Ojuawo Congratulates Gov. Oyebanji on NCAA Approval.

Ojuawo Congratulates Gov. Oyebanji on NCAA Approval.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, has congratulated His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji, Governor of Ekiti State, on the approval of Non-scheduled flights to Ekiti State Cargo International Airport for the next six months.

In his congratulatory message, Hon. Ojuawo expressed his excitement and gratitude to former Governor Kayode Fayemi for conceptualizing the Ekiti State International Cargo Airport project, which will transform the state’s development and growth trajectory. He also commended Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment to completing the project, ensuring its benefits will be felt by generations to come.

“I’m thrilled to receive the news of the NCAA approval for Non-scheduled flights at Ekiti Cargo Airport,” Hon. Ojuawo said. “This achievement is a testament to former Governor Kayode Fayemi’s foresight and vision to position Ekiti in the global market, as well as Governor Oyebanji’s dedication to prioritizing Ekiti’s interests. The airport project, which commenced a few years ago, is a complex process that demands meticulous attention to detail, involving numerous professionals, safety measures, and standards. I applaud our diligent Governor for his steadfastness and commitment to bringing this project to fruition.”

Hon. Ojuawo commended Governor Oyebanji for embodying the spirit of continuity, which has yielded positive results in Ekiti, similar to the progress made in Lagos. The recent approval has enhanced the ease of doing business in Ekiti, providing a stronger foothold for expansion.

Additionally, with our agricultural produce set to hit the market early next year, we now have a viable means of accessing the international market. Hon. Ojuawo appealed to all Ekiti indigenes, both at home and abroad, to continue supporting Governor Oyebanji as he steers Ekiti towards greater heights.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

More Citizens hail Oyebanji on NCAA approval for flight operation.

More Citizens hail Oyebanji on NCAA approval for flight operation.

Accolades continued to pour in torrents for Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji over the recent approval for commencement of non- scheduled flights operation at the Ekiti International Cargo Airport. 

A former Director at the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Chief Tunde Aluko and a former Dep. Director at the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Otunba Rotimi Oluwatayo, in separate statements, congratulated the Ekiti State Governor and the people of the state over the approval. 

Aluko commended Governor Oyebanji for achieving the feat within two years of assuming office, stressing that the development has further re-ignited the confidence of stakeholders in the Biodun Oyebanji Administration.

Aluko, who is also the President, Aramoko Development Association (ADA), said when completed, the Airport stands a good chance of attracting foreign investment and opening up Ekiti State to varied Business opportunities. 

 

The ADA President said the airport will also boost the nation's Agriculture sector because of the priority it will give to farmers and other players in the Agriculture value chain to airlift their farm products to the global market.

He said, "Let me use this opportunity to commend  our State Governor as well as congratulate the people of Ekiti State over this milestone. All over the world, Airport is regarded as a hub of economic activity, generating employment, stimulating local businesses, and attracting investment. The Ekiti Cargo Airport will do beyond that as it would expose the players in the Agricultural sector to the international market,"

 

 Otunba Oluwatayo, who is also the President of Erijiyan Improvement Union, (EIU), described the approval by NCAA as a positive development that would further position Ekiti State for prosperity.

 

He said, “The import of the news of the approval of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is that our dear Governor is not leaving any stone unturned. To this end, I hereby congratulate Mr. Governor, and all Ekiti indigenes, within and in the Diaspora because this is a legacy project that would open Ekiti up to other opportunities. Besides, it will add value to the lives of the people and contribute to the rapid growth of the state and the nation’s economy.”

 

In a similar development, the Publisher of MarketingEdge, Nigeria’s foremost Marketing Journal and convener of the annual Marketing Summit and Awards, Mr. John Ajayi, has also congratulated Governor Oyebanji over the approval, describing it as another benefit of continuity in government and governance.

Ajayi, who is also the Asiwaju of Ijan Ekiti, while commending the Governor and congratulating the people of Ekiti State over the approval, stated that the Airport  investment is an everlasting dividend of democracy, not only for Ekiti people but for all the players in the Agriculture value chain of the globally economy.  

“The news of the approval by the NCAA as relayed by Governor Oyebanji’s spokesperson is more than Xmas gift to us in Ekiti because it will help Ekiti farmers and other investors in the Agricultural sector  and save their time and other constraints of going to other international airports to travel and transport their farm products,” Ajayi said

He commended Oyebanji for fulfilling his promises to Ekiti people to take it further from the stage it was when Governor Kayode Fayemi was leaving office and called on the people to support the governor in his drive to take Ekiti to the next level.

Also speaking on the approval, a Lecturer in the Department of Chemical Sciences,  Faculty of Computing and Applied Sciences,  Dominion University,  Ibadan, Dr. Folake O. Olojo, said Governor Oyebanji has written his name in gold and history will be kind to him for giving Ekiti responsible and responsive governance. 

 

She noted that the airport will open a very big revenue window for the state hence, more funds for the provision of democracy dividends to Ekiti people.

 

"I congratulate our Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji and the good people of Ekiti state over the approval to commence non-scheduled flight operation effective 15 December, by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The approval is timely because of the determination of the current administration at the center to diversify the nation's economy. With the Cargo Airport, Ekiti will be lifted and the Nigeria economy will be further boosted." Olojo stated.

EKITI AIRPORT APPROVAL GOOD FOR LOCAL ECONOMY, SAYS FASUAN.

EKITI AIRPORT APPROVAL GOOD FOR LOCAL ECONOMY, SAYS FASUAN.

…Lauds Oyebanji's tenacity in achieving the feat

An elder statesman, Chief Deji Fasuan, has expressed delight with the approval granted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for the commencement of non-scheduled flights at the Ekiti State International Cargo Airport.

Chief Fasuan, a retired Permanent Secretary and Chairman of the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State, who spoke on Friday in an interview at his residence in Ado Ekiti, described the approval as enormous for the economy of towns and villages around the airport who stand to benefit from its presence.

The nonagenarian who said it was thoughtful of the immediate past administration that came up with the airport project. He also commended the present administration for adopting the project and building on it to reach the present enviable status.

He particularly lauded the determination and tenacity of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in achieving the feat taking the project further from where his immediate predecessor, Dr Kayode Fayemi stopped.

Chief Fasuan explained that the breakthrough recorded in the airport project is another gain the people of Ekiti State have reaped from the continuity they voted at the last governorship election.

He said: "I congratulate Governor Oyebanji for the approval secured from the NCAA for the commencement of non-scheduled flights from December 15 at the Ekiti Airport.

"The advantages are enormous not only for flight users but for neighbouring towns and villages who have benefitted from roads and other modern facilities. We hope that in the next few months or so the system will incorporate scheduled and regular flights. 

"Today, some roads are springing up connecting villages that were hitherto unconnected. It is very thrilling that the present administration took it up immediately and continued to build on the ideas to the stage of receiving this approval.

"Congratulations to the present administration led by Governor Oyebanji and the previous administration, particularly Dr Kayode Fayemi, the originator.", Chief Fasua added.

No Arbitrary Taxes in Ekiti; All Collections Are Legal – EKIRS Chairman Olatona.

No Arbitrary Taxes in Ekiti; All Collections Are Legal – EKIRS Chairman Olatona.

The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) has reiterated its commitment to a transparent, equitable, and efficient taxation system while addressing misconceptions regarding its relationship with taxpayers. 

In a recent interview, the chairman of EKIRS, Mr. Olaniran Olatona, emphasized that the agency's operations are firmly anchored in law and are designed to promote mutual understanding and cooperation with the public.

Mr. Olatona highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the agency to enhance tax compliance, ease the burden on taxpayers, and address long-standing issues such as multiple taxation and enforcement actions.

In response to allegations of excessive or arbitrary taxation, Mr. Olatona asserted that all taxes collected by EKIRS are legally mandated. He explained that taxation adheres to three fundamental principles: legality, economic viability, and accounting fairness. 

“There is no tax we collect that lacks a legal foundation. We have always emphasized that any individual who believes they are being unfairly taxed is entitled to object within 30 days, as specified by law. Such individuals may present their cases with supporting evidence or seek redress in court. Since I took office in 2022, no one has successfully proven any wrongdoing in our operations,” he stated. 

Regarding concerns about the closure of shops and confiscation of goods, Mr. Olatona clarified that enforcement actions are implemented only as a last resort after multiple notices have been issued to defaulters.

“We provide sufficient time for taxpayers to address their obligations; however, some choose to disregard these notices, necessitating our legal intervention. Sealing shops in the early morning hours is a precautionary measure to prevent physical confrontations and ensure the safety of our staff as well as our taxpayers,” he explained.

He further noted that the agency’s autonomy enables it to operate with flexibility while ensuring efficient revenue collection. 

Mr. Olatona emphasized that EKIRS is cognizant of the economic difficulties faced by taxpayers and has instituted policies to lessen their burdens.

“We are considerate in our approach, particularly for individuals and businesses affected by the challenging economic landscape. For instance, we provide concessions to struggling business owners and exempt elderly citizens from certain charges when applicable, assessing each case individually to ensure fairness,” he added.

On the matter of multiple taxation, Mr. Olatona clarified that this situation arises from various revenue collectable by different tiers of government under the law. He expressed optimism about the ongoing tax reforms led by President Bola Tinubu, which aim to streamline tax collection and alleviate the burden on taxpayers.

“The proposed reforms at the federal level will address the issue of overlapping taxes. Once enacted, they will significantly benefit taxpayers, especially those with low incomes,” he asserted.

To strengthen relations with taxpayers, Mr. Olatona noted that the agency has embraced technology to simplify the tax payment process. Ekiti citizens can now make payments online from the comfort of their homes, and sensitization campaigns have been launched to educate the public on their tax obligations and the benefits of compliance.

“We are making tax payments as convenient as possible while educating people about the necessity of taxes for development. This has fostered a better understanding and improved compliance,” Mr. Olatona explained.

Responding to claims that taxpayers are not observing the impact of their contributions, he highlighted ongoing infrastructural projects and empowerment initiatives in the state as evidence of the government’s prudent utilization of tax revenue.

“It is disingenuous to claim that the government is not making use of taxpayers’ contributions. If former governors and opposition figures commend the current administration for its achievements, it is evident that the funds are being effectively utilized,” he argued.

The EKIRS chairman also urged taxpayers to meet their obligations, stressing that taxation is a constitutional duty and a shared responsibility.

“Anyone who benefits from government services has a role to play. Those who evade taxes have no moral ground to criticize the government,” he stated.

In conclusion, he disclosed that the agency has made significant progress in enhancing the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), achieving an impressive increase from 650 million Naira to 1.6 billion Naira recently.

Mr. Olatona reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to fairness and transparency, urging citizens to view the tax process as a partnership dedicated to fostering the growth and development of Ekiti State.

APC DESCRIBES EKITI AIRPORT APPROVAL AS BEFITTING XMAS GIFT.

APC DESCRIBES EKITI AIRPORT APPROVAL AS BEFITTING XMAS GIFT.

...We rejoice with the Gov and entire Ekiti people.

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ekiti State says it received with great delight the news that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has approved commencement of flight operation in the state from the 15th of this month. 

The party, through a release by its Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe, heaped praises on the State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, BAO and the entire people of the state, saying the good news couldn't have come at any better time. 

The news filtered in Thursday 12 December 2024 that Ekiti Cargo Airport has been granted approval to commence Non-Scheduled Flight operation from December 15 by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA. 

The NCAA dated the letter December 11, 2024 and addressed it to Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, saying the approval of the non-scheduled operations under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at the airport was for a period of six months- December 15, 2024 to June 15, 2025.

With the approval, airplanes will now land and take off from the airport in Ekiti like everywhere else between 6.00am to 6.00pm (or sunrise to sunset). 

"This is a promise made and promise kept, a Christmas gift specially wrapped for all in the state. That is how we see it. We are very happy and we make bold to say that it will serve us well to the delight of all." 

Dipe said that at this point, it's not about what had been said wrongly or rightly about the airport project, but what has been achieved. He urged everyone to give the State Governor a pass mark for walking his talk and ignoring the naysayers till the project made a headway. 

"This is the summary of it all: We dreamt big and we have achieved big. It is today's achievement for tomorrow's greatness. 

"On the surface, it was a tall order for a State like Ekiti to boast an airport, but with the saying that with God, all things are possible, coupled with our having in the saddle a highly determined governor, then we can be greatly joyful that great things are happening to us in Ekiti in diverse ways. "

"And we believe the good people of the State will be very delighted that this is happening to us at this crucial time. No one could have wished for more," Dipe said. 

Signed:

SEGUN DIPE

Publicity Secretary, All Progressives Congress, APC, Ekiti State.

YAN Congratulates Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.

YAN Congratulates Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.

The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN) National Headquarters has extend its heartfelt congratulations to Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede on his well-deserved elevation as the substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

Hon. Famuyibo National Speaker YAN.

The National Speaker of YAN said this during the 2nd world press conference of the organization in Lagos.

"This remarkable achievement is a testament to his unwavering dedication, professionalism, and exemplary service to our nation. We are confident that his wealth of experience and leadership qualities will significantly contribute to the advancement of the Nigerian Army and the security of our beloved country.

As the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluyede has demonstrated a profound commitment to addressing the complex security challenges facing Nigeria. His proactive approach, strategic reforms, and focus on operational efficiency have already yielded commendable results. The Youth Assembly of Nigeria acknowledges his steadfast efforts in ensuring the Nigerian Army remains a formidable institution capable of defending the sovereignty of our nation. We encourage him to sustain this momentum and take the Nigerian Army to greater heights.

Lieutenant General Olufemi, Chief of Army Staff.

In light of his new position, we charge the Chief of Army Staff to prioritize the reformation and modernization of the Nigerian Army. The youth of Nigeria call for innovative strategies to tackle insurgency, banditry, and other forms of insecurity threatening our nation's peace and development. We believe that through enhanced training, improved welfare for troops, and the adoption of cutting-edge technology, the Nigerian Army can be better equipped to face contemporary security challenges. Lieutenant General Oluyede has a unique opportunity to set a legacy of transformation and progress.

Furthermore, YAN commends his efforts so far in fostering discipline, unity, and professionalism within the ranks of the Nigerian Army. His emphasis on meritocracy and accountability has not only boosted the morale of officers and soldiers but has also restored public confidence in the military. We urge him to continue building bridges of collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders, as collective efforts are key to achieving lasting peace and stability in Nigeria.

The Youth Assembly of Nigeria reaffirms its support for Lieutenant General Oluyede as he embarks on this critical journey of leading the Nigerian Army. We are optimistic that under his capable leadership, the Army will achieve unprecedented milestones in safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians. Once again, congratulations to the Chief of Army Staff on this well-deserved elevation, and we wish him immense success in his service to our nation, he said".

Autonomy Granted Communities is to Fasttrack Devt, Not Acrimony - Ekiti Govt.

Autonomy Granted Communities is to Fasttrack Devt, Not Acrimony - Ekiti Govt.

The Ekiti State Government, has again restated that the autonomy granted to some communities was intended to propel development at the grassroots, and not to stoke the fire of acrimony between towns.

The government lamented the emerging  recurrent cases of violence and enmity among  the hosts and excised towns, warning that no community will be  allowed to display belligerent actions that  could thwart  its  efforts to actualise the set goals around autonomy.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, gave the clarification in Ado Ekiti, on Thursday, while interacting with stakeholders on the raging land tussle between Igbemo and Orun Ekiti, in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of the State. 

Orun, which had hitherto existed as a Quarter in Igbemo Ekiti, was granted autonomy on September 14, 2013, during the first term administration of Governor Kayode Fayemi.  

Addressing the stakeholders at the meeting, Mrs Afuye, told the Onigbemo of Igbemo Ekiti, Oba Adewumi Daramola and Olorun of Orun Ekiti, Oba Joshua Osalusi, to rein in their subjects and avert any bedlam that could result in carnage in the two communities.

She said: "The two Kabiyesis can sit and settle this matter amicably. The concept of autonomy granted to some towns as gazetted  in the Ekiti State Government White Paper, was to accelerate development at the grassroots. But sad enough, some people are making it looks like the other way round.

"Some of you had inter-married and had a lot of things in common. I expect the old and new communities to be friends. Development of your towns and subjects should be your focus, not unnecessary fights over lands".

Mrs Afuye promised that government will  deploy experts of the Ekiti State Boundary Resolution Technical Committee to undertake proper boundary demarcation between the two towns to resolve the issue permanently. 

In his submission at the parley, the Onigbemo of Igbemo Ekiti, Oba Daramola, said there wasn't any document from government suggesting that Orun Ekiti was allocated any land taken from the aborigines, despite being granted full fledged autonomy.

The monarch stoutly posited that since this land demarcation has not been done, that it remains a well  established fact  that all the lands within the radius of the two towns belong to his community.

Countering the position canvassed by the traditional ruler, the Olorun of Orun Ekiti, Oba Osalusi, said the autonomy accorded his people in 2013 went with benefits, including the right to manage their own traditions, lands and development, without interruption from Igbemo Ekiti.

However, Oba Osalusi concurred with the position of his colleague that delay in the boundary delineation between the towns by government sparked off the impression that his community has no land of its own, describing this as a gross violation of his people's rights.

The monarch said: "There was a time in this country that the Western Region was the government in place in the southwest. Six states were later created from it, of which Ondo State was one. Later, Ekiti State was created from Ondo State. Today, is Ekiti not having a land of its own? 

"I appeal to government to carry out the boundary delineation in time. The delay of this process is making things difficult for us", the monarch said.

Meanwhile, the two monarchs promised to cohabit peacefully and mediate in the land dispute to restore normalcy where necessary.