Oyebanji ‘ll Promote Ekiti Local Festivals to National Status – Mrs Afuye.

Oyebanji ‘ll Promote Ekiti Local Festivals to National Status – Mrs Afuye.

…Lauds monarch over ‘Ita Ajero’ unity festival.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has declared that the progressive investment being made by Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s government in Creative economy and Tourism stemmed from his firm belief that the sectors can sustain the state’s economy.

Rather than relying solely on proceeds of oil accruing to Ekiti from the federation account to develop the state, Mrs Afuye, posited that Governor Oyebanji, was investing heavily in other viable alternative sectors, so that Ekiti can shed the toga of full reliance on revenue from the national level for survival.

Mrs Afuye said these in Ijero Ekiti, headquarters of Ijero Local Government Area, during the 2024 Edition of ‘Odun Ita Ajero’, held in the town, on Thursday, in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje.

Addressing the mammoth crowd of indigenes and visitors at the cultural fiesta, Mrs Afuye, commended the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, for conceptualising the festival to adore Ijero’s rich culture and solidify the cord of unity among its indigenes.

On efforts being intensified by Governor Oyebanji to develop the creative and hospitality sectors, the Deputy Governor, said this manifested in the remarkable facelift being noticed at Ikogosi Resort Centre, thereby shoring up the state’s revenue profile.

The Deputy Governor also lauded Governor Oyebanji over appreciable investment in the Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST), saying the government was ready to partner some communities to upgrade their local festivals to national status.

“As I congratulate you on this unification ceremony, let me bring to your notice that what you are doing today is in tandem with the belief and political philosophy of our Omoluabi Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, who had demonstrated in actions and deeds that all the towns in Ekiti must unite across political and religious divides to develop the state.

“Ekiti is sufficiently rich in both human and material resources and these must be skillfully and successfully harnessed to develop the State.

“The Ikogosi Resort Centre and Arinta Waterfall are now economically viable and making revenues to the state’s coffers. The government has been making commensurate efforts to make the Annual EKIFEST more grandiose to gain traction and national recognition.

“The just concluded 2024 Edition of EKIFEST had been adjudged to be colourful all over the globe. In actual fact, it has launched Ekiti on the global map as an hospitable and artistically ingenious group of people”.

She considered the annual ceremony as a platform to celebrate the historical greatness of Ijero people, saying it has been a policy of the Oyebanji-led administration to protect Ekiti culture and make it a thing of economic benefit to the populace.

“Like Ojude Oba in Ijebu Ode, Udiroko in Ado Ekiti, Eyo festival in Lagos, Governor Oyebanji is ready to partner our towns to develop their cultural and creative endowments to gain national reckoning.

“In this modern time, these potentials are sufficient enough to power the economy, even better than oil that we are solely dependent”.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who traced the historical connection of Ijero Kingdom to Ife, the cradle of Yoruba race, commended Governor Oyebanji for his unshaken interest in culture and making efforts to upgrade and preserve it by his friendly policies.

The monarch charged all the towns in Yoruba race to be proud of their culture and work hard to make economic benefit out of it as obtainable in some climes.

“Ijero Kingdom occupies a priceless position in the history of Yoruba race, so I am proud of what Ajero is doing here today. We need unity in Yoruba land and Nigeria and this is a signal that we can use our culture to unite our people”.

The Ajero of Ajero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, saluted the Oyebanji’s administration for displaying boundless passion to creative economy and stepping up efforts to preserve the arts and cultural endowments of Ekiti towns.

The monarch said the ‘Odun Ita Ajero’ was specially conceived to bring all the Ijero indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora together, unify and commit them to make substantial contributions to the progress of the community.

Ifeloju LCDA Unveils Refurbished Tractor to Support Local Farmers.

Ifeloju LCDA Unveils Refurbished Tractor to Support Local Farmers.

In a move to bolster agricultural productivity and strengthen food security, the Chairman of Ifeloju Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Olusola Micheal Oniyelu, proudly unveiled a refurbished tractor for the benefit of local farmers.

This is seen as part of the LCDA's concerted efforts to empower and support agriculture in Ifeloju LCDA. The modernized tractor, which was previously in a rickety condition, has now been fully repaired and reconditioned to serve the hardworking farmers of Ifeloju LCDA.

"Our administration is committed to the development of the agricultural sector, as we recognize its crucial role in ensuring food security and driving economic growth within our community," stated Chairman ONIYELU during the unveiling. "This refurbished tractor will significantly improve the efficiency and productivity of our local farmers, enabling them to cultivate their land more effectively and contribute to the overall prosperity of Ifeloju LCDA ."

The refurbished tractor will be deployed to assist farmers in various agricultural activities, such as plowing, harrowing, and other tractor-essential tasks. This initiative aligns with the Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration's broader strategy to bolster the agricultural industry and provide the necessary support to boost food production in the state.

"We are grateful to the council leadership for their unwavering support and investment in our local agricultural sector," expressed one of the Ifeloju LCDA farmers. "This modernized tractor will be a game-changer for us, as it will help us overcome the challenges we have faced with outdated and unreliable equipment. This is a significant step towards enhancing our farming capabilities and securing a brighter future for our community."

The unveiling of the refurbished tractor in Ifeloju LCDA marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing efforts to empower local farmers and foster sustainable agricultural development. This initiative is expected to have a positive ripple effect, leading to increased food production, improved economic outcomes, and a stronger sense of self-reliance within the community.

LEADERSHIP: WE NEED MORE GOVERNORS LIKE OYEBANJI, SAYS VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA.

LEADERSHIP: WE NEED MORE GOVERNORS LIKE OYEBANJI, SAYS VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA. 

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria needs more Governors like Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji whose style of governance would bring all political Stakeholders on board to enhance the educational system, security and socio economic growth of the sub nationals.

Senator Shettima stated this during the official launch of “Navigating the Politics of Universal Education Policies in Nigeria”, a book written by a former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Professor Modupe Adelabu, in Abuja on Thursday. 

 

The event was attended by the Chief Of Staff to the President, Rt Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Former Governors of Ekiti, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Dr Kayode Fayemi; former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; APC chieftain, Chief Bisi Akande, Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Mr Adeoye Aribasoye, and prominent traditional rulers. 

Vice President Shettima who narrated his first meeting with Governor Oyebanji during Dr Fayemi’s administration, where Oyebanji served as Secretary to the State Government. He recalled telling the then SSG that he would be the next Governor of the State based on his impression of him. 

The Vice President said he had observed Governor Oyebanji as Governor and he is impressed by the Governor’s unique leadership style which, according to the Vice President,  has united all tendencies in the state with attendant remarkable growth and development across different sectors.

He restated the importance of continuity of good governance, saying Ekiti is fortunate to have elected Oyebanji as their Governor, adding that the Governor has distinguished himself among his peers in Nigeria.

Vice President Shettima said: "honestly I am very proud of Governor Oyebanji. He exhumes humility, he exhumes acceptability and accessibility. He has been able  to carry all the tendencies in Ekiti State.

“Former Governor Niyi Adebayo is here, my friend former Governor Kayode Fayemi and his wife are all here, Senator Adetunmbi and many other Stakeholders in Ekiti State are all here to celebrate Professor Modupe Adelabu and also to identify with the Governor. 

“We need Governors like Oyebanji in Nigeria. Governors that will not work with everybody regardless of their political differences, Governors that will not chase shadows; Governors that have the capacity to be humble and height of their glories."

Speaking further, the Vice President congratulated  the writer who is a former deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof Adelabu for sharing her thoughts, expertise and experiences as a distinguished Scholar in a book form. He urged policy makers at all levels to take advantage of the book. 

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji said  education is a critical component of nation building, stressing that this informed the decision of his administration to put necessary frameworks in place towards improving educational infrastructure in Ekiti. 

This, according to him has made Ekiti to have the highest number of basic school enrollment in Nigeria, with the provision of basic needs to aid teaching and learning as well as ensuring that gender mainstreaming remains an integral part of approach to education.

Governor Oyebanji lauded the Professor Adelabu for her contributions to the education and political development of the state, saying the book will be beneficial to all policy makers in the sector.

According to him, "Professor Adelabu's life is a testament to the abiding faith in God either as a princess who got married to a prince or as a mother who has raised distinguished children that are here today and we are thankful for her life as an academics who rose to the zenith of her profession by becoming a Professor and as a politician who at a one point in time was the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State."

 "I commend her quest for excellence and humanity..what we are celebrating today is just a celebration of academic excellence and intellectualism".

"Since we got to the saddle in Ekiti State, Professor Adelabu is the Chair of the committee put together to help us look for the best hands to run the government. The committee that recommended those at the executive now, the same committee has just submitted the report of those that will be in boards and parastatals and that speaks to her life- a life of service and dedication to humanity."

The author of the book, Professor Adelabu who gave an insight into the book, explained that the publication was not limited to a particular region; but covers the whole country with focus on Politics and Education which are like twin brothers.

She advocated for proper education system which connotes that everyone should go back to basic learning.

Discussants at the book launch include, former Ekiti State First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, a former Minister of youths nd Sports, Mr Bolaji Abdulahi and Senator Bunmi Adetunmbi. They all called for a review of the Nation's Education policy, Universal Basic Education Act and priorities given to the enrollment of girl child at schools.

AJONI LCDA CHAIRMAN, OGUNGBEMI RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS AWARD AS YOUTHS SKILL DEVELOPMENT CHAMPION.

AJONI LCDA CHAIRMAN, OGUNGBEMI RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS AWARD AS YOUTHS SKILL DEVELOPMENT CHAMPION.

The serial award wining Council Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. (Amb) Prince Michael Ogungbemi fcpa has been honored with the prestigious award as a Youth Skills Development Champion by the Omo Èkìtì Ni Mí Foundation led by it's converner, Mr. Mike Owoseni, the Technical Advisor to the Governor on SME in commemoration of the International Youth Skill Day Celebration. 

International Youth Skill Day is a significant event that aims to raise awareness about the importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. This year's theme is Youth Skills for Peace and Development.

This recognition is a testament to the Chairman's tireless efforts, interventions and commitment to empowering young people in the community, these interventions includes but not limited to the training of Ajoni Youths in Commercial Agriculture tagged Youths in Commercial Agricultural Development(YCAD) where the Youths were given hybrid Cashew seedlings and 60acres of land for cassava plantation, training of young entrepreneurs in self reliance modules by Interweaves Solution International, ISI USA, where over 150 Youths were trained on business management etc. The Chairman also employed the Youths as Data Managers through African Oral Histories and Genealogical Project, USA, trained 50 unemployed graduates and young school leavers (Job seekers) and were remunerated based on work done.

This award comes on the heels of several other accolades received by the Chairman for his outstanding work in Youth Developments and Empowerment programnes. His antecedents in this area are well-documented, and this latest recognition is a clear indication of his dedication to creating opportunities for young people to thrive.

Prince Ogungbemi initiatives focused on providing skills training, mentorship, and economic empowerment programs for youths, helping them to become self-sufficient and productive members of the society. His leadership has made a significant impact on the lives of many young people, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of his efforts.

"I am humbled and grateful to receive this award," said the Chairman. "It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and we will continue to work tirelessly to empower our young people and create a brighter future for them."

The award was presented at a ceremony attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and young people who have benefited from the Chairman's initiatives.

AJONI LCDA: PRINCE OGUNGBEMI GIFTED CHIEF IMAMS AND OTHER MUSLIMS CLERICS ACROSS AJONI COMMUNITIES.

AJONI LCDA: PRINCE OGUNGBEMI GIFTED CHIEF IMAMS AND OTHER MUSLIMS CLERICS ACROSS AJONI COMMUNITIES.

...as he builds positive Interactions with the Muslims Communities.

In preparation towards the forthcoming Ileya Muslims annual festival, the Executive Chairman of Ajoni LCDA, Hon. (Amb) Prince Michael Ogungbemi fcpa had invited the Chief Imams of the 10 Ajoni communities and other Muslims clerics from the Supreme Council of Islamic Affaires to the headquarters of the Council Secretariat.

The Muslim clerics who recieved cash donations each from the Council Chairman expresses heartfelt appreciation for the kind gestures and generous financial support towards the Salah celebration.

The lists of beneficiaries who were drawn from more than thirteen (13) different mosques across Ajoni communities prayed for Allah's mercies, divine guidance and protections for the Council Chairman and management of the LCDA.

Prince Ogungbemi ensured Ileya gifts were extended and delivered to the palace of the traditional ruler of Itapaji Ekiti, Oba Abdulazeez Abdulkareem Adebanjo, Olu of Itapaji towards the Salah celebration.

The Chairman charged the Muslim Community to continue to pray fervently for the growth, progress and development of BAO'S APC-led administration in the state and of the Ajoni Local Council Development Area.

Ekiti First Lady Lauds Media for Backing BAO administration, Urges Ethical Journalism.

Ekiti First Lady Lauds Media for Backing BAO administration, Urges Ethical Journalism.

The wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, has commended Journalists in Ekiti State for their steadfastness and the support they have continued to give to the Biodun Oyebanji administration in the state.

The first lady equally sought further support of the various media practitioners in the state for positive projection of government’s activities as well as bridging the gap between the government and the governed.

The wife of the Governor who made the plea while receiving the leadership of the Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State chapter, led by Comrade Kayode Babatuyi promised to support the current leadership of NUJ in the state to make it achieve its goals and visions.

Dr Olayemi explained that such support is necessary due to the roles and contributions of media professionals in nation-building.

Speaking on the place of professional ethics in journalism, Dr. Oyebanji appealed to journalists in Ekiti State to remain an unbiased umpire, professional, and be objective in their reportage, saying such would earn them respect in the society.

Earlier, Comrade Babatuyi had commended the Biodun Oyebanji administration for giving priority to the welfare of Ekiti people, especially the retirees, civil servants and even artisans.

Comrade Babatuyi also lauded the initiative of Dr Olayemi Oyebanji for creating avenue for empowerment of women and youth through various programmes such as Adire Ekiti and other laudable initiatives.

While assuring the first lady that the media would continue to promote programmes of Governor Oyebanji to the global community, Babatuyi pointed out that the media owe both the government and members of the public the responsibility to report, inform and educate.

Ekiti EXCO members at Adire Hub, hail First Lady’s empowerment initiatives.

Ekiti EXCO members at Adire Hub, hail First Lady’s empowerment initiatives.

Members of Ekiti State Executive Council have hailed the empowerment initiatives of the Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji; describing them as impactful and crucial to the social economic development of the state.

The EXCO members stated this during a visit to the Adire Ekiti Hub, one of the pet projects of the First Lady, in Ado- Ekiti on Wednesday. 

They EXCO members who were conducted round the facility, by the First Lady, Dr Oyebanji and the Director of the Centr, Dr ( Mrs) Abimbola Oni, expressed their desire to partner the Adire Ekiti Hub to promote and preserve the indigenous textile craft as well as enhance the economic potentials of the local craft.

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr (Mrs) Habibat Adubiaro, who spoke on behalf of the EXCO members, commended the Wife of the Governor, for the initiative aimed at creating jobs opportunity and giving economic empowerment to hundreds of Ekiti youths and women.

 

Describing the initiative as impressive, encouraging and impactful, Dr Abubiaro said the State Executive Council would collaborate with the hub to create a sustainable ecosystem where the traditional crafts can thrive in the modern market

She hinted on the resolve of the council members to also facilitate training and empowerment of youths from their respective constituencies, patronise the local craft as well as promote the use of Adire fabrics within government functions and events to further boost the visibility of the local textile industry.

“The EXCO members are here Your Excellency at the Ekiti Adire hub which is one of your initiatives of promoting local craftsmanship and also empowering our Youths. We thank you for establishing this centre and we appreciate all your efforts at supporting and empowering our youths, elderly citizens and widows through this pet project and other initiatives. 

“The Exco members are prepared to collaborate with this centre to look for how we can empower people from our different constituencies so as to contribute to the development of this place and Ekiti in general” the SSG said. 

Dr Oyebanji Olayemi while appreciating the State Executive Council members for visiting the Adire Ekiti Hub, said the hub has trained and empowered over 400 Youths from the Ekiti Central and Southern Senatorial District of the state with another batch of 200 youths from Ekiti South Senatorial District set to commence training. 

The First Lady, who explained that the Adire product is now much in demand by various groups in the state and in diaspora, charged Exco members to embraced the locally made products, which has a distinct quality, noting that this would not only boost the local economy of the state but also foster a sense of pride in the state’s cultural heritage. 

“Our vision for Adire Ekiti is not for profit making. Our vision is to train and empower as many youths as possible, starting with 600 youths from the three senatorial districts. We also have an arrangement where the Hub buys finished products from the youths, thereby enhancing their capacity and business growth. 

“EXCO members can also send youths in their constituencies here for training. The centre will train and expose them to the trade. This is a better and a more sustainable way of empowering the youths than giving them handouts.”, Dr Oyebanji said.