Architect of Progress: Omoluabi Dr. Jayeola Afolabi's Vision for Community Development.

Architect of Progress: Omoluabi Dr. Jayeola Afolabi's Vision for Community Development.

As the electoral landscape continues to evolve, one aspirant stands out for his unwavering commitment to community development: Omoluabi Dr. Jayeola Afolabi. With a proven track record of championing transformative initiatives, Dr. Afolabi is the embodiment of visionary leadership.

His academic prowess and acumen as a well-coordinated personality further affirm the trust in his ability to initiate, draft, and project legislative bills that will be constituents-friendly.

What sets Dr. Afolabi apart, however, is his exceptional ability to lobby for opportunities that benefit his people. His extensive network and persuasive prowess have yielded tangible results, securing vital resources and investments for his constituency.

Dr. Afolabi's dedication to community development is rooted in his Omoluabi values, which emphasize integrity, compassion, and selflessness. His leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, inspiring trust and confidence among his constituents.

His core values, premised on the Omoluabi mantra, align perfectly with Dr. Afolabi's vision. By embracing this mantra, he reaffirms his commitment to integrity, hard work, and community service. With Dr. Afolabi at the helm, we are confident that our community will thrive.

As he navigates the complexities of his community's growth, Omoluabi Dr. Jayeola Afolabi is the aspirant who embodies the best representation of his values and aspirations. Let us rally behind his visionary leadership and elect him to champion our collective progress.

No doubt, the good people of Akure North should be expectant and watch out for legislation in a refined dimension come 2027.

 ~#Ọmọlúwàbínbọ̀wá Media Team.

Ekiti fortunate to have Oyebanji as governor, says oldest Imam.

Ekiti fortunate to have Oyebanji as governor, says oldest Imam.

...as Ijero-Ekiti, Ikole-Ekiti Muslims receive Oyebanji's special Ramadan support.

The Chief Imam of Ijero Central Mosque, Alhaji Abdullateef Abubakar has said the people of Ekiti State are fortunate to have Biodun Oyebanji as governor of the state. 

He stated this on Friday at Ijero Central Mosque during the continuation of Governor Oyebanji's Special Ramadan Outreach for Muslim faithful across the state.  

The oldest Imam in the state hailed the governor's impactful leadership across the state, particularly in Ijero-Ekiti noting that he has fulfilled his campaign promises to the people of Ijero-Ekiti. 

According to him, "God plays a significant role in leadership and the affairs of men. I vividly remember when BAO sought to contest for the position of Governor. 

"We all gathered at the residence of the Chief Imam in Ado, and those present can testify that Mr. Governor was asked to express his wish. In unison, we affirmed it, and today, that wish has been fulfilled for the benefit of all.

"I, the Chief Imam of Ijero, alongside the Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti proudly acknowledge Governor Oyebanji as our son. He will never falter, nor will he make errors.

"When light comes to Ijero, it is through Oyebanji's efforts. To crown it all, our College of Health Sciences and Technology has been upgraded to a polytechnic, thanks to our development-oriented Governor. Ijero is fortunate, and Mr. Governor will never fail."

Other beneficiaries of the governor's kind gesture appreciated him for extending love and care to them while pledging their support to his administration beyond 2026. 

The special Ramadan outreach for Muslims in Ijero-Ekiti and Ikole-Ekiti was in continuation of Governor Oyebanji's efforts to extend love and support through the distribution of food items to vulnerable Muslims in the state as they observe the holy month.

EKITI TO EMPLOY 1,800 SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHING, NON-TEACHING STAFF.

EKITI TO EMPLOY 1,800 SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHING, NON-TEACHING STAFF.

Ekiti State Government has approved recruitment of 1,800 teaching and non-teaching staff into public schools in the State.

 

The State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun who made this known in a statement made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti, explained that the authorization is a continuous exercise aimed at addressing gaps and possible shortfalls created by workers leaving the public service due to abscondment and the japa syndrome, resignation, as well as mandatory or voluntary retirement after attaining the compulsory retirement age or the maximum number of years in service. 

He noted that about 170 teaching staff would be disengaging from the public service before the end of the year, adding that properly scheduled recruitment exercise remained the only panacea for guiding against shortage of staff and its attendant problems.  

Giving a breakdown of the approval, Olatunbosun stated that the vacancies declared are for 1,600 teaching staff made up of 1,066 degree holders and 534 National Certificate of Education (NCE) while approval was also given for employment 200 of non-teaching staff.

He assured that the recruitment exercise would be strictly merit-based, adding that successful candidates would be posted to 192 public secondary schools, particularly in the remote and underserviced areas of the State.

THE ONGOING TRANSFORMATION OF OLUYEMI KAYODE STADIUM.

The BAO Impact Series No. 14

THE ONGOING TRANSFORMATION OF OLUYEMI KAYODE STADIUM.

BY ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA.

The sports sub-sector is very dear to the heart of Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and he has demonstrated this time and again since his assumption of office.

The Governor sees sports beyond ordinary leisure or recreation. He sees sports as an integral part of economy that can be used to change lives and empower the younger generation.

Sports development is a key component of Human Capital Development, the fourth leg of the Oyebanji Administration's six-pillar development agenda which aims to use sports for job and wealth creation and also add value to the state's economy.

He believes that sports has become a big business and a money spinner with multiplier effects on the lives of individuals in turning around their fortunes and taking the youths off the streets thereby discouraging them from involvement in crime.

The sports-loving Governor is of the opinion that when the right sporting facilities and infrastructure are put in place, it will give the state opportunities to host local and international sporting events and this will rub off positively on the local economy in the areas of tourism and hospitality, patronage of local businesses, purchase of locally made materials and the spotlight the state will attract.

That is why his administration has invested immensely in sports development in the areas of funding, welfare of sports men and women, capacity building for officials, sponsorship to major competitions, procurement of equipment and provision of infrastructure.

Governor Oyebanji is investing massively on sporting infrastructure to give the young men and women avenues to showcase their talents, unleash their potentials and also strive to put the name of Ekiti on the national, continental and global maps.

Towards the end of 2024, the Governor performed the groundbreaking of the Indoor Sports Hall Complex which is located within the precincts of the Ekiti Pavilion along new Iyin Road with work already in progress at the site of the project.

Raising the bar of excellence in the sports sub-sector, the Governor has turned his gaze on the premier sporting arena in the state, the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, located in the Okesa/Dallimore axis of the state capital. A visit to the complex reveals a massive turnaround going on which is expected to change the face of sports in the state.

The stadium which has a chequered history used to be known as the Ado Ekiti Township Stadium in the days of yore before it was named after a great sporting hero of Ekiti extraction, Oluyemi Kayode, who died in a fatal auto accident in his United States base in October 1, 1994.

The deceased, an athletics legend who specialized in sprints, reached the final of the 200 metres race at the Barcelona '92 Olympic Games. He was a member of the quartet that won the 4 x 100 metres relay silver medal alongside Davidson Ezinwa, Osmond Ezinwa and Olapade Adenekan at the same Olympics.

Governor Oyebanji, with the gesture of overhauling the stadium, is also inadvertently honouring the memory of Oluyemi Kayode, thereby motivating the young sporting talents in the state to also strive to etch their names in immortality and unending greatness.

Earlier in the week, Governor Oyebanji paid a working visit to the stadium to personally assess the level of work being done to revamp the facilities at the complex and ensure that the task is completed in record time and delivered in line with specifications.

Apart from boosting the morale of the the athletes he met on ground, the visit also gave the Governor an on-the-spot assessment of the project and to prove that the turnaround of the local arena is a project after his heart.

Few days after the Governor's visit, members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Committee on Youths and Sports also paid a working visit to the stadium to assess the level of work as part of their oversight functions.

One major feature of the ongoing work on the stadium was the procurement and delivery of the synthetic pitch. The condition of the pitch has been a sore thumb in the arena in the past but the problem is about to be solved as soon as the synthetic pitch is laid.

Apart from the synthetic pitch, a new tartan track will also be laid to boost track and field (athletics) events while other facilities like seats, roof, the locker rooms, the mixed zone, among others will be touched.

Governor Oyebanji is working hard to make the stadium more television-friendly by boosting its aesthetics and the facilities being put in place will showcase its beauty when events inside the stadium are watched on the television.

The stadium serves as the home ground of the two state-owned football clubs, Ekiti United Football Club which plays in the Nigeria National League (NNL) and Ekiti Queens Football Club which plays in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL). 

Recall that last season's opening match of the NWFL between Ekiti Queens and Delta Queens was played at the stadium and it was shown live on a pay television. It is believed that when the ongoing revamp is completed, the stadium will be considered to host prestigious matches of local and international importance.

The benefits to be reaped when the turnaround of the stadium is completed cannot be quantified and Governor Oyebanji will always be remembered for bringing his Midas' touch to that famed arena.

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

Oyebanji commends Ekiti elders over new book on Yoruba ethos.

Oyebanji commends Ekiti elders over new book on Yoruba ethos.

… Says he can’t afford to let Ekiti people down.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has commended Ekiti elders for their efforts at re- awakening culture and tradition with the publication of a new book that harps of Yoruba ethos of omoluabi.

Governor Oyebanji gave the commendation on Thursday during the presentation of a book “Yoruba Renaissance: Challenges and prospects” to him by the Ekiti Council of elders. 

The presentation of the book written by Sir Lawrence Egunjobi was a major highlight of the meeting which took place at the Conference Hall, Governor’s office , Ado- Ekiti. 

Acknowledging members of the Council for the critical role they are playing in offering guidance and support to his administration, Governor Oyebanji described the elders as a pillar of support and strength to the state. 

The Governor commended the elders for birthing a new book that would reshape the culture and tradition of the Yoruba race in the face of the current realities of the nation and also thanked them for their frequent position papers on government policies and for providing alternative views for the policies.

He reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue serving Ekiti people with utmost dedication, integrity, and selflessness, noting that he could not afford to let down the people who reposed confidence in him by voting him into power.

The Governor affirmed that he rode to power on the goodwill of Ekiti people and he owes them obligation to perform credibly well and not bring disrepute to them.

He added that he was able to achieve a lot within the short time of his administration because he daily asked God for wisdom to lead the people of the state, saying he is conscious of all decisions made by his administration with intention of delivering the shared prosperity promised Ekiti people regardless of religious or party affiliation.

While assuring the senior citizens that his government’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with them for the progress of the state and for ensuring policies and decisions of government aligns with the values and aspiration of the masses, the Governor urged them to key into the free elders health insurance scheme of the state to improve their health status.

“I have listened to and read the address of the President, and I don’t think that I have a choice other than to serve Ekiti people because I can’t be raised by a team of people like you and not do well and I am always conscious of the fact that if I do otherwise, it is going to bring disgrace to a lot of people, especially you my parents, my children, my wife and a lot of people that are so dear to me so every time I pray to God for wisdom to always do the right thing.

“And I must thank the Council of Elders for your frequent position papers on government policies, you have written to me on security, on education and I can say you are one of the few in the state that has provided an alternative views on government policies and that speaks to the position of elders in the society”. The Governor asserted.

Earlier, the President, Ekiti Council of Elders, Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi expressed heartfelt commendation to the Governor for the dexterity he had displayed in the governance of the state since his inauguration over two years ago, affirming that he had combined the Solomon wisdom and grace of God to take the state to the enviable level it is now.

According to the President, the book is a succinct enunciation of Yoruba socio-cultural and political values as encapsulated in the Omoluabi ethos adding that due to the national outlook of the contents of the book, the Yoruba Council of is collaborating with the Ekiti Council in the presentation and launching of the book to prominent Yoruba traditional and political leaders.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo among others.

Executive Secretary Otunba Adekunle Celebrates Women's Day at the Forestry Commission, Honoring Women's Contributions and Empowerment.

Executive Secretary Otunba Adekunle Celebrates Women's Day at the Forestry Commission, Honoring Women's Contributions and Empowerment.

In a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day, Otunba Adekunle Sunday David, the Executive Secretary of the Forestry Commission, extended his heartfelt appreciation to the women within the Commission. The event was marked by a spirit of unity and empowerment, recognizing the indispensable role women play in the success of the organization and society at large.

During the celebration, Otunba Adekunle emphasized his commitment to supporting every woman in the Commission. He acknowledged the unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions of female staff members, encouraging them to continue working diligently and strive for excellence. His message resonated deeply, reinforcing the notion that the success of the Forestry Commission is built on a foundation of teamwork and inclusivity.

Mrs. Oluwabukola Babaniyi, the Director of Finance and Accounts, responded with gratitude, asserting that women are the architects of society. She highlighted that women in the Forestry Commission are not merely support figures but are active participants in the Commission's progress. "We are proud to stand alongside our male counterparts as equal contributors to the achievements we have recorded," she remarked. 

Mrs. Babaniyi expressed her appreciation for Mr. Adekunle's exemplary leadership, emphasizing that his support has empowered women within the organization to take on crucial roles and responsibilities. "Under his guidance, we have been able to thrive and showcase our capabilities," she stated. 

In a heartfelt plea to the men in the Commission, Mrs. Babaniyi urged them to continue to take care of their wives and families, reinforcing the importance of mutual support and respect within both professional and personal spheres. 

The celebration was not only a tribute to the women of the Forestry Commission but also a call to action for all members of the organization to foster an environment of equality and collaboration. As the event concluded, participants left inspired and motivated to contribute further to the growth and success of the Commission.

This International Women’s Day reinforced the message that empowered women are essential to achieving sustainable progress, and with committed leaders like Otunba Adekunle and dedicated professionals like Mrs. Babaniyi, the Forestry Commission is poised for a future where everyone can thrive together.

Oyebanji Hails OAU’S Long- Standing Reputation for Excellence.

Oyebanji Hails OAU’S Long- Standing Reputation for Excellence.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has commended Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, for maintaining its enviable standard of long-standing reputation of excellence in academic, research and infrastructure as well as significant contribution to education and national development.

Governor Oyebanji, who gave the commendation on Tuesday in Ado-Ekiti when he received members of the institution’s Governing Council led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof Siyan Oyeweso. The Governor emphasized that OAU has consistently upheld the glory of academic excellence since its establishment decades ago.

 

The Governor explained that over the years, the University has significantly contributed to nation building by producing exemplary leaders who have excelled in various sectors of the country’s economy,

 

According to a statement by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, Governor Oyebanji commended the Pro-Chancellor and the management of the University for their steadfast dedication to preserving the institution’s glory, the Governor called on all stakeholders, including the alumni, corporate bodies, and government agencies to support the development agenda of the institution, according to him, such collaboration would help to maintain the University’s reputation as a leader in education and research.

 

Earlier in his remark, the Chairman, Governing Council of OAU, Prof Siyan Oyeweso said the purpose of the meeting was to appreciate the Governor for his giant strides in the education sector, which according to him, have led to significant improvement in infrastructure, teachers' welfare, and student performance in the state, adding that such progress has set a benchmark for other state to follow, while also fostering a culture of academic excellence and innovation.

 

He urged the Governor to extend similar support and development efforts to OAU, Stressing that the university stands to greatly benefit from enhanced collaboration with the state, particularly in area such as funding, infrastructure, and research development to further cement the institution’s position as a leading university in Nigeria and beyond

 

Also at the meeting were, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Niyi Adebayo; Commissioner for Education, Dr Adebimpe Aderiye, Special Adviser, Tertiary Education, Prof Akeem Azeez, Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode. The Vice Chancellor, OAU, Prof Adebayo Bamire, was also in the team together with top officials of the University.