Unifier Governor: Oyebanji's Leadership Style Rooted in Unity, Integrity, and Progress Drives Ekiti State Forward.

Unifier Governor: Oyebanji's Leadership Style Rooted in Unity, Integrity, and Progress Drives Ekiti State Forward.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji is carving a niche for himself with his leadership and governance style, which are rooted in the values of unity, empathy, humility, integrity, and prudence. Many now refer to him as a unifier Governor.

For those following Governor Oyebanji activities, this nomenclature is not mere flattery. In words and actions, he has demonstrated traits that are rare in our political space. Even those traits hitherto exhibited by others, he is taking these traits to a new level. He is the true epitome of politics without bitterness.

Governor Oyebanji understood from the beginning that nobody has a monopoly of knowledge and that reducing the political temperature in the state would help him succeed. A toxic atmosphere stunts growth, no matter how good or intelligent a person is.

 However, as a thoughtful, earnest, decent, dignified, farsighted, and focused leader, Governor Oyebanji knew that, as a follower of Christ, there is no substitute for Unity and Faith. Even the Nigerian coat of arms shows that what usually follows are Peace and Progress.

The dividends of this relative peace are now evident as he is making giant strides in agri-business, rural development, infrastructural renewal, education and more.

OBABABA GCFR

Governor Oyebanji Names Ajeigbe New Rector Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji Names Ajeigbe New Rector Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of Dr Sunday Osinkolu Ajeigbe as the new Rector of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti.

Ajeigbe, who holds a doctorate degree in Chemistry, is until the appointment, the Deputy Rector, Federal Polytechnic Ile- Oluji, Ondo State.

In Pic; Dr Sunday Osinkolu Ajeigbe.

Dr Ajeigbe’s appointment as Rector of the Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan- Ekiti, takes effect from September 2, 2024.

He takes over from Prof, Johnson Kayode Adesodun, whose tenure as Rector ends on September 1, 2024.

Dr Ajeigbe was born in Ayede-Ekiti in Oye Local Government Area on October 1, 1967. He completed his secondary education at Ayede Grammar School, Ayede-Ekiti in 1987. Thereafter, he gained admission to the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), where he graduated with a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Industrial Chemistry in 1992. He earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from same University in 2003.

Dr Ajeigbe also bagged a Master’s degree (M.Sc) in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State in 2003. He studied for his doctorate degree at the Universiti Teknologi, Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia between 2013 and 2017, and bagged a PhD in Chemistry in 2017.

He started his working career as an Assistant Quality Control Officer at National Salt Company of Nigeria Plc, Ota between 1992-1993. He also served as Product Development Officer at Rockwool Nigeria Limited, Ota between 1994-1997.

Dr Ajeigbe joined the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Niger State in December 1999 as Lecturer II and rose to the level of a Chief Lecturer in January 2016. While at Federal Polytechnic Bida, he served in various academic and administrative capacities namely Head of Unit, Head of Department, Coordinator of Accreditation Programme and Academic Board, among others. He transferred his service to the Federal Polytechnic, Ile -Oluji, Ondo State as a Chief Lecturer in the Science Laboratory Technology Department in February 2023. He also served as Director, Directorate of Research, Development and Innovation among other positions before emerging as the Deputy Rector of the Polytechnic in September 2023.

 

Governor Oyebanji urges the new Rector to bring his wealth of experience as an academic, administrator and Innovator to bear in the bid to further reposition the Polytechnic as a world class institution of technical education, even as he wishes him a successful tenure.

The Governor also thanks the outgoing Rector, Prof Johnson Kayode Adesodun, for his meritorious service to the Polytechnic and wishes him success in his future endeavours. Similarly, the Governor extends his appreciation to the Chairman and members of the Governing Council of the Polytechnic for the painstaking manner they handled the selection process.

 

Signed

Olayinka Oyebode

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

21-08-2024.

Oyebanji, Barau, Bamidele others storm Ado-Ekiti for Udiroko festival.

Oyebanji, Barau, Bamidele others storm Ado-Ekiti for Udiroko festival.

…. As Ex-Gov Fayose endorses Oyebanji for second term.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, former Governor Ayo Fayose, and other prominent leaders on Wednesday stormed Ado-Ekiti for the 2024 Udiroko festival. 

The dignitaries were led to the Ewi’s palace, venue of the event , by Govenor Oyebanji who called on all Ado-Ekiti descendants home and in the Diaspora to use the platform provided by the Udiroko festival to strengthen the bonds of love, empathy, and brotherhood that bind them together, stressing that these values are essential for the unity and progress of the community.

Governor Oyebanji urged the people to see the festival as a reminder of the enduring cultural legacy of the Ekiti people and the importance of coming together to build a brighter future for the state.

Governor Oyebanji, spoke just as a former Governor of the state, Ayodele Fayose publicly declared support for the Governor’s second term bid. 

The former Governor who addressed the audience in Ekiti dialect, said he looked forward to seeing Governor Oyebanji as Governor of Ekiti State till 2030, based on the excellent performance of the Governor coupled with his deep understanding of governance. 

“Kabiyesi I congratulate you on the success of this year’s Udiroko Festival and I look forward to seeing you and Governor Oyebanji during next year’s edition. In 2025, I will attend and I will see you and the Governor; in 2026, I will attend and celebrate with you and Governor Oyebanji; In 2027, I will see you and the Governor; in 2028, I will see you and the Governor; in 2029, I will see you and the Governor. In 2030, I will attend, I will celebrate with you and tell Governor Oyebanji, welldone.” The former Governor declared, in apparent reference to Oyebanji’s second term ( 2026- 2030). 

Fayose’s speech was greeted with a wild jubilation by the audience many of whom sang: “BAO till 2030”, “No Vacancy till 2030” and dancing round the arena. 

 The Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibril Barau ( who represented the Senate President) and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, in their separate addresses, commended the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adejugbe for his unwavering commitment to the well-being and development of Ado- Ekiti, and the state in general. They also praised Governor Oyebanji for creating a conducive environment for socioeconomic development and growth. 

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji who thanked the Deputy Senate President, the Senate Leader and former Governor Fayose for gracing the event, congratulated Oba Adejugbe and Ado Ekiti indigenes for the success of the annual event. 

Oyebanji described the Ado-Ekiti monarch as a beacon of wisdom and leadership, whose influence has significantly contributed to the peace and stability of the town.

Highlighting the monarchs role in fostering unity among divers groups within the community and ensuring that Ado Ekiti remains a center of cultural heritage, the Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting cultural values and supporting initiatives that would enhance the socio-economic development of the state.

“I congratulate you Kabiyesi. This is extremely beautiful and I thank God I am here today, your time is good for us in Ekiti and in Ado Ekiti and it will continue to please us, I pray for long life for you on the throne, you have toiled for this state, the state will serve you and this state will make you proud. I am so happy that Udiroko is taking an international dimension during your time.”

The Governor urged the people of the state to continue to live in peace and show love to one another. “Please, as we celebrate, lets love one another, those that have enough, lets share with others, all of us that God has blessed, let’s help the less privileged. I urge us, lets show love to one another, don’t let the love end at the Udiroko festival”. The Governor asserted.

SHASHA BAO MARKET, ANOTHER FULFILMENT OF OYEBANJI'S SHARED PROSPERITY VISION.SHASHA BAO MARKET, ANOTHER FULFILMENT OF OYEBANJI'S SHARED PROSPERITY VISION.

SHASHA BAO MARKET, ANOTHER FULFILMENT OF OYEBANJI'S SHARED PROSPERITY VISION.

BY ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA.

The BAO Impact Series No. 1

Since his assumption of office on October 16, 2022, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has proved his mettle as a promise keeper. The Ekiti landscape is dotted with incontrovertible evidences of promises he has fulfilled in making life better for the citizens of the State.

Recall that Governor Oyebanji rode on the crest of a development blueprint famously known as the six-pillar agenda which he has gradually, steadily and assuredly implemented to the benefit of the people under two years with so many good stories to tell.

Standing on the fifth leg of Governor Oyebanji's roadmap to keeping Ekiti working is Infrastructure and Industrialization. He is conscious of the fact that solid infrastructure is needed to attract investment and generate more job opportunities to make shared prosperity he envisions a reality.

One of the major concerns of Mr. Governor is how to provide more infrastructure to market men and women to ply their trade and also expand the choice of citizens in terms of market facilities where they can get affordable goods and services.

The Governor has scored another goal with the full take off of Shasha BAO Market located in Agric Olope area of Ado Ekiti. If you have not been to the market before, go there and see what Oyebanji has done as the market has been added to the list of prominent markets in the state capital.

Shasha BAO Market was not there before Oyebanji's ascension to power but with Mr. Governor's vision, diligent pursuit of same, tenacity and avowed commitment to fulfillment of promises, the market has become a reality.

There are many gaps the new market has come to fill. First, it was established to reduce the pressure on the two major markets in Ado Ekiti: Oja Erekesan (King's Market) and Oja Bisi; second, to open up new areas for more economic activities; third, to provide enabling environment for traders and customers to interact freely; to attract more amenities to hitherto hidden areas; to save lives of residents from possible accidents that may occur from displaying wares by the roadside, among others. 

Shasha Market, anywhere it is located, serves as a trading hub for food produce from local farms and also the ones brought from the northern part of the country whose indigenes are also play prominent roles in the buying and selling that such markets are synonymous with.

Shasha BAO Market can be reached from Moferere side, Ajilosun side (through Agric Olope junction) and Matthew side off Ijigbo. To make access to the market easier, the Governor ensured the reconstruction of the road linking Agric Olope with Matthew and fully complemented with drainage to prevent erosion and solar-powered streetlights to provide illumination.

Private vehicle owners, commercial drivers and motorcyclists commuters, traders, buyers, artisans and passersby now have good stories to tell on the road that used to be dilapidated and had caused damage to vehicles in the past. It used to be impassable during rains before it was turned around by the Governor.

One of the long-term goals of the Oyebanji Administration was to ensure the relocation of traders from the Okesha Market to the new market which deals in sale of foodstuffs at more affordable prices. Their relocation to the Shasha BAO Market has now been made possible judging by the visit of this writer to the market earlier this week.

With Shasha BAO Market now having good road connectivity, commercial drivers, motorcyclists and tricycle operators now ply the market conveying traders and buyers there from any part of the state for business transactions.

The hustle and bustle witnessed by this writer during his visit to the market couldn't have been imagined years ago. Oyebanji has changed the narrative, Oyebanji has changed the story of that entire corridor for good.

Another incentive being benefited from the market is in the area of security. A new police station was constructed at the market and it has since become operational. Also, the Amotekun Corps also have their post very close to the market and this gives assurance to people doing business there of combat-readiness to deal with any security breach.

Shasha BAO Market also boasts of water facilities to boost sanitation and hygiene and parking space to prevent parking on the road and prevent traffic congestion which is a major problem in market areas.

Business activities was in full swing during this writer's visit to the market. The beauty of this market is that there is still room for expansion. Looking for cheaper food items to purchase, Shasha BAO Market is there for you.

This is another blessing that Governor Oyebanji has brought to the people of Ekiti State and you will agree with me that his Shared Prosperity mantra is not a lip service but a reality indeed.

With the establishment of Shasha BAO Market, Governor Oyebanji has immortalized himself in the hearts of the people as the market would continue to bear his name (even though he didn't name it after himself) and serve as an eternal legacy to generations yet unborn.

Ogunmola is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media

NYC Celebrates Udiroko Festival with Traditional Blessings, Commends King Contributions to Ado-Ekiti development.

NYC Celebrates Udiroko Festival with Traditional Blessings, Commends King Contributions to Ado-Ekiti development. 

The Ekiti State Chapter of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), under the leadership of Chairman Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, has extended warm congratulations to His Royal Majesty Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejuyigbe (Aladesanmi III), the Ewi in Council, and the entire Ado Ekiti community in celebration of this year’s Ọdun Ọlọrunbọrun, also known as Udiroko.

His Royal Majesty Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejuyigbe (Aladesanmi III), Ewi of Ado Ekiti. 

In a statement issued to newsmen in Ado-Ekiti, the Youth Congress highlighted the cultural significance of the Udiroko festival, which marks the beginning of a new year for the town. This vibrant celebration, deeply embedded in local traditions, signifies a time of renewal and optimism.

Chairman Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Ekiti State Chapter, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses.

The Congress commended Oba Adejuyigbe for his pivotal role in advancing the development of Ado Ekiti. His proactive leadership and commitment to progress have been instrumental in driving the town’s growth and fostering a harmonious community environment.

The statement expressed prayers for prosperity, peace, and continued success for all Ado Ekiti residents and Ekiti State as a whole in the coming year. It underscored the importance of unity and tradition, wishing for ongoing harmony and advancement throughout the state.

“Congratulations to Ado Ekiti on this significant festival,” the Youth Congress concluded. “May peace and prosperity prevail throughout the year, and may the town continue to flourish under the guidance of our esteemed King.”

FOOD SECURITY: Oyebanji presents bus to youths in agribusiness.

FOOD SECURITY: Oyebanji presents bus to youths in agribusiness.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has presented an 18- seater bus to youths in agribusiness to ease the transportation challenges faced by the youths in the agric clusters. 

The bus was in fulfillment of the promise made by the Governor during the flag off the planting season and distribution of seedlings and implements to the young farmers. 

Presenting the bus on behalf of the Governor at the Osutokun pavilion, Government House, Ado Ekiti, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, said the gesture was part of the Governor’s broader strategy to empower the youth and promote agribusiness as a viable career path in the state.

Highlighting the importance of transportation in agriculture value chain and noting that access to efficient logistic is crucial for the success of any agribusiness, the Governor stressed that the bus would help in conveying the youth to the farm as well as reaching the market, transporting goods, and connecting the suppliers, thereby enhancing the profitability and sustainability of their business.

The Governor described agriculture as a sector with numerous potential for job creation and economic growth, and assured that government would continue to provide necessary infrastructure and support to make agribusiness more attractive to the younger generation.

In his own remark, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade said the provision of the bus was just one of numerous initiatives of Governor Oyebanji’s administration aimed at reducing the barriers that young entrepreneur face in the industry.

He expressed confident that with various intervention of the state government in agriculture sector, Ekiti would soon become the food basket of the country.

Responding on behalf of youth in agriculture, Mr Jonson Owoeye, who expressed their profound gratitude to the Governor for the gesture, acknowledged that the provision of the bus would significantly ease the challenges of logistics which has been a major hurdle in scaling their business.

Owoeye assured the Governor that the Youths in agribusiness will use the bus responsibly and continue to working hard to contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector in the state.

Oyebanji restates commitment to tourism development.

Oyebanji restates commitment to tourism development.

….as UN body, FG partner Ekiti on tourism master plan. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to the development of tourism as a means of creating wealth and job opportunities, stressing that if properly harnessed could change the fortune of the state.

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this on Tuesday during a meeting with the leadership of the United Nations Tourism, led by the Deputy Director of United Nations Tourism Technical Corporation, Mr Marcel Leijzer, said the success of the tourism sector would significantly contribute to the economic diversification and prosperity of the state.

Highlighting tourism as a key pillar of his administration’s economic agenda, the Governor explained that Ekiti, with its rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, has the potential to become a leading tourism destination in the country.

While expressing gratitude for the support of United Nations tourism and the Federal Government for partnering the state in developing a tourism master plan for the state, the Governor pointed out that the master plan will serve as a blueprint for the systematic development of tourism assets in the state.

He explained further that the master plan would also guide the state’s effort in ensuring that the state becomes a preferred destination for tourists seeking cultural, historical, and natural experiences, thereby drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the overall well-being of the state

“We campaigned on the mantra of shared prosperity and I discover that in Ekiti State we are so blessed, so when I sat with the DG of Nureau of Tourism Development, I told him, look we are not going to work in the dark, we need a master plan.

“So, I am excited today that UN tourism and the Federal Government are partnering with us to develop this and one thing I can tell you is that am irrevocably committed to this”. The Governor asserted.

Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy Director of United Nations Tourism Technical Corporation, Mr Marcel Leijzer commended the Governor’s initiatives to enhance the state’s tourism potentials, describing them as model for other states in Nigeria.

Emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and collaborations in achieving sustainable growth in tourism sector, Mr Marcel said the tourism master plan would not only focus on infrastructure development but also on community engagement, environmental conservation, and the promotion of local entrepreneurship.

While assuring the Governor of the United Nations,' tourism continued support throughout the implementation process of the state’s master plan, the UN Deputy Director expressed optimism that Ekiti would soon become a shining example of how tourism can be a catalyst for development and economic prosperity.

Prior to the meeting, the UN delegation which also include officials of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, together with officials of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development had spent about three days touring various tourism sites in the state. 

The DG Bureau of Tourism, Ambassdor Wale Oko Lanre who led the team on the tour, said the UN team where amazed at the huge number of tourism attractions and sites in the state, adding that he was optimistic that through the succession implementation of the tourism master plan and collaboration with institutions such as the UNTourism, Ekiti would soon become the main center of tourism attraction in the country.