Sallah: Fayemi Urges Nigerians to Embody Ideals of Eid el Kabir.

Sallah: Fayemi Urges Nigerians to Embody Ideals of Eid el Kabir.

In his Eid-el Kabir message, Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and ex-chairman of the Nigerian Governors' Forum (NGF) has extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful across the country and called on Nigerians to embody the ideals of the sacred festival.

"As we celebrate this year's Eid el Kabir, I extend my warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to all our Muslim brothers and sisters across Nigeria," Fayemi said. "Eid el Kabir reminds us of the boundless compassion of the Almighty and the enduring strength found in unity and community."

He described the festival as a powerful reminder that true devotion requires sacrifice and a willingness to place the greater good above personal interests, urging the faithful to reflect on these ideals and embody them daily through empathy, generosity, and solidarity.

‘’Eid el Kabir is not merely a time for festivity. It is an opportunity to reinforce our commitment to values of empathy, generosity, and solidarity," he stated.

He further acknowledged Nigeria’s current challenges, emphasizing the nation's resilience and ability to overcome adversity through unity.  

"We are all aware of the myriad challenges facing our beloved country today as Nigerians navigate difficult times. But let us remember that even in the face of adversity, our resilience as a people remains unshaken. Our history is replete with instances where we have come together to overcome daunting obstacles, emerging stronger and more united," he said.

The former governor called on Nigerians to hold steadfast to hope and continue supporting one another, drawing inspiration from the essence of Eid el Kabir, and expressing confidence that the nation can build a better future through collective effort and action.  

"I urge all Nigerians to hold steadfast to hope and support one another. Let us draw inspiration from the essence of Eid el Kabir, recognizing that every challenge we face is an opportunity for growth and renewal. Through collective effort and action, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and generations," Fayemi added.

He wished that the Eid-el Kabir celebrations would bring joy, peace, and prosperity to the nation, and prayed that God would accept the sacrifices of the faithful, and guide the country towards a future of hope and fulfilment.

Emphasize professionalism, discipline, integrity, Oyebanji charges LG leadership.

Emphasize professionalism, discipline, integrity, Oyebanji charges LG leadership.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has called on the leadership of the local government in the state to place high premium on professionalism, discipline, integrity, compassion, and teamwork in order to drive substantial improvement in local government administration.

Governor Oyebanji, who made the call while declaring open a three-day retreat for the heads of local government and local council development areas of the state at the NULGE secretariat, Ado- Ekiti on Friday, said maintaining high professional standard is crucial for effective service delivery for the development and progress of the grassroots.

Recognizing the importance of strong leadership and ethical standards in public service, the Governor said the only way for them to earn the trust of the people such that they will discharge their civic responsibility to government is by dealing with them with utmost sincerity integrity, efficiency and professionalism.

He urged them to uphold the highest ethical standards of honesty and transparency in all their dealings, adding that public confidence in local governments hinges on the perceived honesty and reliability of its leaders. This, he said, is the only way to correct the wrong notion that local government staff are generally under-engaged.

Expressing his administration’s firm belief in training and re-training of workers in order to bring out the best in them and  enhance their productivity, the Governor said that was why he restored the full payment of the training funds to the local government commission.

 

While commending the leadership of the local government service commission for working hard to reposition the local government to be able to respond appropriately to the demands vision, programs, and project of  his administration, the Governor assured them that his administration would continue to prioritize the welfare of workers in the state.

 

“I must be frank with you that many people hold the view rightly or wrongly that the local government staffs are generally under-engaged, form of absenteeism, and are not well motivated for service delivery. We may want to argue this, but we must take it as a fair criticism and do something about it. The first step to take is to lead by example. I expect the leadership to be in charge by placing premiums on professionalism, discipline, integrity, compassion, and teamwork at the workplace.

“As government, we will continue to prioritize the welfare of our workers at all times. Since we came on board, we have offset some legacy salary arrears, paid salary as and when due, we have approved the promotion of 2022/2023 for those who are eligible”. The Governor said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel Abejide, who appreciated the Governor for his efforts at ensuring that the local government staffs are at per with their state counterparts,  itemized the Governor’s achievement in local government to include, approval of reinstatement of local government training fund, purchase of utility vehicle for top government officials, renovation of local government service commission's secretariat, approval of 2022 and 2023 promotion, among others.

He said the training was conceived to further improve members of staff behaviour, staff behavioural changes positively bearing in mind the dynamics of human behaviour, environmental challenges and emerging trends and how they can impact on the delivery of quality services.

In his goodwill message, the NULGE President, Mr Oluseyi Olatunde, commended the governor for appointing a resourceful and thorough bred board members and permanent secretary to oversee the affairs of the local government service commission.

Emphasizing various achievements of the governor in less than two years in office, Mr Oluwaseyi said local government staff had never had it so well.

He therefore urged the staff to reciprocate the Governor’s gesture by being diligent, dutiful, and committed to work.

Oyebanji Urges Muslims To Imbibe Lessons Of Eid-El -Kabir.

Oyebanji Urges Muslims To Imbibe Lessons Of Eid-El -Kabir.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Muslim Ummah for witnessing this year’s Eid -el -Kabir festival. 

The Governor in a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, urged Muslims to imbibe the lessons of love and sacrifice which the season symbolizes as they celebrate. 

He urged charged them on the need to reflect on the significance of the sacrifice epitomized by the festival as well as promote the virtues of Islam.

Governor Oyebanji urged the faithful to learn from Prophet Ibrahim who surrendered to the will of the Almighty Allah by sacrificing his son Ishmael based on Allah's injunction.

He said Prophet Ibrahim's obedience, which was a test of faith, turned what was thought to be a loss to a great gain noting that sacrifices, when done in good faith, produces positive results.

The Governor who expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges, urged Nigerians not to relent in their prayers for the country at this critical time in its history.

The Ekiti helmsman appreciated the Muslim Community in the state for the support given to his administration through prayer, counsels and solidarity which he said he would not take for granted. He also thanked them for living in peace and harmony with other adherents of other religions, thereby making the state one of the most peaceful states to live and work. 

The Governor promised to continue to carry the Muslim Community along as he does with other stakeholders in the bid to make Ekiti an enviable state in key sectors and a land of shared prosperity where everyone can find fulfilment.

He urged the Muslim pilgrims performing this year's Hajj to use the opportunity of their presence in the holy land to pray for peace, progress and prosperity of the state and Nigeria as a whole.

“As we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, it is my sincere wish that we celebrate in moderation, reflect on the lessons of the Eid-el-Kabir festival, show love to one another, work and pray for the greater level of prosperity for our dear state and country. May God accept our worship as an act of 'Ibadah. Happy Sallah”, the statement added.

NAWOJ Commends Oyebanji on Historic Appointment of Female Head of Service.

NAWOJ Commends Oyebanji on Historic Appointment of Female Head of Service.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji
Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Nigeria. 

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has lauded Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State for appointing Dr. Mrs. Olufolake Olomojobi as the new Head of Service. This groundbreaking decision marks a significant stride towards gender equity within the state's civil service.

In Pic: Dr. Mrs. Olufolake Olomojobi, the new Head of Service.

In a statement released by NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs. Adewumi Ademiju, the organization praised Governor Oyebanji for his progressive stance on gender balance. Mrs. Ademiju highlighted Dr. Olomojobi's extensive expertise and leadership qualities, expressing confidence in her ability to elevate the performance of the civil service.

"We commend Governor Oyebanji for this appointment, which sets a positive precedent for gender inclusivity," Mrs. Ademiju remarked. The association further expressed gratitude for the governor's commitment to women's empowerment and urged Dr. Olomojobi to use her new role to inspire young women across Ekiti State.

NAWOJ emphasized that Governor Oyebanji's decision underscores his administration's dedication to advancing gender equality. "This appointment signifies a step forward, and we anticipate more inclusive initiatives from your administration," the statement affirmed.

 

The statement, signed by Funmi Falae, Secretary of NAWOJ Ekiti, encapsulates NAWOJ's commendation of Governor Oyebanji's gender-friendly policy through the appointment of Dr. Olomojobi, emphasizing the positive impact on women's advancement in Ekiti State's civil service.

Ekiti Youths And Students Hail Governor Oyebanji's Stewardship In The Distribution Of Palliatives

Ekiti Youths And Students Hail Governor Oyebanji's Stewardship In The Distribution Of Palliatives.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Convergence of all the Youth Organizations and student structures in Ekiti State, ably coordinated by Aare Adedara Temitope, have expressed profound gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, for his considerate and inclusive approach to the distribution of palliatives across the state.

 In the fifth phase of distribution of palliatives, two hundred (200) packages were allocated specifically to Ekiti youths and students in various wards, a move that has been met with widespread appreciation.

Aare Adedara emphasized that Governor Oyebanji's strategic sharing formula, which ensures equitable distribution across different local government areas, highlights his dedication to the well-being of all residents, especially the younger population.

Front- His Excellency Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Left- the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade during the fifth phase palliatives distribution programme. 

According to the coordinator: "This compassionate leadership dexterity has not gone unnoticed, and it underscores His Excellency's commitment to the well-being of Ekiti future leaders," Adedara stated.

He also commended the Honorable Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon Adesola Gold Adedayo, for his diligent efforts in ensuring that these palliatives reached every corner of the state.

Honorable Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon Adesola Gold Adedayo.

Aare Adedara also noted that through his unwavering dedication, he facilitated the effective distribution of these essential items, ensuring that no student body was left out.

In light of this generous initiative, the youth and student bodies of Ekiti State, who represent a significant 70% of the state's population, are urging Governor Oyebanji to consider increasing the quantity of palliatives in future distributions.

 This appeal stems from the recognition of the substantial number of youths and students in the state and their crucial role in its development.

"We are extremely grateful for Governor Oyebanji's overwhelming love and unwavering support towards the citizens of the state, particularly the youth and student population," said Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Ekiti State Chapter. He furthered by describing the actions of the governor as a reflection of profound understanding of our needs and a genuine commitment to our welfare.

As the state continues to navigate through these challenging times, the Governor's empathetic and proactive approach serve as beacon of hope and stability for her residents.

The youths and students remain optimistic and look forward to continued support from Governor Oyebanji's administration.

Ekiti to address food shortage through agric revolution, says Gov Oyebanji.

Ekiti to address food shortage through agric revolution, says Gov Oyebanji.

….as Gov flags off distribution of 20,000 bags of rice, 10,000 bags of maize as palliatives to residents.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has assured the people of the state that his administration is committing all its resources to bringing improvement to the lives of the citizens. This, he said, has left no room for frivolities

The Governor said he will stop at nothing to ensure that he alleviates poverty through agriculture revolution aimed at addressing food shortage in the state. 

The Governor stated these while flagging off the fifth phase of palliative distribution to the 177 wards of the state as well as stakeholders within the state in the bid to reduce the hardship being faced by citizens as a result of current economic situation in the country .

No fewer than 20,000 bags of rice and 10,000 bags of maize were distributed to groups, associations and communities during the flag off event at the Osuntokun pavilion of the Government House, Ado Ekiti. 

Addressing the people at the event, Governor Oyebanji announced that the food being distributed was in collaboration with the Federal  Government, adding that his administration would continue to support local farmers through agric extension programmes and provision of farm inputs and implements to boost agricultural production that would enhance food security in the state. 

 “What we are doing now is a temporary measure, we are doing this in conjunction with the Federal Government, which gave us some bags while we added more to make up 20,000 bags. I don’t want to create the impression that this is my show, Mr president is also involved. So, we expressed our appreciation to the president.

“I am not happy that we are doing this for the fifth time, this is good, but by next year, our plan for the state is to produce sufficient food for Ekiti markets which we believe would bring down prices of food items.”

While calling on youths and other residents of the state to development interest in agriculture, Governor Oyebanji revealed that his government has prepared a total of 2,000 hectares of land to be allocated to interested Ekiti farmers in addition to provision of farm inputs, fertilizer and extension services. He added further that government will ensure the purchase of the output of their farms.

“I must commend the Commissioner for Agriculture for what he is doing in Ekiti state, the impact of what he is doing in the state will be felt in the next two years. By Saturday, we will be in Oke Ako as we are partnering with YSJ to ensure that we revolutionize the agriculture sector. As at today, we have a total of 2000 hectares of cultivated land. That is why we formed agro-rangers that will protect the farms from cattle invasion. 

“Its only when we have food security, that we can combat food deflation, no amount of food distribution can bring down price of food stuff except, we produce our own food. I appeal to all of you, whoever is interested in agric, there is money to be made in agric now. This is because you will not cultivate the land by yourself, we will do that, gives you fertilizer, give you herbicide, give you inputs and we are going to purchase your inputs”, the Governor stated.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, who is also the Chairman Palliatives Distribution Committee, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, thanked the Governor for all his effort at ensuring that every house in the state has a food on their table.

Boluwade explained that 50 bags of rice will be distributed to each of the 177 wards, adding that 10,000 bags of maize would also be given to livestock farmers to boost livestock production in the state..

Acknowledging the   economic hardship faced by the populace, The Commissioner explained that the Governor is working very hard on both the short-term relief measures such as distribution of palliative and various long-term agricultural development measures.

He said government is improving agricultural sector to enhance the overall quality of life of the citizens with an assurance that Ekiti State would experience food sufficiency within the next one year.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Chairman, Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC), Mr Daramola Owoola, representative of the Nigeria Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, Ekiti state, Alhaji Bakare and his Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) counterpart, Pastor Joseph Olubusoye commended Governor Oyebanji for his various efforts at reposition the state and reduce poverty in the land.

They described the action of the governor to ensure food security as unprecedented in the anal of the state, calling on him to continue with the good work as the entire state in behind him.

Other top government functionaries at the flag off were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe; members of the state executive council; local government chairmen among other dignitaries.

Oyebanji Appoints Olomojobi New Head Of Service.

Oyebanji Appoints Olomojobi New Head Of Service. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of Dr Olufolake Olomojobi as the new Head of Service in the State Civil Service.

Dr Olomojobi, until her new appointment, is the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education. She takes over from Engr. Sunday Komolafe, who is billed to retire from the State Civil Service on July 1, 2024, upon attaining the mandatory 35 years in the service.

Dr Olomojobi’s appointment as Head of Service takes effect from Tuesday, July 2, 2024.  

Meanwhile, Governor Oyebanji has commended Engr. Sunday Komolafe, the outgoing Head of Service for his meritorious service to the state, especially his demonstrated resourcefulness, professionalism and administrative acumen which have greatly helped in repositioning the State Civil Service for optimal service delivery. The Governor wishes Komolafe success in his future endeavour.

Dr Olomojobi, the new Head of Service, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, (1994). She also holds a Masters’ degree in Public Health form the University of Lagos, Akoka (2000); and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Ado-Ekiti (now Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti) in 2005.

She has received several trainings in health management from renowned institutions including the Royal Institute of Public Health Administration, Rocester, London (2005); Harvard University School of Public Health/ WBI, Washington DC, USA; World Bank Institute, Wahington DC, USA.  She also holds a Master of Science degree in Health Economics, Policy and Management from the London School of Economics and Political Science, United kingdom. (2017).

Dr Olomojobi started her career with the Ekiti State Civil Service as Assistant Director, Primary Health Care and Disease Control in May 2001. She served in different capacities in the State’s Ministry of Health before her elevation to the position of a Permanent Secretary in 2013.

Prior to her new appointment as Head of Service, Dr Olomojobi had served as Permanent Secretary in several ministries including: Ministry of Health (2013-2016); Hospital Management Board (2016-2018); Ministry of Health and Human Services (2018-2021); and Ministry of Education (2021 till date).

Born on September 20, 1971, Dr Olomojobi, who hails from Otun -Ekiti in Moba Local Government Area, is a recipient of the National Productivity Centre’s Award of Excellence in Leadership and Productivity. She is a member of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) and Pioneer President, Ekiti State Medical Women Association of Nigeria (NWAN).

Signed:

Yinka Oyebode                                                                 

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State  13-06-2024