Polytechnic workers applaud Oyebanji over salary increment.

Polytechnic workers applaud Oyebanji over salary increment.

… Assure Gov of continued support for Ekiti development.

Polytechnic workers in Nigeria, under the aegis of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP), have expressed their appreciation to Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, for the implementation of the 25/35 percent salary increase for polytechnic workers in the State.

This appreciation is contained in a letter addressed to the Governor and signed by the National Secretary of SSANIP, Comrade Nura Shehu Gaya, who noted that the timely implementation of the salary increase underscores the Governor’s commitment to the well-being and professional development of tertiary education in the state.

The Polytechnic workers stated in the letter that the increment is a testament to the shared prosperity agenda of the Governor as well as his desire not to leave anyone behind.  

The noted that the Governor has always prioritized the welfare of all citizens, pointing out that the remarkable increment in the polytechnic workers wages would further  motivate them and enhance productivity of staff in the state-owned Polytechnic.

While assuring the Governor of their continued support and cooperation towards realizing Ekiti's development, the association added that the salary increase had brought significant relief to their members, especially during this challenging economic moment.

“We recognize that this decision reflects Your Administration's vision for a progressive Ekiti State, and we commend you for recognizing the vital role that Education plays in developing the skilled manpower necessary for the State's socio-economic growth.

“This timely implementation underscores your commitment to the well-being, professional development, and welfare of Tertiary Education workers across the state.

“By prioritizing the needs of Our Members, your Administration has not only demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of higher education to the development of the State but has also taken a commendable step towards ensuring better living standards for those dedicated to the Education Sector.

“Your Excellency, we, the members of SSANIP, assure you of our continued support and cooperation as you work towards realizing your developmental agenda for Ekiti State. Once again, we sincerely thank you for this impactful policy and look forward to more beneficial engagements with Your Administration.” The letter reads.

BATSV'S GLOBAL CHAIRMAN CONGRATULATES EDO STATE'S CHAIRMAN.

BATSV'S GLOBAL CHAIRMAN CONGRATULATES EDO STATE'S CHAIRMAN.

The Global Chairman of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Solidarity Vanguard (BATSV)Ambassador.Dr. Date Owotomobi congratulates Hon.Dr.Barrister Washington Osita Osifo on his nomination as a Commissioner -Designate in His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State's Cabinet.

He said Hon.Dr.Barrister Washington Osifo's Untiring efforts during 2023 Presidential and 2024 Edo State's Gubernatorial Campaign/Election is a Testament to his ability to work as a Team Member.

The Global Chairman of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Solidarity Vanguard (BATSV) Ambassador Dr.Dare Owotomobi recalls with nostalgia Hon.Dr.Barrister Washington Osita Osifo's contribution as the State Chairman of BATSV in Edo State which contributed significantly to the All Progressives Congress(APC) wrestling Power from the hands of the Ruling Party Peoples' Democratic Party of Edo State during Last Year's Off Season Edo State's Gubernatorial Elections.

While thanking His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo for appointing one of his members into his cabinet, Ambassador Dr.Dare Owotomobi prays that the Governor appoints more members into his Government.

Jimmy Nanyak Lar Special Assistant Media, BATSV'S GLOBAL CHAIRMAN.

Ekiti Peace Corps Commanders Laud Oyebanji Over N70,000 Minimum Wage Inclusion.

Ekiti Peace Corps Commanders Laud Oyebanji Over N70,000 Minimum Wage Inclusion.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Local Government Sector Commanders of the Ekiti State Peace Corps have expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for including them in the payment of the new minimum wage of ₦70,000.

In a letter addressed to the Governor, the commanders commended Oyebanji for his worker-friendly policies and the recent integration of the Peace Corps into the state’s workforce. According to the letter, the payment of the new minimum wage in their December salaries came as a pleasant surprise.

“Our joy knows no bounds, not only for the payment of the new minimum wage to us but also for officially recognizing us as part of the Ekiti State workforce. We can now proudly identify as ‘Ekiti Workers’ due to this inclusivity in the scheme of workers' welfare,” the letter read.

The commanders also lauded the governor's impactful policies over the past two years, emphasizing that they had not been left behind in the administration's strides toward worker empowerment and welfare.

“We are bold to assure Your Excellency of our unshaken loyalty at all times. We are determined to continue demonstrating unwavering support towards the success of your administration. By God’s grace, we will employ every lawful means to sustain the vision of Your Excellency beyond 2026, knowing fully well we will continue to benefit from your leadership,” the statement added.

The commanders concluded their letter by expressing gratitude for the governor's efforts in putting smiles on the faces of Peace Corps members and pledged their continuous support.

EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY DENOUNCES FAKE FACEBOOK ACCOUNT CLAIMING TO BE VC.

EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY DENOUNCES FAKE FACEBOOK ACCOUNT CLAIMING TO BE VC.

The Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Professor Babatola Ayodele, has refuted claims of his involvement in any social media business. It has come to the attention of the university that an impostor has created a Facebook account using his name and image to engage unsuspecting individuals in fraudulent business transactions.

The Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs at EKSU has issued a public disclaimer, stating that Professor Ayodele is not associated with this account and does not participate in any form of business dealings on Facebook. The university has its own established procedures for transactions and communication, which do not involve informal platforms like social media.

The public is advised to be vigilant and cautious, as such fraudulent activities have the intent to deceive and scam unsuspecting members of the public. EKSU strongly cautions against engaging with any accounts posing as the Vice Chancellor.

Members of the public are encouraged to verify the authenticity of any communication or business proposals purportedly from Professor Ayodele through official university channels.

Signed:

Bode Olofinmuagun, ANIPR

Head, Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs.

Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content Collaborates with Quantity Surveyors to Boost Local Participation.

Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content Collaborates with Quantity Surveyors to Boost Local Participation.

The Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content (BOLC) convened a pivotal meeting with the Association of Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) Ekiti State Chapter on January 7, 2025, at the mini Conference Hall of the Old Governor's Office in Ado Ekiti. The forum focused on strengthening local content participation in state development projects.

Dr. Mrs. Olubunmi Ade-Ojo, NIQS Chairman, opened the dialogue by expressing gratitude for the establishment of the BOLC. She highlighted the initiative as a key step by Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to promote local engagement in developmental activities throughout Ekiti State.

Dr. Ade-Ojo further pledged the association’s commitment to collaborating with the BOLC in developing capacity-building programs, providing technical assistance, and promoting best practices within the fields of quantity surveying and construction management. She emphasized the crucial role Quantity Surveyors play in ensuring clients receive maximum value for their financial commitments.

In response, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, the Director General of BOLC, acknowledged the presence and dedication of the association. He stressed the state government's commitment to integrating indigenous contractors into all levels of project execution and contract bidding, fostering a welcoming climate for business investments in Ekiti. 

Mr. Ijidale announced a new requirement mandating that all contractors engage Quantity Surveyors prior to implementing any projects within the state. He assured NIQS members of their involvement in the enforcement team that will monitor compliance, insisting that all contractors with ongoing projects in Ekiti must submit the details of their Quantity Surveyor and their Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria (QSRBN) to the Bureau to ensure quacks are not taking up the role of professionals who earned the qualification painstakingly. He noted that if the Quantity Surveyors are adequately patronized, it will significantly boost the local economy.

Additionally, the DG emphasized the need for the NIQS to engage in public enlightenment programs to educate citizens about the importance of conducting quantity surveys before embarking on building projects. This initiative aims to give the public a better understanding of cost implications, helping to avoid the phenomenon of abandoned and incomplete buildings that are scattered throughout the state.

Mr. Ijidale also encouraged NIQS members to register with the Bureau, ensuring they could benefit from streamlined local content engagement in both governmental and private contracts across Ekiti State.

The meeting attracted an impressive turnout of industry professionals, including:

1. QS Dr. Mrs. Ade-Ojo - Chairman

2. QS Ajayi Adetifa - Deputy Chairman

3. QS Abe Adekunle - Secretary 

At the end of the meeting, both the BOLC and the NIQS members expressed a strong commitment to enhancing local participation and the effective implementation of local content policies in Ekiti State. This collaboration marks a significant step towards fostering an inclusive environment for local professionals within the state’s development agenda.

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.