Prince Gbenga Folowosele: A Beacon of Philanthropy and Community Development in Ekiti.

Prince Gbenga Folowosele: A Beacon of Philanthropy and Community Development in Ekiti.

Prince Gbenga Folowosele, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Belgium and a distinguished son of Ekiti State, has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the growth and development of his people. As the pioneer of the Educraft Global Initiative Award, a highly regarded organization that celebrates the achievements of industrious Ekiti sons and daughters, Prince Folowosele has earned his place as a quintessential Omoluabi—a true embodiment of integrity, selflessness, and service to humanity.

Through the Educraft Global Initiative Award, Prince Gbenga Folowosele has played a pivotal role in advancing human development. The organization is widely recognized for its impactful contributions, including scholarships and various incentives that have empowered countless individuals across Ekiti State. These efforts reflect his deep passion for education, youth development, and the well-being of Ekiti Kete.

Hailing from Ijero Local Government, Prince Folowosele is not only a philanthropist but also a visionary leader whose actions consistently uplift the lives of his constituents. In a recent interview with newsmen, he revealed plans to distribute food palliatives and launch a comprehensive empowerment program in the coming weeks, aimed at alleviating poverty and equipping individuals with the tools to thrive.

Prince Gbenga Folowosele expressed his admiration for the transformational leadership of Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji. He lauded the Governor’s numerous achievements, including the implementation of the new minimum wage, which has already improved the welfare of civil servants in the state.

“Governor Oyebanji has proven himself to be a leader of vision and action. His administration’s dedication to the welfare of civil servants through the timely implementation of the new minimum wage is commendable. It has brought hope and financial relief to the hardworking people of our state,” Prince Folowosele remarked.

He also praised the Governor’s strides in key sectors:

Infrastructure Development: From roads to rural electrification, Governor Oyebanji has prioritized projects that connect communities and drive economic growth.

Education: The Governor’s focus on revitalizing the education sector, through improved funding and innovative policies, is laying the foundation for a brighter future for Ekiti’s youth.

Agriculture: Under his leadership, the state has witnessed a revolution in agriculture, empowering farmers and boosting food security.

Health Sector: Governor Oyebanji has improved access to quality healthcare services by equipping hospitals and recruiting healthcare professionals.

Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport: The approval and progress of this ambitious project signal a bold step toward making Ekiti a hub for economic activity and global trade.

Prince Gbenga Folowosele emphasized that the development witnessed under Governor Oyebanji’s administration reflects a commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and good governance. He urged all Ekiti sons and daughters to unite in supporting the Governor, noting that collective efforts are essential for sustainable progress.

“The government cannot do it alone. It is our collective responsibility as sons and daughters of Ekiti to rally around Governor Oyebanji and contribute to the betterment of our state. His achievements are proof that with the right leadership, we can achieve greatness,” he stated.

Prince Gbenga Folowosele declared his total support and endorsement for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid, expressing confidence in the Governor’s ability to deliver even greater milestones in the years to come. “Governor Oyebanji deserves another term to continue the good works he has started. His vision for Ekiti is clear, and his dedication to the people is unwavering,” he affirmed.

As the festive season approaches, Prince Gbenga Folowosele extended his warm wishes to the people of Ijero Local Government and Ekiti State at large. “To the good people of Ijero, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance. May this season bring joy, peace, and abundance to every home. Let us continue to work together for the progress of our land,” he concluded.

Prince Gbenga Folowosele’s selflessness, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to humanity exemplify the qualities of a true Omoluabi. His dedication to uplifting the lives of others and his support for good governance make him a shining example of service and excellence in Ekiti State and beyond.

©️ Prince Gbenga Folowosele Media Team

Irepodun/Ifelodun Chairman Presents N10.93bn 2025 Budget of Consolidation and Inclusion.

Irepodun/Ifelodun Chairman Presents N10.93bn 2025 Budget of Consolidation and Inclusion.

The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, presented the 2025 budget tagged “Budget of Consolidation and Inclusion” to the Legislative House.

The budget, which amounts to N10.93 billion, covers Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area and its two Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), Araromi and Ifedara. Hon. Oluwagbenga, addressing members of the House, dignitaries, and guests, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of the local government.

In his address, he said:

“I feel highly privileged and honoured to stand before this Honourable House to present the year 2025 budget for Irepodun/Ifelodun, Araromi LCDA, and Ifedara LCDA, titled Budget of Consolidation and Inclusion.”

Explaining the rationale for the title, he said:

“We have christened next year’s budget as such because it has been designed to let the people have greater confidence and hope in government by providing prompt interventions to solve community problems, especially in the areas of capital projects. This is in line with the six-point agenda of His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, which includes job creation, human capital development, agriculture and rural industrialization, governance, and arts, culture, and tourism.”

Hon. Oluwagbenga detailed the budget components as follows:

1. Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government:

Recurrent Expenditure: N6.4 billion

Capital Expenditure: N1.065 billion

2. Araromi LCDA:

Recurrent Expenditure: N220 million

Capital Expenditure: N1.45 billion

3. Ifedara LCDA:

Recurrent Expenditure: N240 million

Capital Expenditure: N1.555 billion

Overall Total: N10.93 billion

In Words: Ten Billion, Nine Hundred and Thirty Million Naira.

The chairman identified the major revenue sources to finance the budget as:

1. Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)

2. Statutory Allocation (10% from State IGR)

3. Statutory Allocation from the Federal Government

He further broke down the expected revenue:

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG: N8.05 billion

Ifedara LCDA: N1.795 billion

Araromi LCDA: N1.067 billion

Hon. Oluwagbenga expressed concern over the declining Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the council area and emphasized the need for a more aggressive revenue policy. He said:

“I want to note with a lot of concern the declining internally generated revenue in the local government LCDA. It is our humble desire to pursue an aggressive policy designed to increase revenue generation because the financial viability of any local government depends, to a large extent, on the scope and volume of its IGR. To achieve this goal, efforts will be geared toward improving internally generated revenue.”

The chairman urged members of the House to carefully examine the budget for proper vetting.

“The Honourable Leader and Members of the House should please carefully examine this 2025 budget because it is higher than the 2024 approved budget. This increase is a result of our desire to serve our people diligently, effectively, and efficiently,” he stated.

Appreciating the support of the people, he appealed to Kabiyesis, chiefs, Iyalojas, and other community leaders to cooperate with the administration in improving IGR.

“I also want to appeal passionately to the Kabiyesis, chiefs, community leaders, Iyalojas, and Iyalajes to cooperate with our administration, especially in the areas of internally generated revenue and respect for the rule of law.

“Your advice from time to time is equally welcome because the voice of elders is the voice of wisdom. Your cooperation since our assumption of office is unwavering, and I am confident that none of us will misuse the opportunity given to serve you,” he added.

In response to the presentation of the 2025 Budget of Consolidation and Inclusion,  the Leader of the Legislative House, Hon. Mrs. Olagunju Yemisi, commended Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga for his visionary leadership and the inclusive governance approach. She praised its focus on job creation, infrastructure, and human capital development, aligning with Governor Oyebanji’s six-point agenda. Hon. Olagunju assured the chairman of the House's cooperation in ensuring swift approval and implementation to benefit all communities.

In attendance were the Executive Chairmen of the three councils:

1. Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga – Executive Chairman, Irepodun/Ifelodun LG

2. Hon. Chief Wale Alade – Executive Chairman, Araromi LCDA

3. Hon. Lawrence Ogunsanya – Executive Chairman, Ifedara LCDA

The report was compiled by Asubiojo G.O, of the Information and Civic Orientation Department, Irepodun/Ifelodun LG.

Red Cross Society Honours Late Justice Awe with Medical Bay at Oluyemi Kayode Stadium.

Red Cross Society Honours Late Justice Awe with Medical Bay at Oluyemi Kayode Stadium.

The Ekiti State chapter of the Nigerian Red Cross Society has announced that its project to establish a medical bay at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti is nearing completion.

Late Hon. Justice Lawrence Sunday Awe

The initiative is part of efforts to enhance athlete welfare and complement the state government’s ongoing investment in sports infrastructure and healthcare services.

The Chairman of the Ekiti State Red Cross Society, Dr Tunde Ajayi, announced that the medical bay is being dedicated to the memory of a former branch chairman of the association, the late Hon. Justice Lawrence Sunday Awe, noting that the project is being sponsored by the family of the late justice as a tribute to his legacy.

According to Dr Ajayi, the facility will be outfitted with essential medical equipment to provide first aid and emergency care for athletes during training sessions and competitions. 

He noted that the initiative aligns with the organization’s mission to support the health and well-being of the community.

In addition to the medical bay, Dr Ajayi revealed that the Red Cross Society is planning renovation projects within the stadium to upgrade its facilities and create a more conducive environment for sports development.

Speaking on behalf of the late Hon. Justice Lawrence Sunday Awe’s family, Barr. Babasoji Awe expressed gratitude to the Red Cross Society for honouring the memory of his late father through such a meaningful project. 

He noted that the initiative is in recognition of the values of service and compassion that Justice Awe upheld during his lifetime.

Reacting to the announcement, the Technical Advisor on Sports Development to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba, commended the Red Cross Society for the laudable initiative. 

Osetoba also encouraged other civil society organizations in Ekiti State to emulate such contributions toward public health and sports advancement.

The project is set to be completed soon, reflecting a strengthened collaboration between the state government and civil society organizations in promoting sports development and improving healthcare services in Ekiti State.

Thank God, Thank President Tinubu, Oyebanji tells Ekiti workers as they receive new minimum wage.

Thank God, Thank President Tinubu, Oyebanji tells Ekiti workers as they receive new minimum wage.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Monday told workers in the state to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for enabling the state to pay the new minimum wage to its workforce.

The Governor stated this when hundreds of civil servants stormed his office in Ado-Ekiti , dancing and singing in appreciation of payment of the new minimum wage as reflected in their December salary, which was paid same day.

Governor Oyebanji said the minimum wage was made possible because of President Tinubu’s reforms which ceded more funds to the states.

He said but for the President’s reforms which gave more money to states, a number of state governments would not have been able to pay the minimum wage.

Governor Oyebanji also hinted on the possibility of increasing the minimum wage once the state get more resources.

“Honestly, I don’t think you should thank me. We have not done anything unusual. You worked hard and got paid by government. But I thank you also for showing appreciation. Thank God and after God, the only person you should thank is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I I’m saying this because what you are seeing today are the outcomes of the reforms he embarked on.

“You know states would not have been able to pay the minimum wage if there had not been a remarkable improvement in our allocation. When he embarked on the reforms, he did so having in mind that it may be painful initially, but at the end of the day, it will be in the interest of all of us.

“My Plea to you is to support the President. It can get better because N70,000 is just the minimum, we can go beyond it if our situation improves and I know that by the time all these reforms start to bear fruits, there would be a quantum increase in what comes to the states and we can come to you and say yes, we can afford to add more.

“I thank President Bola Tinubu for the courage and boldness to walk a lonely path, because when he embarked on the reforms, most people didn’t believe in him, but because he is a leader that is future thinking he has been able to achieve more.

 “My advice to workers is that we should remain steadfast, be patient and cooperate with the Government. We should also educate others on the usefulness of these reforms to our survival as a nation.

Earlier, the workers who were led to the Governor’s office by some Permanent Secretaries, thanked the Governor for fulfilling his promise to ensure they got a good deal in the minimum wage payment.

Specifically, the Permanent Secretaries among them thanked the governor for including them in the new wage, thereby ending several years of exclusion in the minimum wage arrangement.

The development, according to them, had confirmed Governor Oyebanji’s promise to ensure that every category of workers benefit from the new minimum wage.

The Governor, who just came out from the state executive council meeting, was accompanied by Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro and some state commissioners to receive the jubilant workers.

It is recalled that Governor Oyebanji had last month announced that the new minimum wage would become effective in the state by December 1. Workers in the state started receiving bank alert for the December salaries on Tuesday.

Ekiti Government Boosts Inclusive Education with Capacity-Building Training for Special Education Personnel.

Ekiti Government Boosts Inclusive Education with Capacity-Building Training for Special Education Personnel.

The Ekiti State Government, in partnership with Premium Trust Bank, has commenced a three-day capacity-building training program for teachers, administrative staff, therapists, and other personnel from all special schools across the state.

The training, which began on December 16, 2024, is taking place at the Government School for the Physically Challenged and Intellectual Disabilities in Ido-Ekiti, and will run until December 18.

Speaking to journalists at the training venue, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, described the initiative as part of the government’s commitment to improving the quality of care and support for individuals with special needs in Ekiti.

Mrs. Agboola noted that the training aims to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance their teaching and caregiving roles. She acknowledged the dedication of educators in the state’s special schools, highlighting their consistent application of lessons from previous training programs in line with the government’s policy thrust.

However, she emphasized the challenging nature of working with children with disabilities, which necessitates regular capacity-building programs to ensure the best outcomes.

According to the Special Adviser, this round of training significantly expands participation, with approximately 90 teachers (following the employment of more teachers) and 20 administrative staff members in attendance, compared to the 45 teachers who participated in the last session held in April 2024.

Mrs. Agboola revealed that the training includes specialized sessions, such as a workshop led by a play therapist, aimed at teaching participants how to effectively use play-based techniques to engage children with disabilities.

Furthermore, she explained that, in addition to the centralized training, schools also conduct in-house sessions to continuously enhance staff capacity.

Mrs. Agboola expressed optimism that the current program would make participants more proficient in utilizing materials and equipment to effectively support students with disabilities.

The training was organized by the state government in collaboration with Premium Trust Bank, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering inclusive education in Ekiti State.

Irepodun/ Ifelodun LG Holds Glorious Christmas Carol Celebration.

Irepodun/ Ifelodun LG Holds Glorious Christmas Carol Celebration.

The staff of Irepodun Ifelodun Local Government (IILG) came together to celebrate the joy of the Christmas season at a grand carol service themed "Worship His Majesty," held at the NULGE Hall in Igede-Ekiti.

The event, graced by eminent personalities, was led by the heavenly-conscious chairman of the LG, Honorable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, fondly known as Chenco, alongside his amiable and fashionable wife, Mrs. Oluwatuyi Hellen. They were supported by other political dignitaries, including the LG Secretary, Honorable Sule Fatai; the Vice Chairman, Hon. Remi Alade; and the Leader of the House, Hon. Olagunju Yemisi.

A variety of Christmas songs and dramatic presentations by the staff added beauty and joy to the occasion. The invited pastor, who also serves as the LG Chaplain, Pastor Olowoloba Blessing, delivered an inspiring sermon on the relevance of Christmas. He reminded the audience of the profound message of Christ’s birth, emphasizing the need for love, humility, and giving as central themes of the season.

The NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole-Festus.

The NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole-Festus, in his pragmatic and formidable style, urged the staff to draw closer to God in ultimate service while encouraging them to remain upright, diligent, and altruistic in their official duties in the coming year.

Hon. Oluwatuyi Stephen Oluwagbenga Executive Chairman of Irepodun/ Ifelodun LG 

In his address, Honorable Oluwatuyi urged the staff to give God what belongs to Him spiritually while also being time-conscious and ensuring their religious commitments do not interfere with their official responsibilities. Drawing from biblical principles, he reiterated the importance of balancing faith and duty, reminding them to "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God."

Mrs. Oluwatuyi Hellen

The chairman further highlighted his administration’s commitment to workers' welfare. He announced plans to fully fund financial assistance programs, rather than through installments, and promised several other welfare packages for the coming year. He called on the staff to reciprocate these gestures with diligence and dedication at their respective duty posts.

The atmosphere was charged with positivity as staff members responded with social and emotional vibes, appreciating the chairman's speech and the program’s success.

The NULGE Chairman also expressed gratitude to the LG Chairman and the staff for their presence, promising positive changes in staff commitment to official duties as a result of the impactful celebration.

By: Asubiojo G.O.

Information and Civic Orientation Department, Igede Ekiti.

Ajoni LCDA Chairman Honoured With Transformational Leadership Award.

Ajoni LCDA Chairman Honoured With Transformational Leadership Award.

For his exceptional leadership qualities and acumen in grassroots administration, the Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, has been conferred with the prestigious Transformational Leadership Award.

Prince Ogungbemi was garlanded with the prestigious award, on Saturday, by Odo Ayedun Progressive International.

This honour recognizes his unwavering commitment to excellence, visionary leadership, and outstanding contributions to the socioeconomic and educational development of Ajoni LCDA.

Speaking about the honour, Ogungbemi, said: "I dedicate this award to the hardworking people of Ajoni LCDA. It is a call to do more, and I assure you that I remain steadfast in our collective journey toward a prosperous and developed council,” he stated.

Ogungbemi added that the Transformational Leadership Award, was a loud testimony to the his impactful leadership and dedication to improving lives and livelihoods in Ajoni LCDA. 

The Chairman's tenure has been a hallmark of dedication, diligence, and impact-driven governance. Under his leadership, economic activities in various communities have flourished, leading to a significant boost in the gross domestic products GDP of the Ajoni communities. His focus on creating an enabling environment for commerce and development has catalyzed growth and sustainability across the region.

In the education sector, the Chairman's policies and reforms have been nothing short of transformative. From the construction and delivery of modern classroom buildings in Ayebode and Esun Ekiti to the scholarship awards for indigent and outstanding pupils, his administration has consistently prioritized education as a pillar of development. Other notable initiatives include sponsoring about 50 students in vocational and technical education and the distribution of free exercise books to primary school pupils under the 'Back to School' program.

The Chairman's empowerment programs have reached every sector of the population, fostering inclusivity and progress for all. His developmental strides have continued to impact lives positively, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition from various quarters.

The award presentation ceremony was a momentous occasion, bringing together prominent indigenes of Odo Ayedun and stakeholders from across the region. In his acceptance speech, the Chairman expressed gratitude to the Odo Ayedun Progressive International for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to the sustainable development of Ajoni LCDA.

It reinforces his position as a leader who not only envisions change but actively drives it.