A Lifetime of Dedication and Service: Celebrating the Retirement of Engr. Fatukasi S. Tope.

A Lifetime of Dedication and Service: Celebrating the Retirement of Engr. Fatukasi S. Tope.

By Gabriel Adesoji.

As the sun sets on an illustrious career, the Ekiti State Civil Service bids a fond farewell to a true luminary, Engr. Fatukasi S. Tope. With unwavering dedication and an unparalleled commitment to excellence, Engr. Fatukasi has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Ekiti State, both literally and figuratively.

Born on July 17th in the early 1970s to the esteemed family of Pa Joseph Dada and Mrs. E. Fatukasi, Engr. Fatukasi's journey began with humble beginnings in Ise-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. Driven by a passion for knowledge and a desire to serve, he embarked on a path of educational excellence, honing his skills and cementing his reputation as a distinguished engineer.

Engr. Fatukasi's educational journey is a testament to his perseverance and determination. He commenced his elementary education at the Our Saviour's Anglican Primary School in Owena, Idanre/Ifedore Local Government, Ondo State. Thereafter, he attended the Oke-Osun Muslim Grammar School in Osogbo before progressing to the prestigious Imade College Owo (Great IMACO) in Ondo State for his secondary education.

Recognizing the potential within, Engr. Fatukasi joined the Ondo State Civil Service in 1989 as a Road Labourer, where his exceptional performance caught the attention of the Military in Governor's Office. In 1991, he was seconded to the Signal Section, preparing for the handover to civilian administration.

Undeterred, Engr. Fatukasi continued his educational pursuits, studying Civil Engineering at the Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, and the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, on a self-sponsored basis. His commitment to professional development led him to obtain a Postgraduate Diploma and a Master's degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Ado-Ekiti, now the Ekiti State University, in 2010 and 2015, respectively. Further solidifying his credentials, he pursued advanced studies at the prestigious University of KwaZulu-Natal (Howard Campus) in South Africa.

Engr. Fatukasi's professional accomplishments are a testament to his exceptional abilities. He is a Fellow of both the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), and a COREN Registered Engineer. He has served the NSE, Ado-Ekiti branch, in various capacities, including as the Public Relations Officer from 2010 to 2012.

Engr. Fatukasi's impact on the Ekiti State landscape is undeniable. He was the driving force behind the opening and construction of the Awo-Ara Road, a project that overcame the challenges of a highly undulating and difficult topography. His expertise was also instrumental in the design and supervision of the Fayose Market, which was situated in a swamped location.

As a pioneer member, Engr. Fatukasi played a crucial role in the design and supervision of the ongoing Ekiti State Cargo Airport project. Additionally, he has been instrumental in the rehabilitation and construction of numerous major and minor roads throughout Ekiti State, serving as the State Engineer under the leadership of former Governor Dr. John Kayode Fayemi and the current Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

Engr. Fatukasi's contributions extend beyond his professional accomplishments. He is a dedicated minister of God, happily married, and blessed with children. His humble and approachable nature has earned him the admiration and respect of all who have had the privilege of working with him.

As Engr. Fatukasi embarks on his well-deserved retirement, the Ekiti State Civil Service and the broader community bid him a heartfelt farewell. His legacy of excellence, dedication, and service will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come. As I joined his friends, colleagues and Family to celebrate Engr. Fatukasi's remarkable achievements and express our sincere gratitude for his unwavering commitment to the betterment of our beloved State.

Gabriel ADESOJI (ANGELGABBY)

S.A New Media to Ekiti State Governor

Ekiti Gov's wife hails First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu's Food Bank, ICT Initiatives for Women.

Ekiti Gov's wife hails First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu's Food Bank, ICT Initiatives for Women.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji has praised Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her various interventions in Ekiti, including delivery of a trailer load of foodstuff for women under her Food Bank Initiative.

Addressing women during her visit to Ekiti Southwest and Ikere local government areas of the state on Thursday, Dr. Oyebanji announced that Ekiti women also benefitted from the First Lady’s initiative including distribution of fertilizers to women farmers, ₦50,000 grant for 1,000 women, and establishment of an ICT center at Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti among others. 

She attributed this support to the strong relationship between Governor Biodun Oyebanji and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which she said has resulted in several investment opportunities and infrastructure upgrade in the state.

“The Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has a foundation, Renew Hope Initiative, a platform to reach out to children, women and vulnerable in our society, and wives of the 36 states Governors are the coordinators at the state level. So, whatever mama is going to give to women in any state, she will channel it through the wives of the governors. 

“A typical example is the empowerment of female farmers where 20 women farmers were drawn from each of the states and the First Lady empowered them with five hundred thousand Naira each. Another one is fifty million Naira that mama put in each of the thirty six states called traders’ money set aside for small business owners, and in Ekiti state, that money was given to 1000 business owners”. She explained.

The Governor’s wife reassured women that her office is committed to their welfare, particularly in addressing gender-based violence, urging them to report cases of abuse to her office, stressing that her office remains open and unbiased, regardless of political affiliation.

She also restated her unalloyed commitment to women empowerment and development, adding that her various projects has successfully produced young Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) excelling in various sectors including Adire making.

Dr. Oyebanji disclosed that 600 youths from the three senatorial Districts have been trained through the Adire Ekiti hub are now manufacturing Adire fabrics in large quantities, serving both local and international demands.

The Governor's wife emphasized that the initiative has not only created self-employment opportunities for youths but also aligned with the zero-capital flight policy of Governor Oyebanji's administration, disclosing all food items distributed to women during the tour totaling N20 million were sourced locally, from artisans and farmers across Ekiti.

In her address,  the Deputy Governor,  Chief Monisade Afuye promised more dividends of democracy to the people in Ekiti Southwest  and Ikere local governments . She also promised those that had benefited from the present administration to contribute meaningfully to the development of their immediate environment.

She said Governor Oyebanji would not hesitate to remove any market woman who conspired against the present Government by making life difficult for the people. 

The Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe tasked women not to relent on their support for the present administration and promised them more political offices  as there are still boards appointments that would soon be announced.

Also on the entourage of the first lady  were  former Commissioner for Cukture and Tourism, Chief (Mrs.) Ronke Okunsanya; Mrs Fola Richie-Adewusi, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Development, Mrs. Peju Babafemi; and Special Advisers Hon. Yemisi Ayokunle and Chief Mrs. Kemi Olaleye, among others.

Ojuawo Empowerment Farm Boosts Youth Development in Ekiti South West.

Ojuawo Empowerment Farm Boosts Youth Development in Ekiti South West.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1 at the green chamber, has launched the second phase of his farm empowerment project in Ogotun Ekiti.

The 5-hectare farm, part of a 20-hectare land generously donated by the Ologotun of Ogotun, aims to improve the lives of 32 constituents in Ekiti South West, specifically in Ilawe, Igbara Odo, and Ogotun Ekiti. The project focuses on cultivating high-demand crops, starting with pepper, and provides training, resources, and support to enhance livelihoods and stimulate economic growth.

"Agriculture is not just a means of livelihood but a pathway to economic empowerment," emphasized Hon. Ojuawo.

This initiative builds on the success of the Ogbese Empowerment Farm, which benefited Ikere and Ise/Orun local governments. The Ojuawo Empowerment Farm demonstrates Hon. Ojuawo's commitment to community empowerment through sustainable agriculture, paving the way for a brighter economic future in his constituency.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Governors Oyebanji, Sanwo-Olu , Ex- NBA President Olanipekun for EDGE AWARDS.

Governors Oyebanji, Sanwo-Olu , Ex- NBA President Olanipekun for EDGE AWARDS.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji;  his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and former NBA President, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) will lead other prominent dignitaries and industry giants at the 2024 Marketing Edge’s  Brands and Advertising Excellence Award in Lagos on Saturday. 

According to a release by Mr John Ajayi, the  CEO Marketing Edge Magazine, organisers of the event which is slated to hold at the Balmoral Convention Center, Ikeja, Governor Oyebanji will be presented the Governor of the Year Award (Inclusive Leadership and Grassroots Development), in recognition of his sterling performance as Governor of Ekiti State in the last two years as well as his unique leadership style, which has brought peace, progress and developement in the state. 

Governor Sanwo- Olu of Lagos State will also receive the Grand Prix Political Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional performance as a public servant of repute. 

Also Chief Olanipekun will be conferred with the EDGE Lifetime Achievement Award in Law. The award is in recognition and appreciation and celebration of life-long professional and entrepreneurial odyssey in the Legal profession in Nigeria and across other jurisdictions beyond the shores of the country. 

MARKETING EDGE, Nigeria’s leading brand-focused marketing and advertising publication, has been at the vanguard of brand journalism in the last twenty-one years. During this period, the publication has served as a witness to the fortunes of players and gladiators in the integrated marketing communications industry, and has positioned the magazine as a valuable and veritable source of intelligence on the evolution, growth and development of the industry in Nigeria. MARKETING EDGE has, through these two major events, recognized, rewarded and celebrated deserving brands, companies, agencies and personalities.

We Are In Ekiti to Create Jobs, Grow Economy - Olajide.

We Are In Ekiti to Create Jobs, Grow Economy - Olajide.

 ....as Traditional ruler, Commissioner, Hail Cavista's investment.

The Chairman of Cavista Holdings, Mr. John Olajide has reaffirmed his company's commitment to creating jobs, growing the economy, and developing the Ekiti communities.

Mr. Olajide made this disclosure on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti, at the annual public lecture/award ceremony and launching of digital journalism tools organized by the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ekiti State.

Represented by the Director, Community Engagement at Cavista Holdings, Alhaji Dauda Lawal, Olajidw emphasized Cavista Holdings' dedication to transforming lives and creating value among the people through significant investments in agriculture and hospitality sectors

"Our presence in Ekiti is a testament to our commitment to create jobs, grow the economy, and develop the community," Olajide said. "At Cavista Holdings, we believe our investments should positively impact the communities where we operate."

Cavista's investments in Agbeyewa Farm and Glocient Hospitality, owners of Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort and Conference Center, aim to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and showcase Ekiti's beauty and potential.

Olajide explained that Agbeyewa Farm is revolutionizing agriculture in Ekiti by introducing modern farming techniques and empowering local farmers through its outgrower program.

"Glocient Hospitality's Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort and Conference Center offers luxury and comfort, promoting tourism and showcasing Ekiti's natural beauty," he added.

Also speaking at the event, the Onimesi of Imesi Ekiti, Oba Olatunji Olatunde, commended Cavista Holdings for its agricultural strides in Ekiti, ensuring food security and job creation.

"Ekiti State needs more investors like Cavista Holdings," Oba Olatunde said. "Their commitment to agriculture and hospitality will have a lasting impact on our state."

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, represented by Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, praised the Cavista giant for his investment strides in Ekiti State, Nigeria and around the world. He described  Olajide's strides in agriculture as the best in the history of the Agricultural Revolution in the State.

"He also eulogies the remarkable roles the Ekiti NUJ Chapel has played in shaping public discourse and holding leaders accountable.

Dignitaries awarded at the event included Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, Mrs. Funmilayo Ogun, Commissioner Adesola Gold Adedayo, and Prince Adewole Adebayo.

Take charge of security architecture in your areas, EKSG tells council chairmen .

Take charge of security architecture in your areas, EKSG tells council chairmen .

Ekiti state government has called on chairmen of local government areas in the state to be alive to their responsibility of maintaining effective and adequate security of lives of properties in their areas.

The Chairman of the State Security and Intelligence committee, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd) at the third quarterly meeting of the committee on Wednesday stressed the need for council chairmen to synergize with government to bring permanent end to reports of insecurity in the state.

While affirming that Ekiti State has been enjoying relative peace in recent time, Gen. Ogundana, who is also the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, condemned in its entirety the current wave of kidnapping and insecurity in some areas, assuring residents that government was already on top of the situation as it has beefed up security on all fronts to ensure protection of lives and properties of innocent residents.

He hinged the security problem the state is facing on incursion from neighbouring states that has high level of insecurity. He, however, added that government was already taking action to curtail the embarrassing situation through various proactive measures government is taking in that directions. 

Describing the kidnapping incident that happened between Isan and Iludun as unfortunate, Gen Ogundana however stated that there was a swift response from the Commandant of Command Secondary School, Isan Ekiti who detailed a patrol team that was able to rescue the victim who was shot by taking him to the hospital.

“You observed well that we have been enjoying relative peace in the state, but early this week, we woke up to some ugly news. That is why Governor Oyebanji directed that this meeting should be convened. We shall also convey a meeting of the security agencies and other stakeholders to review our security architecture and arrangement so that we can control some of these security challenges we are facing.

 “I am using this opportunity to assure all residents of Ekiti state that the Governor is up to the task and as one of his primary responsibilities, which is to protect lives and properties, he is up to the task with security agencies he put in place, the security structure that we have in Ekiti state today which had been making everyone to sleep with their two eyes closed. 

“Problems are bound to happen, but it is the ability to respond to it that is needed. And we assure you that Mr Governor is capable with his security team to ensure that we have peace in Ekiti state”. He stated.

Also briefing Journalists, Ekiti state Chairman of Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Oluwasegun Ojo said council chairmen were already collaborating strategically with a number of security agencies in their efforts to ensure effective policing at the grassroots.

Ojo, who is the Chairman of Ekiti East Local Government assured residents of protection of lives and property as he restated critical roles security play in socio-economic development of the direction. 

Present at the meeting which took place at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Ofrice, Ado-Ekiti were chairmen of the local government areas and local Council Development areas.

Oyebanji building legacy of good governance, excellent performance – Elebute-Halle.

Oyebanji building legacy of good governance,  excellent performance – Elebute-Halle.

A former Governorship candidate in Ekiti state, Mrs Kemi Elebute-Halle has commended Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji for building a legacy of good governance and excellent performance through the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

Elebute-Halle, who stated this in Oye Ekiti during a tour of local government areas by the First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji also commended the effectiveness and workability of continuity agenda in the state, saying it has enhanced rapid development. 

Speaking to Journalists in Oye Ekiti, Elebute-Halle stated that Governor Oyebanji’s stand on women inclusiveness in governance has also confirmed the importance the administration attached to women development and empowerment by adding value to their lives through the establishment of adire hub, widows’ support and other initiatives that have put Ekiti women in front burner of politics and governance in Nigeria.

She assured that women of the state are solidly behind Oyebanji administration and will do everything to ensure that he wins the next election 100 percent. She added that Governor Oyebanji is a good product  that must be marketed for the world to see.

“At first, when I contested and people mentioned continuity, I was one of the people that stood against it. Continuity of what, but this continuity is working now. You see, BAO government is actually laying a very good legacy in government and in governance, he has stood out as Omoluabi of Ekiti state, irrespective of his party affiliation, we all know that APC is at the top of politics in Nigeria. But if you want to rank governors, even among APC governors, if there is anything above 100 percent, you give it to BAO.

“Our governor is improving infrastructure, carrying all political parties along irrespective of where you come from, some people call him ‘dobale governor’ and we have seen some governors who are arrogant, whom will you prefer among them, those who messed up traditional institution with no respect for Obas or community leaders. And I want to appreciate Mr President for giving us a governor well-deserved in Ekiti state, a governor that has combined humility with service, governor of the people.

“You know, a good market doesn’t need advertisement, but sometimes, a good market has to be put out to the world to see and not kept in the room. So, we that have seen what he has done in Ekiti state, we are saying we appreciate him, and most especially the gesture of the wife of the governor for counting the women worthy, inclusion of women have been what women all over the world have craved for and for Ekiti, there has always been inclusion of women in governance because BAO understands the importance of women in politics and governance.”