Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has lauded the contributions of the Seventh Ekiti State House of Assembly to the good governance and implementation of the Shared Prosperity Agenda of his administration.
The Governor made the remarks on Sunday at a Special Thanksgiving Service to mark the First Anniversary in office of the Seventh Ekiti State House of Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye.
The Governor who was represented by the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, described the members of the Seventh Assembly as rare gifts to Ekiti State who are giving dependable support to his administration.
The thanksgiving which was held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Wonderful Mega Area, New Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro and some members of the State Executive Council; Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel Bejide and other political office holders.
Governor Oyebanji who scored Seventh Assembly high in prioritizing the welfare of the people of the state also showered plaudits on the present crop of legislators for putting Ekiti first in their legislative agenda and complementing the smooth running of governance.
He said: "This occasion is not only a celebration of your accomplishments but also a moment to reflect on the journey we have embarked upon together, to express our heartfelt gratitude, and to seek divine guidance for the future.
"In the past year, the Seventh Assembly has exhibited remarkable dedication to the principles of democracy, transparency, and service to the people of Ekiti State.
"Your steadfast commitment to legislative excellence and good governance has been truly inspiring. The laws you have deliberated and enacted form the bedrock of a prosperous future for our beloved state.
"Today, as we give thanks, we are reminded of the power of unity, faith, and perseverance. These virtues have enabled us to overcome challenges and achieve significant milestones. I commend each member of this assembly for your devotion to your duties and for placing the needs of our citizens at the forefront of your legislative agenda."
Governor Biodun Oyebanji also called on the legislators to uphold the principles of democracy which are embedded in the power of love, dedication, commitment and transparency. This he said would always single out Ekiti State for good among the comity of states.
He appealed for more cooperation from the members of the 7th assembly as he described them as most committed and dedicated members Ekiti State House of Assembly ever produced in Ekiti State.
Earlier in his sermon, the Regional Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 20, Pastor Tunde Abdulahi, dwelt on the importance of thanksgiving and emphasized the need to give thanks as he cited the story of the ten lepers in the Bible.
In his thank you message, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, commended the Governor for allowing independence of the three arms of government and said it has allowed mutual understanding and and continuous development in Ekiti State.
The legislators who were resplendent in their colourful Adire Ekiti attires were also joined by their family members and the Assembly staff at the thanksgiving service.