Renovation of Oluyemi Kayode Stadium , Indoor Sports Complex Will Boost Sports Development in Ekiti, Says Osetoba.

Renovation of Oluyemi Kayode Stadium , Indoor Sports  Complex Will Boost Sports Development in Ekiti, Says Osetoba.

...as DG Bureau of Community Communications highlights Oyebanji's key achievements. 

The Technical Advisor on Sports Development to Ekiti State Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Olusola Osetoba has said that the ongoing renovation work at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium will boost sports development in the state. 

She stated this on Tuesday in Ado-Ekiti on a radio program tagged S'etigbo . 

Speaking further, she called on well-meaning individuals to join hands to support the governor's quest to revitalize sports in the state adding that he has continued to prioritize the welfare of athletes and talent hunt at the grassroots level. 

According to her, "The governor has been supporting us to compete at the national and international level, even at the grassroots level. Recently, he gave us money to go to Ikole to scout for talents. There is no day we cry to him that he will not answer. He is really doing well in sports in Ekiti State."

Earlier, the Director-General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mary Oso- Omotosho, who also featured on the program highlighted the achievements of Governor Oyebanji that earned him the Silverbird Man of the Year 2024 Award. 

She noted that the governor's giant strides in developing the state, particularly the direct positive impacts of his policies and programs on the people  earned him the plaudits among his contemporaries in the country.

Council Boss, Ekiti NLC, NULGE, Dignitaries Celebrate Chief Adijat Bimbo Yusuf’s Retirement.

Council Boss, Ekiti NLC, NULGE, Dignitaries Celebrate Chief Adijat Bimbo Yusuf’s Retirement.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Stephen Oluwagbenga Oluwatuyi, alongside the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Ekiti State Chairman, Comr. (Pharm.) Kolapo Olatunde, Chairman of the Local Government Information Chapel, Journalist Taiwo Ajibola, members of Professional Pen Managers, Members of NAWOJ, and the Chairman of NULGE Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, Comr. Festus Aina Olawole, Members of NULGE, Religious Leaders, joined dignitaries, colleagues, and well-wishers to celebrate the retirement of Chief (Mrs.) Adijat Bimbo Yusuf.

Mrs. Yusuf, who served as the Director of Information and Civic Orientation at Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, retired after 35 years of meritorious service. She was widely praised for her dedication and contributions to the public service in Ekiti State.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Stephen Oluwagbenga Oluwatuyi, the Acting Head of Local Government Administration, Prince Adegoke Oladimeji, commended the retiree’s outstanding career, noting that her absence would be deeply felt. "It will not be the same here without her. The Local Government Administration is grateful to have worked with her," he said, while wishing her success in her next phase of life.

Similarly, Comr. Kolapo Olatunde, Chairman of the NLC in Ekiti State, described Mrs. Yusuf as a diligent and loyal officer. Recalling their time working together between 2019 and 2022 when she was a member of the Administrative Council of the NLC, he lauded her commitment to excellence. “She is a shining example of what public service should be,” he remarked.

Barr. Akinyemi Borode, who chaired the occasion, also commended the retiree’s integrity and work ethic. "She is an intellectual officer whose career was marked by dedication. Her exemplary service serves as a model for young and upcoming officers," he stated.

In his own contributions, the State Chairman of Local Government Information Chapel, Prince Taiwo Ajibola thanked God for Chief Mrs Bimbo Yusuf who starting well, end well and strong. He then prayed for her to enjoy her retirement and serve God more .

Speaking on behalf of other directors, Mrs. Kehinde Akode congratulated Mrs. Yusuf on her remarkable achievements and prayed for divine guidance in her future endeavors.

Friends and colleagues reminisced about her time in service, showering her with encomiums for her dedication and professionalism.

Comr. Olamide Akinwumi also described Chief (Mrs.) Yusuf as an energetic, supportive, and dedicated journalist who contributed meaningfully to humanity.

“She loves seeing people progress. She is a caring and supportive woman who encourages young, vibrant journalists and those around her,” he said.

The retirement ceremony was followed by a thanksgiving service at Christ Miracle Church Ministry (CMCM), Grace Assembly, Textile, Basiri, Ado Ekiti. Officiating minister, Pastor Kolawole Afolayan, advised the celebrant to continue her legacy of service. "I thank God for the grace you received to serve diligently. I urge you to maintain your virtues and serve God even more in this new phase of your life," he said.

In her appreciation speech, Chief (Mrs.) Adijat Bimbo Yusuf expressed gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her, acknowledging the support of her colleagues, in NUJ, NLC, NULGE, NAWOJ, families, and friends throughout her career.

She further urged Local Government staff to uphold professionalism and embrace opportunities for self-improvement, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and development.

"Being local government staff does not mean we should be local in intellect and intelligence. We must seek every opportunity to develop ourselves, learn, and study more," she said.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Otunba Kayode Ajibola, retired Deputy Controller of Nigerian Customs; Deaconess Abike Fadimu, a Veteran journalist; Prince Sola Adetule her Mentor, Members of Progressive Pen Professionals, Members of NAWOJ, Chief Olu Oree, Onijesa of Ifaki; Chief Idowu Olofinkua from the USA; Mrs. Funke Olarewaju from Lagos; Engr. Yunisa Sule; Hon. Bayo Famoroti, Secretary to Isokan LCDA; Pastor Mrs. Precious Ajayi; Alhaja Anike Omolade; Deaconess Fatimo Babalola; Mr. & Mrs. Kola Sule; Dr. Funmilola Kolawole from ABUAD; Mr.Johnson Enoch Ojo,Mrs Ogunrinde, Marriage Officer, Chief Adenike Adedayo, Arowoseso of Ilero, Ifaki members of Fantastic Ladies, Mrs Shade Iyabo Gboyega, Mr. Dare Otele, Ekiti State; Directors of Information across local governments in the state; members of NAWOJ, Ekiti State; and members of NULGE Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, among others.

Gifts, including cash and material items, were presented to the celebrant by various groups, including information officers from all local governments in the state, the Department of Information and Civic Orientation, and directors from Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government,CMCM Church, Grace Assembly Ado, individuals etc.

Earlier, Mrs. Yusuf and her colleagues paid a courtesy visit to the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Stephen Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, who also joined in celebrating her remarkable career.

See more pictures from the event below:

Prof. Fashina Ex-Students Group Commends FUOYE VC for Outstanding Achievements.

Prof. Fashina Ex-Students Group Commends FUOYE VC for Outstanding Achievements.

A group of over 500 former students of Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, a highly esteemed lecturer in the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences at Ekiti State University (EKSU), has publicly commended the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE). This commendation recognizes his remarkable achievements in academia and transformative leadership, particularly during the recent 9th Convocation of FUOYE, where he received multiple prestigious awards.

Gabriel Adesoji (AngelGabby) representing the Chairman of the Prof. Fashina Ex-Students Group, expressed profound appreciation for the significant impact that Prof. Fasina had on their academic journeys. Although only five members were able to attend the assembly, the group boasts a diverse network of successful alumni working globally in various fields, including senior lecturers, political appointees, bankers, and agricultural consultants.

Gabriel highlighted the values and lessons imparted by Prof. Fasina, emphasizing how they have been instrumental in their personal and professional successes since graduation. “We take great pride in our achievements, which we attribute largely to your guidance. Your unwavering commitment to education and your dedication to nurturing future leaders have truly borne fruit,” he stated.

Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatosin Helen Tope-Jegede, Head of Department, Fisheries and Aquaculture FUOYE, also added her voice in congratulating Prof. Fasina, underscoring his recent accolades: the 2024 Vice-Chancellor Award from Independent Newspapers Limited for his outstanding contributions to education, and the Award of Excellence from the CIMET Initiative. These honors underscore his visionary leadership and the significant institutional advancements made at FUOYE, including academic progress and infrastructural development.

Under Prof. Fasina’s stewardship, FUOYE has made history by debuting in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, solidifying its status as a distinguished center of excellence. His strategic initiatives have secured accreditation for a variety of programs and introduced new courses tailored to the evolving job market, such as Medicine and Surgery and Data Science and Analytics.

In response to the praise, Prof. Fasina expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, attributing his leadership success to his unwavering dedication as an educator. “I am genuinely moved by this thoughtful gesture. My work has always stemmed from a passion for nurturing the next generation, and it is incredibly rewarding to see how my efforts have positively impacted your lives,” he remarked.

He further reiterated his commitment to uplifting his students and expressed his willingness to support the Prof. Fashina Ex-Students Group in any capacity they find fitting. Prof. Fasina acknowledged the many former students who have achieved notable success in various fields, reinforcing the lasting impact of mentorship.

“Despite the challenges we face, gestures of kindness like this reaffirm my resolve. Your successes inspire me to continue my work,” he added, indicating an ongoing collaboration with the ex-student group.

Looking ahead, the Prof. Fashina Ex-Students Group remains dedicated to supporting both their mentor and the initiatives promoted by his office, ensuring the continued legacy of academic excellence and leadership at FUOYE.

The Vice-Chancellor assured that beyond his tenure in office, he will keep engaging with the group, emphasizing that they will be an integral part of his efforts even after his time as FUOYE's Vice-Chancellor.

The group has also called on President Tinubu to take note of the erudite Prof. Fashina, highlighting FUOYE's unique standing among the six universities established at the same time. FUOYE has distinguished itself as the fourth most sought-after university in Nigeria, with over 50,000 students and expanding campuses throughout Ekiti State. They emphasized, “There must be something exceptional about him. After his tenure as Vice-Chancellor, we urge President Tinubu to involve him in national assignments where he can leverage his wealth of experience for the betterment of the government.”

With a strong foundation built on mutual respect and shared vision, the Vice-Chancellor and his former students are poised to inspire the next generation of leaders in Nigeria and beyond.

EKSG BEGINS TRAINING OF 100 YOUTHS IN METER AND BASIC ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION.

EKSG BEGINS TRAINING OF 100 YOUTHS IN  METER AND BASIC ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION. 

Ekiti State Government has commenced the training of 100 youths in meter and basic electrical installations in the state.

Speaking during the flag off of the training programme in Ado-Ekiti,the State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Otunba Kayode Fasae noted that the training programme was part of efforts of the Oyebanji Administration to empower youths in the State with skills that are relevant in modern day Nigeria.

The State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Otunba Kayode Fasae.

While stressing that the 6-Day training programme is in tandem with the Developmental agenda of the present administration in the State , Fasae urged the participants to take the training seriously as

several job opportunities await them under the Mass Metering Policy of the State Government.

He said as part of efforts of the Oyebanji Administration in ensuring that youths and people of productive age in the State are not left behind, the Agency Banking Programme in conjunction with three banks that will ensure direct employment for 1000 Ekiti people as well as the Wema Bank Training and Empowerment Programme targeting 100,000 people would kick off within the next one month while the Bill for the Establishment of Ekiti State Employment Trust fund with a start up loan of N250 million was making progress at the State House of Assembly.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utility, Prof. Mobolaji Aluko noted that the training programme is part of concerted efforts of the Oyebanji Administration to ensure that electricity consumers in the State have access to prepaid electricity meters and regular electricity supply.

While noting that Ekiti is one of the most undeserved States in Nigeria in terms of electricity generation, the Commissioner stressed that available statistics indicate that less than 20,000 households in the State have prepaid meters leaving the other electricity consumers under the unreliable Estimated Billing System and the Bulk Metering System of the Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOS).

Aluko disclosed that the Oyebanji administration is committed to reversing this trend by  not only boosting electricity supply to all parts of the State but   also  ensuring easy access  to prepaid meters by consumers.

According to him, steps taken by  the State Government in the last two years include:  the establishment and transfer of regulatory control of the electricity market in the State to the Ekiti State Electricity Regulatory Bureau; the rehabilitation of 33KV feeder lines to several Local  Government Areas of the State  and construction of dedicated feeder lines to several parts of the State as part of  efforts to ensure adequate supply of electricity supply to consumers.

Prof Aluko explained that  the 6-Day  Training Programme will ultimately ensure that enough personnel will be available to handle the   installation of the increased volume of electricity prepaid meters facilitated  by State Electricity Regulatory Bureau and the four Meter Access Providers licenced to operate in the State . 

A major facilitator of the  training programme , Engr Ademola Agoro, who appreciated Governor Oyebanji for approving the training program said that the training is important as over 10 million households in Nigeria do not have access to prepaid meters. 

Agoro who noted  that the training had come at the right time said the Ekiti  State Government needed  to train and   certify would-be meter installers in the State as safety is key in Electricity Installation.

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF EKSU CHANCELLOR'S WIFE, MRS OLOWOLAFE.

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF EKSU CHANCELLOR'S WIFE, MRS OLOWOLAFE.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed condolences on the death of Mrs Gbemisola Olutayo Olowolafe, wife of the Chancellor of Ekiti State University, (EKSU), Dr Tunji Olowolafe.

Mrs Olowolafe died on Tuesday, 11th of March, 2025 at the age of 63.

Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the death of Mrs Olowolafe as shocking and devastating noting that the loss is not that of the Olowolafe family alone but to the entire people of Ekiti State.

The Governor said his thoughts and prayers and that of the entire people of the State are with Dr Olowolafe and his family during this period of grief.

He regretted that death has taken away a dutiful wife, a loving mother and grandmother, a pillar of support for her husband, an oak of protection of the less privileged, a compassionate woman and a precious asset to Ekiti State in particular and Nigeria as a whole.

While noting that Mrs Olowolafe's demise is painful, the Governor said the deceased had immortalized herself in the hearts of the people with her good deeds and legacies that will continue to impact lives long after her departure.

He prayed God to give her husband, Dr Olowolafe the grace to find strength to bear the colossal loss and be consoled that the deceased now enjoys a peaceful repose in the bosom of her Creator, and grant the entire family the fortitude to bear the loss.

GOV OYEBANJI EXPRESSES APPRECIATION OVER SILVERBIRD MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD.

GOV OYEBANJI EXPRESSES APPRECIATION OVER SILVERBIRD MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD.

…Dedicates award to President Tinubu, thanks former Ekiti Govs.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji wishes to express his profound appreciation to Nigerians in general and Ekiti citizens in particular, as well as the Silverbird Group for the Man of the Year Award presented to him at a colourful ceremony in Lagos on Sunday.

The Governor sincerely thanks the President, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating the enabling environment, through his economic policies and programmes, that has ceded more funds to the states, through which his administration has been able to scale up socio-economic and infrastructure development of Ekiti State that formed the basis for the nomination and eventual emergence as the Silverbird Man of the Year.

While thanking the Almighty God for the honour, Governor Oyebanji also dedicates the Silverbird Man of the Year Award to President Tinubu, in appreciation of the President’s love and support for Ekiti State and for his administration.

Governor Oyebanji also expresses  profound thanks to all former Governors of the state- Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Chief Ayodele Fayose, Engr Segun Oni and Dr Kayode Fayemi, for their eminence presence and solidarity at the event, and for their individual and collective support for his government since inception. He also appreciated the presence of  the flagbearer of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2022 Governorship election, Hon Bisi Kolawole at the event and for his support for the administration.

The Governor sincerely thanks  the Senate leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and members of the Ekiti State caucus of the National Assembly, comprising all the three senators and six House of Representatives members, for their collaboration with the administration. He equally thanks former Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu; the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye and all members of the House as well as members of the state executive council. 

“This is the new Ekiti, where love and brotherliness are emphasized without consideration for political or religious differences, and I am particularly thankful to all our former Governors and leaders for their statesmanship and immense support for our administration, the Governor states. 

Governor Oyebanji also expresses his debt of gratitude to all revered leaders and elders of the state  including the Founder and Chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN); former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN); President Architect Registration of Nigeria (ARCON), Arc Dipo Ajayi; former National Secretary, NBA, Chief Dele Adesina (SAN); Senator Femi Ojudu; Senator Olubunmi Adetumbi.

The Governor also thanks all royal fathers in the state Council of Traditional Rulers led by the Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti, HRM Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro. He also thanks the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, HRM Oba Samuel Adejimi Alagbado and the Ajero of Ijero Kingdom, HRM Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, He also thanks the Eyesorun of Ado Ekiti, Olori Abosede Adejugbe, who stood in for the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe.

His appreciation also goes to all his friends in the corpotate world, including the Managing Director, Premium Trust Bank, Mr Emmanuel Emefienim; President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Mr Oluropo Dada; Mr Kola Alabi, Mr Tope Alabi, Mr Tope Adebayo, Mr Gilbert Igweeka; Prof Deji Agboola, Mr Wale Fapounda (SAN) and Engr Oseni Aderemi, among others.

Governor Oyebanji also appreciates other awardees including the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi; Enugu State Governor, Mr Peter Mbah; as well as winners in other categories of the award.

He also thanks the National and state leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), all leaders of trade unions, associations and groups, including market leaders, artisan, drivers union, okada unions, artisans, elders and the youths for their massive support for the administration, without which the administration could not do much.

Governor Oyebanji also extends profound appreciation to his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji for her encouragement and for keeping the home front. 

 He says  the award has conferred on him an added responsibility and greater level of determination to continue to work for a more remarkable improvement in the standard of living of the people of the state, emphasizing their welfare, wellbeing, safety and prosperity.

Signed 

Olayinka Oyebode

Special Adviser ( Media) to the Governor 

18-03-2025

Oyebanji hails President Tinubu’s Reforms for Boosting State Development.

Oyebanji hails President Tinubu’s Reforms for Boosting State Development.

…Receives Silverbird Man of the Year Award.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformative reforms and policies, saying they have empowered the sub-national governments to implement impactful development projects. 

Specifically, Governor Oyebanji said the President’s policies are the driving force behind his administration’s achievements and successes.

The Governor stated this on Sunday at the Silverbird Man of the Year Awards, held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos State, where he received the Man of the Year Award in recognition of his remarkable achievements and outstanding contributions to national development.

Governor Oyebanji, who was accompanied to the stage to receive the award by all former Governors of the state - Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Dr Ayodele Fayose, Engr Segun Oni, and Dr kayode Fayemi; the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, and other eminent personalities from Ekiti State, said the President’s reforms have helped free up critical resources to states, allowing states to pursue their developmental goals and ensure the delivery of democratic dividends to the people. 

While expressing his gratitude to the founder and management of Silverbird groups for nominating him and Nigerians for voting for him, the Governor said the award serves as both recognition and a challenge to do more in delivering quality leadership and impactful policies.

He said he remained committed to continuing his efforts in transforming the state and improving the lives of the citizens.

 

“Today’s award is about the people, some of them are here with me, some in Ekiti State, some in the Diaspora, friends of our government that have stood by us, chief among them are the former Governors, Senate Leader, National and State Assembly members, Exco members and our corporate friends that have been supporting us to deliver on out promises to Ekiti people, this award goes to you..

“To the Silverbird Group, we are not unmindful of the responsibility this award imposes on us and I promise you that I am going to be a good ambassador of the brand and sharing this podium today with great men that have won this award before us, I can assure you that I will not let you down.

“The award I receive today is dedicated to God Almighty and also to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu whose policies free resources to sub-nationals to implement their programmes and we are extremely grateful”,  Governor said.

Speaking earlier while presenting the award to the Governor, the founder of Silverbird Group, Senator Ben MurrayBruce commended Oyebanji’s exemplary leadership and impactful governance, stressing that the presence of all the former Governors of the state to support the Governor at the event  was a clear testament of his widespread acceptance and high regard in which he is held

Senator Murray-Bruce further emphasized that the overwhelming vote cast for the Governor during the selection process of the award demonstrated the people’s appreciation for his performance. He noted that the Governor’s achievements in Ekiti State has resonated not just locally but nationally, showcasing his commitment to the welfare of the people and the development of the state.

Other recipients of  awards at the event include, Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, among others.

While Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah respectively received Governor of the Year Award, Minister of Works, Dr David Umahi was honoured with Minister of the year award.

Also present at the event were, Wife of the Governor, Dr (Mrs) Olayemi Oyebanji, former Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; former President, Nigeria Bar Association, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Senator Cyril Fasuyi (Ekiti North); Senator Yemi Adaramodu ( Ekiti South); Royal Fathers, among others.