Oyebanji Signs new laws, restates commitment to good governance through legislative framework.

Oyebanji Signs new laws, restates commitment to good governance through legislative framework. 

Ekiti state Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration at applying legislative framework to strengthen the institution of governance in the state.

Governor Oyebanji made this declaration on Monday while assenting to new laws recently passed by the State House of Assembly at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s office adding that his administration is committed to quality legislative framework and strong institutions to make government programmes and policies enduring legacies to bequeath on the people of the state.

The bills signed into law are Ekiti State Regulation Approval Law, 2024; Ekiti State Environmental Protection and Watershed Management Agency Law, 2024; Ekiti State Bureau of Asset Management Law, 2024 and Ekiti State Local Content (First Amendment) Law, 2024.

Speaking shortly after signing of the laws, Governor Oyebanji assured the people of the state that his administration would not relent at ensuring that made for the common good of the people were implemented swiftly to impact service delivery in the State.

The Governor said Ekiti State Environmental Protection and Watershed Management Agency Law, 2024 was part of government agenda to provide friendly environment for her citizens, through protection of its waters and the environment. The government is committed to environmental protection and management, erosion prevention and control, watershed and catchment management through public enlightenment.

He added that the law would provide framework for coordinating inter-sectorial activities towards environmental protection and management, erosion prevention, watershed management, mining and other ecological issues in the State as well as ensure and enforce adequate environmental standards for the State.

The Governor also stated the benefits of Ekiti State Bureau of Asset Management Law, 2024 to include management, optimization and maintenance of state-owned assets, provide for the preservation and maintenance of new and existing assets owned by the State Government and also develop a framework to guide the management and use of government assets.

On the Ekiti State Local Content (First Amendment) Law, 2024, Governor Oyebanji said the law would henceforth give priority to the local contractors and their inclusion in contracts bidding, procurements and service delivery as well as promote the extraction of minerals resources in the State to improve internally generated revenue and locally made goods by encouraging local artisans and other citizens to benefit and contribute to the socio-economic development of the State.

Oyebanji also said Ekiti State Regulation Approval Law, 2024 Would give impetus to government to forward to the House of Assembly regulations and subsidiary legislations made by all MDAs in the State for collation and confirmation to avoid conflict of regulations amongst the MDAs before they are published in the State Official Gazette. 

He noted further that the law would empower the House of Assembly to approve all regulations and subsidiary legislations to check arbitrary regulations not based on government policies. 

Speaking further, the Governor assured Ekiti people of his administration’s unwavering commitment and determination to bring the dividends of democracy to all nooks and crannies of the State adding that the policy initiatives and roadmap to keeping Ekiti working would continue to be felt by people at the grassroots.

Oyebanji said “It has been my practice to acknowledge the smooth working relationship between the Executive and the Legislature. In the Constitutional system, the Legislature provides checks and balances on the Executive, but it must also be a source of creative, responsible leadership, for in the end, work must be done and progress must be made.

“I must commend Mr. Speaker and the members of the 7th Assembly for your unwavering commitment and dedication to Ekiti project. The synergy is very heartwarming and our people are the major beneficiaries in terms of good governance and impactful service delivery.

“I am aware that the shared prosperity mantra of our Administration resonates with the Legislative agenda of the 7th Assembly which is keeping Ekiti working towards shared prosperity through responsive legislation. The Honourable Members are stakeholders in the transformation of the State with the need for collaborative efforts to make poverty history in the State.

“Our government will continue to accord desired priority to the Laws and Resolutions passed in the House. This informed my decision to assent to these Laws, three of which are Private Member bills from the House. We will be relentless at ensuring that these Laws are implemented to impact velocity into service delivery in the State.”

Earlier, in his remarks, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye said the bills were testament to the unwavering commitment of the house of assembly to advancing the shared prosperity mantra of the oyebanji led-administration.

The Speaker maintained that the bill was carefully crafted to promote development, progress and prosperity of Ekiti people adding that the bills represent the collective dedication to good governance and environmental sustainability and the promotion of local content within the development agenda of the state.

While commending the Governor for his purposeful leadership, policies of accommodation and his clear understanding of the tenent of the separation of powers, the speaker assured the people of the state that the House would continue to collaborate with the executive arms of government to ensure that dividends of democracy reach nooks and crannies of the state .

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Members of the State House of Assembly, and Members of the State Executive Council.

Mentcoom Cinemas Set to Launch Operations in Ado Ekiti.

Mentcoom Cinemas Set to Launch Operations in Ado Ekiti.

…Receives Registration from Ekiti Bureau of Tourism Development.

Mentcoom Cinemas, a leading player in the entertainment industry, is thrilled to announce its official registration with the Ekiti Bureau of Tourism Development. With this milestone achieved, Mentcoom Cinemas is set to commence its operations in the vibrant city of Ado Ekiti.

The CEO of Mentcoom Cinemas, Olaniyi Fatoyinbo, expressed great excitement and anticipation for the company’s new venture. He stated, “Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure that Mentcoom Cinemas meets and exceeds industry standards in terms of quality and customer experience. We are proud to now be an official part of the Ekiti State entertainment landscape.”

The grand opening of Mentcoom Cinemas will take place at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo Conference and Convention Center, located in Ado Ekiti. Scheduled for May, this modern and state-of-the-art facility will provide an exquisite backdrop for movie enthusiasts to enjoy the latest blockbuster films in a comfortable and visually stunning setting.

Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, commended Mentcoom Cinemas for their commitment to lighting up the entertainment sector in Ekiti State. He remarked, “We are delighted to welcome Mentcoom Cinemas to our vibrant tourism landscape. This partnership is a testament to our state’s growing appeal as a destination for both leisure and business. We believe that this collaboration will not only provide locals with new and exciting entertainment options but will also attract tourists to experience the cultural richness of Ekiti State.”

Mentcoom Cinemas is renowned for its commitment to providing top-notch cinema experiences, ensuring that each visit leaves a lasting impression on movie-goers. Their dedication to combining cutting-edge technology, comfortable seating, and exceptional customer service makes for an unparalleled cinematic journey.

With the upcoming launch of Mentcoom Cinemas in Ado Ekiti, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a world-class cinematic experience that will contribute to the local economy and promote tourism within the state.

Mentcoom Cinemas is a leading entertainment company dedicated to delivering exceptional cinematic experiences. With state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology, and a passion for customer satisfaction, Mentcoom Cinemas aims to provide unparalleled movie experiences for audiences of all ages. As an officially registered entity with the Ekiti Bureau of Tourism Development, Mentcoom Cinemas is proud to contribute to the vibrant entertainment sector of Ekiti State.

Gov Oyebanji Enacts Key Legislation, Bolsters Governance Framework.

Gov Oyebanji Enacts Key Legislation, Bolsters Governance Framework.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has made a significant stride in governance by officially assenting to several crucial laws passed by the Ekiti State House of Assembly. The signing ceremony, which took place on Monday in the Executive Chamber, marked a pivotal moment for policy and governance in the state.

The newly signed laws cover a wide range of areas, each addressing pressing issues facing the state:

●Ekiti State Regulation Approval Law, 2024: This law is poised to streamline the process of regulatory approval within the state, enhancing efficiency and transparency in governance. By implementing clearer guidelines and procedures, the law aims to facilitate smoother regulatory processes across various sectors.

●Ekiti State Environmental Protection and Watershed Management Agency Law, 2024: With a sharp focus on environmental sustainability, this law establishes an agency dedicated to protecting the environment and managing watershed resources effectively. It underscores the government's commitment to preserving Ekiti State's natural heritage for future generations.

●Ekiti State Bureau of Asset Management Agency Law: Addressing asset management comprehensively, this law outlines strategies and frameworks for efficient management of state assets. By instituting robust asset management practices, the government aims to safeguard public resources and optimize their utilization for the benefit of the state and its residents.

●Ekiti State Legislative (Power & Privileges) Law, 2024: This law defines the powers and privileges of the legislative body, ensuring a clear legal framework for legislative operations. By delineating the scope of legislative authority and privileges, the law strengthens the legislative process and upholds democratic principles.

Ekiti State Local Content (First Amendment) Law, 2024: This amendment to the local content law reflects the state's commitment to promoting local participation and development across various sectors. By enhancing opportunities for local stakeholders, the amendment aims to stimulate economic growth, create employment, and foster inclusive development.

The event witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Chief Mrs Monisade Afuye and Speaker EKHA, Rt Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye who led other honorable members of the house to the event.

These legislative actions underscore the government's commitment to strengthening governance, protecting the environment, and enhancing accountability and efficiency across sectors. The impact of these laws is expected to be far-reaching, contributing significantly to the overall development and well-being of Ekiti State and its residents.

#EkitiGovernance #LegislativeMilestones #DevelopmentInitiatives

Ekiti as an amazing story, By Funmilola Olarewaju.

Ekiti as an amazing story, By Funmilola Olarewaju.                                                                     By Chimezie Godfrey.

In the past few days, videos of market women leaders, Aka Iyalojas, in Ekiti State moderating the prices of goods in the markets within their jurisdictions have been trending. According to reliable information, the genesis of the viral video was a call made by the First Lady of Ekiti State, Olayemi Oyebanji appealing to the Iyalojas to prevail on their members to bring down the cost of goods. Oyebanji was also reported to have had a meeting with female chiefs, urging them to intervene. 

It didn’t stop there! The State Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Tayo Adeola summoned a meeting of Heads of various associations, ranging from the market women to the road transport workers, petty traders and canteen owners, where she also urged them to bring down the cost of goods and services. “That’s what led to the viral videos. Even the transporters reduced their fares.”

‘Aríse laríkà. Aríkà baba ìrègún’ (Opportunity to do a good deed gives the doer the opportunity to lay them to heart, and to count them is the chief basis for seeking reward for them secretly or indirectly). From Education to Health; and from Agriculture to Culture and Tourism, it is important to note that the Biodun Oyebanji-led government in Ekiti State has been doing a lot and the results have been showing! Only recently, the governor reportedly paid N546.9m as WAEC/SSCE fees to support 16,269 Secondary School Students in the state.

In the power sector, Oyebanji’s efforts on stable electricity supply have been yielding results even as the African Development Bank recently approved the sum of $110,000 to fund the State Power Reform Plan. From reports, Ekiti is also working with other states and the country to ensure state, regional and national operationalization of the new Electricity Act 2023. Many more in this important sector!

In 2023, during the inauguration of a facility in Aramoko-Ekiti, Oyebanji was said to have promised to donate a well-equipped maternity complex to Aramoko-Ekiti General Hospital in memory of his late mother. The facility is now almost ready for inauguration. Coincidentally, the governor was born in the hospital 56 years ago. 

It needs to be noted that Ekiti under Oyebanji has become an amazing story of faith, determination and success, but then, the biggest room in the world is the room for improvement. For instance, during their time, the Obafemi Awolowos, the Ahmadu Bellos and the Nnamdi Azikiwes prepared the pupils for the world which they saw clearly! Nigerians also used to know Ekiti with his many professors. Now, it is as if all Ekiti professors have relocated to the Eastern part of the country. Once upon a time, the North was described as an educational disadvantaged state but now, power has also changed hands with jealous rage. Though it’s not the fault of the present government, the strategic aim for Ekiti should revolve around reclaiming its pride of place.

To become great in life, the battleground is education. The basic thing therefore is not just talking about education but the right type of education that can give Ekiti sons and daughters the wherewithal to be competitive while not allowing other sectors to suffer. To this end, it behooves the government to focus on building an education system that can make the state competitive in the years ahead, starting from the nursery school. In other words, any forward movement over the next 10 to 20 years must start with revamping the public primary school curriculum and building an economy with a focus on 18 years’ time to make the pupils competitively prepared for a different world from the world that we know. Why? A 4-year-old in 2024 will be bound to face a competitive world of artificial intelligence and robot technology in the Year 2034. 

Since the road cannot close on the man with a cutlass, it will also be in the interest of Ekiti to localize the new electricity format by getting public private sector-driven investment into, and up the ante of, especially the renewables to attract private investments to produce electricity upgrid.

While commending the governor for the palliatives he recently rolled out to the residents, it’s also advisable that he looks inward for ways to improve productivity. Enough of resting on Abuja for handouts! In view of this, training the youth groups to take their destinies in their hands won’t be out of place. 

Ekiti under Oyebanji must also look in the direction of building industries based on the new technology: technology hubs and agro-processing plants. The government has to be focused on building an economy that will be relevant for tomorrow and an economy that will not destroy the future of tomorrow. Of course, all these are achievable if the security mindfulness of the state is watertight. 

On the economic front, it is believed that Ekiti has given much needed support and cooperation to the governor. Give it to Oyebanji, he has also been able to manage the entire power bloc in the state very well. Added to this is that he’s doing what an average civil servant in Ekiti State wants! So, while it would be extremely needed for Ekitis to help their state reach the expected end of its noble visions, it is also expected of the governor to make the best combination of the human and natural resources available to the state, coupled with its unique homogenous nature, to make a difference.

For Oyebanji to make Ekiti a template for others to copy, he must continue to look beyond the current challenges by fetching water in preparation for the season of thirst. One sure way of achieving this is the 12-point relief economic programme unveiled by the government “to alleviate the hardship being experienced by the people of the state in the face of the current global economic downturn”. The reintroduction of ‘Owo Arugbo’ is also a step in the right direction while opportunities for investment in the agriculture sector should be encouraged to ensure food security.

Accept it or not, the governor’s decision to reintroduce the construction of 5 kilometres of roads per Local Government will be a game changer in grassroots development. Since Ado-Ekiti – Akure dualization, being undertaken by the Federal Government, is billed to terminate at the endpoint of the flyover bridge, it therefore means that the contractor handling the Ado-Ekiti – Ikere-Ekiti axis must mobilize to site and hold his end of the bargain for the overall purpose of easing traffic congestion. Attention must also be paid to the Phase 2 of Ado-Ekiti – Iyin-Ekiti – Igede-Ekiti – Aramoko-Ekiti – Itawure Road since it’s of economic value. Also in this class are the dualization of the road leading to Afe Babalola University, the iconic Ring Road project and the rehabilitation of the adjoining roads to the section of Old Garage. The flyover bridge will add to the aesthetic beauty of the capital city as well as create economic activities around the area. 

Oyebanji is doing well in terms of governance but, politically, he may need to up his game in the days ahead because ‘the enemy and the evildoer are within close proximity.’ The governor needs to be very decisive and keep his team intact.

Finally, kudos to the governor, who, till date is the only product of Ekiti State University (EKSU), formerly known as Ondo State University, Ado Ekiti, to be a governor and the first alumnus of the school to be a visitor to the school, for displaying statesmanship! Congratulations on his incredible success and wishing him all the best on his way to his 2nd Term!

Ondo 2024: APC Declares Aiyedatiwa Winner of Ondo Governorship Primary.

Ondo 2024: APC Declares Aiyedatiwa Winner of Ondo Governorship Primary. 

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, has emerged candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the forthcoming November 16th, 2024 governorship election in the state.

Aiyedatiwa was declared winner of the governorship primary election by the Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee and Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, in Akure, the Ondo state capital on Sunday night.

Ododo, while announcing Aiyedatiwa as winner, said he scored 48,569 votes to defeat other 15 aspirants.

He said the other aspirants score is as follows: Wale Akinterinwa; 1,952, Olusola Oke; 14,915, Mayowa Akinfolarin; 15,343, Jimoh Ibrahim; 9,456, Isaac Kekemeke; 1,045, Gbenga Edema; 395, Olamide Ohunyeye; 424, Jimi Odimayo; 490, Olusoji Ehinlanwo; 492, Morayo Lebi; 290, Diran Iyantan; 348, Francis Faduyile; 353, Ifeoluwa Oyedele; 462, Funmilayo Waheed-Adekojo; 529 and Funke Omogoroye; 115.

 

While Ododo said that the total numbers of voters; 171, 922, accredited voters; 95178, total vote cast; 95178, valid votes; 95178, invalid vote; nil.

 

According to Ododo, who was flanked by the secretary of the committee, Ovie Omo-Agege and other members of the committee said; “reports from the field revealed that the primary election went on peacefully, and the end of the exercise, votes were counted and recorded.

“By the power conferred on the committee, and in line with APC guide lines for the nomination of the candidate, of the party in the general election, I Ahmed Usman Ododo, Governor of Kogi State and the Chairman of the Committee and the Returning Officer of the Ondo State APC governorship primary election, held on the 20th, 2024, hereby declared that Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa having satisfied the requirements of the law and scored the highest numbers of votes cast in the direct primary election, is hereby return elected and declare winner.”

Oyebanji approves N138m car, housing loans for teachers.

Oyebanji approves N138m car, housing loans for teachers.

Ekiti state Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has approved N138.7m for the payment of car and housing loans to 448 teaching and non-teaching staff of the state Teaching Service Commission.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State Teaching Service Commission, Mike Omolayo, made available to journalists in Ado Ekiti.

Omolayo stated: “Successful applicants under the scheme are expected to obtain letters of introduction signed by their principals and bursars, present their official identity cards and as well photocopies of their biometric data forms, appointment and confirmation letters to facilitate the payment processes.”

Omolayo said that the government’s gesture was aimed at encouraging teaching and non-teaching staff across public secondary schools in the state to discharge their duties more efficiently and effectively, adding that the effective date of repayment starts from June 2024 salary.

Ekiti State Government Launches Grassroots Empowerment and Engagement Drive.

Ekiti State Government Launches Grassroots Empowerment and Engagement Drive.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's administration, under the proactive guidance of Director General Mrs. Mary Oso Omotoso, led the Office of Community Communications in Ekiti State to initiate a range of impactful projects over the weekend, demonstrating the government's commitment to fostering grassroots development and empowering citizens.

In collaboration with the Ekiti State Petroleum Products Regulations and Consumer Protection Agency, the Office embarked on a crucial mission to tackle the sudden increase in petrol prices in Ado Ekiti. Prompted by feedback from the people and the Governor's concern, Chairman of the Agency, Hon. Arinka Odunayo, alongside DG Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotosho, led efforts to monitor and engage with petrol station managers, ensuring fair pricing for essential commodities.

Ahead of the 2024 World Malaria Day, the Office of Community Communications collaborated with the Office of SSA to the President on Community Engagement (South West) to conduct a community sensitization and medical outreach program. Led by Hon. Moremi Ojudu, the initiative aimed to eradicate malaria from Ekiti communities through free medical check-ups, distribution of drugs, and food items to indigent community members, highlighting the commitment to citizen welfare.

A vibrant Youth Easter Carnival organized by Housing Youth Agenda brought together 12 communities in the Federal Housing Estate, Ado Ekiti, with support from Governor Biodun Oyebanji and dignitaries including Hon. Sola Elesin and Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Adesola Gold, underscoring the government's commitment to youth empowerment and community engagement.

These activities showcase the proactive approach of the Ekiti State Government in addressing diverse community needs and promoting grassroots development.