security threats reporting mechanisms to enhance security measures.

In their separate responses, the traditional leaders of each ethnic group commended Governor Oyebanji’s efforts and leadership style in bringing every stakeholder on board for the betterment of the state. They emphasized the importance of equitable distribution of agricultural support and interventions noting that the Governor must be commended for his security initiative geared towards safeguarding farmlands and forests in Ekiti State.

They expressed their profound appreciation for the recognition accorded them and promised their unflinching support for the Oyebanji led administration.

Also present at the meeting: SSA Grassroots Communications (North), Hon. Moshood, SSA Grassroots Communications (South), Hon. Adelusi, SA Governor’s Office, Hon. Adetuase, SA Town Unions & Associations Matters, Hon. Andero, SA Ethnic Matters (Ebira), Hon. Nasir, SA Ethnic Matters (Igbo, Central), Hon. Amokachi, SA Ethnic Matters(Igbo, South), Hon. Onuchie, SA Ethnic Matters (Igbo, North), Prince Okafor and SA Ethnic Matters (Urhobo), Pastor Clement.

“You’ ll not walk alone”, Oyebanji assures late APC chairman’s family.

“You’ ll not walk alone”, Oyebanji assures late APC chairman’s family.

….as ex-Gov Fayemi, NASS members, APC leaders eulogize Omotosho at commendation service.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji on Wednesday led former Governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi, National and State Assembly members, members of the State Executive Council, Party leaders and other prominent personalities to pay glowing tributes to the late APC Chairman, Barrister Paul Omotosho at a special commendation service organized by the state government in Ado-Ekiti. 

Omotosho, who died on March 5th, after a brief illness, was, until his death, Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, Ekiti State Chapter. 

“You will not walk alone. I shall stand by you. The Government and the party will stand by you”, Governor  Oyebanji assured the children and wives of the late Omotosho during his emotion - laden speech at the special tribute session held at Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado- Ekiti. 

The commendation service had in attendance former Governor Kayode Fayemi (who was represented by former Attorney General in the State, Mr Wale Fapounda, SAN; the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, and three former deputy Governors- Prof Modupe Adelabu; Surv. Abiodun Aluko and Chief Wole Alabi as well as members of the Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly. 

Oyebanji described the late Chairman as a committed, loyal, and party leader whose selflessness and sacrifices contributed immensely to the growth and development of the party and the state at large.

The Governor maintained that the late omotosho was a true friend, a burden bearer, confidant and a devoted community leader, adding  that his demise has left a great vacuum within the party, the state  and the nation at large.

While assuring the family that his government will continue to support them and stand in the gap of their father, the Governor said he is consoled with the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life and left an indelible mark in the development of the state.

“To me personally, I have lost a true friend, I've lost a confidant, I've lost a brother, a burden bearer and a soul mate. The truth of the matter is not how far but how well, Mr. Continuity left at his own time, I believe strongly that it was his own time to go. We don’t like it, and it is painful because death did not give us a chance to even try to save him. 

“I know we are not happy about this and it is a trying moment for us as a party, as a state and as a government, but one thing I know is there is God in heaven who sees the affairs of men. To the children, to the family, as long as i am on this seat as the Governor of this state, you will not walk alone. That’s the assurance I am going to give you”. The Governor asserted.

In his on tribute, the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr. Fayemi, whose tribute was read by Barrister Wale Fapounda, described the late Omotosho as a dedicated leader, a unifier, and a pillar of the party in the state.

Dr Fayemi explained that the deceased was a tireless leader and a steadfast supporter of the party’s principle who ensured that under his watch the party achieved significant victories in recent elections and gained the trust of Ekiti people.

While calling on the APC members in the state to remain resolute in making the deceased proud by carrying on with his legacies of  integrity, the former Governor maintained that Omotosho’s contributions and sacrifices for the party will never be forgotten.

 

Other speakers at the evening of tributes include Mrs. Fola Richie, who spoke on behalf of the state executive council members (2010 – 2014), where the late Omotosho served as as State Commissioner; Chief Bayo Idowu, on behalf of Afenifere; Dr Dele Ebunola, who spoke on behalf of Social Democratic Party (SDP); Prof Mobolaji Aluko, on behalf of the state executive council; Hon Sola Elesin, on behalf of APC, Ekiti State chapter; Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, on behalf the State House of Assembly, and Senator Yemi Adaramodu, who spoke on behalf of National Assembly members. 

Others were Chief Jide Awe, who spoke on behalf of APC elders; Chief (Mrs) Ronke Okusanya, on behalf of Women in Politics; and Mr Ojo Oluwasegun Samuel, who spoke on behalf of local government chairmen. 

They all eulogized the late Omotosho as a man of integrity and a truly honest and hard working politician and public servant, who was selfless and result- oriented.

A pall of silence descended on the Adetiloye Hall, venue of the event during the viewing of  a documentary detailing the life and times of the late Omotosho was shown the audience. Many wept profusely after the documentary which preceded a short sermon and prayer of the family of the deceased. 

Barrister Paul Omotosho who died on March 5th would be buried in his home town, Imesi Ekiti on Friday.

Agbeyewa Farms Launches Community Development Foundation to Empower Ekiti State.

Agbeyewa Farms Launches Community Development Foundation to Empower Ekiti State.

Agbeyewa Farms, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, has formally launched the Agbeyewa Farms Community Development Foundation (AFCDF), aimed at investing in various community development initiatives to enhance the quality of life of citizens of Ekiti State. 

The foundation's launch took place during the recent retreat for some traditional rulers in Ekiti, on the pivotal roles of traditional institutions and private investment promotions in Ekiti State. Distinguished guests at the event were amongst revered traditional rulers from Ekiti and Osun States. The Governor of Ekiti State, represented by the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Atibioke was the special guest of honor at the event. The Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utility, Prof Mobolaji Aluko, were amongst the distinguished guests.

Others are the Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs and former Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi, Director General, Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency, Mrs. Lolade Olutola, Members of Ekiti E-11, led by Chief Kola Akosile, Chief Biodun Akin- Fasae, Special Assistant to Ekiti State Governor on Special Agro-business Processing Zones, Hon. Kehinde Ajayi, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on OTSD, Tunji Aribasoye, and other notable attendees.

The foundation is to be headed by Alhaji Dauda Lawal, an astute community development expert. 

In his address, while inaugurating the board of the foundation, the Executive Director of Cavista Holdings, Mr. Dele Odufuye said the foundation's initiative was built on a steadfast commitment to uplifting communities, with a focus on five key delivery areas: Education, Economic Empowerment, Health, Sports, and Environmental Sustainability. 

By addressing these vital sectors, the foundation aims to foster holistic development and sustainable progress within the region.

Mr. Odufuye emphasized the foundation's alignment with Cavista's overarching mission to create enduring value for all stakeholders and transform lives and communities. He highlighted the pivotal role of Agbeyewa Farms in funding the foundation's initiatives, underscoring the company's dedication and commitment to corporate social responsibility and community welfare.

"The launch of the Agbeyewa Farms Community Development Foundation marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to serving and empowering the people of Ekiti State. Through strategic investments in education, healthcare, sports, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment, we aim to catalyze positive change and unlock the full potential of our communities."

Mr. Odufuye disclosed that the Foundation had already successfully executed several initiatives over the last 2 years, with the most recent being the organization of a medical outreach, the sponsorship of the Agbeyewa football Cup competition for Ekiti State secondary schools, as well as the donation of food palliatives during the last Christmas, Easter and Sallah holidays.   

Odufuye emphasized the foundation would leverage on the capacity and experience of the new board members trusting that its composition would heralds a new era of collaborative efforts and impactful initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth and prosperity in Ekiti State. 

With a focus on sustainability and social impact, Agbeyewa Farms remains steadfast in its mission to create a brighter future for generations to come.

NYC Ekiti State Chapter, Transportation Commissioner Join Forces to Combat Transportation Woes.

NYC Ekiti State Chapter, Transportation Commissioner Join Forces to Combat Transportation Woes.

In a bid to address the pressing transportation challenges in Ekiti State, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress, Ekiti State Chapter, has commended the efforts of Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe, Commissioner for Transportation. The chairman stressed the urgent need to resolve disputes between Okada riders and Keke NAPEP operators to improve the transportation system.

Highlighting the issue of high charges by Okada riders, the chairman urged the commissioner to allow Keke NAPEP operations on the streets to ensure smoother transportation for citizens. He called for dialogue among stakeholders to mitigate individual financial burdens and pledged full support for any convened meetings.

In response, the Commissioner, Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe, expressed gratitude to the youth congress and assured the implementation of comprehensive strategies, with active youth participation, to reduce transportation costs significantly. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with the youth congress to prevent further escalation of the situation.

Chief of Staff to the chairman, Comr. Abegunde Adedayo, echoed appreciation for the commissioner and emphasized the need for strengthened partnership with the congress. He urged thorough consideration of the matter to prevent further escalation.

Meanwhile, in response to an invitation by the new Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Ekiti State, Abdulahi Adamu, the youth congress reiterated its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence. The Chairman Aare Adedara Temitope Moses emphasized the state's reputation for values and competence, expressing gratitude for the director's recognition and affirming a commitment to sustained harmony among citizens.

The new Director of DSS, Abdulahi Adamu, reciprocated the sentiment, stressing the importance of resilience and realism among youths in facing life's challenges. He pledged diligent execution of duties and emphasized adherence to the rule of law for national cohesion.

In conclusion, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses (Topmost), Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress, Ekiti State Chapter, extended gratitude to the Director of DSS for their continual support of the youth in Ekiti State.

Oyebanji Leads Special Commendation Service for Late APC Chairman, Barrister Paul Omotosho.

Oyebanji Leads Special Commendation Service for Late APC Chairman, Barrister Paul Omotosho.

....Assures Family Unwavering Government Support.. 

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

In a solemn gathering held on Wednesday, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji spearheaded a special Commendation Service, dubbed the "Evening of Tributes," in honor of the late Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barrister Paul Omotosho. The poignant event took place at the Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado Ekiti, drawing a host of government dignitaries, party members, and representatives of the Omotosho family.

In attendance were notable figures including the Deputy Governor, H.E. Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, three former Deputy Governors, Speaker Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, as well as National Assembly and State Assembly members. The gathering also included state executive members, chieftains of the APC, and representatives of the Imesi Ekiti community, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

The atmosphere was laden with emotion as tributes poured in for the late APC Chairman, affectionately known as "Mr. Continuity." Governor Oyebanji, in a heartfelt address, assured the Omotosho family that they would not walk alone in their time of grief. He pledged unwavering support from the Government of Ekiti State to the bereaved family, offering solace and solidarity in their loss.

The Commendation Service served as a platform for friends, colleagues, and associates to reminisce about the impactful life of Barrister Paul Omotosho. His dedication to the APC and his unwavering commitment to the ideals of continuity and progress were highlighted, underscoring his lasting legacy in the political landscape of Ekiti State.

As the evening drew to a close, the gathering stood united in mourning the loss of a beloved leader and in celebrating the indelible mark left by Barrister Paul Omotosho. The echoes of his contributions to the APC and the broader Ekiti community reverberated throughout the hall, serving as a testament to his enduring influence and the profound impact of his life's work.

Concluding with a palpable sense of solemn reverence, the Commendation Service fostered a shared commitment to honoring the memory of Barrister Paul Omotosho. Attendees departed with the collective resolve to ensure that his legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire future generations.

Ondo Decide 2024: Omoluabi Group Endorse Barrister Dr. DI Kekemeke For Governor, Says His Manifesto is Top Notch.

Ondo Decide 2024: Omoluabi Group Endorse Barrister Dr. DI Kekemeke For Governor, Says His Manifesto is Top Notch.

The governorship ambition of Barrister DI Kekemeke received a boost today as distinguished members of Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio-cultural and Political Group across the 18 Local Government Areas of Ondo State unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the person of Kekemeke by publicly announcing their endorsement and recommendation of the governorship aspirant for delegates and card carrying members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the sunshine state. 

In his campaign office, members of Omoluabi Group were received by the governorship candidate and his campaign team who expressed unreserved joy at the decision of the group to show unalloyed solidarity and support for the candidacy of a man who the cap fit to be the next governor of Ondo State on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC).

The National Convener Omoluabi Dr. Jayeola Afolabi in his words eulogized Barrister DI Kekemeke for his integrity, honesty, loyalty to the progressive family and his wealth of experience in both public and private practices. As a a legal luminarian you have shown yourself as an icon, as a politician you have distinguished yourself as an upright personality with no record of corruption. 

The group affirmed that the manifesto of the governorship candidate is a top notch reflecting a personality who is adequately prepared for governance. It is however recommended that APC card carrying members and leaders should give their total support to Barrister DI Kekemeke for a better Ondo State beginning from February, 2025.

The Ondo State Coordinator, Engr. Aluko said the era of money bags in the politics of Ondo State should be jettisoned while we chat a direction that will enhance socio- economic and infrastructural development. 

Appreciating the endorsement of the Omoluabi Group, the Incoming Governor, Barrister DI Kekemeke promised never to mortgage the future and collective destinies of the people of Ondo State if elected as the APC governorship flag bearer come Saturday, 20th April 2024.

Omoluabi for LekeLeke Political Movement is now confirmed.

E- Signed:

Omoluabi Aluko Taiyelolu

Ondo State Coordinator

17/4/2024