OYEBANJI PLEDGES MORE SUPPORT FOR REVENUE AGENCY TO BOOST IGR.

OYEBANJI PLEDGES MORE SUPPORT FOR REVENUE AGENCY TO BOOST IGR.

….lays foundation for new EKIRS Head Office.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji has pledged to give more support to management and staff of Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) to boost the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the state and enhance greater development. 

The Governor therefore charged all the revenue-generating Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to cooperate with EKIRS to block all revenue leakages by putting a stop to manual collection of tax and revenue.

While commending the EKIRS for the improved revenue profile, Governor Oyebanji urged the revenue-generating agencies to support and cooperate with the tax agency charging them to do more for the state to rake in more funds into its coffers for his administration to serve the people better.

The Governor made the remarks on Monday in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, while performing the turning of the sod for the construction of the Revenue House that will serve as the corporate Head Office of EKIRS.

The Governor commended the EKIRS Chairman, Mr Olaniran Olatona, and the staff of the agency for working very hard in 2024 to receive a national recognition as one of the best performing state revenue agencies in Nigeria by raising the IGR from N600 million to N1.8 billion monthly.

Apparently impressed with the figures posted by EKIRS in the outgoing year which he described as "an impressive performance," the Ekiti Governor said the welfare of the staff has been of a paramount concern to him hence nothing would be spared to improve their welfare for better service delivery.

According to him, the groundbreaking of the new EKIRS corporate headquarters was not merely symbolic but it signified a critical step in enhancing a seamless revenue generation and tax administration. The gesture, he added, was aimed at fostering economic growth and improving the lives of the citizens.

Governor Oyebanji noted that the staff members of the revenue agency have demonstrated capacity and nothing should be spared to invest in them to do more hence the express approval granted the proposal for a new office complex that would motivate them to do more.

Reiterating the readiness of his administration to block all revenue loopholes, Governor Oyebanji promised to crack down on MDAs that engage in acts that encourage fraud in tax administration through alleged underhand dealings including manual collection of revenue which end up in private pockets.

He said: "I want to commend Team EKIRS for doing us proud by posting a very impressive performance nationally this year. With what you have been able to do, you have demonstrated dedication, you have demonstrated commitment you have demonstrated capacity so, no amount is too much for us to invest in you in all fairness.

"I also commend all revenue-generating agencies for their support; I charge them to do more and I plead with them to cooperate with EKIRS so that we can block all these leakages. I am aware that some of these MDAs are still doing manual transactions because that is  window for them to continue stealing government money.

"As we move into 2025, we are going to be deliberate about this and we are going to come very hard on MDAs that deliberately sabotage our efforts to serve our people to the best of our ability. I know that EKIRS staff can do more than they are doing if they have the fullest cooperation of these MDAs.

"We will try as much as possible to support you so that you can post a better performance in 2025 and I assure you that your welfare, I repeat, your welfare will be a personal concern to me. You have done so well that people are asking what are we doing differently in Ekiti but we just have dedicated staff that have put on the caps of a  private sector player."

Earlier in his address, the EKIRS Chairman, Mr Olatona, expressed gratitude to the Governor for providing the agency with a prime piece of land which is strategically located in the heart of the state capital noting that the approval of the land was predicated on the Governor's delight with the performance of the staff.

Mr Olatona noted that the Revenue House would enable the agency to qualify for more collaborations with the Joint Tax Board and other bodies, reduce the stress for taxpayers and also provide them with seamless access to services and information. 

The Ekiti Revenue boss said the project stands as a beacon of his team's dedication to excellence, transparency and accountability revealing that all professionals involved in the construction including architects, engineers, builders and workmen are from the state whom he said are competent to do a good job.

Former EKIRS Chairman, Mr Isola Akingbade, noted that the project, when completed, would be one of the best in the country. He hailed the Governor's commitment in making life better for the entire people of the state since his assumption of office.

The Project Manager, Engr Olajide Dada, promised to deliver the job within the scope of time noting that the enough men and resources are available to ensure the construction and delivery of a quality project.

The event was attended by the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Mr. Adeoye Aribasoye; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, among others.

Ekiti Governor’s Aide Honoured with Global Impact Leaders Award.

Ekiti Governor’s Aide Honoured with Global Impact Leaders Award.

The Special Assistant to the Ekiti State Governor on Youth Empowerment, Hon. Yemi Olubusoye, has received the prestigious Global Impact Leaders Award from EDUCRAFT Initiative in recognition of his outstanding contributions to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship development.

The award, conferred on Monday, December 30, 2024, at the Arowolo Garden Hall, Fajuyi, Ado Ekiti, highlights Olubusoye’s impactful strides in fostering entrepreneurship, creating job opportunities, and supporting small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs). The organizers, in collaboration with partners in Belgium, noted that the honour was a testament to his significant role in advancing business development and human capital growth among Ekiti youth and young adults.

Speaking at the event, the leadership of the Ekiti Youth Entrepreneurs lauded Hon. Olubusoye, describing him as a shining light in the state. They commended his efforts in promoting Ekiti’s image through innovative empowerment programs and initiatives that have positively transformed lives.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Olubusoye expressed gratitude to the EDUCRAFT Global Initiative for the recognition. He dedicated the award to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, whom he credited for providing the enabling platform, and to God for the grace to achieve such milestones.

“This award will inspire me to further intensify efforts in driving more empowerment initiatives within the entrepreneurship ecosystem,” Olubusoye said. “My focus remains on addressing the challenges entrepreneurs face, particularly in identifying opportunities and resources needed to start and grow their businesses. I see entrepreneurship not just as a career path but as a viable solution to unemployment.”

The award has been widely celebrated, with many describing it as a well-deserved honour for Olubusoye, who is regarded as the first Youth Empowerment specialist in Ekiti State.

#GlobalImpactAward

#Entrepreneurship

#YouthEmpowerment

#EkitiState

Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju Commissions Projects Across Ekiti State.

Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju Commissions Projects Across Ekiti State.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju, a Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matter to President of Nigeria, on Monday, 30th December, commissioned a block of three classrooms at the Ekiti State University (EKSU) Satellite Campus, Otun Ekiti, in Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

The commissioning, which was part of his developmental strides across the state, came just hours after he inaugurated other projects in Iye Ekiti and Ayetoro Ekiti.

The Oore of Otun Ekiti, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, who graced the occasion, offered prayers for Hon. Olarewaju, describing him as a distinguished son of Otun Ekiti and a beacon of development in Mobaland.

Also present at the event was Chief Jide Awe, the Special Adviser on Political Matters to Governor Biodun Oyebanji. Awe, a seasoned political figure in the state, declared the building officially open on behalf of the governor.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Olarewaju expressed his commitment to education and youth empowerment, emphasizing that the project was part of efforts to complement the governor’s agenda of improving infrastructure in the education sector.

The newly commissioned classrooms are expected to ease the accommodation challenges faced by students and provide a conducive learning environment at the satellite campus.

This development further highlights the collaborative efforts between the state government and federal representatives in fostering growth across Ekiti State.

Omo Ekiti Ni Mi Foundation Seeks Affiliation with Nigerian Youth Congress to Empower Ekiti Youths.

Omo Ekiti Ni Mi Foundation Seeks Affiliation with Nigerian Youth Congress to Empower Ekiti Youths.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

In a move aimed at enhancing youth empowerment initiatives in Ekiti State, Omo Ekiti Ni Mi Foundation, led by Mike Foluso, has expressed its intention to affiliate with the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Ekiti State Chapter.

The development has been warmly received by the NYC Ekiti leadership, headed by Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, popularly known as Topmost. The collaboration is geared towards equipping youths with essential skills, moral values, and opportunities to thrive.

Speaking on the proposed affiliation, Mike Foluso emphasized the foundation's commitment to youth development. “Our goal has always been to empower the next generation of leaders. This partnership with the Nigerian Youth Congress is a step forward in creating impactful programs that will benefit Ekiti youths,” he said.

In his response, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses described the move as a welcome development, noting that the collaboration would pave the way for meaningful engagements aimed at fostering youth productivity and morality.

“We are excited about this affiliation. Joining forces with Omo Ekiti Ni Mi Foundation will help us deliver training, equip young people with skills, and instill high moral values across Ekiti State,” Aare Adedara remarked.

The proposed partnership is expected to focus on initiatives such as leadership development, entrepreneurship training, and value reorientation programs tailored to meet the needs of Ekiti youths.

Stakeholders have praised the development, expressing optimism that the collaboration will address challenges faced by young people in the state.

Both organizations have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the affiliation yields tangible results that contribute to the overall growth and empowerment of Ekiti State youths.

OJUAWO HOSTS END-OF-YEAR PARTY FOR CONSTITUENTS.

OJUAWO HOSTS END-OF-YEAR PARTY FOR CONSTITUENTS.

...Declares support for BAO's second term.

...Distributes motorcycles to deserving members.

To appreciate God’s benevolence, achievements, peace, and harmony in the outgoing year, Hon. AVM Ojuawo Rufus ( Adeniyi (rtd) the honourable member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, hosted a year-end party for his constituents from Ikere, Ise, Orun, Ilawe, Igbara Odo, and Ogotun Ekiti at his country home in Ise Ekiti.

The well-attended event had in attendance the State APC Acting Chairman, Hon. Sola Elesin, and his entourage, as well as leaders from the constituency and various groups and associations. 

As a first-term Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ojuawo has been committed to serving his community, having previously served in the Nigeria Air Force, rising to the rank of an Air Vice Marshal before being elected in the 2023 general election. His efforts to promote economic empowerment and social welfare in Ekiti State were truly commended by the leaders who spoke one after the other at the party. 

In a brief welcome address, Hon. Olu Adamolekun, the Executive Chairman of Ikere Local Government, welcomed the leaders of the party and party members to the end-of-year party. He said, "We are here to celebrate the end of the year with our leader, Hon. Ojuawo. There's enough of everything for us today, so let's relax and enjoy ourselves."

The end of year ceremony, a two-day affair, between Sunday, December 29, and Monday Demember 30 witnessed the distribution of motorcycles by Hon. Ojuawo. He appealed to the party faithful to continue supporting Governor Oyebanji’s administration as he works to deliver his promises to the Ekiti people. He expressed gratitude to God for His mercy over the past 12 months, acknowledging that without it, he wouldn't have been alive to celebrate with his constituents.

He also praised Governor Oyebanji for working tirelessly to develop Ekiti State, saying the governor has become a driving force in ensuring Ekiti’s growth and recognition in the comity of states in the country. 

Hon. Ojuawo shared his daily prayer, asking God to remove any obstacles that might prevent him from serving his people, as they are the key to his success.

In the same development, the Ikere Ekiti Artisans and Local Government Advisers presented an award of Excellence respectively to Hon. Ojuawo, recognizing his outstanding performance and contributions to grassroots development through various empowerment programs. The awards came as a testament to Hon. Ojuawo’s dedication to the well-being of his community, and his efforts to promote economic growth and social welfare in Ekiti State, in line with the shared prosperity goals of the BAO administration.

The leaders praised Hon. Ojuawo for his numerous empowerment programs, interventions, and training sessions in his constituency, expressing their hope that the coming years will be even more fruitful, always asking for more like Oliver Twist.

The leaders who spoke at the occasion included Hon. Oluremi Ajayi Babington, Hon. Bayo Idowu, Otunba Kayode Fasae, Hon. Femi Ajayi, and Hon. Ropo Ogunbolude. Additionally, Hon. Femi Babalola, the Coordinator of Ojuawo Mass Movement for BAO in Ise/Orun, urged party members to join forces with the Ojuawo movement to mobilize support for BAO's re-election in 2026. He emphasized that time is of the essence, and they have already begun their meetings for the 2026 re-election campaign in Ise/Orun. 

Also at the event, the party welcomed a new member who crossed over from PDP, Chief Timothy Adu, from Oge quarters in Ise Ekiti, He pledged to support the re-election of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

The highpoint of the ceremony was the call by Hon. Deji Ajayi who called for a vote of confidence in BAO and his adoption for a second term in office. Hon. Ojuawo seconded the motion, and the leaders present unanimously agreed, declaring that theren is no vacancy in the governor's seat until 2030.

Hon. Sola Elesin expressed his gratitude to the leaders and party faithful of Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1 for gathering at Ojuawo's residence to celebrate the end of the year. He viewed the gathering as a testament to the unity and cooperation within the party, and he hoped to see more of the camaraderie in the years to come. According to him, the key to attracting more people to their party is to showcase the good work being done by Governor Oyebanji, their member of the House of Representatives, Ojuawo, and other government officials. He believed that the continuity mantra has had a profound impact on Ekiti, transforming it completely, and he couldn't be prouder of the progress they've made. 

In his appreciation, the host, Hon. Ojuawo expressed his gratitude to the state party chairman, local government party chairmen, Commissioner, Special Advisers, Board Members, House of Assembly members, Local Government Chairmen, Councillors, Supervisors, and Advisers, as well as party executives and members for honouring him with their presence. He assured them of better days ahead and took the opportunity to share some of his achievements, which include presenting 3 bills and moving 5 motions on the floor of the house. 

Hon. Ojuawo also highlighted his constituency projects, such as building 6 classroom blocks at Ogotun, supplying 228 solar poles and 769 bags of fertilizers to his constituents, constructing a 2km grade A road at Ajegunle in Ise Ekiti, establishment of two empowerment farms, Ogbese and Ogotun and building five solar-powered boreholes at different locations. Additionally, he mentioned the various empowerment and training programs he has implemented in his constituency. 

In conclusion, Hon. Ojuawo distributed motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, to party members in his constituency who have worked tirelessly for the party’s progress.

 

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Oyebanji signs N375.7bn 2025 budget, promises massive infrastructure, agric drive.

Oyebanji signs N375.7bn 2025 budget, promises massive infrastructure, agric drive.

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Monday signed the 2025 Appropriation bill of N375.7 billion, tagged “Budget of Sustainable Impact,” into law following its passage by the State House of Assembly.

Assenting to the bill at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s office, Ado- Ekiti at a brief ceremony witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; members of the State Executive Council and members of the state House of Assembly, Governor Oyebanji thanked the Lawmakers for the prompt passage of the bill, adding that the budget would revive the economy of the State and further drive the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

Recall that Governor Oyebanji presented the appropriation bill to the state House of Assembly on October 29th 2024 with the assurance that his government was making a concerted effort to bridge the infrastructure deficit, ensure food security, wealth creation, and welfare of the people, enhance productivity of the people and the economy as well as create the enabling environment for investors to increase the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He said it has been his tradition to ensure that appropriation bill is signed into law before the end of the year in order to maintain the January to December budget cycle in line with the tenets of fiscal discipline and our good governance agenda. 

He added  that he was happy that he has kept  faith with this in fulfilment of his avowed commitment to working his talk.

The Governor highlighted his top priority agenda for 2025 to include agriculture and food security, wealth creation, and infrastructural development, adding that the document would allow  his administration to consolidate on the achievements recorded so far, and complete all ongoing projects as well as provide the required infrastructure for the economic transformation of the state at large.

He thanked the speaker and other members of the state House of Assembly for their cohesiveness and resoluteness in the quest to ensure the state's overall development through sound, robust legislation and efficient legislative scrutiny of the bill.

The Governor restated that the Ekiti Legislators had been a worthy partner in progress with the executive rather than constituting themselves as a clog in the wheels of Ekiti progress and development, calling on them to continue to place Ekiti in the front burner of their deliberations over and above partisan politics and selfish aggrandizement.

While commending President Tinubu for various reforms that have attracted more funds to the state, Governor Oyebanji said, “As we are all aware, successful implementation of the budget depends to a very large extent on the availability of funds, to this end, let me specially appreciate and commend the President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and his team for the economic reforms that have been embarked upon to correct the structural problems confronting our economy and engender a sustainable development. 

These reforms have significantly improved the revenue accruing to the state from federation account in the past years, we expect this enhanced revenue flow to continue in and beyond 2025.

 “It is my pleasure to be in your midst this morning to sign the 2025 appropriation bill into law in fulfilment of my statutory obligation as Governor of Ekiti state in accordance with the 1999 constitution as amended. 

“This occasion marks the third time I will be signing appropriation bill into law, aside from supplementary bills which are usually prepared in the course of implementing annual budget to reflect the national circumstances not for-seen as at the time of preparing the original budget.

“The 2025 budget christened ‘Budget of Sustainable Impact’ has a size of N375,790,077,618.15. it is noteworthy that the budget, which is a product of wide consultation with the people of Ekiti state was prepared based on our expected economic reality over the next one year. It also align with fiscal discipline, fiscal principle of transparency, accountability and inclusivity.

Speaking earlier before presenting the bill to the governor, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye described the budget, titled Budget of Sustainable Impact as not merely a financial document but a powerful testament to the state’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of all Ekiti residents.

The Governor added  that throughout the process of deliberating on the bill, the legislators placed a high premium on transparency and accountability driven by fiscal discipline.

The Speaker also stated that the signing of the budget reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare and prosperity of the people, as it is a vital tool for driving development, creating opportunity, and ultimately improving the lives of the people.

Fasae Empowers 100 Indigenes, Hosts End-of-Year Constituency Celebration.

Fasae Empowers 100 Indigenes, Hosts End-of-Year Constituency Celebration.

The Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment in Ekiti State, Otunba Kayode Fasae, on Saturday marked the end of the year with a grand constituency gathering in Ise, his hometown. The event, held at the All Progressives Congress (APC) party office, saw over 100 indigent constituents across 10 wards benefiting from cash empowerment and other initiatives aimed at fostering community development.

The gathering attracted a notable crowd of political leaders, stakeholders, and party faithful, including the Local Government Party Chairman, Idowu Isaac JP, the Local Government Executive Committee members, and chairmen of all 10 wards. Women leaders and groups such as Young Women in Politics, Victory Ladies, and Success Ladies were also in attendance, alongside representatives from transport unions like the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).

During the event, Fasae distributed cash gifts of ₦10,000 each to 75 vulnerable residents across the 10 wards, emphasizing the importance of supporting the less privileged during the festive season. Local Executive Committee members received ₦100,000, with other stakeholders benefiting from additional financial contributions.

“These initiatives would not have been possible without the support of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji,” Fasae said, while commending the governor’s efforts in promoting grassroots development.

Key dignitaries present included retired Air Vice Marshal Rufus Ojuawo; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Mobilisation, Mrs. Oluremi Ajayi; and Hon. Ajayi Femi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Independent Project Monitoring. The Local Government Chairman, Mr. Bankole Ayodele, Vice Chairman, Mrs. Iyabo Oluwole, and Secretary, Mrs. Bunmi Famakinwa-Adetiloye, also graced the occasion.

The event was a vibrant showcase of solidarity and support, with several groups drumming up excitement for Governor Oyebanji’s re-election bid. Participants praised Fasae’s commitment to wealth creation and empowerment, describing the cash gifts as a lifeline for many.

In his address, Fasae reaffirmed his dedication to fostering community development, creating employment opportunities, and promoting wealth generation. “This is a season of giving, and we must all work together to uplift our community,” he said.

The celebration concluded on a high note, leaving attendees inspired and united in their commitment to the prosperity of the constituency. The event also underscored strong grassroots support for both Fasae’s leadership and the re-election bid of Governor Oyebanji, setting the tone for the political year ahead.