AT LAST, OYEBANJI BREAKS ADO-IWOROKO-IFAKI HIGHWAY JINX.

The BAO Impact Series No. 13

AT LAST, OYEBANJI BREAKS ADO-IWOROKO-IFAKI HIGHWAY JINX.

BY ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has succeeded in breaking a long-running jinx on the construction of the Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki Highway. It was a jinx that stared the people of the state in their faces.

The construction of the dual carriageway which started sometimes in 2007 during the administration of the former Governor, Chief Segun Oni, has lasted not less than five administrations. It was indeed a topsy-turvy experience that had lasted eighteen years.

The project which commenced with the Oni Administration was inherited by Fayemi 1 Administration, Fayose 2 Administration, Fayemi 2 Administration and now Oyebanji Administration.

It should be noted that Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki Highway is a Trunk 'A' road, otherwise known as federal road and it is a major transportation artery that connects Ado Ekiti, the state capital, with other towns in Ekiti North Senatorial District.

Apart from this, the road also serves a major alternative corridor to reach neighbouring states like Osun, Oyo, Kwara, Kogi, Federal Capital Territory and other northern states.

For many residents who are living in Ado Ekiti and working in key institutions like Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti; Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti; Federal University, Oye Ekiti; Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti, among others, the road is an indispensable route they must ply on daily basis to reach their destinations.

Before the Oyebanji Administration came to office, work on the road project was stalled due to some contractual and legal issues. Determined to ensure that the delay was overcome, the Oyebanji Administration decided to surmount the challenges in the interest of road users.

Governor Oyebanji had always maintained that whether any road belongs to the federal government or the state government, as long as the road is domiciled on Ekiti soil, it is the people of the state that would be the major beneficiaries if the road is good and that is why his administration would not discriminate in giving it due attention.

Having resolved the knotty issues that held down the project, the Governor ensured that the contractor moved back to site to restart the project from the Ado end and the Iworoko end connecting to the Ifaki intersection.

With his avowed steely determination to crack a seemingly hard nut, Governor Oyebanji ensured adequate monitoring of the project with several visits to the site asking the contractor and the engineers questions and seeking clarifications.

In fact, the several days of rock blasting and using the chips of the rock as the stone base of the highway, especially the lane that had not been concluded, left motorists and commuters wondering what was going on and pondering on when it would be concluded.

The Governor, even on days he attended ceremonial functions, would stop his convoy and alight from his official vehicle to assess the level of work carried out in a bid to ensure that the project is completed to the relief of the people in good time.

A drive on the highway today would elicit smiles on the faces of the road users and a sense of delight and fulfillment in their hearts because the patience, inconvenience and perseverance they had endured in the past had paid off.

Both from the Ado end and the Iworoko-Ifaki end, it has been a pleasant story in the past few days that major work has been done on the road which has been crowned with the asphalt overlay.

There are no longer potholes which gave motorists and commuters discomfort. The days of dust are now over; what we have not is a smooth road with a shiny surface owing to the recent overlay of asphalt.

Governor Oyebanji has done it again and history would be kind to him long after he might have left office. He has proved again what determination and resilience can do. The Governor has surmounted a huge barrier and had endured so many inconvenience and sleepless nights to deliver comfort for the people of Ekiti State and others road users passing through the state.

It is noteworthy that this same highway also links with the new Ring Road under construction that connects Iworoko, Are with Ago Aduloju and ultimately on to the Ekiti State International Agro Cargo Airport. The benefits of this Ring Road on completion are mouthwatering and unquantifiable.

The people of Ado Ekiti, Iworoko Ekiti, Ifaki Ekiti and many others who rely on the newly reconstructed highway for daily economic survival cannot wait for the day of its official inauguration to show their joy and appreciation to a Governor that has brought ease to them.

Finally, the jinx has been broken, the celebration has just begun.

Ogunmola is Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media (Print Media).

OYEBANJI EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES OVER MADAM ADEBAYO’S DEMISE.

OYEBANJI EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES OVER MADAM ADEBAYO’S DEMISE.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has commiserated with the late General Adeyinka Adebayo family of Iyin-Ekiti over the passing of their mother, Chief (Mrs) Modupe Adebayo.

The late Chief (Mrs) Adebayo, wife of the late former military governor of the old Western state, passed on Saturday, March 8th. She was aged 85 years old.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday, described Madam Adebayo’s passing as a sad development.

The Governor described the deceased as a virtual woman, a pillar of support for the family and a mother who loved and cared for her children, and was mother to several other children who benefitted from her generosity of spirit.

The Demise, Chief (Mrs) Modupe Adebayo.

The Governor however congratulated Mrs. Joke Chukwuemeka and the entire family over what he described as a “glorious exit” of their mother, adding that the fact mama lived a good and fulfilled life of service and honour and survived by excellent children, loving family and a community that hold her in high esteem, makes her passing a cause for celebration and not for mourning.

Governor Oyebanji, however said that regardless of the fact mama lived to old age, she would be sorely missed for her motherly role, amiable personality, wise counsel, and generosity.

“There is no doubt, mama lived a good and fulfilled life and would be greatly missed. While we would have loved to still have her around for a little longer, I urged the children and the entire family to be consoled by the fact mama lived a great and impactful life, served God, her community and humanity.

“On behalf of my family, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I extend condolences to the entire family and pray that the Almighty God grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and grant mama’s soul eternal rest.”, the Governor said.

Oyebanji restates commitment to equipping youths with innovative, entrepreneurial skills.

Oyebanji restates commitment to equipping youths with innovative, entrepreneurial skills.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has said that his administration places high premium on innovation and entrepreneurship that will empower students and young professionals with skills, tools and mind-set necessary for self-reliance, job creation and economic independence.

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this on Saturday at the first convocation ceremony of the Bamidele Olumilua University of Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti, said his government is not just equipping the youths with academic knowledge but also with practical skills that prepare them for the demands of an evolving world.

Governor Oyebanji, at the event which was attended by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, and other eminent personalities, said his government has invested heavily in the establishment of entrepreneurial and innovation centers across the state to position graduates to excel not only as employees but as employers, innovators and solution providers.

 

While commending the University for the phenomenal achievement and growth in less than five years and for its efforts in producing graduates equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the Governor assured them that his government remains steadfast in its commitment to the growth of the university as he promised to continue to provide the infrastructure, resources and support needed for the institution to thrive as a citadel of learning, producing graduates who will not only compete but lead on the global stage.

The convocation was attended by several dignitaries, who flew in through the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, Ado-Ekiti. About five aircraft landed at the airport.

 

Congratulating the graduating students for their meritorious success, the Governor charged them to transform the knowledge deposited in them into fruits of service, innovation and excellence.

 

“As a government, we understand the importance of equipping our youths not only with academic knowledge but also with practical skills that prepare them for the demands of an evolving world. This is why we have placed a high premium on entrepreneurial skills. In line with this vision, we are investing heavily in the establishment of entrepreneurial and innovation centres across the state.

 

“These centres are designed to empower students and young professionals with the skills, tools and mindset necessary for self-reliance, job creation, and economic independence. We are proud to see this commitment reflected in the entrepreneurial programmes, initiatives and exploits of BOUESTI, which position our graduates to excel not only as employees but as employers , innovators and solution providers.

Earlier in his address, the Chancellor of the university, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) who commended the Governor for his unwavering support towards the development of the institution, said the Governor’s commitment to education has been instrumental in positioning the university as a hub for academic excellence and skill development.

 

Highlighting the institution's achievements in less than five years, Chief Olanipekun said the University has witnessed tremendous growth, advancement in academic programs, and a growing reputation for producing highly skilled graduates ready to compete in global economy.

 

Also in his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof Olufemi Adeoluwa, who explained that the university was adjudged the best University of Education in Sub-Sahara Africa at the University of Uwanda, Kigali in 2022, highlighted the achievements of the university to include securing accreditation of 78 programes by the National Universities Commission, increase in enrolment of students, well equipped library with free access to internet, among others.

 

Prof. Adeoluwa explained that total of 1,109 students graduated comprising 37  who bagged first class, 426 second class upper division, 586 in second class lower division and 60 in third class.

 

The highpoint of the event was the conferment of honourary degree of the university on four eminent personalities which include Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Mohammed Sanni Musa, Chancellor, Ekiti State University, Dr Tunji Olowolafe, and the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adu Alagbado. While Governor Peter Mbah was conferred with the Doctor of humane Letters, Senator Sanni Musa was conferred with Doctor of Public Policy, Dr Tunji Olowolafe, Doctor of Business Administration, while Oba Adu Alagbado was conferred with Doctor of Public Administration.

 

Speaking on behalf of the honorees, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah thanked the State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji and the University for recognizing their contribution to national development. He described the conferment of the honourary degrees as a significant encouragement to continue working toward the betterment of the society.

EKSU Chancellor, Olowolafe, Donates Mini Bus, Equipment Worth Millions to Varsity.

EKSU Chancellor, Olowolafe, Donates Mini Bus, Equipment Worth Millions to Varsity.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, has donated a brand new Donfeng M3 (11-seater) mini bus and other educational materials to the institution’s Department of Geology.

The donation, which also included five workstations worth ₦20 million, a plotter, a 15th-generation laptop, and an HP color laser printer, was part of Olowolafe’s effort to support academic excellence in the university. Additionally, the Department of Banking and Finance received 12 sets of computers from the Chancellor.

Speaking during the handover of the materials at the university campus in Ado-Ekiti, the General Manager of the Tunji Olowolafe Foundation, Oyinkansola Familoni, said the donations were aimed at enhancing effective teaching and learning in the institution.

Receiving the items on behalf of the Governing Council and Management, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Babatola Ayodele, expressed deep appreciation for the Chancellor’s generosity, describing him as "an uncommon philanthropist."

He also charged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the materials and provide periodic updates on their impact, adding, “The Chancellor would want to see the impact of the materials on the development of the university.”

The donation was confirmed in a statement signed by the Deputy Registrar, Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs, Bode Olofinmuagun, and made available to the media.

'BIODUN ABAYOMI OYEBANJI: OF CAPACITY, EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP AND EXPONENTIAL LEGITIMACY.

'BIODUN ABAYOMI OYEBANJI: OF CAPACITY, EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP AND EXPONENTIAL LEGITIMACY.

_By Johnson Ola Folarin (JOF)_

"Leadership is practiced not so much in words as in attitude and in actions." - Harold Geneen 

BAO is such a pride to Our party, APC and Ekiti in general. For the first time in history, no former Governor of the State is currently against him. Don't come and tell me it's because he's settling them oooo... Don't underrate a former Governor that after leaving office, he would still need to be fed by the current Governor. 

The contacts they'd made alone can feed them forever. As a sitting Governor, you can't buy a former Governor who doesn't love you. If you doubt it, why is Fubara not buying Wike as we speak? It's still because he's not worth buying him. Fubara would have done plenty of things to buy Wike but for a fact that the love is no more there, he (Wike) doesn't have a price so as all other former Governors. 

The above inference, shows that only loving intentions can buy People to your side. The former Governors are not hungry as it may be presumed by some disgruntled People and they can never be, forever. It takes loving-kindness, intentionality, cool-headedness, recognition and legitimacy to buy the unique interests of former Governors from different parties, not the money.

*"There are three essentials to leadership: humility, clarity and courage."* —Chan Master Fuchan Yuan

BAO has really shown to be special and exceptional. He's a man after the hearts of those who truly love the State and her dynamics. Whatever can bring Baba Afe Babalola, Chief Wole Olanipekun and Chief Femi FALANA of this world together, such thing has passed through the hurdles of those requirements listed above. Senator Ojudu fought virtually all the former Governors' re-elections, whilst they're Governing the State at one time or the other, but now, same Senator Ojudu is only having the relentless desires to work for BAO's re-election, same as other opposition Members who are now freely desiring him (BAO) for a second term.

BAO has indeed simplified governance in Ekiti State, to the extent of laying the durable foundation for the solid future, and rich in good governance-templates for Up-And-Coming governments to be bred from the trait of Omoluabism that has endeared Governor 'Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, BAO, to the hearts of almost everyone in the State.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has indeed set the long-lasting precedences for those God will bless with taking up the governance of the State, subsequently. It's indeed a plus to all of us! Through these established quality precedences, there will be no more--- abandonment of projects by successive governments in the State. That alone assures the State of development-driven results and Ekiti People shall continue to rejoice and be glad in it.

BAO needs Our supports as good indigenes for a greater Ekiti that the foundation and pillar can now be confirmed strong and trusted.

Let's all anticipate a greater Ekiti with Governor 'Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, BAO till 2030.

Ojuawo Felicitates with Oba Adejimi Alagbado on His Honorary Degree.

Ojuawo Felicitates with Oba Adejimi Alagbado on His Honorary Degree.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, has congratulated His Royal Majesty Oba Samuel Adu Adejimi Alagbado, Agirilala II, Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, on the conferment of a Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) in Public Administration by Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti (BOUESTI).

In his congratulatory message, Ojuawo affirmed the conferment as well-deserved. 

“I congratulate our revered Monarch, Oba Adu Alagbado, on his conferment as Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration by BOUESTI. Our Kabiyesi is an administrator par excellence and a manager of men. His antecedents in corporate organizations show his distinct excellence in all his records of service, without blemish, even before ascending the throne of his forefathers.

 

The reign of Oba Alagbado has further affirmed his managerial skills, discipline, and love for his community. I join the Ikere community in celebrating our Kabiyesi and wish him a peaceful reign, long life, and prosperity.”

Hon. Ojuawo also thanked the Governing Council and Vice Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere, for the award. “On behalf of the good people of Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1 and myself, I say a big thank you for finding our Kabiyesi worthy of this honour,” Ojuawo added.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Oyebanji reinstates commitment to sports development.

Oyebanji reinstates commitment to sports development.

… as renovation work begins at stadium.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging sports as a tool for job creation and wealth generation.

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this on Friday during an inspection of ongoing renovation of Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado Ekiti, emphasized that sports in the state would no longer be regarded solely as a recreational activity but as a strategic platform for empowering athletes.

The Governor, who expressed dismay at the poor conditions under which the athletes train, assured them that such situation would soon become a thing of the past. He said his administration is determined to revamp the stadium to meet international standard.

The Governor also hinted that his government has awarded over Seven billion naira contract for the construction of a state- of- the - art indoor sports hall which is expected to be completed before the end of his administration.

While assuring the athletes that his administration would continue to provide enabling environment for them to thrive which include modern facilities and training programs that would position them to compete effectively at national and international levels, the Governor charged them to remain diligent and concentrate on their goals and take advantage of the opportunities his administration is creating to develop their talents. 

“I came here this morning in continuation of what we started yesterday just to look at what is happening at the stadium. I recall that I was here last year, I went round and I did not like what I saw and I promised that we are going to revamp sports in Ekiti State.

“If you look at the six pillars of our administration, one of them is human capital development, that is where sport development is and I made a promise that we will use sport as an avenue to create job and wealth, that sport will no longer be a recreation activities, it will be a platform for sport lovers in sporting activities to make money and we can only do that if we put in place structures and building blocks that will allow you to exhibit your potentials”. The Governor said.

In her own remarks, the Technical Advisor on sports development, Dr.(Mrs) Olusola Osetoba lauded the Governor’s vision and proactive efforts in ensuring that sports are no longer seen as a mere recreational activity but as a platform for youth empowerment, job creation, and economic growth.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, the Captain of Ekiti United Football Club, Mr Makanjuola Ayodeji who could not hide his joy expressed his profound appreciation to the Governor for his remarkable contribution to the welfare of the athletes in the state. He noted that since the inception of the Governor’s administration, they have witnessed unprecedented improvement in their condition of service with salary increment, uniforms, traveling allowance, bonuses, among others.