Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, Visits Agbeyewa Farms to Boost Agricultural Development and Food Security.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, Visits Agbeyewa Farms to Boost Agricultural Development and Food Security.

In a significant move to drive agricultural development, food security, and economic growth, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, led a federal government delegation to Agbeyewa Farms in Ipao-Ekiti, Ekiti State. This epoch visit was as a result of the invitation extended to the Honorable Minister by the Chairman of Cavista Holdings, John Olajide, to visit Agbeyewa Farms, one of the subsidiary Holdings of Cavista.

The Minister was received at the Ekiti Agroallied International Airport by the Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, who represented Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, alongside Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Information, alongside a powerful delegation from Cavista Holding led by its Director of Business Strategy, Kabir Shagaya. After the airport reception, the Minister and his entourage drove to Agbeyewa Farms at Ipao Ekiti, where he was received by the Managing Director of Agbeyewa Farms, Oska Ayeleso.

This epoch visit was informed by President Bola Tinubu administration's determination to galvanize the private sector towards Agricultural Revolution and economic prosperity, in Agbeyewa has been found as one of the aligning partners.

Agbeyewa Farms, a leader in innovative agricultural practices, showcased its extensive cassava farm field to the Minister and his team, highlighting advanced farming techniques that integrate technology and sustainability. These practices not only enhance productivity and high-yield cassava production in the farm but also contribute significantly to local economies by creating jobs and empowering communities. With over 1,500 hectares of cassava farm fields cultivated in the last two years, Agbeyewa Farms has become the largest cassava farm in Nigeria today.

During the engagement, Minister Kyari engaged with key team members at Agbeyewa Farms, expressing keen interest in the farm's ambitious initiatives. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private enterprises in fostering agricultural growth, particularly in light of Nigeria's diverse agricultural potential. The Minister's visit underscores the federal government's interest in supporting innovative agricultural projects like Agbeyewa Farms, which align with its goals of promoting food security, economic growth, and sustainable development.

As the Minister and his team explore opportunities for collaboration, it's clear that Agbeyewa Farms is poised to play a significant role in Nigeria's agricultural transformation. The visit also highlighted the critical role of public-private partnerships in advancing the sector and addressing pressing issues such as food security and job creation. Agbeyewa Farms remains steadfast in its mission to leverage innovative practices and sustainable methods to revolutionize the agricultural sector, ensuring long-term benefits for both farmers and communities.

The Minister's visit is timely, considering the federal government's renewed focus on agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and food security. As outlined in the Minister's speech at the event, briefing that the government's priorities include Food Security, Economic Growth and Job Creation, Poverty Eradication, and Inclusivity (Youths and Women). According to the Minister, the government aims to achieve these goals through various initiatives, including partnerships with serious investors like John Olajide and its Agbeyewa Farms.

"As the agricultural landscape in Nigeria evolves today, Agbeyewa Farms is anticipated to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, job creation, and contributing to national food security," the Minister said.

Also, the Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Security in Ekiti, Ebenezer Boluwade, said the coming of the Minister is a boost to the Public - Private Partnership arrangement between the State and Agbeyewa Farms, and this align with the agenda of Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji Administration to create job opportunities through innovative agricultural practices and guarantees food security.

The Managing Director and CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, Oska Ayeleso, thanked the Minister and his his powerful delegation, saying that: The collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture is expected to foster continued advancements in agricultural practices and positioning Agbeyewa Farms as a leader in the cassava revolution across the country and on the African continent. 

"Agbeyewa Farms expresses gratitude for Minister Kyari's visit and support, looking forward to a fruitful partnership that aims to shape the future of agriculture in Nigeria and in Africa at large.  This will be made possible as we will strive to increase our cassava cultivation to 5,000 hectares at the end of the 2025 planting season," Ayeleso said.

ADL

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES AIYEDATIWA ON INAUGURATION AS ONDO GOVERNOR.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES AIYEDATIWA ON INAUGURATION AS ONDO GOVERNOR.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his inauguration as Governor of the State today, February 24, 2025.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described Aiyedatiwa’s emergence In a free and fair election and subsequent inauguration as Governor,  as an evidence that democracy has taken a firm root in the sunshine state. 

While wishing the Ondo State Governor a successful tenure that is characterized by outstanding achievements, Oyebanji urged him to extend olive hands to those who contested the governorship seat with him as well as other critical stakeholders and get their input into the government. 

Governor Oyebanji also congratulated the good people of Ondo State, the national and state leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the milestone. 

He urged the people of Ondo State to give maximum support to  the new administration so it can record huge success in every aspect of governance. 

“The Government and good people of Ekiti State heartily felicitate His Excellency Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on this historic inauguration and wish him a successful tenure marked by remarkably outstanding achievements. We also congratulate the good people of the sunshine state on this auspicious occasion and pray that the new administration will usher in a much greater level of development to the state.”, the statement added.

Former Students of Professor Abayomi Fasina Congratulate Him on the Successful 9th Convocation of FUOYE.

Former Students of Professor Abayomi Fasina Congratulate Him on the Successful 9th Convocation of FUOYE.

Former students of Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, who had the privilege of being taught by him at Ekiti State University, have united to extend their heartfelt congratulations on the tremendous success of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) 9th Convocation.

In a collective statement signed by their newly elected Chairman, Blessing Oluwaseun Adejoro, and Assistant Secretary, Abdulateef Yusuf, on behalf of over 300 fellow members, the alumni expressed immense pride in Professor Fasina’s achievements since he took office as Vice-Chancellor of FUOYE. They commended the university for celebrating the graduation of over 8,444 students during this momentous week-long event, which featured various initiatives, including project commissioning, free healthcare services, staff awards, and an endowment fundraising drive.

The ex-students were particularly delighted to congratulate two of their members: Adesoji Gabriel, who earned a master’s degree in Fisheries and Aquaculture, and Ajayi Samuel Ojo, who received his PhD in Soil Sciences and Land Resources, both from the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. They highlighted that these achievements reflect the high academic standards and mentorship provided by Professor Fasina during his tenure at Ekiti State University.

“The success of this convocation is a testament to Professor Fasina’s exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to academic excellence,” stated Chairman Adejoro. “His dedication to fostering a culture of peace and stability, along with his significant efforts in securing accreditation for various programs, has notably elevated FUOYE’s status as a leading institution of higher learning in Nigeria.”

The alumni underscored the strategic initiatives undertaken by Professor Fasina to expand academic offerings, including new programs in Medicine and Surgery, Data Science and Analytics, and various postgraduate disciplines. They believe these developments are essential for equipping graduates with the skills needed to excel in an increasingly competitive job market.

Furthermore, the group recognized the substantial investments in infrastructure, including new lecture halls, state-of-the-art laboratories, and improved accommodation facilities across the Oye and Ikole campuses, all which contribute to a more conducive learning environment.

The former students also celebrated ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing staff welfare and promoting academic research, which have further solidified the university’s global standing. They praised Professor Fasina’s impressive record of fostering international collaborations and securing prestigious research grants.

“As proud former students of Professor Fasina, we are committed to supporting his vision for FUOYE,” stated Assistant Secretary Yusuf. “His achievements have justified the confidence reposed in him, and we believe he is well-equipped to steer FUOYE toward even greater accomplishments.”

In conclusion, the alumni reaffirm their commitment to supporting Professor Fasina’s leadership and urge the entire university community to unite behind his mission to enhance FUOYE’s impact on both national and global academic landscapes.

E-Signed

Adejoro Blessing Oluwaseun 

Chairman, 

Prof. Fashina's Ex-Student Group Fashina's Ex-Student Group 

E-Signed

Abdulateef Yusuf

Ass. Secretary,

Prof. Fashina's Ex-Student Group

Ojuawo Congratulates Gov Oyebanji on the New Federal University.

Ojuawo Congratulates Gov Oyebanji on the New Federal University.

The cheering news of the estblishment of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, as assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has further upheld our love for education as a fountain of knowledge.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, the honorable member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, has congratulated His Excellency Abiodun Oyebanji, Governor of Ekiti, and Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele on the establishment of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Science, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State.

In his congratulatory message, Ojuawo said the new university will further affirm Ekiti as a human resource capital and fountain of knowledge. "I received the news of the President's assent to establish the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Science, Iyin Ekiti, with enthusiasm, especially at this period of our development. I congratulate our dear Governor, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji, on his continuous success in all ramifications and every index of growth and development, which this new university has added to. It's a welcome development.

"I also specially thank Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who worked assiduously to make this a reality. His spirited effort deserves gratitude, and his leadership is beneficial to our dear state, adding to expansion in population, economic growth, and infrastructural value. I thank you and commend your value-added efforts."

Hon. Ojuawo also implored potential tertiary students to take advantage of the establishment of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Science to take courses that would help address climate change issues affecting the world globally. By doing so, they can become solutions to their immediate environment and the world at large.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM.

Air Peace Boss, Onyema hails Ekiti Airport as one of world’s best.

Air Peace Boss, Onyema hails Ekiti Airport as one of world’s best.

The Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace Limited, Dr Allen Onyema, has lauded the state-of-the-art facilities and operational efficiency of the Ekiti State Agro Allied International Cargo Airport, describing it as one of the best in the world.

Dr Onyema, who landed at the airport on Saturday at about 10am in a Boeng 737, (120 capacity) aircraft, commended the airport’s apron, runway, and terminal building, describing them as “highly functional and aesthetically pleasing”.

Speaking with journalists shortly after landing at the airport, the Air Peace Boss noted that the facility’s readiness for international and domestic flights positions it as a critical infrastructure for the economic and social development of the state and the country at large.

 Emphasizing the potentials of the airport, which according to him makes it a strong contender for major aviation activities in Nigeria, Dr Onyema said it is equipped to accommodate even larger aircraft such as Boeing 777.

While assuring the state of his readiness to partner with the airport as soon as it  commences commercial operations, Dr Onyeama expressed optimism that the airport would soon serve as a hub for pilgrims and travelers in the country.

“This is the first time Boeing 737 will be coming to this airport and as an Aviator, I can tell you categorically that this is one of the best airports in the world, we should stop neglecting our own.

“When I say one of the best in the world, I mean it because coming in, the pilot was communicating with me and l’m reporting what the pilot said: that this is one of the best runway he has ever seen. So,  Boeing 777 can even land in this airport, it is just a matter of time and am sure in no time Ekiti pilgrims might start flying from here because the airport can take Boeing 777”.

“It is a beautiful airport, highly equipped, beautiful and very solid apron, solid runways, nice terminal, and what else can we ask for” Dr Onyema added. 

In his own remarks, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd) said the seamless landing of a Boeing 737 is a clear testament to the airport’s readiness for full commercial operation, adding  that the milestone demonstrates the airport’s capacity to handle large aircraft and deliver seamless aviation services.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information, Rt Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, described the airport project as a transformative project for the state. He said the landing of the Boeing 737 at the airport is a testament to the determination of the state government under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, to enhancing infrastructure development for economic growth and connectivity.

Ojuawo Sponsors Students for Free JAMB in Ekiti South Federal Constituency.

Ojuawo Sponsors Students for Free JAMB in Ekiti South Federal Constituency.

In a significant gesture to enhance educational opportunities, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, the honorable member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1 at the Green Chamber, sponsored free Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms for potential students in his constituency seeking admission to tertiary institutions.

This initiative aligns with Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to educational development and support programs, aiming to transform the local educational landscape to meet global best practices. Hon. Ojuawo has consistently emphasized the importance of education as a vital tool for addressing societal challenges, including peace, law and order, and socio-economic development. He firmly believes that education is an antidote to overcome obstacles hindering progress in the constituency and beyond. Each year, he invests significantly in the education and human capacity development of his constituents by sponsoring the teenagers for leadership training. His commitment to raise a total man extends to awarding numerous scholarships at various levels, from nursery to undergraduate and postgraduate studies, facilitating access to quality education for many bright minds across his constituency.

Hon. Ojuawo’s constant advocacy for quality education is not limited to sponsoring exams but also includes investments in school infrastructure and materials for primary schools. Examples include the construction of a 6-block classroom at Ogotun High School, Ogotun Ekiti, donations of exercise books to primary schools, and support for the National Union of Teachers’ projects. Hon. Ojuawo’s unwavering dedication to educational advancement serves as a beacon of hope for many in Ekiti South Federal Constituency, fostering a culture of learning and empowerment that aims to secure a brighter future for the youth. His consistent efforts exemplify a proactive approach to tackling educational challenges and underscore the significance of legislative support in uplifting communities through education.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Oyebanji, at Iyin-Ekiti, thanks President Tinubu for new Varsity.

Oyebanji, at Iyin-Ekiti, thanks President Tinubu for new Varsity.

The Governor commended President Tinubu for prioritizing educational aspirations of the people and for recognizing the importance of higher education in driving progress and development in the country.

The Governor Highlighted  numerous benefits the new university would bring to Iyin-Ekiti and Ekiti State in general to include increased access to education, job creation, infrastructural development, among others. 

He assured that his administration would work closely with all stakeholders to ensure a smooth take-off of the university.

Governor Oyebanji said : “I congratulate all Iyin indigenes for the new University. It was a long fought battle, but we thank God and on behalf of the government of Ekiti State, we express our gratitude to the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for doing this for us in Ekiti State and I also appreciate my brother and friend, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele for representing well and God will keep him for us.”

Speaking about the deceased, the Governor described the late Pa Jeremiah Akindele as a man who lived a life of purpose and service, noting that his contributions to the community were exemplary.

He urged the children and family of the deceased to find solace in the impactful life he lived and continue to uphold his values.

In his homily, the Vicar of Babanboni Memorial Anglican Church, Iyin Ekiti, Venerable Sunday Agunbiade, said the service is not to mourn the passing of the diseased but to celebrate a life that exemplified faith, humility, and service to God and humanity.

While appreciating the Governor for the establishment of the new university in Iyin- Ekiti, the Venerable said since the inception of the administration of the Governor, the state has continued to witness tremendous development in every sector.