SUPPORT TINUBU FOR POSITIVE TURNAROUND OF OUR COUNTRY’S FORTUNES, OYEBANJI APPEALS TO NIGERIANS.

SUPPORT TINUBU FOR POSITIVE TURNAROUND OF OUR COUNTRY’S FORTUNES, OYEBANJI APPEALS TO NIGERIANS.

….Pledges to work harder for Ekiti development in 2025.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has appealed to Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu in his avowed determination to achieve a positive turnaround in the fortunes of Nigeria and ensure that its people enjoy better standard of living.

Oyebanji also enjoined Nigerians to stop making negative comments and confessions about the country, which he said is on the right path to economic recovery and prosperity.

President Tinubu, according to him, means well for Nigerians with his reforms which he said are beginning to yield expected dividends. 

The Governor who made the remarks on Thursday at the 2025 Inter-faith Thanksgiving Service held at the main theatre of Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre, Ado Ekiti , said Nigerians should be grateful to God for giving them a courageous leader in person of President Tinubu, who, he said , is not afraid of taking decisions which are in the overall interest of the masses.

Oyebanji also used the opportunity of the interfaith service to restate his commitment to work harder for the development and prosperity of Ekiti State.

Acknowledging the commendation of clerics at the inter-faith thanksgiving service for the way he has been handling the affairs of the state, Oyebanji said he has no excuse not to live up to expectations of the people noting that God had prepared him well for the top job with the experience he had garnered in governance over the years.

Oyebanji hailed the people of the state for investing their goodwill in the All Progressives Congress (APC) through their votes which gave him the privilege to become their chief servant who leads other dedicated men and women to make sacrifices for the growth and development of the Land of Honour.

"As the chief servant of the people, I make a promise again before God and before all of you that are here today tht I will serve you with every fibre, every energy. I will serve you in truth and I will serve you with fear of God and 2025 will be our year of accelerated growth and development for us as a state and individually," he said.

The Governor attributed the recent increase in allocation to the state which has reflected increased salary for civil servants, other welfare packages for citizens who are not on government payroll as well as  ongoing and completed projects to the magnanimity of Tinubu who approved increment in allocation to states after the fuel subsidy removal.

Oyebanji expressed gratitude to Tinubu "for showing immense grace to him and to Ekiti people" saying, "after God, whatever we might have achieved is through the President because when you find favour in the presence of the President, it translates to good things for our people."

The Ekiti helmsman noted that Tinubu's policy shift is now being appreciated in some quarters that had earlier misunderstood him citing the example of the decision of the management of THISDAY Newspaper to give the President the Man of the Year award in recognition of his bold and courageous decisions in the overriding public interest.

Oyebanji said: "Please, let us continue to support our President because it is in our own interest to support him. We must thank God that God made him to be President for a time like this. One of my happiest moments was yesterday (Wednesday) when I woke up and I saw THISDAY Newspaper and they said Mr President is their Man of the Year and you know that THISDAY and ARISE TV are highly critical of  the President.

"They said that Mr President is courageous, that he is a strong-willed person. So, if that is coming from opposition elements, that means we owe it a duty to support the President. The President is human, if we continue to support him, I know that he will do more and we are already seeing positive developments arising from what he is doing.

"We are able to do what we are doing in Ekiti State because we had an increase in allocations at all levels. These allocations wouldn't have been possible if the President had not removed fuel subsidy. These are painful decisions but there is no country in the world that eats its yam sets and woukd not pay for it. What President Tinubu is telling us is that we should not eat our yam sets, that we should invest them.”

Speaking further, Oyebanji said : “As we enter 2025, our confessions about Nigeria should be positive. Most of us make negative comments about our nation and there is power in our tongues. Let us speak positively to our own Jerusalem because that is what Nigeria is to us so that all of us will find peace."

He urged well endowed Ekiti sons and fathers at home and in the Diaspora to emulate the  Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) in mobilizing support for the state government, leveraging their influence, resources and goodwill. 

He said the two frontline citizens have been consistent in their support for the state, adding that the state would appreciate more of such support from other well endowed Ekiti. 

The service featured songs of praise, readings from the Bible and the Qur'an as well as  sermons and prayers by Muslim and Christian clerics. 

In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; acting Chief Judge, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye; members of the House of Assembly, State Executive Council, other political office holders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour leaders and civil servants.

Governor Oyebanji: PGF Celebrates Ekiti’s Beacon of Excellence as Silverbird Man of the Year.

Governor Oyebanji: PGF Celebrates Ekiti’s Beacon of Excellence as Silverbird Man of the Year.

The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) proudly congratulates Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State on his well-deserved recognition as the Silverbird Man of the Year 2024, a testament to his outstanding leadership and transformative governance. This prestigious honor not only highlights Governor Oyebanji’s remarkable achievements but also celebrates the resilience and collective progress of the people of Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji has proven to be a trailblazer in governance, with his visionary policies and programs making an indelible mark on every sector of the state’s economy and society. His administration has revitalized agriculture, empowering farmers, improving food security, and driving rural development. Under his leadership, Ekiti has witnessed an unprecedented focus on job creation and employment, with thousands of opportunities provided for youth, women, and other vulnerable groups.

One of the hallmarks of Governor Oyebanji’s leadership is his ability to unite diverse groups and political forces. Ekiti, known for its vibrant political landscape, has been transformed into a model of inclusivity and collaboration. The governor’s commitment to fostering unity has brought stakeholders from across political divides together, working collectively for the state’s development.

Governor Oyebanji’s administration has prioritized youth and women development as a cornerstone of its agenda. Through innovative programs, young entrepreneurs have been supported, skill acquisition initiatives have been expanded, and women’s participation in economic and political spheres has been significantly enhanced. These efforts have strengthened the social fabric of Ekiti, empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to the state’s growth.

Under Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti State has made significant strides in infrastructure development. Roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential projects have been executed with precision, improving the quality of life for all residents. Recognizing Ekiti’s rich cultural heritage, the governor has also prioritized tourism development, positioning the state as a leading destination for cultural and natural exploration.

The Silverbird Man of the Year Award is a reflection of Governor Oyebanji’s tireless dedication, exceptional performance, and the unwavering trust of Ekiti people. In his acceptance speech, the governor humbly attributed the recognition to the collective efforts of the people, saying, “This honor is not about me but for Ekiti people. It is dedicated to God, Mr. President for his strong support, and Ekitikete for their massive backing of our administration.”

The Progressive Governors Forum commends Governor Oyebanji for embodying the values of unity, inclusivity, and development-driven leadership. His achievements resonate with the Forum’s commitment to advancing the prosperity of all Nigerians.

As we celebrate this historic recognition, we urge the people of Ekiti and Nigerians nationwide to continue supporting Governor Oyebanji and all Progressive Governors as they work tirelessly to build a prosperous and united Nigeria.

This award is not just a victory for Governor Oyebanji—it is a triumph for the people of Ekiti and a call to action for greater collaboration and development across the nation.

Congratulations to Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the people of Ekiti State. The Progressive Governors Forum stands with you, confident that the best is yet to come.

Signed

Folorunso S. Aluko

Director General, Progressive Governors Forum

The Ooni of Ife's Historic visit of Endorsement to Agbeyewa Farms.

The Ooni of Ife's Historic visit of Endorsement to Agbeyewa Farms.

The recent visit of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, to Agbeyewa Farms in Ekiti State has sparked widespread excitement and optimism. As one of Nigeria's most revered traditional rulers, the Ooni's endorsement of Agbeyewa Cassava farm as a flagship agro-allied investment platform is a resounding vote of confidence in the farm's potential to drive economic growth, job creation, and prosperity.

During his visit, the Ooni was visibly impressed by the farm's sprawling cassava plantations and its commitment to revolutionizing cassava production and its value chains in Nigeria and Africa. His presence was a source of inspiration and a blessing to the farm's management, staff, and surrounding communities.

No doubt, the Ooni's endorsement of Agbeyewa Farms as a model for agricultural development and job creation would further strengthen the farm commitment to driving economic growth and sustainable development in Ekiti State and beyond. 

The Ooni's call to action, urging traditional rulers in the Ikole Local Government area to support Agbeyewa Farms, is a significant booster that promises to foster greater collaboration and cooperation amongst key stakeholders in that environment. By rallying behind the farm, these traditional rulers can benefit greatly for their people, an ample economic prosperity agenda being championed by Agbeyewa, to drive economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of local communities.

The Ooni's tributes to the duo of John Olajide and his brother, Ron Olajide, who have invested heavily in Agbeyewa Farms, is an inspired balm that will continue to ginger them to continue to invest in the lives of the people of Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.

The duos' courage and determination to make a positive impact on their home state are a shining example of patriotic entrepreneurship.

As Agbeyewa Farms continues on its remarkable journey, the Ooni's endorsement has no doubt ignited a sense of excitement and anticipation. With this commitment to driving economic growth, job creation, and prosperity, Agbeyewa Farms is poised to become a flagship project for Ekiti State and a model for sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria and beyond.

Ekiti Unveils Dry Season Agriculture Strategy, Empowers Farmers.

Ekiti Unveils Dry Season Agriculture Strategy, Empowers Farmers.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

In a proactive move to mitigate mid-year price hikes and scarcity of tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables, the Ekiti State Government has commenced the implementation of its dry season production strategies for 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Boluwade Ebenezer, seeks to revolutionize horticultural production in the state.

During a visit to the Erinfun Horticultural Production Hub in December 2024, Mr. Boluwade reviewed the government’s plans with key stakeholders. The hub, operated by Urban Farmers Ekiti, has been positioned as the nucleus of a statewide agricultural transformation aimed at creating jobs and ensuring food security.

In line with this vision, several interventions have already begun to materialize. These include:

1. Enhanced Water Supply: Two additional solar-powered pumps are set to be installed, ensuring water is reticulated across the 20 hectares of cleared farmland. The contractor has been mobilized, with installation work starting immediately.

2. Improved Irrigation Infrastructure: Drip irrigation tapes have been supplied to complement existing systems, enabling wider coverage and efficient water use.

3. Seed Distribution: Discussions are underway with East West Seeds Ltd to provide improved tomato and pepper seeds at subsidized rates for youths and legacy farmers in Erinfun, Aramoko/Erio, and other horticultural hubs.

4. Crop Protection Solutions: The state is finalizing arrangements with a crop protection company to supply environmentally friendly agrochemicals that enhance yield without compromising ecological balance.

5. Market Access: Ilu Eye Trading Company will sign an offtake agreement with farmers, ensuring their produce reaches consumers at fair prices, thereby curbing middlemen exploitation and price inflation.

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Boluwade expressed his gratitude to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for approving these interventions, which will benefit over 500 youths and legacy farmers. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning agriculture as a profitable business and a tool for job creation.

“Our focus is on accelerated food production and wealth creation for our teeming youths,” the Commissioner stated. “With these steps, we are not just addressing the challenges of scarcity and high prices but also laying a foundation for sustainable agricultural practices in Ekiti State.”

The recently desilted dam at the Erinfun hub, coupled with the enhanced infrastructure, is expected to support year-round vegetable production. The state government’s partnership with private-sector players and stakeholders has been lauded as a model for agricultural development.

As the dry season progresses, stakeholders and residents are urged to monitor the strides being made in Ekiti’s agricultural sector. With these strategic interventions, the state is poised to achieve its vision of becoming a leading hub for food production in Nigeria.

OYEBANJI THANKS SILVERBIRD, NIGERIANS FOR MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD.

OYEBANJI THANKS SILVERBIRD, NIGERIANS FOR MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed his appreciation to the management of Silverbird Television and Nigerians in general for his emergence as Silverbird Man of the Year 2024. 

The management of Silverbird had on Wednesday morning announced Governor Oyebanji as winner of Silver bird Man of the Year award 2024, having polled the highest number of votes to beat other nominees for the award category. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode in Ado-Ekiti, on Thursday, said he owes Nigerians who voted in the exercise, a debt of gratitude, promising that the recognition will spur him to do more in terms of impactful service to the people. 

“The honor is not about me but for Ekiti people. The award is dedicated to God for his grace, Mr President whose strong support made this possible and Ekitikete for providing the opportunity to serve by voting our party the All Progressives Congress (APC) into office and for their massive support for our administration”, the Governor stated. 

Silverbird had cited Governor Oyebanji’s impressive performance and achievements in the areas of infrastructure and tourism developement, social intervention for the less privileged, inclusion governance, agriculture and rural development. 

Instituted in 2005 to recognize individuals who have impacted the society, previous winners of the Silverbird Man of the Year award include, former Lagos Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN); former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el- Rufai; former NAFDAC boss, late Prof Dora Akinyuli; former Governor Aminu Tambuwal , Senator Adams Oshiomjole; Business Mongul, Chief Mike Adenuga among others.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former President Mohammad Buhari have also worn the the Silverbird Extraordinary Perosnality award.

Honourable Oluwatuyi Showered Encomium on Governor Biodun Oyebanji as Silverbird Man of the Year 2024.

Honourable Oluwatuyi Showered Encomium on Governor Biodun Oyebanji as Silverbird Man of the Year 2024.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has been honored with the prestigious Silverbird Man of the Year 2024 award, a well-deserved recognition for his exemplary leadership and transformative contributions to the state and beyond. Honourable Oluwatuyi lauded the governor's exceptional leadership, describing him as "simply the best and most blessed" for his visionary approach to governance and unyielding commitment to the welfare of Ekiti people.

Governor Oyebanji's administration has set remarkable benchmarks across various sectors, which were pivotal in earning him the Silverbird Man of the Year honor. Key achievements include:

1. Infrastructure Development: Under his leadership, Ekiti has witnessed significant infrastructural development, including road networks, bridges, and modern housing projects that have improved connectivity and living standards in the state.

2. Education: Governor Oyebanji’s administration has prioritized education, ensuring the welfare of students through the "Back to School" initiative and empowering teachers, which has seen Ekiti emerging as a leading state in educational reforms in the southwest region.

3. Healthcare: His unwavering dedication to healthcare reform has led to the expansion of healthcare facilities, ensuring accessible and quality health services for Ekiti residents. The governor’s efforts in this sector have positively impacted public health outcomes.

4. Agriculture & Rural Development: Governor Oyebanji's emphasis on sustainable agricultural policies has uplifted the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities, fostering economic growth and food security for the state.

Honourable Oluwatuyi commended the governor for fostering unity, peace, and development across Ekiti, creating an environment conducive for economic and social prosperity. This achievement highlights Governor Oyebanji as a model of leadership in the southwest region, positioning Ekiti as a beacon of progress and development.

The Silverbird Man of the Year award is a recognition of his tireless efforts to uplift Ekiti, and it will undoubtedly strengthen his political position, bolstering public confidence in his leadership heading into his second term. This award further solidifies his standing as a leader committed to sustained growth, and its ripple effect will inspire other southwest governors to adopt similar transformative policies.

 The award also signifies a major milestone for Ekiti’s development, positioning the state as a progressive leader within the southwest, attracting potential investments and collaboration from other regions and stakeholders.

Ekiti Governor's Wife Gifts First Baby Of The Year 2025, Encourages Exclusive Breastfeeding

Ekiti Governor's Wife Gifts First Baby Of The Year 2025, Encourages Exclusive Breastfeeding.

Parents have been charged not to engage in unwholesome practices that can affect the lives of their new born to check mortality rates among infants.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji gave the charge at Ekiti State Teaching Hospital Ado Ekiti while welcoming the first Baby of year 2025 in the state.

The governor’s wife who was represented by the state Head of Service Doctor Folake Olomojobi noted that female genital mutilation, poor breast feeding were some of the various acts that could hamper the health status of any child hence the need to do away with them and to prioritize exclusive breastfeeding.

She explained that government had made provisions at various public health facilities across the state urging the people to make proper use of them.

Dr Oyebanji however donated pampers, toilet rolls, food items, cash gift and other items to the parents of the baby for the up keep of their child.

Responding, the parents of the baby, Mr Ayodele Oluwagbuyi and wife Abisoye who could not hide their joy appreciated the governor’s wife for the gesture.

The female baby who is the second child of the family was delivered at 1:37am, weighing 3.02kilogramme.

The ceremony was attended by the Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital, Professor Kayode Olabanji, Special Adviser to Governor on Gender Mobilisation and Women Empowerment, Mrs Kemi Olaleye and other political appointees.