Oyebanji Advocates Collaborative Revenue Mobilization drive across MDAs, LGAs.

Oyebanji Advocates Collaborative Revenue Mobilization drive across MDAs, LGAs.

…Cautions against reckless spending.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated importance of collaboration in revenue generation to foster sustainable development in the state, stressing that achieving economic growth requires active participation of MDAs, Local Government Councils, and residents.

The Governor also charged public servants in the state to demonstrate greater fiscal responsibility and prudence in their financial dealings to ensure efficient management of public resources thereby fostering sustainable development.

Governor Oyebanji stated these on Thursday during the State Internal Revenue Service/MDAs Collaborative and Performance Review Meeting, held at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti. He expressed dismay over frequent requests by MDAs for frivolous spending, which he described as wasteful and counterproductive. 

He tasked public servants to ensure that the State’s resources are harnessed efficiently and used effectively to uplift the lives of the people. 

While commending the State Internal Revenue Service for the significant improvement in revenue collection across various sectors in the state, the Governor charged all MDAs to play active roles in promoting tax compliance and ensuring that revenue policies are well-implemented. He also urged them to work hand in hand with government to eliminate barriers and block all revenue leakages that can hinder progress.

“One of the key factors for driving effective revenue generation is collaboration. Revenue mobilization is not the sole responsibility of the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service; it is a collective responsibility shared by all MDAs, Local Government Councils and, by extension, the citizens of Ekiti State. As public servants, we are tasked with ensuring that our State’s resources are harnessed efficiently and used effectively to uplift the lives of our people.

“I encourage all MDAs here today to take an active role in promoting tax compliance and ensuring that our revenue policies are well-implemented. We must work hand in hand to eliminate the barriers and block all revenue leakages that can hinder our progress.

“My appeal to all of us is to exercise fiscal caution, I still see request from MDAs forwarded to me by the Commissioners, request of suspicious workshops, seminars, conference, and other questionable expenditure just to take money from the system and I feel so bad”, the Governor said.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of EKIRS, Mr Niran Olatona thanked the Governor for his support and dedication to fostering an enabling environment which, according to him, has been instrumental in driving the agency’s success. 

He said the Governor’s visionary leadership and strategic interventions have strengthened the agency’s capacity to achieve its revenue generation goals.

Olatona further explained that the remarkable progress recorded by the agency in recent months was the result of robust collaboration with MDAs. He charged the MDAs to further strengthen their collaboration with the revenue agency and remain proactive in identifying new revenue opportunities, addressing leakages, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations to achieve even greater revenue generation.

Also speaking, the Head of Service, who commended the Governor for prioritizing transparency and accountability in the utilization of the state’s resources, noted that the Governor’s approach to financial management has set a new standard for good governance and demonstrated his dedication to the well-being of the people of the state.

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of motorbikes and photocopy machines to the most outstanding MDAs in recognition of their exceptional performance in revenue generations and to encourage them to double their efforts.

Ekiti State Forestry Commission Recognized for Outstanding Revenue Performance.

Ekiti State Forestry Commission Recognized for Outstanding Revenue Performance.

In a remarkable ceremony held at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House Grounds, the Ekiti State Forestry Commission was awarded for its exceptional performance in internal revenue generation, marking a significant achievement under the leadership of Otunba Adekunle Sunday David. The Commission, which set a target to generate 73 million Naira, surpassed this goal by generating over 75 million Naira, further demonstrating its commitment to the economic growth of Ekiti State.

The award was presented by the State Governor, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who expressed his gratitude to the Executive Secretary of the Forestry Commission and the team for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the state’s revenue generation efforts. Alongside the award, the Governor presented a motorcycle to the Commision through the Executive Secretary as an encouragement for continued performance in revenue generation.

Governor Oyebanji took the opportunity to commend various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that had also excelled alongside the Forestry Commission in their efforts, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in enhancing the state’s revenue potential. He emphasized that the financial resources at the government's disposal are crucial for the delivery of infrastructure, social services, and human development.

During his address, the Governor highlighted the central role collaboration plays in effective revenue generation. He reiterated that revenue mobilization is a shared responsibility among all MDAs, local government councils, and the citizens of Ekiti State. To facilitate such collaboration, he encouraged MDAs to actively promote tax compliance and work together to prevent revenue leakages.

“Today’s meeting is not just an opportunity to collaborate but also a moment for introspection,” the Governor stated. He called for transparency in tracking progress, identifying challenges, and collaboratively finding solutions to enhance revenue generation strategies.

As part of the ongoing strategy to enhance revenue performance, Governor Oyebanji identified key areas for future focus, including modernizing revenue collection systems, raising public awareness and education, improving inter-agency coordination, expanding the tax base, and strengthening enforcement mechanisms. He acknowledged the commendable strides made by the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) in improving collection across various sectors while stressing that further work is necessary to build on this momentum.

In his speech, the Executive Chairman of EKIRS, Olaniran Olatona, expressed gratitude for the recognition and outlined the collaborative efforts that made this achievement possible. He thanked the Governor for his visionary leadership and underscored that the growth in the state's internal revenue generation is a collective endeavor involving all MDAs. 

“This gathering is more than a celebration; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to the prosperity of Ekiti State,” Olatona remarked. He urged all MDAs to draw inspiration from high-performing colleagues and aim for excellence in their roles.

The recognition also extended to several other MDAs that received awards for their outstanding performance, including the Ministry of Justice, Bureau of Land Services, Ministry of Education, Ekiti State Housing Corporation, Ministry of Agriculture, Ekiti State Signage and Advertisement Agency, and the Directorate of Farm Settlement.

In closing, the Executive Chairman of EKIRS encouraged all stakeholders to harness innovation and technology and to embrace transparency and accountability as guiding principles in their collective efforts to drive Ekiti State towards a prosperous future.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to work collaboratively for the economic upliftment of Ekiti State, demonstrating that through unity and shared ambition, great achievements are possible for the benefit of all citizens.

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