Ekiti State rated high in IGR collection- report.

Ekiti State rated high in IGR collection- report.

Ekiti State has emerged top in improved Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) among the 36 states of the Federation, according to a recent report released during the week. 

In the report circulated by the Joint Tax Board (JTB) at its 155th meeting at Zuma Rock Resort, Suleja, Niger State, Ekiti State ranked first in the 2023 Annual Growth Rate Ranking. 

The Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) increased from ₦17.03b in 2022 to ₦29.82b in 2023, representing a 75 percent growth rate. 

The improvement is attributed to enhanced reporting and significant growth in IGR by the state. The obviously good performance of the Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji is believed to have endeared him to taxpayers leading to improved voluntary compliance.

 Ekiti State also moved up to 16th position in the Total Collections Ranking from its previous ranking of one of the worst five. 

Under the Direct Assessment Parameters, the dynamism of Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service is evident as Ekiti State improved from 33rd to 15th position. 

The State also ranked 25th in Withholding Tax collections and 28th in MDA collections. 

Commenting on the development, the Chairman of  Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Olanitan Olatona said It is hoped that all MDAs will improve their collections and reporting to improve on the  statistics in the future.

Olatona said while the state government has not introduced any new taxes in the state, it has effectively deployed technology to block leakages and ease the mode of payment. 

“Beyond this, the Governor has also deepened the citizens’ confidence in the government through prudent spending that focuses on infrastructure, human capital development, health care delivery and creation of economic opportunities for the citizens. This has helped them to pay their taxes as and when due, while also expecting more from government. 

The IRS boss said the state government intends to capture more citizens in the tax net through sundry empowerment programmes and job creation efforts of the government.

Japa: I 'll Use Good Governance to Curb Brain Drain in Ekiti, Says Oyebanji.

Japa: I 'll Use Good Governance to Curb Brain Drain in Ekiti, Says Oyebanji.

.....as youths endorsed governor for second term.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has promised to deploy the instrumentality of good governance to tame the recurrent cases of migration of youths abroad and to other states of the Federation considered as more economically viable. 

Governor Oyebanji urged the youths to grow good mental perception about Nigeria, saying the economically dangerous brain drain codenamed 'Jappa syndrome' could endanger the country's growth, if not halted.

Oyebanji spoke on Wednesday, at an interactive session with youths christened: 'Youths Let's Talk With BAO', held at the Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado Ekiti. 

The Governor spoke just as the youths, through the Youth Parliament, an assembly of elected youths representing the 16 local government areas of the state passed a vote of confidence on the Governor for what they described as his inspiring leadership adding that their future is secured under his care. 

Addressing the youths numbering over 1,000 drawn from the 16 local government areas of the state, Oyebanji said no efforts will be spared to ensure that productive and economically viable youths find Ekiti attractive to live in and do their businesses. 

"This is a democracy, we can't stop anybody from traveling to wherever he likes, but we have a duty to create enabling environment to stop Jappa syndrome. Jappa  is not about traveling abroad alone, you can leave Ekiti and travel to Lagos or other states. 

"We will work hard and make Ekiti a place where people can work and live. We will make it a place where investment can thrive, where security is guaranteed and where businesses can flourish. It is about providing jobs for a large population of our youths".

Commenting on the recent killings of some people in Ado Ekiti metropolis, the Governor urged the youths to shun cultism, drug abuse  and senseless  killings of innocent souls,  warning that perceiving Nigeria as a failed State could be pernicious to their future. 

As part of the measures to propel Ekiti to food security status, Oyebanji promised to solve the problem of transportation being experienced by youth farmers operating along Ipao-Oke Ako-Irele axis, saying it won't allow this to affect their proceeds adversely. 

Urging the youths to foster the spirit of unity among their groups, Oyebanji promised that his government won't politicise any of its programmes, stressing that all the citizens will be accommodated regardless of political affiliations. 

In their vote of confidence and endorsement of the governor for a second term in office, which was contained in a resolution by the Youth Parliament and read by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Nathaniel Olusanya, saluted Oyebanji for promoting youth inclusion in governance through adequate appointments allotted to the youth population. 

Olusanya said the youths, which comprise 70 percent of voters going by demography contained in the voters register, endorsed  Governor Oyebanji to demonstrate their appreciation for his stunning administrative ingenuity and sterling leadership qualities, especially for prioritising the welfare of the youth population.

"The youths of Ekiti have known and convinced  that our future is guaranteed under your leadership . Ekiti people love you and it is evident in the way they celebrate you always. We have discussed and arrived at a conclusion that you deserve a vote of confidence and we are endorsing you for second term, because you have really made us proud.

"Thanks for all you have done. We know our future is safe in your hands. You have demonstrated capacity. You have shown that you love Ekiti youths. Hundreds of youths are appointed as Special Assistants and Senior Special Assistants under your leadership. We are grateful to you".

Earlier in his submission, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Gold  Adedayo, asserted that  the interaction was not just a mere  jamboree, but a veritable platform to build a strong and dependable future for the state, by enhancing the capacity of youth population. 

"I am happy that Governor Oyebanji built a modern youth Centre comprising internet facilities to boost the potentials of our youths, besides appointing many youths as Special Advisers, Special Assistants and Senior Special Assistants. 

"We are happy with the office of the First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji for promoting textile industry through the establishment of Adire Hub where many youths have been trained on how to own businesses of their own. I appeal to our youths to patronise these locally made products", the Commissioner added.

NGF not against living wage for labour, Governor Oyebanji assures workers.

NGF not against living wage for labour, Governor Oyebanji assures workers.

..…harps on fiscal federalism for states.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has said that State Governors, under the aegis of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) are not against approval of a living wage for Nigerian workers.

Governor Oyebanji, who made this clarification at the 7th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) in Ado- Ekiti on Wednesday, said what the NGF is clamouring for is fiscal federalism that would culminate in the ability and capability of individual states to pay.

He added that since no state in the Federation wants to engage in retrenchment of their workforce, it is incumbent on individual states to determine what they could afford that would not end up in the eventual downsizing of workforce.

“The NGF is not against the living wage, no Governor is against the minimum wage, but what we are saying is that it must reflect fiscal federalism, ability and capacity to pay. No Governor wants to retrench, if there is a minimum wage today without a concurrent increment in what we are earning, no state can pay, and that is the conversation we are having- that, look, we want to give you a living wage, but we must look at what comes to the states and whatever is in the best interest of the states and the workers, we will do.

The Governor used the opportunity to call on workers in Ekiti State to embrace agriculture, adding that his administration had cleared over 2,000 hectares of land to be allocated free of charge to interested Ekiti residents.

According to him, “My appeal to civil servants is that those who would like to be part of our Agriculture Revolution should form themselves into cooperative societies and approach the Ministry of Agriculture for support. 

“It may be difficult to support individually but when you form yourselves into cooperatives, many opportunities are available now. We are clearing land free of charge, we are giving inputs and we are going to buy from you. As I speak today, we have cleared more than 2,000 hectares across Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji described civil servants as critical stakeholders in the administration of the state who represent the propelling force of the state’s machinery as well as key factor in the power structure of the State.

He reiterated the pivotal role civil servants play in the growth and development of the state especially in the realization of the Six Pillars of his administration, adding that whatever compliments the administration had received today as a result of its various achievements in office, can only be directly attributed to the efficiency and effectiveness of the workers.

“I have come here today to associate and rejoice with you as major stakeholders in our body polity. More importantly, I am also here to learn from you and to share your experience. As you know, the civil service is a reservoir of talents where you can find all professionals of different callings and experiences. 

“A conference like this does not benefit the senior civil servants alone, it is an avenue for all of us to learn from one another, cross-fertilize ideas, and share experiences. I am therefore not just here as a Special Guest of Honour, I am here as a student of Public Administration.”, the Governor stated.

PMO, LEADING AJONI LCDA INTO A NEW ERA OF PROSPERITY.

PMO, LEADING AJONI LCDA INTO A NEW ERA OF PROSPERITY.

In a nation where many leaders over look the critical role of agriculture in Nigeria's economy recovery, one figure rises above the rises above the rest as a beacon of innovative governance. Prince Michael Ogungbemi the visionary chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Ekiti State is spearheading a revolutionary approach to Local administration that prioritize agricultural development as cornerstone for economic stability and self-sufficiency.

Prince Ogungbemi, a distinguished young politician and Prince from one of the Ajoni Community is rewriting the narrative of leadership in Nigeria. His tenure as chairman is market by groundbreaking initiatives and strategic alliance aimed at lifting his community out of poverty and unemployment, particularly among the youth.

His potential acumen is further proved by his role as Publicity Secretary of the Afenifere Renewal Group, ARG, a Pan-Yoruba Socio-Political & cultural Organisation.

Under Prince Ogungbemis leadership, Ajoni LCDA has seen a remarkable shift towards agribusiness as a cornerstone of economic policy. His collaboration with an innovative agricultural firm has yielded substantial funding to empower local youths by engaging them in cassava farming on a significant scale. 

This initiative is not just about providing land, it's a comprehensive package including 60 acres at Ekiti State Agricultural Processing Zone, with each of the youth farmers (in commercial agriculture) receiving two acres, plus essential farm inputs and guaranteed market access for their produce. These effort aligns seamlessly with the six points agenda of his Excellency Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State, reinforcing APC led administration's objectives at grassroots level. This is the best form of Youth Empowerment.

By fostering agricultural growth and youth empowerment, Prince Ogungbemi is contributing robustly to the overarching goals of economic resilience and self-reliance among the youths in Ekiti State. His impact extends beyond agriculture.

As the Pioneer Chairman of Ajoni LCDA, his commitment to infrastructural development is unwavering. His administration is behind the construction of the impressive modern administration headquarters, alongside the building of modern schools and marketing centre's across Ajoni communities. 

Recognizing the pivotal role of market women, he has also instituted support funds to boost their businesses, ensuring they thrive within the local economy. 

In a bid to address basic needs and enhance the quality of life for his constituents, Ogungbemi has similarly initiated the installation of solar powered boreholes to provide clean water for his constituents. His proactive stance on security has led to the creation of a local security network, tackling issues like kidnapping and ensuring the safety of residents and farmers. His transformative leadership has not gone unnoticed. 

In 2023, he received the prestigious Interweave International Honorary Ambassador success award from Interweave Solution International (ISI) based in USA in recognition of his exceptional contribution to community development. 

In the same vein, he won the nomination and recommendation of both the Rootswatch magazine and Medal Communications who honored him with the NIGERIAN NATIONAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT MERIT AWARD in Abuja, Nigeria. 

Prince Michael Ogungbemis leadership in Ajoni LCDA is a testament to the power of visionary governance. His strategic focus on agriculture as a vehicle for economic stability, coupled with his comprehensive community development initiatives, position him as a transformative leader. Ogungbemi dedication to uplifting the grassroots not only enhances the lives of those in Ajoni LCDA but also sets a benchmark for effective leadership and community empowerment across Nigeria. 

Through his innovative strategies and partnership skills, Prince Michael Ogungbemi continues to make a profound and lasting impact on his community and beyond. 

The power to think clearly, correctly and scientifically is the greatness of all powers that a man can possess. Embodying this profound wisdom, Prince Michael Ogungbemi, The visionary chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), is transforming his community with a groundbreaking approach to governance. This young man is rewriting the narrative of leadership in Nigeria. His leadership transcends physical achievements, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the people he serves. 

This achievements was made possible through the intervention of God and warmth support from his dearly companion Olori Christianah Olayinka Ogungbemi, a noble and virtuous partner. 

Some heroes are engraved in monuments but Prince Ogungbemi will be engraved in the minds of Ajoni LCDA citizens for time without end.

Ekiti Youths Endorse Governor Oyebanji for Second Term, Pass Vote of Confidence.

Ekiti Youths Endorse Governor Oyebanji for Second Term, Pass Vote of Confidence.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The diverse youth groups in Ekiti State have endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term, citing his impressive performance and prioritization of policies benefiting the youth. The endorsement came during a plenary session organized by the Ekiti Youth Parliament at the Adetiloye Hall in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

The session, presided over by the Speaker of the Parliament, Rt. Hon. Nathaniel Olusanya, saw unanimous support from members representing all 26 constituencies for Governor Oyebanji's re-election bid in the 2026 governorship poll. The motions for endorsement and the vote of confidence were moved by the Leader of the Business, Hon. Oyindamola Adegoke, and seconded by Hon. Adekunle Ayodele, representing Gbonyin Constituency.

Speaker Olusanya praised the governor for his commitment to youth development, highlighting Oyebanji's appointments of young individuals to strategic government positions and his efforts to improve their welfare through various policies and programmes.

"Governor Oyebanji has appointed many youths to high positions of authority in government. By actions and deeds, he has proven to be a youth-friendly governor," Olusanya stated.

He further noted that the governor has addressed the backlog of gratuity and pension arrears for retirees and resolved salary and deduction issues for workers. Oyebanji has also created the Ministries of Job and Wealth Creation and Innovation and Digital Economy, aimed at equipping Ekiti youths for success in the evolving global landscape.

The Speaker also pointed out the governor's efforts in promoting commercial farming in Northern Ekiti through public-private partnerships and the establishment of a Sports Commission to rejuvenate the sports sector.

"The youths, who make up about 70% of the voters in Ekiti, are proud of Governor Biodun Oyebanji and we are endorsing him for a second term. This endorsement is timely and well-deserved," Olusanya asserted.

The Youth Parliament commended the governor for establishing a Centre for youth interaction and innovation in Ado Ekiti, which they believe will further unify the youth. Additionally, they lauded the creation of the Adire Hub through the office of the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, which has started training thousands of youths in self-employment skills.

In response, Governor Oyebanji, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Gold Adesola Adedayo, expressed gratitude for the youths' unwavering support. He assured them of his commitment to delivering democracy dividends and initiating more youth-friendly programmes to tackle joblessness, poverty, and neglect.

"I promise not to betray the confidence reposed in my ability and character," Oyebanji said, pledging to continue his efforts to uplift the youth of Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji's Youth-Centric Initiatives:

1. Strategic Appointments: Numerous young individuals appointed to high government positions.

2. Gratuity and Pension Payments: Addressed backlog of gratuity and pension arrears for retirees.

3. Salary and Deductions: Resolved outstanding salary and deduction issues for workers.

4. New Ministries: Created Ministries of Job and Wealth Creation and Innovation and Digital Economy to modernize Ekiti's workforce.

5. Commercial Farming: Promoted youth involvement in farming through public-private partnerships in Northern Ekiti.

6. Sports Commission: Established to revitalize the sports sector.

7. Youth/Job Creation Centre: Created a hub in Ado Ekiti for youth interaction and innovation.

8. Adire Hub: Training thousands of youths in self-employment skills through the office of the First Lady.

The youths of Ekiti have voiced strong support for Governor Oyebanji's re-election, driven by his significant contributions to their development and welfare. Their endorsement is seen as a reflection of the governor's commitment to fostering a brighter future for the state's young population.

𝐄𝐤𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝐌𝐒𝐌𝐄, 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐲𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐚, 𝐛𝐚𝐠𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐒𝐌𝐄 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝.

𝐄𝐤𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝐌𝐒𝐌𝐄, 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐲𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐚, 𝐛𝐚𝐠𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐒𝐌𝐄 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝. 

.…testament of Gov. Oyebanji’s commitment to MSME development.

Adesola Adedoyin, founder of Desoor bags, wins a whopping sum of N2,000,000 and a brand new car at the National MSME Awards 2024.

Adesola Adedoyin had always believed in the power of creativity and resilience. Her brand, Desoor Bags, was more than just a business— it was a testament to her unwavering determination to succeed against all odds. Little did she know that her hard work and dedication would catapult her into the national spotlight.

The National MSME Awards 2024 proved to be a turning point for Adesola. Her innovative designs and commitment to quality not only earned her the admiration of customers but also caught the attention of the creative industry leaders.

Kudos to Governor Oyebanji's leadership style which has undeniably paved the way for success stories like Adesola's. His steadfast commitment to MSMEs development has created a fertile ground where dreams can flourish and aspirations can become reality. 

Also to the Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives Mrs. Omotayo Adeola, who continues to discover, nurture and connect Ekiti MSMEs to business financing, new markets and global recognition.

#EkitiMSMEdevelopment

#BAOisworking

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.