Another 200 Adire Ekiti Trainees Get Start-up Kits.

Another 200 Adire Ekiti Trainees Get Start-up Kits. 

...First Lady Hails Oyebanji's Support for Empowerment Project.

Another 200 trainees of Adire Ekiti fabrics production have been empowered with start-up kits to commence their trade with an assurance of more opportunities to access grants to boost the enterprise.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who distributed the empowerment materials to the 200 trainees from Ekiti South Senatorial District who have completed their training at the Adire Ekiti Hub urged them to utilize the opportunity to build a flourishing business enterprise.

At the empowerment ceremony held on Tuesday at the Adire Ekiti Hub along Iworoko Road in Ado Ekiti, each of the beneficiaries received a start-up pack containing clothing materials, wax, chemicals, dye and a sum of N25,000 to assist them in commencing production on their own and a certificate of completion.

Dr. Oyebanji who charged the Adire Ekiti training beneficiaries to effectively utilize the social media to showcase and market their products stressed that Adire has become a universal attire that is accepted and worn all over the world.

This, she said, is capable of opening doors of economic creativity, creating burgeoning market and stimulate demand from all parts of Nigeria and overseas for the practitioners of Adire trade who are increasing in number in Ekiti which she said is already becoming a destination of choice for the sale of the fabrics.

The First Lady used the opportunity of the forum to shower encomium on her husband, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, for being a pillar of support for the Adire Ekiti project stressing that the project was personally sponsored by him without commiting state funds to the venture.

Dr. Oyebanji said her husband is passionate about the Adire Ekiti project and is ever ready to keep the initiative going to ensure that more citizens of the state are empowered with skills and taken off the labour market to contribute to the economy in the grassroots.

She said: "If you have an idea or a vision and there is nobody to run the vision with or support you, the vision will just die. I want to appreciate my darling husband, the Governor, for his support for this project since we started with beneficiaries from Ekiti Central and now with those from Ekiti South.

"It takes a Governor who has compassion for his people. My husband said the WAOH Project is for intervention in the lives of widows and orphans while Adire Ekiti project is for productivity. Life is about impact and that is what Governor BAO is doing.

"If the Governor can do this for you (beneficiaries), then you must justify the resources spent on training and these empowerment materials. I want to commend you trainees from Ekiti South, your works stand you out.

"Showcase your works on social media and people will patronize you. Display and advertise your products on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. Convert the social media to an advantage for your business rather than wasting your data on unproductive ventures."

The Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, said things are taking positive shape under the Oyebanji Administration in Ekiti State commending the foresight of the first couple in the state in coming up with the Adire Ekiti and going ahead to bankroll it.

Mrs. Afuye said hundreds of Ekiti youths have benefitted from the milk of kindness of the Governor and his wife noting that the empowerment project is having multiplier effects on families and communities in the state.

The Deputy Governor urged the people of Ekiti to allow the good works under her boss to continue crediting the Governor with the feat of turning the Land of Honour to a centre of enterprise and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Commissioner for Special Duties, Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi, described the office of Ekiti First Lady as one of the busiest of its kind in Nigeria and a beehive of activities, generosity and kindness hailing the Governor and his wife for being keepers of promises.

He added that Governor Oyebanji has brought life to Ekiti and the people have seen governance in a different way especially in touching their personal welfare urging them to keep the good works going.

Chairman of the state chapter of Association of Local Governments in Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Segun Ojo, congratulated the beneficiaries whom he said have been given an opportunity to become the chief executive officers of their businesses.

Hon. Ojo, who is also the Chairman of Ekiti East Local Government, said creation of job opportunities and productivity has being done with Adire Ekiti, is an effective and potent way of defeating poverty which he described as a global problem.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Director General of Adire Ekiti Hub, Dr. Abimbola Oni, said it was fulfilling to successfully train two batches of 400 trainees from Ekiti Central and Ekiti South noting that Ekiti North is billed to produce the next set of trainees.

One of the beneficiaries, Temitope Ale, appreciated the First Lady for giving them the platform of economic empowerment promising to justify the investment in their human capital to make impact in their localities and the state as a whole.

Excitement as Oyebanji swears in second female Head of Service.

Excitement as Oyebanji swears in second female Head of Service.

…..Gov charges new HoS to reposition service to meet modern realities.

There was great excitement on Tuesday as Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji inaugurated the new Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, urging her to sustain ongoing reforms in the state’s civil service.

Performing the swearing-in ceremony at the Conference Hall, Governor’s office, Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji stressed the need for the new Head of Service to mobilize the instrument of state to improve the talents and skills of the workforce for effective and efficient service delivery as well as ensure that there is no room for indolence and professional misconduct in the civil service.

Dr Olomojobi, who until her appointment was the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education is the second female Head of Service in the history of the state. Her inauguration was withneseed by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji and six former Heads of Service. 

Governor Oyebanji, in his address, commended the new HOS for her years of proficiency, patriotism, and professional service to the state . He affirmed that she earned the appointment on the strength of her competence, impactful service, and objective assessment in line with the merit-based policy of the administration. 

“There is no doubt that Dr Olomojobi is one of the highly trained, globally exposed, intellectually sophisticated piblic servants. She comes with a lot of skills that will definitely bring remarkable improvement to the civil and public service of Ekiti state. 

“The positive response that greeted her appointment across the ranks and files of the service is eloquent testimony to her suitability for the position.

The Governor called on Dr Olomojobi to ensure adequate mobilization of the bureaucratic family of the state in the realization of the six pillars of the administration, noting that a lot of expectation is demanded from her as the civil service as a trailblazer is supposed to be exceptional in all its ramifications.

Governor Oyebanji said his administration had demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers in the payment of salary arrears, leave bonus arrears, payment of minimum ways adjustment across all cadres, and wage award to cushion the current economic hardship on the people pending the conclusion of ongoing tripartite minimum wage negotiation among others.

He called on workers to reciprocate the good gesture of government through their hard work and commitment to the realization of the agenda of government while the government will continue to provide a conducive working atmosphere and tools for workers to thrive.

The Governor called on the new Head of service to be an inspiration to her colleagues across the cadres and ensure that she does not give room for indolence and professional misconduct under any guise. 

He expressed confidence that Dr Olomojobi will bring her experience to bear in transforming the civil service, noting that he had no doubt that the new HOS would deliver given her endowment with the requisite capacity, training, and competence to cope with the challenges ahead.

The Governor called on her to chart a new course of leadership that is based on fundamental values, integrity, service, and prudence.

He also used the opportunity to express his appreciation to labour leaders for their support and encouragement which had made labour and the government of Ekiti state partners in progress hoping that the appointment of the new head of service would further cement the relationship between the labour centers and government.

The Governor also urged the new Head of Service not to succumb to undue pressure from friends and families in the course of discharging her duty. He also appealed to leaders in her community and relations not to subject her to undue pressure so she could discharge her duty creditably well. 

In her response, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi praised the Governor for his leadership style and reforms which have made Ekiti State the envy of other states, and promised to do her best by ensuring that public servants work within the ambit of the six pillars of his administration to achieve the shared prosperity agenda of the government.

Dr Olomojobi affirmed that the preoccupation of civil servants is to ensure that all government policies promulgated to deliver the public good derivable from the six pillars are implemented efficiently and effectively.

APC Southwest Executives Celebrates Hon. Kekemeke's Birthday with Heartfelt Tribute.

APC Southwest Executives Celebrates Hon. Kekemeke's Birthday with Heartfelt Tribute.

In a show of camaraderie and respect, the Southwest Zonal Executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have extended warm and heartfelt birthday wishes to Hon. D.I. Kekemeke, the esteemed National Vice Chairman (Southwest) of the APC. The celebration underscores the admiration and appreciation for Kekemeke's unwavering commitment to the party's progressive ideals.

In a statement released by the Zonal Secretary, Vincent Bewaji, the executives praised Hon. Kekemeke for his steadfast leadership, unparalleled dedication, and unwavering resolve, which have been pivotal to the party's continued success in the Southwest region and Nigeria at large.

"Your unwavering self-belief and pragmatic approach to problem-solving have been the hallmarks of your distinguished tenure," the statement read. "These qualities have earned you the respect and admiration of your peers, followers, and constituents alike."

The executives highlighted Hon. Kekemeke's tireless efforts to strengthen the party's grassroots connections and foster unity among its ranks. They credited his leadership as instrumental in solidifying the APC's position as the dominant political force in the Southwest and across Nigeria.

"Today, as we celebrate your birthday, we are reminded of the invaluable contributions you have made to our great party and the people of the Southwest," Bewaji continued. "Your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the progress and prosperity of our region that produced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have truly set you apart as a true champion of the people."

Hon. Kekemeke's leadership has not only been a beacon of inspiration within the APC but also a catalyst for development and unity in the Southwest region. His pragmatic approach and dedication have brought about significant progress, earning him accolades from various quarters.

The Southwest Zonal Executives of the APC used the occasion to express their best wishes for Hon. Kekemeke's continued good health, happiness, and success. "May this special day be a testament to your remarkable achievements and a harbinger of many more years of dedicated service to the APC and the people of the Southwest," Bewaji added.

In conclusion, they celebrated Hon. Kekemeke's birthday with a resounding affirmation of his impactful legacy. "Happy birthday, Our Leader! May your path be illuminated with the blessings of success and may your legacy continue to inspire generations to come."

The celebration of Hon. D.I. Kekemeke's birthday underscores the deep appreciation and respect he commands within the APC and beyond, as his contributions continue to shape the political landscape of the Southwest and Nigeria as a whole.

Ekiti Gradually Turning into Nigeria’s Investment Hub.

Ekiti Gradually Turning into Nigeria’s Investment Hub.

At the unveiling ceremony of the Adire Ekiti Hub in March, Nneka Moses of Goge Africa described Ekiti State as "Nigeria's best-kept secret." Few people could grasp the full significance of this eye-opening statement.

Until recently, many were unaware of the vast investment potential that Ekiti holds. However, thanks to Governor Oyebanji’s efforts, the state has been thrust into the spotlight. Through strategic initiatives, infrastructure development, and proactive policies, Ekiti is now positioned as an attractive destination for investors.

In the first quarter of 2024 (January - March), Ekiti was one of only three states that contributed to the country’s capital importation, recording a total of $12,750 in foreign capital inflow. This data, revealed in a National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report titled "Nigeria Capital Importation Q1 2024," underscores Ekiti’s rising prominence on the investment map.

This new development signifies several positive outcomes for Ekiti. They include:

♻️ *Economic Growth:* The influx of foreign capital will spur economic activities, leading to job creation and improved living standards for the citizens.

♻️ *Increased Visibility:* As more investors turn their attention to Ekiti, the state will gain national and international recognition, further enhancing its attractiveness.

♻️ *Enhanced Infrastructure:* Investments in various sectors will lead to the development of critical infrastructure, benefiting both residents and businesses.

Governor Oyebanji’s administration has laid a solid foundation for a thriving investment climate in Ekiti, and the recent capital importation figures are a testament to these efforts. 

This is a clarion call to prospective investors to consider Ekiti as their one-stop investment destination. With its strategic location, supportive government policies, and a growing economy, Ekiti offers a conducive environment for businesses to flourish.

The State is open for business, and the opportunities are boundless. Investors should seize this moment to explore and tap into the immense potential that Ekiti has to offer.

Gov. Oyebanji Appoints Engr. Atere As Technical Advisor.

Gov. Oyebanji Appoints Engr. Atere As Technical Advisor.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of Engr. Phillip Atere as Technical Advisor on Power Infrastructure.

The appointment takes effect from Monday 8th July 2024.

Engr Atere until his retirement from the state civil service, was the Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State Electricity Board, where he played very significant roles in the administration’s development efforts in the area of power infrastructure upgrade.

Governor Oyebanji, while congratulating Engr Atere on his appointment, urges him to be prepared to deploy his wealth of experience and expertise to further boost power infrastructure in the state.

Signed:

Olayinka Oyebode

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State.

02-04-2024

Ekiti HoS Komolafe bows out of service, commends Gov. Oyebanji on workers welfare, others.

Ekiti HoS Komolafe bows out of service, commends Gov. Oyebanji on workers welfare, others.

The immediate past Head of Service, Ekiti State Civil Service Engr. Sunday Komolafe has expressed his appreciation to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for availing him the opportunity to serve in that capacity, just as he commended the Governor’s welfare policy for civil servants. In the state. 

Speaking on Monday during the inauguration of four newly appointed permanent secretaries at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s office, Engr. Komolafe also thanked the Governor for giving him the rare opportunity to append his signature to the appointment letters of the permanent secretaries.

The inauguration ceremony was Engr Komolafe’s last public engagement as Head of Service , as his retirement took effect same day following his attainment of the mandatory 35 years in service. 

A visibly elated Komolafe said it was a great honour for him to have the opportunity to append his signatures on letters of appointment of some permanent secretaries before his exit. 

“Today marks my last day in the civil service of Ekiti state which I started thirty-five years ago in the old Ondo State. I wish to appreciate his Excellency, Governor Biodun Oyebanji for holding on to the tenets of merits in the appointments of public officials.” He said, adding that the four permanent secretaries were drawn from the list of successful candidates on the last examination conducted in 2023 for the state civil service and the local government service. 

“I want to acknowledge Mr Governor for the wonderful work he has done since my assumption to the office for helping me to lift the bar of the civil service during my short but eventful period. I thank you for the good things done for the civil servants. How many will I mention, the loans have been coming much more regular than it used to be by approving the recapitalization to ensure that more people benefit. It was done to the state and the local government.”

Engr. Komolafe highlighted other areas where civil servants benefitted from the welfare package of Governor Oyebanji’s administration to include approval of car and housing loans for primary school teachers who never enjoyed such largesse of government since creation of the state, adding that the Governor also inaugurated the SUBEB loans board to facilitate effective administration of the loans.

Other achievements in the area of workers’ welfare, according to Engr. Komolafe were regular payment of salaries and pension; payment of wage award which has eluded workers in many states as well as timely promotion of workers.

“When I came on board, we have two years arrears of promotion, 2022 and 2023, Mr Governor has approved and many workers have started receiving their letters of promotion. Shall we also talk about the free bus service that Mr Governor has graciously approve for civil servants which was later extended to Ikere Ekiti free of charge which has greatly enhance both attendance and punctuality in the office.”

Engr, Komolafe also commended the Governor for approving the regularization of the appointment of 326 temporary staff who have since been given permanent appointments. 

While commending labour union in the state, the former Head of Service said, “labour leaders have given a continuous and harmonious cooperation with government, it is on record that during my short period of time, there was no industrial action that is peculiar to Ekiti state and the few that were nationally declared were observed in Ekiti with caution because they are aware that our Governor does not take their welfare with levity.

He called on civil servants to continue to cooperate with Governor Oyebanji to achieve his shared prosperity agenda for Ekiti people, noting that everyone has a role to play in bringing to bear all the lofty programmes and policies of government to improve the lots of the people.

Cavista Holdings Limited Appoints OSKA as Group Director of Sales

Cavista Holdings Limited Appoints OSKA as Group Director of Sales.

A leading conglomerate in Technology, Agriculture, Hospitality, and Fintech, is excited to announce the appointment of Olaoluwaseyi Silvannus Kehinde Aiyeleso (OSKA) as its new Group Director of Sales. 

With over 30 years of experience in sales and marketing, OSKA will oversee sales strategies and operations across all subsidiaries, including Ikogosi Warm Spring Resorts, Agbeyewa Farms Ltd, Cavista Tech, and Payzeep.

OSKA's career spans senior roles in multinational corporations like Cadbury Nigeria Plc and Conoil Plc, where he excelled as General Manager (Sales) for West Africa. He also held leadership roles in the public sector in Ekiti State.

 He was a former Director-General of the Ekiti State Enterprise and Economic Development Agency. He was also a former Group Managing Director/CEO of Ekiti State Fountain Holdings Limited ( the Investment Arm of Ekiti State Government).

He holds a Bachelor's degree in Management Studies (Accounting) from the University of Jos, an MBA from Bayero University, Kano, and is currently pursuing a doctorate degree at Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti.

He is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Nigerian Institute of Marketing and the Nigerian Institute of Management.

"We are delighted to welcome OSKA to Cavista Holdings Limited," said Mr. John Olajide, Chairman of Cavista Holdings Limited. "His extensive experience and proven success in sales and marketing make him a valuable addition to our team."

OSKA's appointment underscores Cavista Holdings Limited's commitment to expanding its market presence and enhancing customer value across Nigeria and West Africa. With a focus on innovation and growth, the company is poised to strengthen its leadership in the hospitality, agriculture, technology, and finance sectors, delivering exceptional outcomes for stakeholders and communities alike.