OYEBANJI EXPRESSES DELIGHT IN EKITI'S GIANT STRIDES IN ANNIVERSARY BROADCAST.

OYEBANJI EXPRESSES DELIGHT IN EKITI'S GIANT STRIDES IN ANNIVERSARY BROADCAST.

...Hails President Tinubu's Unflinching Support.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed satisfaction with giant strides made by the State since it was created as a political entity exactly 28 years ago.

The Governor noted that the creation of the State on 1st October, 1996 has accelerated the development of Ekiti land which has culminated into the state becoming a trail blazer in every aspect of human development under his watch as the chief executive in the last two years.

Addressing the people of the State in a broadcast to mark the 28th anniversary of the creation of Ekiti State and the 64th anniversary of the nation's Independence, Governor Oyebanji also hailed President Bola Tinubu for his unflinching support for Ekiti development since coming to power on 29th May, 2023.

Governor Oyebanji said Ekiti is "grateful for President Tinubu's numerous interventions and approval of critical federal infrastructure in the State and his support especially in tackling security challenges that confronted us early in the year." He noted that the presidential intervention has provided Ekiti with the right atmosphere for its growth as a  State. 

He used the opportunity of the broadcast to eulogize the former Military Administrators and former elected Governors who had held office before him for their contribution to the growth and development of the State on which his administration is presently building.

The Governor paid respect to the Founding Fathers especially Royal Fathers who championed the struggles for the creation of Ekiti State through the Committee for the creation of Ekiti State under the chairmanship of Chief Deji Fasuan. He also appreciated Aare Afe Babalola for his contribution towards the actualization of the Ekiti Project.

While paying tributes to traditional rulers and other Ekiti patriots for their roles in the struggle for the creation of the State, Governor Oyebanji also hailed the Ekiti State National Assembly Caucus under the leadership of Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Ekiti State use of Assembly, the State Executive Council and other political office holders for adding value to governance.

Making reference to empirical evidence of social and economic growth being witnessed in the Land of Honour, Governor Oyebanji stated that Ekiti is building a robust profile on all indexes of development attested to by recent figures released by Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS) which was realized through the robust implementation of his administration's six-pillar development agenda.

He said: "There is no doubt the creation of Ekiti State has accelerated the development of Ekitiland. Today, we are more than happy to affirm that Ekiti is now a trailblazer in every aspect of human development index, with those who started before us, now struggling to catch up with us in critical development indices.  

"For instance, in the recent data on education by the National Bureau of Statistics, Ekiti was adjudged the second most literate State after Lagos in the South West and one of the most literate in Nigeria. Similarly, the same Bureau also reported that Ekiti has the least out-of-school children in the South West. 

"We are very proud to say Ekiti is a front-liner in education, life expectancy, access to quality healthcare services, physical infrastructure development, access to water, peaceful co-existence, ease-of-doing business, gender equality, social inclusion among others. Gradually and assuredly, Ekiti is building a formidable profile of a progressive and development-oriented State that is poised for prosperity for all.

While acknowledging some challenges being faced in the governance of the State, including macroeconomic, security and infrastructural challenges and low industrial presence, the Governor said the six-pillar agenda of his administration was carefully crafted and is already yielding fruits across all sectors.

He added: "To respond to this, we came up with the Six Pillars of Administration with the primary objective of ensuring a shared prosperity for all. It is gratifying to note that our efforts are already yielding fruits across all sectors. We are not only meeting targets, we have surpassed targets in many instances.

"We believe in inclusive growth and sustainable development without leaving anyone behind. As it can be seen in our efforts so far, our Government is very focused and strategic in our development drive. We want to ensure every policy and programme of Government is connected to the chains of Ekiti Development Master Plan and the Six Pillars of Administration to deliver the shared prosperity promise. 

"We are also deliberate  in our plan that every Government spending must lead to job creation, inclusive growth and sustainable development. In the last two years since we came on board, we are glad to report that we have made some giant strides in different aspects of administration in accordance with our social contract with Ekiti people.  

"Law and order is the primary responsibility of every government, Accordingly, we have made security of life and property our topmost priority. As a State, we have, like many other parts of the country, had to contend with occasional opportunistic attacks of ‘hit-and-run” kidnappers, I am glad that we have been able to bring  them to book while we continue to do our best to prevent future recurrence.

 

"Similarly, we have been able to end the frightful incidence of street hoodlums who troubled the city of Ado-Ekiti in recent months. We have arrested them and they are currently facing trial. I therefore want to assure you that we will continue to do our best to protect you while we also appeal to you to help the Government by providing helpful information that can assist the security agencies to prevent and fight crimes in our dear State." 

The Governor assured the people of the State of his commitment to the social contract he has with them stressing that the people's welfare and wellbeing remain the sole pursuit of his administration expressing gratitude to their trust in his leadership.

28th Anniversary: You Haven't Disappointed Ekiti's Founding Fathers, Ogungbemi Salutes Oyebanji.

28th Anniversary: You Haven't Disappointed Ekiti's Founding Fathers, Ogungbemi Salutes Oyebanji.

.....rallies support for Tinubu as Nigeria marks 64th independence anniversary.

As Ekiti State celebrates 28th anniversary of its creation today, the Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area, Prince (Amb) Michael Ogungbemi, has praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for gradually fulfilling the vision of the state's founding fathers.

Ogungbemi said Governor Oyebanji, being one of the founding fathers of the state and Secretary, Committee for the creation of Ekiti State, was proving his mettle and acting as a committed patriot ready to bring the vision of the founding fathers to fruition at all costs.

Ogungbemi gave the commendation in a statement released in Ayedun Ekiti, headquarters of the LCDA in commemoration of the 28th anniversary of Ekiti State, having been created on October 1, 1996.

At the national level, Ogungbemi congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians on the country's 64th independence anniversary, urging the citizens to rally round their leaders at all levels, rather than beating war drums that can destabilise the system.

In his congratulatory message, Ogungbemi commended Ekiti citizens for their sacrifices to make the state work in spite of the initial pessimism caused by low socio- economic endowments of the State, describing this as an uncommon  sacrifice and display of patriotism. 

He appealed to the residents to continually support the government in its intensified efforts to make Ekiti greater than the current rating, so that the efforts of its founding fathers can be adequately complemented. 

He said: "As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Day Anniversary and Ekiti State at 28, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the good people of Ajoni Local Council Development Area. 

"Today marks a significant milestone in Nigeria and Ekiti State history as we progress in democratic principles and government. I urge everyone to reflect on our collective progress and the promising future ahead.

"As we commemorate this special day, I want to acknowledge the resilience and determination of our community. Your unwavering spirit is the driving force behind our growth and development.

" I encourage you to keep faith with the government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's leadership, as we work tirelessly to build a better tomorrow.

"We recognize the challenges of the past but we are committed to overcoming them. The APC led administration both at the national and subnational levels   remains dedicated to delivering essential services, fostering economic growth, and ensuring the well-being of all citizens.

"As we move forward, I reassure you that the government of the day is working diligently to address pressing concerns and create opportunities for everyone to thrive. Better days lie ahead, and together, we will achieve greatness.

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation".

"We will continue to be friends" BAORESS to Social Democratic Party women.

"We will continue to be friends" BAORESS to Social Democratic Party women.

In what turns out to be a carnival-like atmosphere in Ise-Orun Local Government, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) women turned out in large numbers to receive the Wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, as she continues her Local Government Areas (LGAs) tour for Women engagement across the state.

The SDP women were led by Mrs. Nike Babatunde, the wife of the Social Democratic Party Honourable representing Ise/Orun at the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Babatunde Omotayo.

The First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, while acknowledging the presence of the SDP women, appreciated them for their support to the government and the Governor. She assured them that the government will continue to be a friend to all and sundry, irrespective of political divides, as the people are already feeling the dividends of democracy.

"We are here today to extend our hand of friendship and cooperation to all the women of Ise-Orun Local Government, regardless of their political affiliations," the First Lady stated. "This government is committed to leaving no one behind in our pursuit of the state's development and prosperity."

The SDP women's leader, Mrs. Nike Babatunde, expressed their unwavering support for the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) administration, stating that they have already witnessed the positive impact of the government's policies and programs in their communities.

"We are here today to reaffirm our support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his administration," Mrs. Babatunde said. "We have seen the progress and development happening in Ekiti State, and we are confident that the Governor will continue to deliver on his promises to the people."

The event was marked by a festive atmosphere, with the SDP and APC women singing and dancing, in support of the Governor and his wife. This unexpected show of unity and cooperation across party lines underscores the growing political maturity in Ekiti State, as leaders prioritize the interests of the people above partisan divides.

NANS Southwest Coordinator Aspirant, Comr. Owolewa Taiwo, Urges Nigerian Students to Stay Resilient on Independence Day.

NANS Southwest Coordinator Aspirant, Comr. Owolewa Taiwo, Urges Nigerian Students to Stay Resilient on Independence Day.

As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Day, Comr. Owolewa Taiwo, a candidate for NANS Southwest Coordinator, has called on Nigerian students across the nation to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence and to hold on to the hope of a better Nigeria. 

Comr. Owolewa Taiwo NANS Southwest Coordinator Aspirant.

In his message to commemorate the anniversary, Taiwo acknowledged the sacrifices of Nigeria's founding fathers, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello, who played key roles in securing the country's freedom on October 1, 1960. He urged students to draw inspiration from their legacy of courage and determination as they navigate the current challenges in the nation.

"Today, as we reflect on our journey as a nation, I encourage you not to lose faith in Nigeria's potential. Despite the trials we have faced, we are a resilient people, and Nigeria will rise again," Taiwo said.

The aspirant further highlighted the importance of prioritizing education and youth empowerment, stressing that these are critical to shaping a brighter future for the country. He urged students to maintain integrity, stay focused on their goals, and demand accountability from leaders.

"As your NANS Southwest Coordinator hopeful and an advocate for change, I pledge to agitate for your needs, amplify your voices, foster unity and inclusivity, and promote academic excellence," he added.

Comr. Owolewa Taiwo concluded his message with a rallying call for students to support one another and continue striving for success, underscoring that the future of Nigeria lies in the hands of the youth.

"Together, we will shape Nigeria's future. God bless Nigeria, and God bless Nigerian students," he said.

Ekiti State Governor, Oyebanji, Bags Governor of the Year in Inclusive Political Leadership.

Ekiti State Governor, Oyebanji, Bags Governor of the Year in Inclusive Political Leadership.

.…as top brands, individuals win in 2024 EDGE Awards.

The Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has won the the Most Outstanding Governor of the Year (Inclusive Leadership and Grassroots Development) in the 2024 edition of EDGE Awards, organised by Marketing Edge Magazine, Nigeria’s leading Marketing Journal.

At the award held held at the Balmora Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, Oyebanji was honoured for his developmental approach to governance, inclusive leadership and uplifting the standard of living in the state.

According to the organisers of the award, Governor Oyebanji, who is marking his second year in office this October, was  honoured for his giant development strides in infrastructure, good governance and promoting peace in the 28 year-old state.

“In two years, Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated capacity and redefined governance in Ekiti State. Through his inclusive governance approach, the governor has been able to involve all the stakeholders; the elites, traditional institutions, artisans, women and youths are all represented and carried along by the governor. Again, for the first time since 1999, Ekiti enjoys unbridled peace among the political class. Oyebanji’s endorsement and acceptability cut across party lines,”

Receiving the award on behalf of Governor Oyebanji, his Special Adviser, Media, Olayinka Oyebode said the award would spur Oyebanji to do more in the uplift of the people of Ekiti State.

He quoted governor Oyebanji as saying that any recognition or award bestowed on him while serving the people of Ekiti State, is dedicated to all the well meaning people of Ekiti State. To this end, the ‘Governor of the Year in Inclusive Political Leadership’ was dedicated by Oyebanji to the people of the state.

 

“To Governor Oyebanji, a passionate leader and committed democrat, political leadership is akin to service to humanity, hence, his determination to spend everyday in office towards developing the state and his people. Until the last minute, Mr. Governor was meant to come in person to receive this because it speaks to some of his core-values but some other pressing state matters sprang up that required his attention.”

Earlier in his welcome address at the colourful event, the Publisher and CEO of MARKETING EDGE, John Ajayi, had stated that the theme of the evening: "Celebrating Excellence Beyond Borders", given the relevance of the award towards boosting the morale of outstanding individuals and brand owners.

Ajayi highlighted the evening's significance, lauding the exceptional efforts of brands and personalities who continue to drive national growth and development. He went on to emphasize the importance of awards ceremonies in recognizing hard work and dedication, noting that such events serve as a powerful reminder of the rewards of perseverance.

"Tonight, we come together to honor the achievements of the most successful brands and individuals who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also contributed immensely to the growth of the economy. These remarkable achievements inspire others to strive for excellence. Awards ceremonies like these celebrate the success of others and inspire those in attendance to continue aiming for greatness.”

Reflecting on the evolution of the awards, Ajayi noted that since its inception in 2013, the EDGE Awards has grown to be a significant industry event, fostering engagement and knowledge-sharing within Nigeria’s integrated marketing communications (IMC) ecosystem. He added that the awards now span industries beyond marketing and advertising, recognizing excellence in sectors such as Oil and Gas, ICT, Insurance, Health Care, and more.

The awards ceremony recognized outstanding achievements across  diverse categories and rewarded leading brands and individuals in corporate Nigeria.

2025 budget will focus on agriculture development- Gov Oyebanji.

2025 budget will focus on agriculture development-  Gov Oyebanji.

…..says Our target is to grow enough food to feed Ekiti people. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated his administration’s commitment to food security for residents of the state through various collaboration with investors in agribusiness and young farmers saying his target for 2025 is to record significant increase in production in the sector to feed the people.

Governor Oyebanji gave this indication while inspecting the Bring Youth Back into Agriculture Project farms in Oke Ako Ekiti, Iyemero Ekiti and Gede in the North senatorial Districts on Saturday. 

The Governor who was accompanied on the visit by some top government officials disclosed that the state’s budget for 2025 would focus more on agriculture, in an effort to ensure food sufficiency and make Ekiti the food basket of the country. 

While noting that his government’s deliberate investment in agriculture was already yielding the desired positive results, the Governor said his government in the last two years, had prioritized investment in agriculture, boost capacity of farmers and create a market for farm produce as part of efforts to enhance food production and tackle food insecurity.

Governor Oyebanji also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing necessary impetus for the state to thrive in agriculture and other sectors, promised that his administration will continue to provide economic opportunities for youths in the state and position them to be employers of labour. 

The Governor added that the State has also improved on its agricultural policies and guaranteed the needed infrastructure and support to drive the State’s agriculture development plans, adding that his administration was looking at ways to scale up food production and make the state self-reliant. 

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji said the  2025 budget , aside focusing on agriculture and food security, would prioritize the welfare of citizens, saying his administration in the last two years had done a lot in infrastructure, stressing that he would de-risk the agricultural value chain by scaling up security, provide electricity and rehabilitate roads to farms. 

“I’m superbly excited on the outcome of agriculture strategy, few months ago, we flagged off this programme, ‘bring back our youths into agriculture’ and I believe strongly that the only way to prosperity is productivity and bring our youths back to work, government has to provide the platforms for them.

“We partnered  with our people and  YSJ, a private sector agric company to work out a strategy of bring back our youths to agric where government cleared land for them free of charge, subsidized inputs by fifty percent. I am just going round today to see the outcome of this efforts and I am happy that it has turned round this way. 

“What this has taught me is the fact that Ekiti youths are not lazy, Ekiti youths are productive, they can work and what they need is just the platform. I have always been saying it that Ekiti can rival with any states in the federation, but as a government, we need to provide the platform for people to exhibit their potentials and this is what we have done.

“Next year budget is going to focus on welfare and agriculture, we have done a lot with infrastructure, education and health, the time has come for us to feed our people and my target for next year is to grow enough food to feed Ekiti people.”

At Oke Ako Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji, while applauding the youths for their dexterity and commitment to success of the project, assured the people that his government had already concluded plans to commence rehabilitation of the road from Ayedun to Oke Ako with a pledge to also provide electricity to the town within a short time.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES EX- GENERAL SECRETARY YCE, KUNLE OLAJIDE ON 80TH BIRTHDAY.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES  EX- GENERAL SECRETARY YCE, KUNLE  OLAJIDE ON 80TH BIRTHDAY.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated former Secretary General of Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE), Dr. Kunle Olajide, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

The Efon Alaaye born renowned medical practitioner turns 80 on Sunday, September 29th. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said Ekiti is very lucky to have a distinguished elder like Dr. Olajide as one of its illustrious sons who has contributed immensely to its development as well as the developement of the country. 

According to the Governor, Dr. Olajide has been a great blessing to humanity as a prominent medical practitioner, a politician, a statesman, a community leader, a selfless patriot and an advocate of good governance.

He noted that Dr. Olajide was a prominent leader in the old Ondo State where he offered himself to serve the people before Ekiti State was created,  adding that he has been a great blessing to his home state in different capacities.

Governor Oyebanji hailed Dr Olajide for his efforts during the struggle for the creation of Ekiti State in the areas of contacts, advocacy and being one of the rallying points before the struggle came into fruition on 1st October, 1996.

He added that Dr Olajide has also become a respected voice in the clamour for a better Nigeria and has never shied away from lending his voice to a more equitable and true federalism.

The Governor noted that he was not surprised that Dr Olajide later emerged as the chief scribe of the Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) because of his worth as a respected Yoruba leader who has a lot to offer for the benefit of his race.

He prayed God to grant Dr Olajide long life, sound health, fulfillment and more fruitful years to serve Ekiti State, the Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate our respected leader on his eightieth birthday and pray that God will strengthen him and increase his joy as he continues to age gracefully.”, the Governor added.