OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES EX-GOV FAYEMI ON 60TH BIRTHDAY.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES EX-GOV FAYEMI ON 60TH BIRTHDAY.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

Dr Fayemi, a two-term Governor of the state (2010- 2014 and 2018-2022), and former Minister of Mines and Steel Development turns 60 years old on February 9.

 

Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, noted that Dr Fayemi's diamond jubilee offers an opportunity to celebrate the former Governor’s worthy legacies of integrity, service and honour.

 

The Governor described Dr Fayemi as a role model, a mentor, a teacher, a dependable pillar of support whose counsel and support continue to add value to governance and development efforts in Ekiti State.

 

The Governor said the State is proud of Dr Fayemi and all that he stands for as a shining light, a reformist, a pacesetter, a change agent and a public servant par excellence who redefined public service in the state, leaving an enduring impact on the polity.

 

According to Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti is lucky to have a personality like Dr Fayemi who gave his all in the service of the people and remains passionate about the socio-economic development of the State in and out of office.

 

The Governor said Dr Fayemi's contributions to the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999 as a pro-democracy activist alongside other prominent Nigerians are well documented and would continue to be a reference point and a source of inspiration to the younger generation.

 

Oyebanji noted that his immediate predecessor in office would always look back with a sense of fulfillment for having the opportunity of bringing his wealth of experience to bear for the benefit of the people as a two-term Governor, a former Federal Minister and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governor’s Forum (NGF) with sterling and glittering records of service.

 

Governor Oyebanji prayed God to grant Dr Fayemi long life, good health and renewed energy for more service to Ekiti, Nigeria and mankind in years to come.

 

“On behalf of my wife, Olayemi, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate this great leader and illustrious son of the Land of Honour on his diamond jubilee which earns him membership of the “Elders Club” May you continue to prosper and flourish as you continue to serve and champion good causes”, the Governor added.

Tinubu’s Aide, Sunday Asefon, Distributes 500 Free JAMB Forms to Students in Ado Ekiti.

Tinubu’s Aide, Sunday Asefon, Distributes 500 Free JAMB Forms to Students in Ado Ekiti.

The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Students’ Engagement, Mr Sunday Asefon, has presented free JAMB registration forms to 500 students in Ado Ekiti.

The event, which took place at Fajuyi Hall beside the Ewi’s palace in Ado Ekiti, brought together the beneficiaries who received the free forms as part of Asefon’s initiative to support students and their parents.

In his address, Mr Asefon explained that his decision to sponsor the free JAMB registration was driven by a desire to give back to society and encourage young students to remain committed to their studies. 

He emphasized that many parents struggle to afford the registration fees, saying the initiative is aimed at easing their burden.

He further highlighted the importance of the recently introduced student loan scheme by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, adding that students can only access the loan after securing admission into higher institutions, making the free JAMB forms a crucial step in helping them cross the first hurdle.

Mr Asefon also encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace the spirit of giving back, urging them to, in turn, assist underprivileged students in the future once they attain success, just as he is doing now. 

He credited President Tinubu for giving him the platform to make a positive impact on students’ lives.

In addition to the free JAMB forms, Mr Asefon announced that five students who score the highest marks in JAMB among the 500 beneficiaries would receive full scholarships from their 100 level to their final year in their chosen institutions, while the top three candidates would be awarded laptops, courtesy of the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu.

Speaking on President Tinubu’s commitment to education, Mr Asefon hinted at ongoing policies that could lead to free school fees in the future. 

He noted that if the student loan scheme had been available earlier, many students who dropped out due to financial constraints could have continued their education, assuring them that despite obstacles, President Tinubu’s administration is working tirelessly to make education accessible to all Nigerians.

The SSA to the President on Students' Engagement urged the beneficiaries to take their studies seriously, as their academic success would validate the initiative and encourage them to expand it and do more in the coming years. 

Mr Asefon also promised to organize coaching centres to help the students prepare adequately for the JAMB examination, just as he prayed for their success and urged them to remain focused on their education to achieve greatness in life.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries' parents, Mrs. Mary Aladetoyinbo expressed gratitude to Asefon for his thoughtful initiative. 

Mrs Aladetoyinbo who acknowledged that the gesture would go a long way in alleviating the burden of many parents who could not afford the fees for their children, prayed for more success for Mr Asefon, urging him to sustain his efforts in supporting students.

Ojuawo agrees to separation of Veteran bill from Nigerian Legion act.

Ojuawo agrees to separation of Veteran bill from Nigerian Legion act.

Honourable Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, has agreed to separate the Veteran bill from the Nigerian Legion act. This decision was made after a plenary session on Thursday, where Hon Ojuawo called for the second reading of the repeal of the Nigerian Legion act, which aims to take care of the welfare and conduct of military personnel after their retirement.

The Nigerian Legion act is a comprehensive legislation that covers the welfare of ex-service men, including military, police, and civil defence personnel. In contrast, the Veteran bill specifically focuses on ex-military officers. Although the house members applauded the Veteran bill, they objected to the repeal of the Nigerian Legion act, as it would leave other ex-officers without protection. To address this concern, the house resolved to introduce the Veteran bill as a new act, while putting the repeal of the Legion act on hold, to ensure that the interests of all ex-service men are safeguarded.

Similarly, Hon. Ojuawo presented a petition to the house on behalf of Mr Matthew Oluwadare Fasuyi, a member of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Plateau State Command. The petition is directed against the Ministry of Interior, as well as the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Board. Mr Fasuyi is seeking redress for an injustice he claims to have suffered, and the house has agreed to consider his petition. By presenting this petition, Hon Ojuawo is advocating for the rights of security personnel and pushing for a fair resolution to Mr Fasuyi’s case.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Don't Embarrass Nigeria in Holy Land, Oyebanji Tells Pilgrims.

Don't Embarrass Nigeria in Holy Land, Oyebanji Tells Pilgrims.

....Seeks prayers for Nigeria's unity.

The Governor Of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has charged the intending Christain Pilgrims sojourning to the Holy Land of Israel to be patriotic and refrain from acts that could jeopardize the interest and corporate image of Nigeria.

Oyebanji described spiritual rebirth of citizens as strategic to the development of any nation on the strength that it brings the required attitudinal change and character rebranding.

The governor gave the charge in Ado Ekiti, on Friday, during a departure service held for Ekiti's Christain Pilgrims, who are proceeding on spiritual journey to Jerusalem. 

Speaking at an event held at the Government House Chapel, Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, appealed to the contingents to be zealous with the spiritual exercise, so that the gains can  manifest in their lives.

"Spiritual rebirth of the citizens is very strategic to the growth and development of any nation. This is because it brings the necessary attitudinal change, character rebranding, increased holiness and Godliness. 

"We desire a society that is corruption- free, where people can imbibe the fear of God in their operations and daily lives. I therefore charge you to pray not only for yourselves, but for our dear state, nation, and the world at large. We live in times that require our collective prayer and unity more than ever.

"I charge you to be focused when you get to the holy land for you to maximally derive the gains inherent in this journey. I plead that you do not engage in any act that can jeopardise the intentions of this pilgrimage and put our nation into unwarranted international embarrassment. 

"You have to be above board in all your dealings and comportment. I pray that your pilgrimage will be filled with divine encounters, joy and spiritual fulfilment. May you return home with renewed faith and a stronger commitment to serve your communities, state and country ".

Oyebanji reminded the pilgrims that the journey is not physical, but spiritual, which makes it expedient for them to make the necessary sacrifices and piety that can make their participations bear the expected fruits.

"I, however, wish to admonish you that as you prepare to leave, you must carry with you the values of love, peace, and unity that define our great state. You are ambassadors of our culture, traditions, and the spirit of Ekiti.

 "I want to assure you that the state government is committed to ensuring your safety and comfort during this journey. We have worked diligently with our partners to facilitate a smooth and blessed pilgrimage experience". 

In his admonition, the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Mr Abayomi Opeyemi, urged the contingents to stringently keep to the rudiments and rules of engagements at the holy land to avert actions that negate the laws.

Opeyemi added that  their journey was basically about  pilgrimage and not tourism, advising that they should keep to the tenets of of such voyage, he emphasized was predominantly a spiritual exploration. 

In his short exhortation, the Government House Chaplain, Pastor Segun Awolumate, said bible emphasized that blessed are those who embarked on spiritual voyage, stressing that such can only bear fruits and manifest positivity, if they embrace holiness.

"I expect you to be holier and believe more in God after this journey. You have to be fully revived. Your prayers too must bring revival to Ekiti and Nigeria. The land you are visiting is not ordinary, it is filled with spirit and covenant of God. Make the good use of this opportunity".

Present at the departure service are: The Secretary, Ekiti State Christians' Pilgrimage Welfare Board, Mr. Sunkanmi Adu, Ekiti State Chairman, Christians' Association of Nigeria(CAN) and Chairman, Christians' Pilgrimage Welfare Board, Reverend Emmanuel Aribasoye, among others.

EKITI STATE POLYTECHNIC, MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE PARTNER TO IMPROVE MECHANIZATION SERVICES.

EKITI STATE POLYTECHNIC, MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE PARTNER TO IMPROVE MECHANIZATION SERVICES.

In a bold move to enhance agricultural mechanization in Ekiti State, the Mechanization Centre of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Iṣan Ekiti, and the Ekiti State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security have resolved to implement new strategies aimed at improving service delivery for farmers in the state.

At a high-level meeting _between the two institutions and other service providers,_ key issues from the previous farming season were reviewed, and pragmatic solutions were proffered to ensure more effective mechanization services in the coming _season_ .

One of the major concerns highlighted was the failure of some service providers to meet expectations, as well as the substandard performance of operators. To address this, service providers have been mandated to ensure proper servicing of their tractors and implements before the commencement of the farming season. Additionally, the Ministry will conduct pre-service inspections of farms and service providers’ equipment to certify their readiness for deployment.

To further streamline operations, a revised payment protocol has been introduced. Service providers will now receive 50% of the agreed payment upfront, with the balance to be paid only after the farmer confirms satisfactory job completion. This is expected to ensure timely service delivery, as providers must mobilize within 24 hours of receiving the initial payment.

With these measures in place, stakeholders are optimistic that the upcoming farming season will witness improved efficiency, reduced delays, and better productivity for farmers across Ekiti State.

Representing the Polytechnic at the meeting were Dr. Y. O. Olasebikan, Acting Head of the Mechanization Centre, alongside Mr. O. O. Asebioge and Mr. B. W. Adetifa. Their commitment to enhancing mechanized farming emphasizes Ekiti State Polytechnic’s role in advancing agricultural development in the region.

OYEBANJI EXTOLS EX-GOV FAYEMI’S PROGRESSIVE IDEALS AT BIRTHDAY SYMPOSIUM.

OYEBANJI EXTOLS EX-GOV FAYEMI’S PROGRESSIVE IDEALS AT BIRTHDAY SYMPOSIUM.

.....As Vice President Shettima, Ex- South African President, other leaders hail ex- Ekiti Gov.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has lauded the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi for not limiting his progressive ideals and vision to himself, but impacting his mentees and others to fly in different capacities.

Governor Oyebanji gave the commendation on Thursday at a Symposium and launch of Amandla Leadership Institute commemorating the 60th birthday of the former Governor in Abuja.

The Governor spoke just as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, former South African President Thambo Mbeki, and former head of State, General Yakubu Gowon in their separate presentations stressed the need for people to take up leadership roles not only in politics, but in policy making, technology and other spheres of life. 

Governor Oyebanji, who led members of the Ekiti State Executive Council and other political office holders to the event, described Dr. Fayemi as a global scholar, politician, innovator and pro-democracy activist, whose impactful lifestyle and selfless service have significantly contributed to the development of the state, Nigeria, and the world at large.

He commended Dr Fayemi for building on the legacies of his predecessors—Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, and Chief Segun Oni—an approach Oyebanji pledged to uphold in his commitment to making Ekiti competitive in economic prosperity among the comity of states and Africa region.

"it has been sixty years of quality service to humanity, with huge impact on the state, the nation and at international level.

“On behalf of your people from Ekiti, we thank you for your service to Ekiti people; history will surely be kind to you. You build on the achievements of your predecessors as laid by former Governors Niyi Adebayo, Segun Oni and Ayodele Fayose through your policies and programmes and you laid an enduring legacy on which we are building on." said Oyebanji* 

Speaking further, Oyebanji said “Your people in Ekiti are immensely proud of your achievements in the last 60 years, we are proud of you, we love and we wish you the best and we are sure that the blessings will know no bounds."

President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, and former South African President Thabo Mbeki highlighted how these efforts could reshape Nigeria and Africa toward a more prosperous global economy.

Both leaders provided insights into the longstanding challenges impeding Africa’s development and expressed hope that Fayemi’s newly launched Amandla Policy and Leadership Institute would help address them through its mandate.

            

The celebrant, Dr. Fayemi, noted that although he had turned 60, his vision for nation-building and continental development continues to evolve.

He stressed that Nigeria must play a pivotal role in addressing Pan-African challenges such as poverty, inequality, terrorism, and corruption, adding that the Amandla Institute aims to be a solution-driven platform.

A new book authored by Dr. Kayode Fayemi, titled "If This Giant Must Rise," was  unveiled at the event.

Among the dignitaries present were Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Defence, and former Ekiti Governors Otunba Niyi Adebayo and Chief Segun Oni.

Former national chairman of the APC, Chief John Odiye Oyegun and Chief Bisi Akande were also in attendance. 

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi and Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamidi Sanusi led other notable traditional rulers to the event.

Other highlights of the day was a public presentation of  “If this giant must rise”, Fayemi’s latest book and a panel discussion on the ex President Mbeki’s keynote address.

OLOMOJOBI, EKITI HOS TASKS ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS ON EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY.

OLOMOJOBI, EKITI HOS TASKS ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS ON EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY.

...says administrative officers occupy a critical place in service delivery.

 Ekiti State Head of Service,Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi has charged  Administrative Officers in the State Civil Service to discharge their duties diligently and efficiently in order to accomplish the  goals of the public service as well as the developmental agenda of the present administration in the State.

Olomojobi gave the charge during an interactive meeting with all the administrative officers in the State Civil Service in Ado.

The Head of Service who emphasized that Ekiti state civil service has great potential to deliver on its core mandate of successfully 

implementing  government's policies and programmes,said there is a need to enhance the skills and competencies of officers in order to ensure maximum outcome in service delivery for the good people's of Ekiti state

While noting the government's commitment and contributions to supporting the civil service ,she stressed that all hands must be on deck to ensure improved performance within the rank and file of the service.

Olomojobi, who   noted that His Excellency, Governor Biodun  Abayomi Oyebanji, is favourably disposed to a phased digitization of government business and a consequent  turn-around of the civil service as encapsulated in  the 2025 budget . The head of service reiterated that administrative officers have a crucial role to play in this  process

While calling on officers to be change agents who commit themselves to continuous personal evaluation and appraisal of their respective performances ,the Head of service noted that the state government is willing to support officers in  upskilling and  training of personnel in areas of deficiencies.

The Head of Service called on all  Administrative Officers to see themselves as leaders in  the engine room of government, saying leadership was neither a walk over,an entitlement nor an easy task,but rather a position of responsibility which demands adequate attention and wherewithal to solve problems. 

Highpoint of the meeting was a lecture delivered by the Head of Service, titled" Building emotional resilience in the face of workplace stress". The lecture dwelt extensively on  stress,understanding emotional resilience ,workplace stressors and what  needed to be done,core values, as well as institutional support to defray workplace stressors ,among others.

Olomojobi urged Administrative officers and other workers to always take care of their health through periodic medical check- up, particularly those that have attained the age of forty years and above.

Responding on behalf of other Administrative Officers ,the Director, Service Matters and Industrial Relations in the Office of Establishment and Service Matters, Mr Biyi Oyinloye  assured the HoS of the readiness and unflinching support of members of the Administrative Officers cadre to ensure continuous  development  of the civil service and the overall success of the Biodun Oyebanji led administration.

Festus Abosede

Director Press office of the Head of Service

4th February, 2025.