Dearth of visionary leadership, bane of Nigeria’s development - Oyebanji

Dearth of visionary leadership, bane of Nigeria’s development - Oyebanji .

….Gives reason for introducing values orientation in Ekiti schools. 

Ekiti state Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has cited the need to build visionary leadership qualities in Ekiti children as reason for the introduction of Values Education in primary and secondary school curriculum in the state. 

Governor Oyebanji added that the state has made the subject - Ekiti Values Education- a compulsory subject with particular focus on leadership development aimed at teaching children the meaning, types and practical exposure to leadership training from primary schools.

The Governor, who made this known at the opening ceremony of Domfas International Leadership Academy in Ado Ekiti on Monday, said the curriculum aimed to raise students’ self-awareness about their individual roles as a member of the future leadership train as well as prepare them to face the challenges of building a future through selflessness, honesty and integrity.

While commending the founder of the academy for siting the school in Ekiti State, Governor Oyebanji stressed that the school will further complement his administration’s ongoing effort to prepare Ekiti with a league of future leaders who have been well exposed and trained on the role and responsibility of a leader.

He added that Nigeria as a nation needs an array of visionary and positively ambitious leaders capable of dissipating their brilliant minds towards achieving a more refined and egalitarian Nigeria.

He noted that while many pungent critics have seen this problem as a bane of Nigeria’s development, they have not been able to suggest useful solution to it in the right way.

“I am glad that the vision of Domfas compliments ours in many intersections of purpose. I therefore wholeheartedly welcome the arrival of this academy in our State, as it will further expand the frontier of learning and empowerment of Ekiti people and beyond. 

 “This school will further complement our ongoing effort to prepare Ekiti with a league of future leaders who have been well exposed and trained on the role and responsibility of a leader.  Our strategy as a State was to evolve a curriculum that prepares our future leaders to leadership competence right from the primary school. As a result, we currently run a compulsory subject called Ekiti Values Education with a considerable module that focuses on leadership development. 

“The subject aims to teach young Ekiti children the meaning of leadership, types of leadership, responsibility of a leader and practical leadership exposure. It aims to raise their self-awareness about their individual roles as a member of the future leadership and to prepare them to face the challenge of building a future through selflessness”.

In his remarks, the founder and president of the Academy, Dr Tunji Arowolo noted that the institution was dedicated to providing a nurturing and innovative learning environment that empowers students to reach their fullest potentials.

Dr Arowolo noted that the motto of the academy “Transforming Learners into Leaders” reflected commitment to fostering academic excellence, critical thinking and leadership skill in every student in a state where education takes center stage.

Also at the event were the Speaker, Ekiti state House of Assembly, Rt. (Hon.) Adeoye Aribasoye, his deputy, (Rt. Hon.)  Bolaji Olagbaju, members of the state House of Assembly and executive council, Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, represented by his wife, Eyesorun Adejugbe among others.

Ekiti NYC Chairman, Aare Adedara, Urges Vigilance and Community Support for Security.

Ekiti NYC Chairman, Aare Adedara, Urges Vigilance and Community Support for Security.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Chairman of Nigeria Youth Congress (NYC) Ekiti State Chapter, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, has called on Ekiti State residents to heighten their security consciousness and actively support security agencies.

Speaking to newsmen on Tuesday, Aare Adedara emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious activities and individuals to the security agencies.

The Chairman of Nigeria Youth Congress (NYC) Ekiti State Chapter, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses.

 

Aare Adedara urged the public to be vigilant and collaborate with security agencies to combat criminal activities effectively. "We must not allow criminals to operate freely," he warned. He stressed the need for community cooperation in providing crucial information to help law enforcement maintain safety and order.

He also called on the security agencies to be responsive and readily available when called upon by the public. Highlighting the role of parents, Aare Adedara advocated for both moral and educational guidance to prevent youth from turning to crime. "Children and youths are the leaders of tomorrow and the reflection of their families," he stated.

In addition, Aare Adedara expressed gratitude to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his support towards youth development but urged him to enhance employment opportunities. He described unemployment as a breeding ground for criminal behavior, saying, "An idle man is a tool for evil."

He further appreciated the youth in Ekiti for not supporting the national protest of faceless, unidentified individuals whose mission was to sabotage the goodwill of the people and disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the country through looting.

In closing, Aare Adedara prayed for the continued peace, development, and progress of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.

We 'lI Make Ekiti's Creative Industry Economically Profitable - Oyebanji.

We 'lI Make Ekiti's Creative Industry Economically Profitable - Oyebanji.

....As Annual EKIFEST 2024 kicks off in Ekiti.

As Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture(EKIFEST) kicks off on Tuesday, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his readiness to make dedicated and progressive investment in arts and culture sector to create economic prosperity for the citizens.

Oyebanji said besides agriculture and education where Ekiti has a long standing comparative advantage, his government was making copious diversification strides to further diversify the economy through huge investments in creative industry.

Oyebanji gave the assurance on Tuesday, while declaring open the 2024 edition of the EKIFEST, held at the popular EkitiParapo Pavilion, in Ado Ekiti, the State Capital.

At the event, the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, was garlanded with the 'Award of Grand Matron of Arts and Culture' to appreciate her contributions to the growth of the sector, while the governor observed a guard of cultural parade from contingents across the 16 Local Governments.

Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, alluded to EKIFEST as a flagship cultural fiesta, specifically designed to celebrate the state's rich cultural heritage, creativity and innovation in the arts and culture world.

The governor stated that the cultural festival, which started in 2012, was initiated as a platform to showcase Ekiti's diverse cultural traditions and artistic expressions and image, promote tourism, economic growth and job creation.

Assuring the contingents of their security during the fiesta, Oyebanji said the large number of tourists that will be participating in the festival will make surfeit of contributions to the growth of hospitality business, tourism, which will ultimately add values to the local economy.

"Similarly, this festival was launched to foster unity, social cohesion and community engagement; in addition to providing a platform for artistic expression, skill development and talent discovery.

"By hosting this Festival and promoting cultural tourism, entrepreneurship and creativity, we aim to: empower our people through economic opportunities, enhance our State's reputation as a hub for cultural excellence, encourage collective ownership and participation in our development journey..

"It is our hope that through this Festival, we are able to demonstrate our commitment to inclusive growth, social equity and human development. We are convinced that through EKIFEST, we can inspire creativity and build a brighter future for Ekiti State".

To further fortify the creative economic sector, Oyebanji revealed that efforts are on top gear for the construction of a modern Ekiti State International Centre for Arts and Culture to create a veritable rendezvous and strong platform for practitioners to exhibit their talents and cross fertilize ideas.

In the same fashion, Oyebanji recalled that he recently approved the disbursement of a single digit loan among the active members and associations within the State's creative sector, with intention to stimulate, develop and promote creative entrepreneurship, focusing particularly on arts and crafts production.

"To this intent and purpose, our administration is committing itself to constructing one of the biggest multi-purpose arts and culture infrastructures in Nigeria. Just yesterday, 5th of August, I did the official Foundation Laying ceremony of Ekiti State International Centre for Arts and Culture. 

"The Centre, when completed, would be a hub of activities, accommodating wide clusters of creative businesses and a gallery for the unique endeavours of Ekiti people in diverse arts".

Receiving the award, the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, promised to continually support the sector, saying the Adire Hub, which she said earned her the award, was conceived to provide employment for youths and preserve the state's rich culture. 

In his submission, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Razak Ojo Bakare, disclosed that the proposed Centre for Arts and Culture will employ over 20,000 practitioners when completed besides fostering innovation and enriching the lives of the citizens.

Bakare said the creative arts and culture has become a big industry generating millions of jobs to the youths and other practitioners apart from being a veritable weapon to preserve the people's identities, foster unity and strengthen the bond of oneness among citizens. 

Other high profile figures at the event are: Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Ekiti State Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, ex-Nigeria's Ambassador to Netherlands, Eniola Ajayi, Ondo State Commissioner for Arts and Culture, Alhaji Rasheed Badmus, Ekiti.

Others include: Ekiti State Commissioners for Public Utilities, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, Information, Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Hon.Oladapo Karounwi, Local Government Affairs, Folorunso Olabode, Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, Wale Ojo-Lanre, among others.

Celebrating a Pillar of Arts and Culture: Arch. Tope Ogunleye Honored at Ekiti State Festival.

Celebrating a Pillar of Arts and Culture: Arch. Tope Ogunleye Honored at Ekiti State Festival.

The 2024 edition of the Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture, fondly known as #EkiFest2024, was a resounding success, marked by the recognition of a true champion of the arts - Arch. Tope Ogunleye.

Arch. Tope Ogunleye, a renowned philanthropist and ardent supporter of the arts, was honored with the prestigious award of "Distinguished Supporter of Arts and Culture in Ekiti State" for his unwavering commitment to uplifting the cultural fabric of the state.

Beyond his support for the arts, Arch. Tope Ogunleye's legacy of service to the community knows no bounds. Records show that he has donated boreholes in strategic locations across Ado Ekiti, illuminated streets with the installation of streetlights, and undertaken renovations of community buildings - all in the pursuit of bettering the lives of his fellow citizens.

"Arch. Tope Ogunleye's contributions to the arts and culture sector in Ekiti State are truly commendable," remarked the organizers of #EkiFest2024. "His tireless efforts to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of our state have been instrumental in inspiring the next generation of artists and cultural ambassadors."

Arch. Tope Ogunleye.

While Arch. Ogunleye is known for his humble demeanor and reluctance to seek the limelight, his impact on the Ado community has been profound and lasting. Through his philanthropic endeavors and unwavering support for the arts, he has cemented his place as a true pillar of our community.

The honor bestowed upon Arch. Tope Ogunleye at #EkiFest2024 is a testament to the profound and far-reaching impact of his work. As Ekiti State continues to celebrate its vibrant arts and culture, the name of Arch. Ogunleye will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those who cherish the preservation and advancement of this rich heritage.

Lawal Ismail Ayodeji

Ado-Ekiti, Ward 9.

Samira Buhari Launches Empowering Mentorship Program, Receives African Award for Advocacy and Community Development.

Samira Buhari Launches Empowering Mentorship Program, Receives African Award for Advocacy and Community Development.

Dr. Samira Buhari launching the Samira Buhari Mentorship Program (SBMP) during her launch speech at the 100 Most Notable Africans Business Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, 2 August, 2024.

 At the esteemed 100 Most Notable Africans Business Summit in Kigali, Samira Buhari, a leading advocate for women's empowerment, announced the launch of the Samira Buhari Mentorship Program. This groundbreaking initiative is poised to transform the lives of young African women by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to excel in leadership and entrepreneurship.

The Samira Buhari Mentorship Program aims to empower emerging leaders, promote sustainable development, and enhance business acumen. The program features a meticulous mentorship matching process, pairing mentees with experienced industry leaders for tailored guidance and support. This initiative seeks to provide participants with invaluable insights, expand their networks, and equip them with the skills necessary to thrive in their chosen fields.

Dr. Samira Buhari receiving the Africa Award for Advocacy and Community Development presented by Hon. Sen. Dr. Aplonia Munzerengwi, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Mashonaland East Province, Zimbabwe.

In her address, Dr Samira expressed her deep gratitude to the summit organizers for the opportunity to share her vision.

She stated, "I believe in the boundless potential of Africa's young women. By providing them with the right support and opportunities, we can cultivate a generation of strong, independent leaders who will drive positive change across our continent."

Group photo of attendees at the 100 Most Notable Africans Business Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, 2 August, 2024.

The significance of this announcement at the 100 Most Notable Africans Business Summit is underscored by the presence of notable attendees such as H.E. Dr. Dauda Lawal, Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Nigeria, and Hon. Sen. Dr. Aplonia Munzverengwi, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Mashonaland, East Province, Republic of Zimbabwe. Their presence at the summit highlights the importance of the event and the collective effort to recognize and foster leadership and entrepreneurship across Africa.

During the event, Samira Buhari was honored with the prestigious Africa Award for Advocacy and Community Development. This award acknowledges her relentless efforts and significant contributions to advocacy and community development, reinforcing the value and impact of her work through the Daurama Foundation.

The Samira Buhari Mentorship Program exemplifies the Daurama Foundation's commitment to addressing critical issues such as health, education, and economic empowerment for women and girls. Through this initiative, Samira Buhari aims to inspire and equip the next generation of female leaders to make a significant impact in their communities and beyond.

The Daurama Foundation, established by Dr. Samira Buhari, is committed to improving health outcomes and championing the rights of women and girls across Nigeria through advocacy, comprehensive education, and active community engagement. We work to tackle pressing issues that affect the well-being and rights of girls and women in the communities we serve. Our programs aim to address domestic violence, improve neonatal health, and advocate for menstrual health and hygiene. Empowering women and girls, fostering sustainable development, and attaining equality heavily rely on these pivotal focus areas.

Press Contact:

Press Office, Daurama Foundation: press@dauramafoundation.org

Gov. Oyebanji Approves Elevation of Primary School teachers to GL 16.

Gov. Oyebanji Approves Elevation of Primary School teachers to GL 16. 

Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
Executive Governor of Ekiti State.

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has approved the advancement of primary school teachers in the state from grade level 15 to grade level 16 with immediate effect.

In a statement by the Executive Chairman of Ekiti SUBEB, Prof. Femi Akinwumi, the approval was given in order to bring the primary school teachers in the state to a parallel peak with their counterparts in the civil service.

According to the statement, Governor Oyebanji's continuous provision of incentives to primary school teachers in the state was in fulfilment of his vision of shared prosperity for all categories of the state's workforce.

The statement added that the teachers' friendly Governor will continue to support the teachers at all levels by providing for them a conducive teaching - learning environment in order to motivate them for effective service delivery.

It enjoined them to work harder to sustain the present level of development in the state's education industry which has earned the state it's nickname as the ''fountain of knowledge and land of honour".

It will be recalled that the Governor had in a couple of months ago started disbursement of cars and housing loans for Primary School teachers in the state among several other incentives as part of the steps to review the policy which had hitherto discriminated the primary school teachers against their counterparts in the civil service.

Our huge investment in Creative Industry is to boost state's economy - Oyebanji.

Our huge investment in Creative Industry is to boost state's economy - Oyebanji.

... Lays foundation of world class centre for arts, culture.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated his administration’s commitment to huge investment in the creative industry in the drive to boost the economy of the state.

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this in Ado Ekiti on Monday while performing the ground breaking ceremony of Ekiti state International Centre for Arts and Culture, said the state is already developing systems and infrastructure to enable it take advantage of all that the sector can offer to make the state an art and tourism destination of choice for both national and international communities.

While affirming that Ekiti State, over the years, had demonstrated comparative advantage in the creative industry, the Governor said the state will continue to harness its natural endowment to sell the huge potential in the creative industry and boost the economy.

At the event, which was also attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. (Hon.) Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the state Executive Council, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the state traditional council, led by its chairman and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori Faboro, the Governor commended the state cultural troupe for their escapades nationally and internationally and assured them that his administration would continue to provide veritable platforms and support for them to continue to excel in all their future endeavours.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering determination and commitment to nurture talents, promote cultural exchange, and foster economic growth through the arts. He urged residents of the state to direct their passion towards efforts that will ginger everyone towards achieving the shared prosperity agenda of the government. 

The Governor, who noted that culture has grown to become the very essence of a people which shapes the identity, preserves traditions, and connects to the past, present, and future added that he was not only constructing a mere physical structure but laying the groundwork for a vibrant cultural ecosystem that will inspire future generations.

He used the opportunity to express his gratitude to some notable indigenes of the state, such as wife of the former Governor of the state, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Senators Babafemi Ojudu,  Olu Adetunbi and Tony Adeniyi, who have dedicated themselves to the preservation and promotion of the state’s cultural heritage and had assisted in making the project a reality. 

"We are laying the groundwork for a vibrant ecosystem that will inspire generations to come. Ekiti State International Centre for Arts and Culture will be a melting point of creativity where artists from diverse cultures will converge to exchange ideas, showcase their talents, and celebrate the boundless beauty of human expressions.  It will be a place where Arts transcends language and borders, fostering understanding  and harmony among those who work through its doors.

"We recognize the transformative power of art in shaping society, igniting imagination and bridging divides. This centre will not only be a sanctuary for artists but a catalyst for social change and progress.

"Together, we are creating a legacy that will endure for generations,  inspiring creativity,  fostering unity, and showcasing the indomitable spirit of our people.  As we lay this foundation stone today, let it stand as a symbol of our collective vision, our shared passion for the arts, and our unwavering dedication to the cultural enrichment of Ekiti state. He stated.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Ojo Bakare commended Governor Oyebanji for all his investment in the creative industry and promised that the state performing arts company would continue to do the state proud in all its national and international engagements.

While describing the edifice as a world hub to engage in critical thinking by the befitting infrastructure, the commissioner added that the new project, when completed, will provide greater opportunities for the performing company to have better and improved platforms to excel.