Dr. Adepoju Ajayi Celebrates Oyebanji on Silverbird Man of the Year Award.

Dr. Adepoju Ajayi Celebrates Oyebanji on Silverbird Man of the Year Award.

A prominent stakeholder in Ekiti State, Dr. Adepoju Ajayi, has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji on being honored with the prestigious Silverbird Man of the Year Award, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his leadership and service to the state.

In a congratulatory message, Ajayi, popularly known as Jasper, praised Oyebanji’s commitment to inclusive governance, infrastructure development, and economic progress, noting that his efforts have significantly impacted the lives of Ekiti residents.

“Your tireless dedication to public service and your visionary leadership have not gone unnoticed. This award is a testament to your achievements and the trust the people have in you,” Ajayi stated.

He further reaffirmed his strong support for Oyebanji’s second-term bid, expressing confidence that his re-election would bring even greater progress to Ekiti State.

“As you continue to lead Ekiti State towards greater heights, I want to assure you of my solid support for your second term in office. Your vision for the state aligns with the aspirations of the people, and I am confident that your re-election will be a victory for all,” he added.

Dr. Adepoju Ajayi. 

The Silverbird Man of the Year Award is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious honors, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to governance, leadership, and national development. Oyebanji’s recognition has been widely celebrated across the state.

EKSU Set for 29th Convocation Ceremony, Honours Eminent Nigerians.

EKSU Set for 29th Convocation Ceremony, Honours Eminent Nigerians.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti, has concluded arrangements for its 29th convocation ceremony, scheduled to begin on Monday, March 24, 2025.

According to a statement released by the university’s Registrar, Mr. Ife Oluwole, and the Chairman of the Ceremonies Committee, Prof. Lawrence Ademilua, the event will kick off with a press conference by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatola Ayodele, at 12 noon. The day will also feature a convocation play, Many Colours Make the Thunder, written by Femi Osofisan and performed by the Department of Theatre and Media Arts at 2 p.m.

On Tuesday, March 25, a convocation lecture titled Leadership, Governance and the Performance of Public Universities in Nigeria will be delivered at 12 noon by Emeritus Prof. Adebisi Balogun, a former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). A football match between the EKSU team and Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti (BOUESTI) team is scheduled for 4 p.m.

Other events include an evening with the Vice-Chancellor, a convocation meeting, and an alumni dinner.

The award of sub-degree and first-degree certificates, as well as the presentation of prizes, will take place on Friday, March 28. The highlight of the ceremony will be on Saturday, March 29, when postgraduate diplomas, master’s degrees, and doctorate degrees will be conferred.

The university will also confer honorary doctorate degrees on notable Nigerians, including the Senate Leader, Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele; the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji; and the Chairman of the Board of the Bank of Industry (BOI), Dr. Mansur Muhtar.

The Deputy Registrar, Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs, Mr. Bode Olofinmuagun, confirmed the arrangements in a statement issued to the media.

OJUAWO LEADS DEBATE ON ARMED FORCES AMENDMENT BILL.

OJUAWO LEADS DEBATE ON ARMED FORCES AMENDMENT BILL.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, led the debate on the Nigerian Armed Forces Amendment Bill, which entered its second reading at the Green Chamber on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. The bill, first presented on November 28, 2024 by Hon Ojuawo, aims to address the commanding structure of the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly in theaters of war where different services operate independently without synergy.

The bill’s objectives include:

-Harmonizing Command Structure: Establishing a single line chain of command and communication to enhance synergy among the Army, Navy, and Airforce.

-Enhancing Efficiency: Promoting greater efficiency through unified operations.

-Improved Training: Encouraging joint training exercises in peacetime.

-Robust Operations: Guaranteeing peace and safety through robust operations.

-Effective Policy Implementation: Enabling the government to implement policies strengthening the Armed Forces.

-Effective Communication: Promoting effective communication to eliminate doubts and biases.

The bill was co-sponsored by Rt. Hon. Jimi Benson, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Ghadi, and Rt. Hon. Hassan Rurum. After the debate, the Honorable Speaker referred the bill to the appropriate committee for further legislative work.

Oyebanji at Promasidor’s plant, assures Investors of Business friendly Environment.

Oyebanji at Promasidor’s plant, assures Investors of Business friendly Environment.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve in ensuring a business-friendly environment for investors to thrive in the state.

Governor Oyebanji gave the assurance on Tuesday during a working visit to Promasidor Nigeria Limited in Lagos State, as part of efforts to facilitate the scale-up of Ikun Dairy Farm, a major investment in the state’s agriculture sector for a more enhanced productivity and profitability.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of Ikun Diary Farm, which is run on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) with Promasidor, to the state’s economy and it's potentials to boost local milk production and reduce the country’s reliance on imported dairy product. 

He assured Promasidor’s management of his government’s readiness to address all the challenges hindering the smooth operation and expansion of the project.

Oyebanji who also admitted that the cost of production has soared in virtually all sectors, said it is the vision of the State Government to see the Ikun Diary Farm serve the purpose for which it was originally set up.

“I am aware of some of the challenges in respect to land, irrigation, the need to scale up security, and also how we can structure a process that will reduce the cost of production so that you can make more profit because how to transport from Ekiti to Lagos is a lot of issues and we are dealing with that and I hope very soon there will be a way out.

“As a government, we see Ikun Dairy Farm as our baby and Promasidor as our strategic partner in our quest to develop our state and also share prosperity among all citizens”, the Governor said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Promasidor Nig Ltd, Mr Francois Gillet, who expressed his appreciation to the Governor for the visit and support for Ikun Dairy Farm, said the visit was a testament to the Governor’s dedication to fostering public-private partnership in the state.

While thanking the state government for providing a conducive business friendly environment, the CEO said the support has enabled the farm to scale up its operations significantly, achieving a daily milk production of over 6,000 liters per day, a milestone which according to him not only reflect the project’s success but also its potential to contribute substantially to local economic growth and employment.

Red Alert: Insecurity in Akure North Calls for Concern As Omoluabi Group Seek Government Intervention.

Red Alert: Insecurity in Akure North Calls for Concern As Omoluabi Group Seek Government Intervention. 

As the rate of insecurity in communities around Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State is on the increase, the good people of Akure North have been plunged into great fear and panicking in the last few months. This situation is fast becoming worrisome that residents of the various communities  that make up Akure North now leave in perpetual fear. Reports at the disposal of the Omoluabi Group, Ondo State Chapter indicates that most of our farmers, hunters, school operators, young  men and women feel so much discomfort within their immediate  communities in recent times. Kidnapping has become the order of the day while so many residents and travellers have been held hostage in the numerous forests within that axis of Ondo State. 

Omoluabi Group, Ondo State Chapter arising from a crucial meeting held in Ondo State under the leadership of Omoluabi Engineer Aluko Tayelolu expressed great concerns as the northern part of the Akure speaking  axis of the state has again become a den for agents of  nefarious activities. The Group also known as Egbe Omoluabi through a communique appealed to the Government of Ondo State to switch to action and resolve such menace. Insecurity is a disaster and should not be condoled a minute under the watch of any State Governor who is constitutionally recognized as the Chief Security Officer of the  State. The group however expressed confidence in the capability, competence of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr.Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa at combatting such menace. 

The group known as Egbe Omoluabi advises that Mr. Governor provide financial support to the Police Force, Civil Defence  Corps,  Ondo State Amotekun Corps also known as the Southwest Security Corps and other security outfits that should be co-opted. To make it more effective, Omoluabi Group advocate for the inclusion of the Hunters Association and neighborhood vigilantes to comb the various autonomous communities and forests within Akure North. 

On this note Omoluabi Group passionately appeal to residents within Ilu Abo, Alayere, Ogbese, Osi and Oba Ile areas in Akure North to cooperate with government and security agencies to flush out criminals and unsolicited strangers in their forests henceforth. Hence , warranting the call to be highly vigilant.

If you see something, Say something.

 E- Signed

 Omoluabi Engr. Aluko

 Ondo State Coordinator

 19/3/2025

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: