EKIRS Achieves N2.2 Billion IGR Milestone.

EKIRS Achieves N2.2 Billion IGR Milestone.

....IRS Boss Praises Team Spirit at Staff Retreat.

The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) achieved a historic milestone in December 2024 by collecting N2.2 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the first time. This landmark achievement was announced by the Executive Chairman, Mr Olaniran Olatona, during a staff retreat held on 11 January 2025 at Lady Jibowu Hall, Ado-Ekiti. He commended the dedication and hard work of Team EKIRS and encouraged sustained efforts to surpass this record in future.

Mr Olatona also expressed his gratitude to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his unwavering support and impactful developmental projects, which have encouraged citizens to pay their taxes willingly, assured that the funds are being put to good use. He further emphasised that while conflict within teams is inevitable, effective management of such conflicts is essential to achieving organisational goals.

The staff retreat, combined with a capacity-building session, began with prayers led by Pastor Felix Ale, Head of the Business Assurance Group (BAG). Mr Fatai Badmus, Director of Finance and Corporate Services, warmly welcomed staff and guests to the programme. The training sessions were engaging and interactive, featuring an impressive lineup of facilitators, including:

Pastor Joseph Olorunfemi, Director of Personal Income Tax, Mr Ibukun Ajayi, Director of Tax Audit and Compliance, Mr Tayo Omodara, Head of Other Taxes.

Other speakers included Mr Abubakar Abdulsalam (Direct Assessment), Mr Ayodeji Olaifa (Head of Enforcement), Mrs Oluwatosin Osesusi (Head of Human Resources), and Mrs Oluwasade Daramola (Director of New Growth and Other Taxes).

A distinguished guest, Mr Laoye Jaiyeola, former CEO of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group and Chancellor of Hillside University of Science and Technology, shared professional insights and valuable advice with staff on improving both corporate and personal integrity to achieve greater performance.

One of the event's highlights was the syndicate presentations by staff, divided into five groups, each tasked with researching and presenting on topics critical to EKIRS's success:

Harnessing Technology for Efficient and Effective Tax Administration Enhancing Voluntary Tax Compliance in Ekiti State

Tax Sensitisation and Awareness: A Must for All EKIRS Staff Tax Reforms and Their Likely Impact on EKIRS Performance Fostering Relationships Between MDAs to Boost IGR Growth.

The panel of judges included notable dignitaries such as:

Dr John Moyo Ekundayo, Special Assistant/Director General, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Mrs Lolade Oke-Olutola, Special Assistant, Ekiti Development and Investment Promotion Council (EKDIPA), Mr Isaac Abulola, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Mr James Folorunso, Director General, Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Barrister Olusola Akinluyi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

Other esteemed judges included Mrs Olusola Igotun (Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health), Mr Adebisi Adesua (Director General, Signage and Advertisement Agency), Mr Edward Olatunji (SSA, Investment), and Mr Olasunkanmi Onipede (Director General, Waste Management Authority).

While Group A emerged as the winner, all participating groups were handsomely rewarded for their efforts. The judges commended the teams' research and presentations, providing constructive feedback for future improvements.

The retreat concluded on a high note, with prayers and a renewed commitment to fostering IGR growth for the sustainable development of Ekiti State.

Oyebanji Pays Tributes to Military for Gradually Decimating Insurgents, Bandits, Kidnappers.

Oyebanji Pays Tributes to Military for Gradually Decimating Insurgents, Bandits, Kidnappers.

….describes appointment of Lt Gen. Oluyede as historic.

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has saluted the men and officers of the Nigerian Military for their sacrifices and bravery culminating in the gradual decimation of those carrying out terror attacks against Nigeria in some parts of the country.

In his commendation to the federal government for offering bountiful impetus to Military to defend the nation, Oyebanji hailed the appointment of Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, as the Chief of Army Staff, saying making Ekiti man occupies such a plum seat was historic and heartwarming to the citizens.

Oyebanji gave the commendation at the Inter- denominational service, marking the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, held at the Government House Chapel, in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital, on Sunday

Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, commended the military for remaining undaunted despite losing many of its officers and men to the fight against terrorists operating as Boko Haram Insurgents, bandits, kidnappers and cattle rustlers.

Oyebanji urged Nigerians to continually lend support to soldiers fighting at the battlefields to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the families of war veterans, who had either paid the supreme price or suffered infirmities in the course of defending the nation.

Stating that Nigerians won’t forget the exploits of the war veterans, the governor said the service was organized to remember and pray for the brave military officers and soldiers who fought in various battles to defend the unity of the country.

Addressing the congregation, the Ekiti State’s Chief Executive, said: “Many of these gallant officers paid the ultimate sacrifice by losing their lives at the battlefields, while others suffered life-altering injuries. It is, therefore, essential to reach out to the families of those who lost their lives and to those who were wounded.

“I pay tribute to our heroes, the veterans who fought so that we may live in peace. It is crucial for the government, and indeed all Nigerians, to show support and care for these veterans, as this will serve as an incentive for our military personnel and strengthen our national defense.

“While we remember our past heroes, we also take this opportunity to commend and pray for all our military personnel who are still actively engaged in defending the country against insurgents in many parts of Nigeria

“We applaud the bravery and sacrifices of these courageous soldiers, and we pray that God continues to keep them safe.I must also emphasize that this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration is particularly important to us in Ekiti State”.

Saluting President Tinubu for counting Ekiti son worthy of being appointed unto strategic position among the military top brass, Oyebanji, said: “For the first time in the history of our nation, our brother and son, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, was appointed as the Chief of Army Staff.

“As we express our gratitude to God for this significant achievement, we thank the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for choosing our brother for this esteemed position”.

Oyebanji urged public and private organizations to intensify support for the past heroes and their families, by reaching out to them, not only during this annual celebration, but throughout the year.

“Let us give these families a reason to feel proud that their husbands, fathers, and sons died for our nation. We must also provide support to the military as they work diligently to ensure our safety and security. Development is more readily achieved in a safe and secure environment”.

In his submission, the General Officer Commanding(GoC), 2 Division, Major Gen. Obinna Godwin Onubogu, lauded government at all levels for their unquantifiable supports in the fights against unscrupulous elements trying to make Nigeria unsafe.

Major Gen Onubogu, pledged continuous commitment and loyalty of the servicemen to the governments, saying they won’t relent in their efforts to restoring peace to the nation, so that Nigerians can sleep with their two eyes closed.

In his sermon, the Ekiti State Government’s House Chaplain, Pastor Segun Awolumate, who spoke copiously on the topic: “Commanded to Destroy”, charged the servicemen to bear in mind that they own a mandate to protect the interest of Nigerians by restoring peace to beleaguered areas and make the nation indivisible.

Awolumate urged the military officers to be loyal and serve diligently by rising against all forms of insurrection pummeling the nation, causing deaths, panic and creating atmosphere of unrest among the citizens.

Oyebanji Intensifies Push for FG Support in Ekiti, meets Works, Education Ministers.

Oyebanji Intensifies Push for FG Support in Ekiti, meets Works, Education Ministers.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has intensified his engagement with federal ministries and agencies to ensure greater federal presence in the state and fast-track development.  

The Governor emphasized this on Friday, with visits to some ministries, including Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction; Ministry of Works and Ministry of Education, where he had engagements with the Ministers. 

The Governor met with Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. The meeting, which was also attended by the Chairman of the Federal Housing Authority, Hon. Oyetunji Ojo, focused on harnessing federal programmes to improve the lots of Ekiti residents.  

Speaking with journalists after the closed-door session, Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to exploring every opportunity to enhance the welfare of the people, noting that his discussions with the minister centered on federal initiatives such as livelihood support, conditional cash transfers for women, support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and assistance for persons with disabilities (PWDs).  

“We had a fruitful meeting that will greatly benefit Ekiti people. I must commend President Bola Tinubu for appointing a capable hand to oversee this critical ministry. It is a strategic institution for improving livelihoods and providing safety nets for Nigerians. 

“This visit was a follow-up to a phone conversation facilitated by Hon. Oyetunji Ojo, an illustrious son of Ekiti State. The discussions focused on leveraging federal programs to uplift our people. I am particularly grateful to Hon. Oyetunji Ojo for creating this opportunity, which reflects the quality of our representatives at the federal level.”  

In his response, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe, praised the state government’s existing programmes noting that they have set a solid foundation for federal collaboration.  

“The current administration in Ekiti has programmes that align perfectly with our ministry’s agenda. This makes it easy to partner and provide the necessary support,” the minister said. He assured the governor of increased federal assistance in 2025, particularly in areas such as job creation, social safety nets, and livelihood support for women and vulnerable groups.  

Governor Oyebanji also met with the with the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, at the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja to secure federal support for key developmental initiatives in Ekiti State where he restated his administration’s resolve to foster meaningful partnerships that will transform education and human capital development in Ekiti State.

He also visited the Ministry of Works, where he held meeting with the Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi and the Permanent Secretary, Engr Adebiyi.

EKITI STATE GOVERNMENT ENDS WORK-FROM-HOME POLICY, DIRECTS WORKERS TO RESUME MONDAY.

EKITI STATE GOVERNMENT ENDS WORK-FROM-HOME POLICY, DIRECTS WORKERS TO RESUME MONDAY.

 

The Ekiti State Government has announced the end of its Work-From-Home Policy, which was introduced to cushion the effects of the economic situation on workers in the state. The policy, which commenced on September 9, 2024, and was extended to January 11, 2025, allowed workers to work from home for one to three days a week, depending on their grade levels.

According to a statement from the government, all workers in the public service of Ekiti State are expected to return to work on Monday, January 13, 2025. The government has invested significantly in the welfare of workers and has made notable contributions to the nation's economy, making the Work-From-Home Policy a success.

Accounting officers have been directed to note the content of the circular and give it the necessary publicity to ensure compliance. With the policy coming to an end, workers are expected to resume their normal duties on Monday.

NAMA commences calibration of landing equipment at Ekiti Airport.

NAMA commences calibration of landing equipment at Ekiti Airport.
… EKSG says airport set for commercial operation.

The Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on Friday commenced the calibration of landing system at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in readiness for commencement of commercial flights operation. 

This is coming barely a month after the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), granted approval for non - scheduled flight operations at the airport for a period of six months. 

The calibration aircraft that conveyed he NAMA officials touched down on the runway of the airport at exactly 4.13pm. The exercise commenced immediately. 

Calibration, in the air system industry is a process that allows safety of air navigation by conducting regular flight inspection, calibration of test equipment systems, and surveillance of airspace system. It is also part of the final stages of ensuring the facility meets global aviation standards for safe and efficient operations.

On hand at the airport to receive the NAMA team were the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Airport Project , AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd); Commissioners for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun; Environment, Chief (Mrs) Tosin Aluko- Ajisafe; Transport, Hon Kolawole Akobiewe; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Mr Yinka Oyebode; among others. 

Briefing Journalists at the airport, AVM Makinde (Rtd) said, the landing of the calibrator aircraft as well as the calibration exercise by NAMA officials was a major step in the final approval for commercial operations at the airport. 

According to him, the exercise was to assess and fine-tune the navigational aids equipment installed at the airport which include, instrument landing systems, communication radios, and other essential equipment required for safe and efficient operations.

Expressing his delight at the progress of the airport, AVM Makinde explained that the airport is fully ready for commercial operation, adding that it can accommodate any type of aircraft.

"What's happening here today is actually a working flight operation, this plane is a calibration plane from NAMA. Basically what they came for is just to ensure that our systems, especially our navigations, are able to pick any frequency of any aircraft coming to Ekiti and also check out communication systems. The Ekiti Agro Cargo international airport is fully ready." He assured.

In his own remarks, the Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatubosun, explained that with series of inspections by relevant regulatory aviation agencies, and certifications, the Airport is ready for smooth take off.

Describing the development as a dream come true, Olatubosun said the airport would open new doors for investment, tourism, and economic growth in the state as well as facilitate business, attract investors, and make life easier for the people.

While assuring that the development would boost the socio economic and industrial development of the state, the Commissioner said the completion of the airport is a testament to Governor Oyebanji ‘s commitment to the transformation of the state’s economy and establish it as a hub for both local and international connectivity.

The NAMA team is billed to depart the airport on Saturday.

Ekiti Activates EBOPS Program with 10,000 Day-Old Chicks at Ado Poultry Hub.

Ekiti Activates EBOPS Program with 10,000 Day-Old Chicks at Ado Poultry Hub.

By Olamide Akinwumi.

The Ekiti State Government has commenced the year on a strong note with the activation of the Ekiti Broiler Outgrowers Production Scheme (EBOPS) at the Ado Poultry Hub. The initiative, aimed at fostering food security, youth empowerment, and agribusiness development, saw the stocking of 10,000 day-old chicks at the hub on January 10, 2025.

The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Boluwade Ebenezer, visited the centre to oversee the stocking process and assess the progress of ongoing projects at the hub. During his visit, the commissioner commended the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment to agribusiness and food security in Ekiti State.

In his remarks, Hon. Boluwade said, "The EBOPS program is a transformative initiative that has positioned Ekiti youths as key players in agribusiness. Governor Oyebanji’s vision of empowering young people through agriculture is not just creating jobs but also driving wealth creation and ensuring food security for the state. I encourage all participants to give their best efforts to make this program a resounding success."

The commissioner also used the opportunity to inspect the construction of additional poultry pens at the Ado Poultry Hub. These new pens, once completed, will increase the hub’s capacity to 20,000 broilers, accommodating the growing number of interested youths, which currently stands at hundreds.

The 50 participating youths at the hub expressed their gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for the initiative. One of the participants noted, "This program has changed the way we view agriculture. It is not just farming but a tool for job creation and economic empowerment."

The Erinfun Hub boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including solar-powered, well-furnished accommodations for participants. The next phase of the program will see 10,000 birds stocked at the Ilupeju and Ido Ekiti hubs by January 20, 2025.

The activation of the EBOPS program is part of Governor Oyebanji’s broader agenda for food security and youth empowerment, solidifying Ekiti State’s position as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices.

With more progress anticipated in the coming months, Ekiti State continues to set the pace for innovative governance and impactful initiatives.

Human Rights Community names Oyebanji 2024 Governor of the Year.

Human Rights Community names Oyebanji 2024 Governor of the Year.

A coalition of human rights and community based organisations spread across Nigeria has named the Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji as the Governor of the Year 2024

In a release signed after it's General Congress meeting held in Lagos, the Nigerian Human Rights Community, (NIHRCO) said the process for the selection of the best Governor of the year 2024 began last year with various suggestions made by leaders of the coalition whose groups are spread across the country.  The statement signed by the group regional coordinators, Taiwo Adeleye, Kudu Abubakar, (North), Digifa Werenipre (South South) and Fred Ojinika (South East) singled out Oyebanji as a potential leader of Nigeria at the highest level. The Governor, the group said will be presented with a Plaque on behalf of the 130 civil society and community based groups across the 36 states, with the hope that it would  encourage other state Governors to address the fears and aspirations of the people they govern.                                                                                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                                                                                  

The group said Ekiti remains the most politically stable and peaceful state all through 2024 adding that the Governor has been able to build bridges that unites all political factions and interests by defining the Lowest Common Factor that has sustained mutual co-existence in the state. The coalition established in 2003, and made up of 130 civil society and community based groups across the 36 states said the Governor of Ekiti stood out in the year 2024 in the area of transparency, promotion of human dignity, civil rights, peace building and sustainable development. The coalition said his special welfare provisions for People with Disability, PWD inspires a paradigm shift from agelong state actors' perception of vulnerable communities.

During the Year, Oyebanji  built the first PWD thereuperic centre in Nigeria lifting over 300 people with disability in Ekiti State from stupor, despair and melancholy.

The centre was equipped with Therapy jungle gym, Calming tents, Hammock, Balance beams, TENS machines, Bikes, Calming swings, Body sock and educational equipment.  Other fittings were fully ramped Swing up bars and hand rails in the rest rooms.

The coalition said Oyebanji supported the PWDs with over 200 assisting devices, including wheelchairs, white canes, among others  marking the 2024 International Day of People Living with Disabilities in a remarkable way the stirred the conscience of humanity. The coalition said it is significant that in the year 2024, Ekiti emerged as the best-performing state in the area of good governance, people-driven initiatives, transparency and accountability.

The State was singled out in excellent management and utilisation of public funds and excellent implementation of public policies as detailed in the Subnational Audit Efficacy (SAE) Index conducted by Paradigm Leadership Support Initiative (PLSI), a non-state actor known for its work on monitoring public accountability.

The SAE assesses the level of transparency and accountability operational in the management and utilisation of public funds and implementation of public policies across all 36 states of the federation through public audit and key in the year 2024, the World University Rankings by Times Higher Education listed Ekiti State University as one of the top 20 in Nigeria out of over 250 higher institutions bringing the state into National and global reckoning.

It noted that in the year 2024, Ekiti State won an Award of Excellence as the best

performing state in Nigeria on Disease Surveillance at the 4th Annual Disease Surveillance Meeting of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) held in Abuja. The Government has drastically reduced communicable diseases and infant mortality rate through aggressive primary health care.

It noted that the Government of Ekiti also spent N1.5 billion allocated for the expansion and rehabilitation of 177 primary healthcare centres to enhance healthcare delivery.

Ekiti under Oyebanji has improved electricity supply and construction of access roads to boost industrial development in Ekiti State His efforts have been complimented by his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji

Apart from the 50 pupils she awarded scholarships from primary to University,

through her pet project, the Widows, Aged, and Orphans Hope (WAOH) Support Foundation, she has left landmarks through  assistance to over 400 widows and orphans. "She supported over 300 widows and orphans with exceptional empowerment" taking up the responsibility of addressing the fears of vulnerable communities as the focal point of her office.

 

Signed:

Taiwo Adeleye Director of Publicity

Kudu Abubakar (North)

Digifa Werenipre (South South)

Fred Ojinika (South East)