Ekiti young farmers made over N200 million profit last year- Oyebanji.

Ekiti young farmers made over N200 million profit last year- Oyebanji.

… Says govt deliberate in providing agric. infrastructure.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has revealed that young farmers that participated in the state’s farming scheme made over N200million last year from the sale of their produce.

The Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving food security through aggressive infrastructure development capable of turning the state into an agricultural hub in the country.

Governor Oyebanji stated these on Tuesday while playing host to the management team of Origin Tech Group led by its Chief Executive, Prince Samuel Joseph. He noted that government has been able to turn agriculture into a veritable business venture through all its interventions in the sector.

 

According to a statement by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor and made available to journalists on Wednesday, Governor Oyebanji said Ekiti State is ready to partner with the tech company for a more enhanced development in the agriculture sector said the N200 million realised by the young farmers during the last harvest season was from off- takers and big processing plants as well as the State government which bought the produce for storage.

 

He said the success recorded from the pioneering set in the agric programme has encouraged other young farmers to sign on the programme, adding that no fewer than 2,000 young farmers have shown interest in being part of the cluster farming this year.

 

Governor Oyebanji said the state is working towards food surplus, empowerment for the youths, creation of economic opportunities for the citizens through agribusiness and utilizing agriculture to drive industrialization. He added that the fact the government’s policy of supporting the farmers with modified seedlings, land clearing and tractorisation has helped them increased their scope, while the assurance that whatever they grow would be bought has been a great encouragement for them.

He  also promised to introduce middle-level market hubs that will serve as distribution points to ensure smooth and efficient food production, processing and supply in the state.

 

“We have developed a template that has transited agric from mere farming to business. And as I speak today, there were 1,000  farmers that we got  to farm in the six cluster farms in the state, it was a pilot programme and the beauty of the project is when we cleared land for them, we did tractorization, gave them seedlings. Last year December, we gave over N200 million to them for the sales of their produce while we also insisted that they commit a certain percentage of their profits back to their farm.

 

 “My government will be deliberate in ensuring that we provide infrastructure that will support the hub and we promise that we will engage in collaborations that will bring remarkable development to agriculture and how we can be a major player in the sector.

 

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Origin Tech Group, Mr Joseph Samuel commended Governor Oyebanji for his various efforts at developing the state especially the agricultural sector which, according to him is a testament of the visionary leadership he had been providing for the state in particular and Nigeria at large.

 

Samuel said his company is ready to partner the state in it agriculture development drive through various initiatives of the company including introduction of middle-level cooperatives, prototype clusters and sorting and logistics centres capable of generating resources for the state and the people as well as well as assist the state achieve at least 40percent equity with the company.

 

He added that a rewarding partnership with Ekiti state will serve as a point of reference for advancement in food security and infrastructure leading to an epitome of commitment to sustainable development and economic growth in food production systems.

Ajoni LCDA Management Extends Compassionate gestures to Improve Staff welfare.

Ajoni LCDA Management Extends Compassionate gestures to Improve Staff welfare.

In a profound display of empathy and support, the management of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has extended a heartfelt gesture to a dedicated staff member, Mrs. Oyeyemi Ojo, who recently lost her husband. Recognizing her resilience in balancing work, raising her children and completing an unfinished building, the management presented her with two security doors to ease her burden.

The presentation was made by Mr. Arowolaju Tunde, Head of the Local Government Administration, on behalf of the management. Mrs. Ojo, who serves in the administrative department, expressed deep gratitude to the Executive Chairman, Amb. Prince  Michael Ogungbemi fcpa, and top management for their generosity. She also offered prayers for the administration’s continued success.

This compassionate act underscores Ajoni LCDA's Chairman,  Prince Ogungbemi commitment to fostering a supportive and caring work environment, ensuring that employees feel valued, encouraged and well motivated at difficult times. The administration remains dedicated to promoting staff welfare, reinforcing its vision of service built on kindness and community solidarity.

EKSU VC Calls for Integration of Sustainability Concepts in Education.

EKSU VC Calls for Integration of Sustainability Concepts in Education.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Professor Babatola Ayodele, has called for the integration of sustainability concepts into Nigeria’s educational curriculum to prepare students for global challenges.

Ayodele, a Professor of Educational Management, made this call while delivering a keynote address at the 2nd International Conference of the Faculty of Education, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, held at the institution’s Fasina Conference Centre.

According to him, education must go beyond preparing students for employment and equip them with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to tackle pressing global issues such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality.

"Transforming education for a sustainable future requires a holistic approach that includes inclusive policies, educational reforms, and innovative technologies," he said.

He further noted that the traditional education model, which emphasizes memorization and standardized testing, is no longer adequate for addressing contemporary challenges. Instead, he advocated for an inclusive educational system that removes socio-economic barriers such as poverty, discrimination, and inadequate learning materials.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Professor Abayomi Fasina, who was represented by his deputy, Professor Shittu, emphasized that the theme of the conference was crucial in addressing the current challenges facing the education sector.

The event was widely attended by academics, policymakers, and education stakeholders, who deliberated on strategies for making education more inclusive and sustainability-focused.

A statement signed by Bode Olofinmuagun, Deputy Registrar and Director of Information & Corporate Affairs at EKSU, confirmed the development.

New Army formation takes off in Ekiti.

New Army formation takes off in Ekiti.

…As Oyebanji receives Army Commanders, promises collaboration to check insecurity.

A new formation of the Nigeria Army is billed to take off in Ikere-Ekiti with the commencement of deployment of personnel and materials to the state.

The outgoing Commander of 12 Brigade, Lokoja, Major Gen. Oluremi Fadairo disclosed this in Ado-Ekiti on Monday during a visit to Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji.

General Fadairo, who led other senior Army officers including the new Brigade Commander, 12 Brigade, Lokoja, Brig. Gen. Kasim Umar Sidi and the Commanding Officer of the new Battalion and the Garrison Commander, 32 Brigade Col. Kyari Babakura was also in the entourage, said they were in the state to assess the new barracks of the Nigeria Army in Ikere-Ekiti ahead of the deployment of personnel and equipment to the state.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, that the Army chiefs expressed satisfaction with the location of the Army Barracks in Ikere-Ekiti and assured the Governor that the deployment of personnel would commence at the temporary base immediately.

The Army top brass however, requested a bigger space to serve as temporary abode for the deployed personnel. General Fadairo assured of a more enhanced security and safety in Ekiti with the advent of the Army formation- the 148 Battalion in the state.

While stressing that the new formation will bring remarkable improvement to the security architecture of the state, especially the contiguous areas with Kogi State and Ondo State, Major Gen. Fadairo, urged residents of the state to give the military the required maximum support and cooperation to enable it achieve its desired objective of curtailing all forms of insecurity in the state.

Governor Oyebanji, in his remarks, thanked the Nigerian Army for the new development, which he said would further enhance safety and security in the state and further confirm Ekiti as number one choice for people looking for where to live, work, relax and invest.

The Governor assured the Army authorities of effective collaboration with the military to strengthen security and stamp out criminal elements from the state.

While affirming that his government has been making frantic and conscious efforts to partner all relevant security agencies to ensure safety and security of lives and properties in the state, the Governor said his administration had committed huge investment in the security architecture of the state, leading to the state being recognized as the most peaceful in the country.

He expressed appreciation to the Army command in the state for their professionalism and cordial relationship that existed between them, government and the people of the state by exhibiting unusual calmness in the face of undue provocation, adding that the fight against insecurity and insurgency by the Nigeria Army at large is highly commendable.

 “We are grateful to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for the approval to establish this Battalion in Ekiti State. We are grateful to the Army Command, under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff for doing this for us in the state. What you have done for us in Ekiti state is so dear to us. Ekiti state is peaceful, but we also have our own pockets of criminalities and the area where the battalion is cited is one of the most security challenged places in the state.

“This is an effort that we will give maximum support to ensure its early takeoff. You also see that immediately it was announced, we got the land from the community and so the people have taken ownership of the project.

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.