We’ll continue to create economic opportunities for Ekiti people, says Gov Oyebanji.

We’ll continue to create economic opportunities for Ekiti people, says Gov Oyebanji.

Ekiti state Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated his administration’s commitment to forging strategic partnerships that will uplift the socio-economic status of the state and create economic opportunities for the citizens. 

The Governor Oyebanji, who stated this in Ado- Ekiti on Tuesday during an intervention programme organised in support of MSMEs by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), said potentials in the state’s informal sector would be harnessed to achieve his administration’s economic prosperity target through an effective Public Private Partnership initiative.

Highlighting his administration’s efforts to support small and medium-sized enterprises through financial aids, training programs, and easier access to market, the Governor noted that partnering with SMEDAN and other financial institutions are being strengthened to further provide MSMEs in the state with necessary capital to grow and prosper their businesses. 

He said many individuals possess the necessary integrity, skills, education, resilience, and work ethic but lack opportunities to showcase their abilities, hence the need to forge partnership with development agencies to open doors of prospects for such individuals.

Governor Oyebanji further revealed that his administration is working on various strategies aimed at empowering small business owners in the state with a focus to leverage local content policies to elevate their business.

He urged the people to take full advantage of the opportunities being provided through SMEDAN to uplift their businesses with an assurance that his administration remains committed to the people’s welfare and prosperity and to fostering a more equitable and prosperous society with ultimate goal of transforming the state into a model of sustainable development and inclusive growth.

“The reason many of us are not rich in Ekiti is because we don’t have helpers, and if that is the only thing I will do for Ekiti as Governor, I will appreciate God.”

“I don’t agree that Ekiti is poor, but I agree that we lack helper. For the entrepreneurs I know their challenges but we can overcome and that’s why I have gone to invite SMEDAN to come and help us and they are here now, they have trained us and this is just the tip of the iceberg because we are still going to scale up”.

Earlier, in his remark, the Director General of SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odil commended the Governor for exploiting all means in ensuring the development of MSMEs in the state and for enhancing sustainable economic development of the country.

Odii explained that SMEDAN’s intervention is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration determination to help business with guidance, resources, opportunities, and workforce support to boost the economic landscape of the country.

The SMEDAN boss explained that the agency’s intervention in Ekiti State include training of over 50 business owners on catering, fashion, and photography and providing them with necessary tools to grow their business, such as gas cooker and oven, sewing machine, camera, and 50,000 naira each to expand their business.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Investment , Trade and Ineustry, Mrs Tayo Adeola said the intervention was a testament to the dedication and collaborative effort of the Oyebanji led-administration aimed at boosting the economic landscape of the state and ensuring the prosperity agenda of the Governor.

The SMEDAN boss and his team later visited the Ekiti Adire Hub, along Iworoko Road, where they were received by the Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, and officials of the center, who took the SMEDAN team round the production processes at the hub, which is empowering youths with Adire making/ marketing skills.

600 Days In Office: Architect Tope Ogunleye Felicitates With Governor Oyebanji.

600 Days In Office: Architect Tope Ogunleye Felicitates With Governor Oyebanji. 

....Facilitates Drilling Of Borehole, Water Gantry and Generator At Olokemeji Area.

Architect Tope Ogunleye Special Adviser/ Director General Bureau of Special Projects, has sent congratulatory message to his Boss, the Executive Governor, Ekiti State Biodun Oyebanji on his giant stride of 600 days in office.

Architect Tope Ogunleye an astute grassroot mobilizer and youth ambassador describes governor Oyebanji as a compass of moral rectitude and a visioneer whose commendable achievement in the past 600 days in office have proved to the naysayers that good governance is not rocket science.

In a bid to commemorate the landmark achievement of Governor Oyebanji, and Mark his 600days in Office in a grand style, Architect Tope Ogunleye led his team and political bigwigs in Ekiti State to commission Borehole, he facilitated and Big electric Generator at Oloke Meji area at Odo-Ado in Ado Ekiti.

Architect Tope Ogunleye who was visibly enveloped with joy congratulated his team members "RST Team for BAO" for their commitment and unalloyed loyalty to BAO administration promised to always give back to the society, in his speech "A life of no impact is life of no value, Governor Oyebanji has under promised but over delivered, BAO all-inclusive administration has deepened democracy and all hands must be on deck towards ensuring shared prosperity" he added.

His Excellency Governor Oyebanji, ably represented by the Special Adviser on political matters, Chief Jide Awe, thanked the people of the community for warm reception, in his speech, he averred that Architect Ogunleye takes delight in making his people happy, he showered encomium on him for being an outstanding ambassador of BAO whose character is worthy of emulation. He urged political appointees to borrow a leaf from the robust representation of Architect Tope Ogunleye.

Notable people who attended the historic event includes Special Adviser Political matters Chief Jide Awe, Hon. Shola Elesin APC acting State Chairman, Hon Michael Akinleye APC Chairman Ado LG, Chief Bosun Osaloni Chairman Àdo LG, Prince Bolu Aladesanmi Chairman Àdo West, Regent omotunde Adelabu, Hon. Sunday Ibitoye, Alh. Tesi, Alh. Demola Bello, Hon. Jumoke Olaniyan, Otunba Alowonle, Hon. Yemi Olajuyin, Ward Chairmen lead by Hon. Kayode Oladimeji, Women leaders lead by Hon. Margret Adelusi, Special Assistants, Senior Special Assistants, party loyalists and others.

Olokemeji Appreciates Borehole Donation from Architect Tope Ogunleye.

Olokemeji Appreciates Borehole Donation from Architect Tope Ogunleye.

Today, the Olokemeji Community in Odo Ado, Ado-Ekiti, celebrated the commissioning of a new borehole, a gift from the Special Adviser and Director-General to the Ekiti State Governor at the Bureau of Special Projects, Architect Tope Ogunleye, fondly known as "RST."

The event, which marked a significant milestone in the community's access to clean and reliable water was graced by the presence of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Politics and Inter-Party Relations, High Chief Jide Awe, Aba Atiba of Erinjiyan Kingdom, APC Acting Chairman Chf. Olusola Elesin, as well as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) party, including the Ado Ekiti APC Party Chairman, Executive Chairman, Ado Ekiti Local Govt Area, Chf. Bosun Osaloni and his Vice Mrs. Fausat Aladetoyinbo, Ado Ekiti Leaders Forum, and plenty loyal supporters.

"RST's unwavering commitment to community development and grassroots empowerment has once again been demonstrated through this latest initiative," said High Chief Jide Awe. "His tireless efforts in identifying and addressing the pressing needs of the people he serves are truly commendable."

This borehole project which used to commemorate BAO 600 days in office is the second in a series of community development initiatives spearheaded by RST. Last year, he donated a motorized borehole to the Utaeku community, marking the 100 days of Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration, as he promised to reach out to other communities as the Governor celebrates significant days in office.

"RST's dedication to improving the lives of the people in Ekiti State is a testament to his vision and leadership," said a representative from the Ado Ekiti Leaders Forum. "His ability to mobilize community members and garner support for these projects is a clear indication of his deep understanding of the needs and dynamics of the people he serves."

Rev. Dr. Ashaolu Anthony, Chairman of Oloruntedo Community, Olokemeji, Ado-Ekiti, praised RST for his thoughtfulness and for meeting the people at the point of their need, emphasizing how water has been a major problem in this part of Ado. He concluded that RST gave life because he who gives water gives life.

The commissioning of the Olokemeji borehole is a significant milestone in Ekiti State's efforts to provide essential infrastructure and services to its citizens. By ensuring the availability of clean, accessible water, RST is not only addressing a basic human need but also contributing to the overall well-being and development of the community.

As the Ekiti State government continues to strive for greater progress and prosperity, individuals like RST will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in realizing this vision and making a lasting impact on the lives of the people they serve.

Ekiti NYC Lauds Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, and Others for the Success of 'Pad a Girl Up' Initiative.

Ekiti NYC Lauds Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, and Others for the Success of 'Pad a Girl Up' Initiative.                                                           By Olamide Akinwumi. 

In a significant stride towards menstrual hygiene management and education, the Ladies’ Wing of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Ekiti State Chapter, under the leadership of Deputy Chairman Comrade Mercy Olowokere, has seen tremendous growth and impact with their 'Pad a Girl Up' initiative. This success is attributed to the dedication and support from key figures, including Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the First Lady of Ekiti State.

Speaking with journalists, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress Ekiti State Chapter, expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji. He also acknowledged the support from the Commissioner for Youth Development, the Director General of Community Communication Mary Oso-Omotosho, the DG Diaspora, the Ekiti State Accountant General, leader Adesuyi Peter, PTA, the SA Youth Development Maxwell, SSA Students Lady Comrade Adetiba, the team ladies wing of the Nigerian Youth Congress Ekiti State Chapter, the mother general wife of Baba Fasuan, and all the state executives of the Nigerian Youth Congress Ekiti State.

The first volume of the 'Pad a Girl Up' program, held on May 28, 2024, at Mary Immaculate, Old Garage, Ado-Ekiti, marked a significant step towards raising awareness and providing practical solutions for menstrual hygiene management. This event successfully reached many young girls, equipping them with the necessary tools and education to manage their menstrual health confidently.

The initiative's success highlights the importance of community-led efforts and the critical role of supportive leadership in addressing social issues. Dr. Oyebanji’s involvement has been instrumental in driving the initiative's impact, ensuring that the program not only meets immediate needs but also contributes to the long-term health and empowerment of young women in Ekiti State.

The 'Pad a Girl Up' initiative plans to extend its reach to all sixteen local government areas in the state. The continued support from the Nigerian Youth Congress and key figures like Dr. Oyebanji is essential in sustaining this momentum and driving further positive change.

The collective efforts and the program's success serve as a testament to the power of collaboration and the vital role of community and leadership in fostering progress. The ongoing commitment of the Ekiti State First Lady and the Nigerian Youth Congress remains a beacon of hope for continued advancements in menstrual health awareness and education.

The successful launch of the 'Pad a Girl Up' program underscores the importance of such initiatives in promoting health, education, and empowerment among young girls. The NYC looks forward to furthering this mission with the support of its partners and the community, paving the way for a brighter future for the young women of Ekiti State.

Daurama Foundation Marks World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024 with Significant Contributions and Celebrations in FCT, Borno State.

Daurama Foundation Marks World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024 with Significant Contributions and Celebrations in FCT, Borno State.

Dr. Samira Buhari and her Daurama Foundation celebrated World Menstrual Hygiene Day by spending the day advocating for, and enlightening girls on menstrual health and the importance of menstrual hygiene with young girls at the JSS Secondary School, Wuse, Zone 3, Abuja. This year's global theme, "Together for a "PeriodFriendlyWorld," emphasises the collective effort to eliminate the stigma around menstruation and ensure every girl has access to the resources they need for menstrual health and hygiene.

The Daurama Foundation team educated over 500 young girls on the importance of menstrual health and hygiene awareness. They also distributed period-friendly hygiene supplies, including sanitary pads, detergents, tissue papers, and exercise books to the students.

Dr. Samira Buhari, in her goodwill message, said "Every month, more than two billion people around the world menstruate. It is crucial that girls in Nigeria have access to the sanitary items they need to manage their periods safely and hygienically. Ensuring menstrual health aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, promoting gender equality, quality education, and good health and well-being. Today and every day, we must normalise conversations about menstruation and take action to end period poverty."

The school's principal, Mrs Adebimpe Ojo, expressed her gratitude for the foundation's support. "The Daurama Foundation's visit today has not only provided our students with essential hygiene supplies but also empowered them with knowledge. This is a significant step towards ensuring that our girls can attend school confidently and without interruption."

One of the students, Emmanuel Perfection, shared her excitement and appreciation. She said "Receiving these sanitary pads and learning about menstrual health today has been very helpful. Now I feel more prepared and confident. Thank you to Dr. Buhari and the Daurama Foundation for caring about us."

In addition to the events in Abuja, Dr. Samira Buhari, through the Daurama Foundation, donated 500 sanitary pads towards the WASH program in Borno State, Nigeria. This donation is part of the foundation's contribution to the WASH Partners initiative, aiming to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) standards in the region.

As the movement against period poverty celebrates ten years of collective action by women and girls worldwide, Daurama Foundation continues to champion menstrual hygiene management and awareness in Nigeria. Today's event highlights the ongoing commitment to making talking about periods a normal part of life and ensuring that no girl misses out on education due to lack of sanitary products.

The Daurama Foundation, led by Dr. Samira Buhari, is committed to improving health outcomes and championing the rights of women and girls across Nigeria through advocacy, comprehensive education, and active community engagement, we work to tackle pressing issues that affect the well-being and rights of girls and women in the communities we serve. Programs aim to address domestic violence, improve neonatal health, and advocate for menstrual health and hygiene. Empowering women and girls, fostering sustainable development, and attaining equality heavily rely on these pivotal focus areas.

For more information about the Daurama Foundation and its initiatives, please visit www.dauramafoundation.org

Contact Daurama Foundation at press@dauramafoundation.org

NULGE President Hails Ekiti State, Two Others On Local Government Autonomy.

NULGE President Hails Ekiti State, Two Others On Local Government Autonomy. 

 

Comrade Ambali Olatunji, NULGE President. 

The President of National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Comrade Ambali Olatunji has commended Ekiti State Government for adhering to the constitutional provision of local government autonomy in the state.

Speaking on Channels Television’s programme, The Morning Brief on Tuesday, Comrade Olatunji, who criticised state governments for flouting the local government autonomy law, however cited Ekiti State as one of the three states that have followed the due process for local government autonomy.

He identified Rivers and Jigawa as two other states that have also complied with the constitutional provision.

The NULGE President who flayed what he described as flagrant disregard for the local government autonomy, by state government, alleged that many states have continued to deny the third tier of government democratic governance through the use of Caretaker committees or sole administrator as against elected officials, adding that many of them have also not complied with the financial independence aspect of the autonomy, through unwholesome practices that slow down growth and development at the third tier government.

When asked by the moderator to mention names of the states that are disregarding the local government autonomy law and who are in the habit of crediting and withdrawing money from the local government account, Comrade Olatunji said only the three states- Ekiti, Jigawa and Riverrs have complied with the law.

“Only three states are complying “mutantis mutandis with the provisions of the constitution -Ekiti, Jigawa and Rivers. These are the states that stand above board in the issue of local government autonomy.”, he added.

Shasha Market Crisis: EKSG Resolves Ikere Community, Hausa Traders Land dispute.

Shasha Market Crisis: EKSG Resolves Ikere Community, Hausa Traders Land dispute.

The Ekiti State Government, has resolved the protracted land dispute between Ikere community and Hausa traders over cases of massive land encroachments being allegedly perpetrated at Shasha market located along Ado-Ikere Highway.

The government urged the Hausa traders to continue to operate unhindered in the market, with a stringent warning that the market stalls and residential buildings being erected shouldn’t exceed the one kilometre radius allocated to them by the state government.

Sequel to a petition written by Ikere Community that Hausa traders were exceeding the lands allocated to them, the state government, had set up a powerful Boundary Technical Committee to visit the area and ascertain the veracity of the claim for peace to reign.

While giving the report of the Committee, on Tuesday, the Ekiti State Surveyor General, Adebayo Faleto, revealed that measurement indicated that the buildings erected by Hausa traders in the market didn’t transcend the area apportioned to them ab initio.

Presiding over the matter, the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, told the Ikere land owners, who have not been compensated to officially write to government for excision of part of the lands in that axis to them based on the advice of experts.

Appealing to the land owners not to hinder business operation in the area , Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, said the community and the traders are Nigerians, who should continue to cohabit harmoniously without rancour and bad blood.

As part of their lofty contributions to the development of the state, the Deputy Governor, urged the traders operating in the market to pay their statutory taxes and rates to Ikere Local Government, to shore up the internally generated revenue of the council.

Mrs Afuye said: “The land you released to government in that area had been gazetted and it is now a matter of law. If you want to get some portions back, you have to pass through some processes.

“Let the families who want to be compensated with lands to write to the Bureau of Land, the government will consider your position. There is no reason to fight over land or start killing yourselves or destroying people’s property, it is against the law”, she warned.

On how to take full ownership of the Shasha area, Mrs Afuye added: “The local government must be alive to its responsibility of going there to collect taxes and rates from these traders, because the lands were acquired for development and this won’t be realised when you are not complying.

“Shasha market is a plus to Ikere community. They add to your population and voting strength. Please, allow the traders to continue to operate since they have not exceeded the radius allocated to them”, Mrs Afuye pleaded.

In her submission at the parley, the General Manager, Ekiti State Housing Corporation, Mrs Ilesanmi Abimbola, said 20 hectares of land were ceded to the agency in that area through the office of the Surveyor General of the State, out of which two hectares were legally allocated to Hausa community.

“The lands were allocated to Hausa traders through the normal processes of government and there was nothing like encroachment on government’s lands. The lands acquired were paid for and duly allocated”.

Commending the government for being painstaking and unbiased in the handling of the issues raised by his people, the Ogoga of Ikere, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, said necessary steps will be taken for the excision of some lands to his people to serve as compensation.

The monarch, represented by the Saruku of Ikere kingdom, Chief Clement Alomoge posited that his people would continue to coexist peacefully with the traders in the overall interest of the community, saying what they stoutly stood against was undue and illegal land acquisition by strangers.

“We are not after anyone or trying to go into war with the Hausa traders, they belong to us, we consider them as part of our people. But we need to clarify that the lands ceded to Hausa traders were for market and not for residential purpose.

“The government acquired the lands from Ikere for development and not to be allocated to individuals as they were doing, that was our contention, not to fight anyone.

“We will write to government as rightly advised, so that part of these unused lands can be excised  families who are yet to be compensated for peace to reign”, the monarch said.