Oyebanji commissions multi-million naira palm kernel industry in Ekiti.

Oyebanji commissions multi-million naira palm kernel industry in Ekiti.

...Urges citizens to take advantage of industrialization process.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Thursday commissioned a new privately owned 200 metric tons per day capacity palm kernel oil (PKO) crushing plant in Ado-Ekiti with the assurance that the industrialization plans of the administration would reduce unemployment, hunger and poverty in the state.

Performing the commissioning of A-Bamisil Palm kernel Crushing Plant located along Ijan Road in Ado- Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji promised that his administration would play a supporting role for the businesses to thrive in the state adding that, his government views agriculture beyond food security but also as a business venture that would take the state to the next level of industrial and infrastructural growth and development.

He noted that the economic impact of the venture is enormous as it will generate the multiplier effects of job creation and increase production in the oil palm industry. He also called on Ekiti residents to take advantage of the venture and other industries being set up in the state to embark on aggressive plantation of palm fruits as the state now has ready market for the product in the state.

“We don’t have a choice as a government other than to walk this journey with you, I spoke with the Commissioner for Finance yesterday on the road that led to this place, and I said if someone can put this kind of investment here and the road will be like this and I promised that by next year, we will do the road because we have a government that is ready to partner with serious investors.

“It is through investments like this that the state can maximize her agricultural potential and create jobs for our teeming youth. Today’s event is another testimony to our resilience push in the actualization of our agenda for industrialization of our state through private sector investment.” , the Governor stated.

While admitting that Ekiti state is an agrarian economy with comparative advantage in agriculture and a natural haven for agro-allied industry because of the abundance of raw materials in Ekiti and its environs, Governor Oyebanji disclosed that at full capacity, the factory will consume six trailers of palm kernel per/day showing the reason why it is imperative for residents to ensure provision of raw materials that will make the industry thrive.

“Any serious-minded person that wants to make money in agriculture should start planting palm kernel now because there is ready market for it. I am just pleading with our people that there is no way the government can employ all of us or give appointments to everybody. What government can do is to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, what we can do is to plead with serious investors to Ekiti to invest while citizens will now produce to feed those industries and that is what we are doing.” He added. 

Earlier, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari commended the executive chairman of A-Bamisil International limited for the significant milestone as a pivotal moment in the advancement of agricultural particularly in the oil palm industry.

The Minister who was represented by a Director in the Ministry, Mr Iwora Bassey noted that the 200 metric ton capacity plant, equipped with the latest technology is a testament to promoting excellence in the sector to integrate vertically and enhance the oil palm upstream and downstream sectors.

In his speech, the Executive Chairman of the Company, Mr Alaba Owoyemi described the industry as a significant milestone in his quest for sustainable oil palm production and by extension, contributing to the opening up of the economy of the state.

Also at the event were members of the state House of Assembly; members of the state executive council including Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade; Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, Mrs Tayo Adeola; Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe; Commissioner of Police, Akinwale Adeniran among other dignitaries.

Ekiti Youth Entrepreneurs Shine at "Youth Let's Talk with BAO 2.0".

Ekiti Youth Entrepreneurs Shine at "Youth Let's Talk with BAO 2.0".

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The vibrant Adetiloye Hall in Ado Ekiti buzzed with excitement as Ekiti Youth Entrepreneurs showcased their innovative projects and products during the "Youth Let's Talk with BAO 2.0" interactive engagement with Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. The event, held on Wednesday, July 3rd, highlighted the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of over 1,000 youths from across the 16 local government areas of Ekiti State.

The exhibition featured an array of impressive products and initiatives, reflecting the diverse talents of the young entrepreneurs. Among the standout items were Adire clothes bearing the Governor's logo, leather bags, belts, shoes, intricately designed beads, artistic works, perfumes, creams, soaps, and various agribusiness products and craftworks. Each display was a testament to the youths' dedication to fostering economic growth and innovation within the state.

In his address, Governor Oyebanji expressed his admiration for the youths' creativity and entrepreneurial drive. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to creating an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs to thrive. "No effort will be spared to ensure that productive and economically viable youths find Ekiti attractive to live in and do their businesses," the Governor stated, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Governor Oyebanji also announced several support initiatives aimed at bolstering youth entrepreneurship in the state. These included access to grants, mentorship programs, and partnerships with established businesses to provide a platform for the youths to scale their enterprises.

Group Hails Oyebanji as Ekiti Emerged First in IGR Collection Rating.

Group Hails Oyebanji as Ekiti Emerged First in IGR Collection Rating.

.....says rating shows governor has progressive economic policy.

A business oriented group in the Southwest Nigeria, New Initiative for Business Rights(NIBR), has said the report of favourable rating of Ekiti State in revenue collection by a prestigious tax organisation confirmed that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has progressive economic policy to propel prosperity. 

The group, which described Ekiti's  meteoric rise in IGR collection ladder, as contained in the report of Joint Tax Board(JTB), clearly attested to how effective Governor Oyebanji's economic policies were to launch the state to higher pedestal. 

The commendation  was contained in a statement signed by the  Coordinator and Chairman of Trustees of NIBR, Dr. Ademola George- Coker, and released to newsmen  in Ado Ekiti, on Thursday. 

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

Commenting on the rating, George-Coker, said it was wondrous how Governor Oyebanji achieved the feat without making the citizens to undergo harrowing experience  of heavy tax as obtainable in some states of the federation. 

George-Coker maintained that Governor Oyebanji didn't  introduce harsh tax policy that could drive away investment, rather he stunned the citizens with good performance, thereby propelling the tax payers to respond positively to their statutory obligations. 

The NIBR boss hailed the governor for being people-centric in tax policy and still achieved tremendous feat, saying this was a well amplified testimony to his astuteness in implementation of the right  policy. 

"We are pleased to hear the IBR attributing the improvement on trust surplus in governance, which elicited significant growth in IGR by the state. 

"It is not doubting the fact that Governor Oyebanji must have accomplished this feat by appealing to tax payers through his stunning and enigmatic performance. 

"IGR collection in a country like Nigeria,with high  poverty index and lacklustre  attitude to tax payment, requires the drivers of the economy gaining the people's trust, so that they can be receptive to tax ideas and initiatives.

"We could recollect that upon assumption of office, Governor Oyebanji did promise to block loopholes draining the revenues in all MDAs. He also pledged not to impose heavy tax burden on the citizens, yet, he accomplished this feat. 

"Before some states could shore up their revenue profiles, citizens and business owners had to pay heavy tax, which chased away  investors from such business environment. But there wasn't any case of such in Ekiti State. 

"Our findings revealed that investors are making inroad into Ekiti for huge investments in.all sectors. I think other governors must learn from Governor Biodun Oyebanji's IGR initiatives to really have a subnational that can stand on their own even without federal allocations".

However, George-Coker counseled the Governor to invest more in tourism, entertainment and hospitality sectors to increase Ekiti's revenue base exponentially in the 2024 IGR  report

As highlighted  in the JTB's report, Ekiti State 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.

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.