Gov Oyebanji hails Ajayi’s appointment as DSS boss.

Gov Oyebanji hails Ajayi’s appointment as DSS boss.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has hailed the appointment of Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi as the new Director General of the Department of State Service (DSS). 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the appointment as a befitting recognition of Ajayi’s distinguished public service record. 

The Governor, who described Ajayi  as a highly professional Intelligence Officer with great insight, said his first contact with the new DSS boss was when he served as Chief Detail to the first Military Administrator of Ekiti State, the Late Col. Inua Bawa upon the creation of the state in 1996, adding that he demonstrated professionalism and integrity as a young officer then. 

“So, it’s not surprising that he has risen to the zenith of his profession, and appointed by the President to head the Department of State Service. 

“We wish him well in his new assignment.”, the Governor added.

MINIMUM WAGE: No disagreement with Gov. Oyebanji over implementation–TUC

MINIMUM WAGE: No disagreement with Gov. Oyebanji over implementation–TUC                            .…urges workers to disregard rumors trending online.

The Chairman, Trade Union Congress, Ekiti State Chapter, Comrade Sola Adigun has dispelled as rumour about the Union’s disagreement with Governor Biodun Oyebanji on the implementation of the new minimum wage.

Adigun in a statement in Ado Ekiti noted that the message which was shared via Whatsapp and Facebook platforms was cooked up by disgruntled elements whose intention is to cause confusion.

The statement reads: ”The attention of the Trade Union Congress, Ekiti State, has been drawn to a statement circulating in some sections of Social media, alleging that Ekiti workers’ representatives walked out on Governor Biodun Oyebanji during a meeting on the minimum wage implementation.

“We wish to categorically state that such is untrue, it’s fallacious, a mere fabrication and product of the maker’s imagination. The negotiation between the union and the state government on the minimum wage implementation commenced on Friday after the inaugural meeting of Wednesday 4th of September; it is, therefore, illogical in the head to reason that labour walked out of such a meeting when there weren’t any trade disputes with the government.

“We want to declare unequivocally that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has, since the inauguration of his administration, demonstrated genuine commitment to worker’s welfare, and we have no cause to doubt his willingness to implement the new minimum wage once the committee arrives at the necessary adjustables.

“We urge the public to disregard the statement and its contents. We are committed to constructive engagement with the state government to ensure the welfare of Ekiti workers is prioritized.

Adigun promised that the leadership of the Labour Force in the state would keep the public informed on the progress of the negotiation.

Hon. Ojuawo Fecilitates with Muslims on Eid Milad-ul-Nabi.

Hon. Ojuawo Fecilitates with Muslims on Eid Milad-ul-Nabi.

The Member of the House of Representatives representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, Fecilitates with Muslims on Milad ul Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

In a press statement released by his media team, Hon. Ojuawo extolled the teachings and practices of Islam through the great Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as exemplary, hopeful, and life-affirming for all.

“On the auspicious occasion of Milad-ul-Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, I congratulate my people, especially my Muslim brothers and sisters. Prophet Muhammad has set a wonderful example of a human society based on equality. He has also taught us to follow the path of truth with patience.

As we celebrate the birth of the Prophet, may his guidance and wisdom fill our hearts with peace. Let us strive to be good ambassadors of our faith, promoting unity and understanding in our communities and beyond. Eid Milad-ul-Nabi Mubarak!

Hon. Ojuawo also called for good fellowship with God to mark the significance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi, praying for the nation. “May this special occasion bring us closer to our Creator and to each other, and may our collective prayers bring blessings and prosperity to our nation.” He added.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Federal roads: EKSG’s intervention to alleviate suffering, complement President’s infrastructure devt. agenda - Gov Oyebanji.

Federal roads: EKSG’s intervention to alleviate suffering, complement President’s infrastructure devt. agenda - Gov Oyebanji.

... Says Ado- Iworoko- Ifaki road to gulp over N15b.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has disclosed that his administration's intervention in federal roads in some parts of the state is to alleviate the sufferings of residents in intra and inter state transportation.

Governor Oyebanji, who disclosed this on Saturday while inspecting some of the on-going projects in the state, said it became imperative for his government to intervene in the Federal Government roads to enable the citizens have unfettered access to different parts of the state.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the inspection of the ongoing Ado – Iworoko – Ifaki road construction and a medical complex projects at the State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, the Governor hinted that the road will cost his government over fifteen billion naira.

He explained further that although the road is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, but it is primarily used by Ekiti people, thereby compelling the state government to fix it, for use by the people. 

Stressing the importance of the road to the state’s economic and social life, as it connects towns and facilitate movement of goods and services within and outside the state, as well as serving as a major link to the northern part of the country, the Governor said the state of the road has been a source of concern to his administration. 

Governor Oyebanji said his government remained focused on roads that have significant economic impact, especially those that connect communities and boost trade. He expressed hope that the state would be compensated after the completion of the road project, adding that such compensation would encourage his government to take on more federal roads. 

The Governor  who also visited the Ekiti State Teaching hospital said the construction going on in the hospital is to upscale the facility to ensure Ekiti people have access to quality and affordable healthcare service delivery.

While expressing satisfaction on the work so far, the Governor maintained that the project would change the face of Medicare in the state. 

"So, the road inspected, actually is a federal road, but it is Ekiti people that use it. The road is one of the major arteries  to the North, and it has become a major concern to our government. Governor kayode Fayemi started it and we are about to complete it now. That speaks to the beauty of continuity.

"That road is going to cost us a 15billion naira. We are able to embark on a project of this magnitude because of the strong support from the federal government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and this is our modest contribution to complement Mr President’s infrastructural development and we hope the Federal Government would compensate us after  its completion to  encourage us to can fix more roads and further enhance the economic development of the people. 

“Our  immediate focus now is to finish the construction on time and make it available for the use of the people”, the Governor said.

Oyebanji urges unity among Ekiti monarchs.

Oyebanji urges unity among Ekiti monarchs. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has called for unity and corporation among traditional rulers in the state, stressing that such cohesion is needed to ensure peace and sustainable development across the state.

Governor Oyebanji made the call on Saturday during the 70th birthday thanksgiving service of the Chairman, Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro held at the St John’s Anglican Cathedral, Ido Ekiti. He noted that unity among the royal fathers would further pave the way for a more structured and collaborative approach to addressing the challenges confronting the state.

Stressing the importance of the traditional institutions in maintaining the cultural heritage of the state, while also acting as custodians of peace and progress, the Governor stated that a united traditional council is essential in promoting government policies at the grassroots, thus enhancing good governance and development.

He urged the traditional rulers to strengthened unity among themselves, set aside any differences that may hinder the development and progress of the state

While congratulating the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ilori l-Faboro on his 70th birthday, Governor Oyebanji, who paid a glowing tribute to the monarch, lauded his immense contributions to the development of Ido-Ekiti and Ekiti State as a whole.

Highlighting Oba Ilori- Fabiyi’s ability to foster harmonious relationships between his subjects, and neighbouring communities, the Governor said his leadership had help in strengthening the bond between the traditional institution and the state government, thereby driving progress in the state.

“Kabiyesi, today is a special day, 70 in Nigeria is a big deal, in a country where expectancy age is between 45 and 55 years, so to be 70 in Nigeria, we have every cause to thank God and taking into consideration your own trajectory in life. On behalf of the Government of Ekiti State, let me say thank you for your support for our government”

“To our royal fathers, I say congratulations and I thank you for your support for our administration. When I walked in and saw our royal fathers dressed like this, I was happy. I will just plead that our fathers should use the occasion of this 70th birthday to come together so that Ekiti State can develop. I know that if we are united, we can recreate Ekiti parapo, not to fight any war but to develop Ekiti State and history has it that when Obas are united in one accord, there is no mountain that will be too difficult for us to surmount” the Governor asserted.

Responding to the Governor's plea to the Obas, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe assured the Governor that the monarchs in Ekiti remain united and committed to the development and progress of the state, stressing that they have always played a pivotal role in maintaining peace and stability across their domains and will continue to support government’s vision for a united and prosperous Ekiti.

Oba Adejugbe, while highlighting the long standing cooperation between the traditional council and the state government, noted that the monarchs have always prioritize the well-being of the citizens in the state.

In his own response, the celebrant, Oba Ilori- Faboro, while expressing his gratitude to the Governor and the people of Ekiti State for their support throughout his reign, reaffirmed his commitment to the continued growth and stability of his community and the state at large.

Earlier in his sermon, the Anglican Bishop, Ekiti Diocese, Rt. Rev. Anthony Olusola Ajayi; urged Oba Ilori- Faboro to see the attainment of the age of seventy as a blessing from God, adding that living up to that the age has conferred on him the grace and IPP to review his life and change certain things. 

 

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs), Monisade Afuye; Chairman, Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service, Senator Cyril Fasuyi; members of the State Executive Council, and traditional rulers from different parts of the state.

Hon. Michael Oniyelu Celebrates 50th Birthday with Massive Empowerment Drive, Unveils Key Projects in Ilupeju.

Hon. Michael Oniyelu Celebrates 50th Birthday with Massive Empowerment Drive, Unveils Key Projects in Ilupeju.

In celebration of his 50th birthday, the Ifeloju LCDA Chairman, Hon. Michael Oniyelu, has once again empowered residents of the LCDA with essential working tools, household items, and cash gifts, while also inaugurating key projects at the Ilupeju main market.

The empowerment package included grinding machines, sewing machines, clippers, fans, mattresses, and farming tools. Additionally, five open stores and a relaxation/game centre, named "Orita BAO," were unveiled at the Market in Ilupeju town.

The event, held at 'Menara' Market, drew significant attendance from political leaders in Ekiti, including the Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun; the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Chief Folorunso Olabode; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender Empowerment and Mobilization, Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Olaleye. 

The Coordinator of Ekiti State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (EK-RAAMP), Mr. Sunday Adunmo, also graced the occasion, alongside chancellors, market women, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Royal fathers present at the event included the Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti, Oba Adebanjo Adedapo; the Owatapa of Itapa Ekiti, Oba Makanjuola Ajaja; the Olosi of Osi Ekiti, Oba Philips Olaseeni Oyediran; the Elejelu of Ijelu Ekiti, Oba Adetoyinbo Ajayi; and the Owajumu of Omu Ekiti, Oba Joseph Ogundeyi

In his address, the Chairman, Hon. Oniyelu expressed his gratitude to those who contributed to the programme’s success and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Ifeloju LCDA. 

Oniyelu said he decided to celebrate his 50th birthday in a unique way beyond the normal eating and drinking by putting smiles on the faces of his people with the empowerment initiatives. He listed several completed projects, such as the construction of goat and kola nut sheds, the repair of a tractor, and road grading efforts. 

The Ifeloju LCDA boss also assured the people of the areas that more projects were in the pipeline and invited residents to submit their needs for consideration in the 2025 budget.

"Today's empowerment marks just the beginning of a new chapter as I celebrate my 50th year. Many more empowerment programmes are planned, and I encourage everyone to come forward with their needs so we can continue this journey of development," Oniyelu stated.

On their part, the Commissioners for Local Government Affairs, Chief Folorunso Olabode and the Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, commended Hon. Oniyelu for his impactful programmes, urging him not to relent in his good works to the people. 

They also reiterated Governor Biodun Oyebanji's commitment to the state's development, calling on citizens to support the government's efforts to implement more viable policies and projects.

The Coordinator of EK-RAAMP, Mr Sunday Adunmo and the SA to the Governor on Gender Empowerment   Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Olaleye praised Hon. Oniyelu’s dedication to community welfare and urged residents to continue to cooperate with him to enable him to facilitate more developmental initiatives.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers present, the Owajumu of Omu-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Ogundeyi, lauded the chairman's leadership and advised beneficiaries to make the most of the tools and grants they received. He prayed for them to succeed in their various ventures.

The beneficiaries who could not hide their excitement, expressed their gratitude to Hon. Oniyelu, pledging to use the tools, household items, and cash grants effectively. 

In recognition of his efforts, the 'Egbe Olobi' (Association of Kola Nut Sellers) presented Hon. Oniyelu with an award for his contributions to the empowerment of market women and the development of the LCDA.

Ekiti State Forestry Commission Donates Trees to Arboretum Honoring First African Forestry Professor.

Ekiti State Forestry Commission Donates Trees to Arboretum Honoring First African Forestry Professor.

In a collaborative effort, the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, Ekiti State University (EKSU), and the Green to Abundant Development and Empowerment Foundation (GADEF) have established an Arboretum (tree plantation) to honor the late Professor Samuel Kolade Adeyoju, the first Professor of Forestry in Africa.

The Arboretum, located at EKSU and Ijan Ekiti, was officially inaugurated on Thursday. Professor Adeyoju, who passed away a few months ago at the age of 88, was a highly respected figure in the field of forestry in Nigeria.

Mr. Adekunle Sunday, the Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, stated that the Arboretum will serve as a teaching and international research center for students and tourists. He revealed that the Ekiti State government donated all the trees planted in Ijan Ekiti to honor the legacy of Professor Adeyoju, who had made significant contributions to the development of forestry in the state.

"I appreciate the Forestry Association of Nigeria, EKSU management, and GADEF who donated trees to be planted at EKSU for their support to immortalize our father and ICON who had positively impacted lives," Adekunle said. "We shall maintain the Arboretum and make it a global event."

The event was organized by the Department of Forest Resources and Wildlife Management at EKSU, in collaboration with the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, GADEF, and the Forestry Association of Nigeria (FAN).

During the event, speakers praised Professor Adeyoju's contributions to the forestry sector, his mentorship of many, and his diligence and honor. The Ijan community and the Adeyoju family were urged to maintain the plantation to ensure the preservation of the trees.

The Arboretum is expected to host diverse tree species, not only for teaching and research purposes but also as a global heritage center for seedling collection.