Oyebanji Flags off Construction of Dormitories in Ekiti Farm Settlements to Buoy Food Supply.

Oyebanji Flags off Construction of Dormitories in Ekiti Farm Settlements to Buoy Food Supply.

...Warns youth against having ill-feelings about farming.

In a bid to push Ekiti State to a sustainable food security status and make farming highly captivating to the youth, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has flagged off construction of dormitories in all the farm settlements operating in the state. 

Oyebanji posited that the policy will make the state the food basket of the nation, besides generating employment for myriad of youth population, who had before held the conservative view that farming was a non-lucrative venture.

Oyebanji, who spoke in Eporo Ekiti, on Thursday, while laying the foundation for the construction of the Renewed Hope Farm Dormitories, said the project will help in checking astronomic increase in the prices of food items, when the products are available in all markets. 

The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Chief Mrs. Monisade Christianah Afuye, said the dormitories will be fitted with modern accessories and basic amenities that will make the youth farmers to be fully residential inside the farms, saying food production is the pivot on which the economy thrives.

He assured the youth farmers operating in the state that the project will be replicated in other areas designated as Farm Settlements, like; Oke Ako, Eporo, Aramoko and Ikere communities, where cluster farming is being undertaken. 

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The Ekiti's number one citizen, was enthralled with the spiralling level of food production being enjoyed in the state since the commencement of cluster farming initiative which facilitated  productive engagement of about a thousand of youth in farming.

In an exhilarating fashion, Oyebanji announced that the youth farmers made over N200 million income in the last farming season, thereby propelling Ekiti's economy to a sustainable pedestal. 

"The project we are beginning today represents a vision turning into reality, it represents our collective dreams, our commitment to progress, and our dedication to building a better future generations to come.

"A project of this scale reflects the power of unity and shared ambition. It is a testament to what can be achieved when vision meets action. With this first step,  we embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impact, fostering growth and development.

"As we move forward in our zeal to achieve food security status, let us remain focused and encourage our citizens, particularly the youth, to always perceive farming as a noble and profitable vocation. 

"With this mindset, our economy will improve through adequate food production, income earnings and employment generation that will reduce poverty index in our land".

Earlier in his submission, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, described the programme as a game changing policy in the food production initiative at the subnational level that will reignite interest in farming.

Boluwade applauded Governor Oyebanji for his vision in the agriculture sector, assuring that all the policies geared toward making the state abundant in food production shall be executed zealously to transform the lives of the people.

"The idea of having dormitories in all our farm settlements is to make farming more attractive to our youths. It is also a signal that the current administration is ready to make Ekiti achieve the targeted food security status". 

The Project Coordinator, Renewed Hope Dormitories in Farm Settlements, Mrs Oluwayemisi Joluwe, revealed that Ekiti was being used as a pilot state for the initiative, signposting the robust working relationship between the state and the federal government.

Joluwe added that the cluster farming initiative had added more value to Ekiti by help in stemming the tides of abduction since areas identified as kidnapper-infested are being converted into farm settlements.

We’ve invested Billions of Naira in urban, rural electricity reconnection – Gov. Oyebanji.

We’ve invested Billions of Naira in urban, rural electricity reconnection – Gov. Oyebanji.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has said that his administration had made remarkable impact in effective reconnection of urban and rural communities, that were hitherto disconnected from the national grid, back by investing billions of naira in the sector.

Governor Oyebanji, who disclosed this while receiving in audience a team from the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), Abuja led by its Technical Director, Engr. Lawal Lawal, lamented that the huge investment made by his government in the sector have not been adequately translated to effective power generation and distribution in such communities due to ineffective and poor coordination of the entire system.

He added that his administration has been able to demonstrate capacity and commitment to the effective growth and development of the state by reconnecting communities which for many years had no electricity to the national grid as well as providing highly subsidized smart data meters for them.

While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring adequate power generation and distribution to all parts of the country through the laudable initiatives, Governor Oyebanji stressed that he was not encouraged with the poor handling of electricity generation and distribution system due to poor or no metering stance of the relevant bodies saddled with the responsibility.

“Since we did not get help from anybody, we decided to help ourselves and we are making impact. The only way we are having recourse to you is because we cannot produce meters. I don’t know if the commissioner had told you how much we have invested in rural and urban electricity. We’ve been able to connect them, buy transformers and do wiring, we’ve spent billions of Naira.

“For your agency to be effective, I heard you saying that meters are coming in, you can only buy meter when there is electricity, but our challenge here in the state is that the electricity coming here is small, and people have even paid for meter they can’t get the meter because they are not available, this is discouraging for us as a government so there is need to be proactive in the drive to serve the people right. 

“I know how much we have spent on transformers, we are distributing transformers now, we have connected all our agric clusters but there has not been connection”, the Governor stated.

Earlier, the Technical Director of PMI, Engr. Lawal Lawal, noted that the initiative was a personal ambition of the President to close the Nigerian electricity metering gap by quickly assenting to a bill called Nigerian Electricity Act of 2023 which liberalized to give way to new electricity infrastructure nationally.

The Technical Directed noted the matching order the President gave to the team to create a framework in which the seven million meter gap that currently exist is closed as soon as possible adding that he was glad that all the states have supported the initiative with funding and other necessary support.

He commended Governor Oyebanji for the invaluable support they receive which have been instrumental to most of the success achieved so far as the initiative aims to deploy seven million end-use meters across the 774 local government areas within the twelve operating DISCO in Nigeria.

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.