Gov Oyebanji has made me proud, says Fayemi birthday thanksgiving.

Gov Oyebanji has made me proud, says Fayemi birthday thanksgiving.

….says he has many reasons to thank God at sixty.

The immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi on Sunday said he enjoys a cordial relationship with the incumbent Governor of the state, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, stressing that their relationship is based on mutual love and respect as well as shared commitment to the development of the state. 

He said Governor Oyebanji has made him proud by his exemplary leadership and demonstrated capacity in terms of all round development of the state. 

Dr Fayemi who stated these during a thanksgiving Mass commemorating his 60th birthday, at St. Martins’ Catholic Church, Isan- Ekiti, commended Governor Oyebanji for his inclusive leadership style, which he said had fostered stability, progress and development in the state.

He said Governor Oyebanji has carried on with the vision of the founding fathers of the state by ensuring that governance is not hindered by political divide, adding that he could not have wished for a better successor in office.

While appreciating God for attaining 60 years old, the former Governor said his 60th birthday serves as a moment of reflection and a time to rededicate himself to the service to the people. He also reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Ekiti State in particular and Nigeria at large.

"I am a product of grace and I have so many reasons to be thankful to God at sixty. 

“I also want to thank our Governor for making me proud. it could have been otherwise. Things could have gone awry but he is also a product of grace and that is why in spite of the travails that one might experience in the world of politics, we have a very cordial relationship based on mutual love and mutual respect. So, all these things you read on social media are for your entertainment.

"Many will wonder why Governor Segun Oni is here. When he was doing his birthday, I spent the entire day with him and Governor Fayose too would have been here without hesitation if he was around. That is Ekiti, the vision we have always had is a state that will not be separated by political divide, we might belong to different political parties, but there is one party that we collectively belong to, that is the Ekiti party, Ekiti Progressive Party and our Governor is carrying on with that".

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji,  while admitting that former Governor Fayemi’s 60th birthday is a celebration of life, dedicated to service and excellence, described the former Governor as a visionary leader whose contribution to the state remained unparalleled.

The Governor maintained that the people of the state are immensely proud of the achievements of the former Governor and remain deeply indebted to him for his transformative leadership.

"The only thing I am going to say is to thank you for your support and for handholding me. Thank you so much for all you have done for Ekiti people, thank you so much for all that you have done for your mentees all over the world, and I thank Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Folajimi for sharing you with us. We are proud of you, Ekiti people are immensely proud of your achievements, it has been sixty years of progressive impact", Governor Oyebanji said. 

In his homily titled awareness of God's goodness, the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev Felix Ajakaye, described the former Governor as a unique man whose has been a   testament to service to God and humanity. 

Bishop Ajakaye, while highlighting Fayemi's unwavering commitment to the principles of integrity, justice, and selflessness, noted that these virtues have guided his leadership and personal life.

Dignitaries at the event include, the first civilian Governor of the State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, former Governor Segun Oni, Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof Modupe Adelabu; former deputy Governor of Oyo State, Chief Oladokun. 

Others are former Minister of Education, Prof Tunde Adeniran; Chairman, CAVISTA Holdings, Mr John Olajide; Chairman, Afenifere Renewal Group, Hon Wale Osun; Chairman APC Ekiti State, Barrister Sola Elesin; serving and former members of National Assembly, members of the state Executive Council, members of the State House of Assembly. 

The Chairman, Ekiti State council of traditional rulers, HRM Oba Ayorinde Ilori- Faboro led scores of other traditional rulers to the event.

Senator Cyril Fasuyi celebrates JKF @60.

Senator Cyril Fasuyi celebrates JKF @60.

Senator Cyril Fasuyi of Ekiti North Senatorial District joined other notable Nigerians to celebrate an icon, His Excellency Dr. John Kayode Fayemi. The former Governor of Ekiti and a former Minister of Solid minerals. 

In a state released by his media team, Senator Cyril Fasuyi said, Ekiti State and the nation will not forget his front-row role as a pro-democracy activist and patriot. He has left an indelible mark as an energetic, committed, loyal, tested political player and quintessential rights activist whose calling is to inspire others and improve the quality of life beyond personal gains.

The former Governor brought his progressive ideas and ideals to flourish and left remarkable achievements that presently serve as benchmarks of his interventions in the leadership equation in Ekiti State.

He wishes Governor Fayemi long life in good health.

PRESIDENT TINUBU RELEASES BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO KAYODE FAYEMI.

PRESIDENT TINUBU RELEASES BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO KAYODE FAYEMI.

 

My relationship with Dr Kayode Fayemi dates back to our time together in the pro-democracy movement in the 90s when we mounted local and international campaigns against military dictatorship.

 

During the challenging General Sani Abacha era, civil rights and pro-democracy activists, especially those in exile, had to rely on their ingenuity to survive. Kayode's brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills were invaluable to our cause.

 

The struggle for Chief MKO Abiola's release from incarceration and the de-annulment of the June 12, 1993 Presidential election, then considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria, led to the constriction of the civic space by the military.

 

The military government routinely raided and proscribed newspapers such as the Concord, Punch, Guardian, and magazines such as Tempo/TheNews and TELL. General Abacha was running amok, arresting activists, jailing journalists, and instilling fears in anyone opposed to his oppressive regime. There was a need to have a radio station covering the activities of the pro-democracy movement at home and abroad and putting more significant pressure on the Abacha junta. Dr Fayemi and other activists actualised the birth of the pro-democracy radio, Radio Kudirat, named in honour of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, who agents of the Abacha regime murdered.

 

The deaths of General Abacha and Chief Abiola in 1998 changed the course of events for all of us. The engagement strategy needed to be re-appraised. When General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who succeeded Abacha, announced a short transition programme, many of us in the pro-democracy movement decided to return home to participate.

 

Dr. Fayemi returned to Nigeria in 1999 to establish the Centre for Democracy and Development, an organisation dedicated to promoting democracy, peace-building and security in Nigeria and Africa. He also operated the centre in Accra, Ghana.

 

In 2006, Dr. Fayemi transitioned from being a public intellectual to a political leadership role as state governor. After a keenly contested party primaries, Fayemi became our party's candidate for the 2007 governorship election in Ekiti State against the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Engr. Segun Oni. Though the PDP candidate was declared the winner of the election, it was clear that Dr Fayemi and our party, Action Congress, had been cheated out of an apparent victory. We decided to challenge the election at the Election Petitions Tribunal. After a long-drawn, painful, rigorous and emotionally draining court process that lasted over three years, Dr Fayemi was declared the winner in 2010 after a court-ordered re-run that also ended up at the Election Petitions Tribunal and the Appeal Court.

Fayemi also played a pivotal role in the merger of opposition parties, which crystallised into the All Progressives Congress in 2013. He chaired the panel that conducted the presidential primaries in Lagos, which produced President Muhammad Buhari as the candidate. Fayemi then deployed his energy and organisational ability as the Director of Policy of the APC/Buhari Campaign Council, which successfully prosecuted the 2015 presidential election.

 

Our party's victory in the 2015 Presidential election, defeating an incumbent president and a ruling party that had vowed to rule Nigeria for 60 unbroken years, was a fitting reward for the hard work, teamwork, and capacity demonstrated by Fayemi, other campaign council members, and party leadership.

 

After serving as Minister in President Muhammadu Buhari's first term, Dr. Fayemi had the privilege of returning to office as the governor of Ekiti State in 2018. As a two-term governor, he served the people amid severe economic challenges. There is no doubt that he made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State.

 

With our long years together in the trenches and years of party and national politics collaboration, Fayemi has been an able lieutenant, an invaluable ally, and a committed patriot.

 

In exercising his democratic right, Dr Fayemi joined the presidential race as an aspirant on the platform of APC ahead of the 2023 elections. I was also an aspirant in the party. I announced my ambition well ahead of other aspirants in our party. After crisscrossing the country seeking the support of party delegates, Dr Fayemi, on the party convention night, was gracious when he openly announced that he was stepping down for me. His decision demonstrated remarkable humility and comradeship.

 

Dr. Fayemi has exemplified service as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert. 

 

As he turns 60, I wish him continued health and fulfilment in the years ahead.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

February 9, 2025

Hon Ojuawo Extols Dr Kayode Fayemi at 60.

Hon Ojuawo Extols Dr Kayode Fayemi at 60.

Hon (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, Member Representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, has congratulated Dr. John Kayode Fayemi CON on his 60th birthday anniversary. In his congratulatory message, Hon Ojuawo celebrated Dr Fayemi’s attainment of a golden jubilee, marked by numerous achievements and outstanding records in political and national development.

As Hon Ojuawo reflected on Dr Fayemi’s extraordinary journey, he highlighted his leadership, dedication, and service to the people of Ekiti State, noting that he is a trailblazer in political development and a nurturer of ideas that shape democratic values, with significant impact on grassroots development.

Dr Fayemi’s stands on policy formulation, political and party management have been impactful in both developing and developed nations, and his values as a core progressive are unrivalled and unparalleled. As a transformative leader, he has nurtured continuity in Ekiti as a progressive state, leaving behind unforgettable tenures and enduring institutions.

Hon Ojuawo extended heartfelt wishes to Dr Fayemi on this milestone, wishing him a happy birthday and a future filled with continued success and fulfilment as he inspires the next generation of leaders.

Hon Ojuawo also took the opportunity to appeal to the youth to emulate Dr Fayemi’s example, embracing the values of honour, success, growth, and development that have made him a shining example. 

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Oluwatuyi, Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Celebrate Fayemi at 60.

Oluwatuyi, Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Celebrate Fayemi at 60.

By Asubiojo G.O 

The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, has joined the staff, political class, and the people of the council to celebrate former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, on his 60th birthday.

In a goodwill message on behalf of the council on Sunday, Oluwatuyi extolled Fayemi’s remarkable leadership, describing him as a trailblazer, nation-builder, and a beacon of hope for Ekiti and Nigeria. He praised Fayemi’s outstanding contributions as a two-term governor, former Minister of Solid Minerals, and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, noting that his legacy in governance and policy reforms continues to inspire many.

“Dr. Fayemi embodies the virtues of humility, vision, and selflessness. His transformational strides in Ekiti State include prioritizing education, strengthening healthcare delivery, improving infrastructure, and empowering citizens through innovative social investment programs. These achievements, alongside his unwavering dedication to national development, remain a source of pride and inspiration to all,” Oluwatuyi said.

Dr. John Kayode Fayemi. 

The council boss, joined by his wife, Mrs. Hellen Oluwatuyi, and the political class, staff, and citizens of Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, commended Fayemi’s exemplary leadership and prayed for God’s abundant grace upon him. Mrs. Oluwatuyi also lauded Fayemi for his calm demeanor, intellectual capacity, and ability to navigate complex challenges with ease. She noted that leaders like Fayemi deserve to be celebrated for their lasting impact.

“As you celebrate this significant milestone, we pray for greater heights in all your endeavors. May your life continue to be a blessing to Ekiti, Nigeria, and the world at large,” Oluwatuyi added.

The chairman further emphasized the need to recognize the supportive role of Dr. Fayemi’s wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, whose unwavering dedication to women empowerment and advocacy for gender equality has complemented the former governor’s leadership, making their contributions to Ekiti and beyond even more profound.

Oluwatuyi also highlighted some of Fayemi’s landmark achievements, including laying the groundwork for the Ekiti State Cargo Airport, which is now being completed by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, a testament to Fayemi's vision of continuity. As the first governor to establish a culture of sustained governance in Ekiti, Fayemi’s leadership paved the way for unprecedented development in education, infrastructure, healthcare, and other critical sectors. These transformative strides, which include improvements in schools, roads, and healthcare facilities, have left an enduring legacy that continues to benefit the people of Ekiti State.

Hon. Oluwatuyi concluded by noting that Fayemi’s remarkable contributions to state and national development have made him a celebrated icon, whose life and works serve as an inspiration to many across the nation.

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.