Governor Oyebanji’s Youth Development Initiative Shines as Three Talented Young Entrepreneurs Win at Pitching Event.

Governor Oyebanji’s Youth Development Initiative Shines as Three Talented Young Entrepreneurs Win at Pitching Event.

In a significant boost for youth empowerment, three promising young entrepreneurs emerged victorious at a recent pitching event hosted at Gospel Faith Mission, Pentecost Arena, Ikere Ekiti. The event, which aimed to enrich the entrepreneurial skills of Ekiti State's youth, was attended by Governor Biodun Oyebanji's Special Assistant on Youth Development, Amb Olu-Ajayi Maxwell, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity created by the administration.

The competition, which extended beyond the walls of the church, successfully drew participants from various backgrounds, showcasing the diverse talent within Ekiti State. Amb Olu-Ajayi Maxwell reiterated the BAO-led administration's efforts to develop our youth and make them self sustaining.

Notably, Mr Sola Ifeoluwa Gbelee, Technical Assistant, ICT, Governor's office served as one of the judges, adding his expertise to the selection process. The collaboration aims to cultivate a spirit of entrepreneurship among young people, equipping them with vital skills for their future careers. 

"This event is not just about today's winners," Maxwell emphasized. "With God's grace, we aim to organize even larger events in the future that will bring together thousands more youth, further expanding the reach and impact of our initiatives."

Governor Oyebanji's administration continues to prioritize the empowerment of young people in Ekiti, providing valuable opportunities for skill development and entrepreneurship. As the state embraces a future filled with potential, the successes of these young entrepreneurs stand as a testament to the administration’s commitment to fostering a thriving community of innovative leaders.

In totality, the successful entrepreneurs went home with #1.5million naira .

See more pictures from the event below:

Agbeyewa Farms Unveils Powerful Equipment Lineup to Revolutionize Cassava Cultivation

Agbeyewa Farms Unveils Powerful Equipment Lineup to Revolutionize Cassava Cultivation.

In a bold move to dominate the cassava cultivation landscape in Nigeria, Agbeyewa Farms has acquired the legendary Massey Ferguson 4880 tractor, the largest and most powerful tractor in the series of its equipment and by far, the biggest in the industry. This behemoth of a machine, in addition to a fleet of John Deere 8630 4WD tractors, is set to transform our farm operations, enabling us to cultivate a staggering 5000 hectares of cassava fields in 2025.

Unleashing the Power of the Massey Ferguson 4880:

With its impressive 320 horsepower engine, the Massey Ferguson 4880 tractor is a force to be reckoned with. The Cummins VT903C diesel engine provides the necessary muscle to tackle even the most demanding tasks, while the partial power shift transmission with 18 forward and 6 reverse gears ensures seamless and efficient operation.

Hydraulic Power and Versatility:

The Massey Ferguson 4880's open-center hydraulic system provides the flexibility to power a wide range of attachments and implements, making it an ideal choice for large-scale farming operations like Agbeyewa Farms. With its impressive hydraulic capacity, the tractor can efficiently handle tasks such as plowing, planting, and harvesting, maximizing productivity and minimizing downtime.

Complementing the Fleet: The John Deere 8630 4WD Tractors:

Also, our fleet of John Deere 8630 4WD tractors boasts impressive features, including a 275 hp turbocharged diesel engine and partial power shift transmission with 16 forward and 4 reverse gears. Weighing around 28,270 lbs, these tractors are designed for heavy-duty work like tillage and operating large implements. With a top speed of 20.4 mph, they're suitable for demanding tasks. These Massey Ferguson 4880 and John Deere 8630 4WD tractors are indeed beasts of machines. 

Cultivating 5000 Hectares of Cassava Fields;

With these state-of-the-art tractors at its disposal, Agbeyewa Farms is poised to cultivate 5000 hectares of cassava fields in 2025. This ambitious project will not only showcase the farm's commitment to innovation and excellence but also demonstrate the capabilities of its equipment in large-scale agricultural operations.

A New Era in Cassava Cultivation:

The acquisition of these tractors, totaling 40 in the fleet, which include 10 Dozers, marks a significant milestone in Agbeyewa Farms' journey to become a leading player in Nigeria's agricultural sector. As the farm embarks on this ambitious project, it's clear that its equipment will play a pivotal role in revolutionizing cassava cultivation in Nigeria. 

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Odun Ayeni Rallies Support for Governor Oyebanji, Launches Empowerment Scheme.

Odun Ayeni Rallies Support for Governor Oyebanji, Launches Empowerment Scheme.

The Special Adviser to the Governor of Ekiti State on Governance, Barr. Odunayo Ayeni has called on party members to rally behind Governor Biodun Oyebanji, emphasizing the need for unity and commitment to sustain the administration’s developmental strides.

Ayeni made the call during a gathering of All Progressives Congress (APC) members from Wards One and Two in Ikole West LCDA, where he outlined the achievements of the Oyebanji-led government. He urged members to remain steadfast in their support to ensure the governor’s re-election for another term.

Addressing party faithful, Ayeni described the meeting as a platform to engage grassroots members, update them on the administration’s progress, and give back to the community. He emphasized the need to strengthen party structures at the local level, noting that Governor Oyebanji’s leadership has brought remarkable progress to Ekiti State.

As part of his commitment to grassroots empowerment, Ayeni launched a support initiative for party members, awarding cash gifts to over 40 dedicated APC members. He also announced plans to establish a food bank in the two wards to assist the aged and vulnerable. Additionally, he pledged to sponsor ten young women—five from each ward—for Adire-making training at the Adire Ekiti Hub in Ado-Ekiti, with a startup package to help them set up their businesses.

Party leaders at the event took turns to commend Governor Oyebanji’s leadership, describing his administration as a model of development and good governance. They urged members to remain loyal to the APC and continue supporting the state government.

Among the dignitaries present were Senator Cyril Fasuyi (representing Ekiti North Senatorial District), Ch. S.A. Abegide (party leader), the Chairman of Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Barr. Adeyeye (APC Legal Adviser in Ekiti State), and local council chairpersons including Mrs. Mosunmola Adeyemo (Ikole-West LCDA), Ch. Adebayo Ajayi Abass (Kajola LCDA), and Prince Michael Ogungbemi (Ajoni LCDA).

Also in attendance were Hon. Olusola Ajisola (Special Assistant to the Governor on Rural relations), Mr Olubayo Arowolo (Special Assistant on FADAMA), Hon. Akinlabi Idowu (Chairman, Ekiti State Forestry Commission), Hon. Olusola Olominu (Chairman, State Multi-purpose Credit Scheme), Hon. Kayode Ogunsakin (immediate past Chairman, Ikole West LCDA), and the APC Women Leader in Ikole Local Government, Olori Oluyemi Bosede; Ch. Mrs Bukola Idowu; Hon Amos Arowosafe; Women and community groups.

The meeting also witnessed the welcoming of new defectors into the APC, with the party emblem formally presented to them. Senator Cyril Fasuyi donated generously to attendees, further strengthening party unity.

Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Education Policies That Address Societal Needs.

Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Education Policies That Address Societal Needs.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to implementing education policies that are designed to meet society needs and equip students with practical skills for real-world challenges.

The Governor stated this in his office at the weekend, while receiving a delegation from South Korea, led by the Koika Deputy Country Director, Mr Baik Ki-Hyyn, who was in the state for an in-depth survey of the Smart School Project in the State, 

According to a statement made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor , Mr Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji said his administration is strategically leveraging on smart technology in education to equip students with the needed skills, enhanced critical thinking and creativity to become solution providers, and ensuring that graduates in the state are well prepared to tackle contemporary challenges and contribute to the overall development of the state and the country at large.

Governor Oyebanji thanked the South Korean Government for the partnership, stressing that his administration has invested hugely in education not only for literacy and numeracy but for actual human capital development, making citizens globally competitive in productivity.

The Governor added that his government would continue to do everything possible to ensure that the state remain a leading state in smart technology for education at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of learning in the country.

“We appreciate Koika for the partnership with UBEC that birthed the smart schools in Ekiti State. Education is our main industry, we are one of the most educated states in the country and we also have an abiding duty to ensure that we sustain that prime place in the country.

“If you look at the six pillars of our administration, you will see human capital development in number three and since we came on board, we have been deliberate in our intervention in that sector because we believe that education owns the key to development and growth and there is no alternative to knowledge.  

“We also believe strongly that our education strategy and policy must address literacy and numeracy and they must also respond to the needs of the society”, the Governor asserted.

Earlier in his remarks, the Head of Delegation and Koika Deputy Country Director, Mr Baik Ki-Hyyn, commended the Governor for his commitment to advancing education through innovative policies. He said Ekiti State had been exceptional among the six states chosen for the project which was launched in 2021.

The Country Director lauded the efforts of the state government in the education sector, noting that South Korean Government would be happy to embark on the second phase of the intervention under the Universal Basic Education Board in order to improve the capacity of the current schools as well as facilitate the reach to underserved and rural areas.

Top government officials at the meeting include the Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Olabimpe Aderiye, Chairman, SUBEB, Prof Femi Akiwunmi, SUBEB Commissioner for Human Resources Management, Dr (Mrs) Olufunke Fajobi, SUBEB Commissioner for Project Management, Dr Kayode Adeoye, among others.

EKSU VC Hails Oyebanji on Silverbird Man of the Year Award.

EKSU VC Hails Oyebanji on Silverbird Man of the Year Award.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, Professor Babatola Ayodele, has congratulated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji on his recognition as the Silverbird Man of the Year 2024 by Silverbird Television.

Describing the award as “timely and well deserved,” Ayodele commended Governor Oyebanji’s “genuine commitment towards the overall development of Ekiti State.”

The Vice Chancellor noted that Governor Oyebanji’s governance style and transformative agenda have earned him recognition beyond Ekiti State, culminating in the prestigious award.

While appreciating the management of Silverbird Television for finding Governor Oyebanji worthy of the honour, Ayodele urged him to remain focused on his developmental vision for the state.

He further assured Governor Oyebanji of the university management’s “unalloyed loyalty” to his administration, particularly in light of Governor Oyebanji’s interventions aimed at repositioning Ekiti State University, his alma mater.

The statement, signed by Bode Olofinmuagun, Head of EKSU’s Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs, was released to the media on Friday.

Ekiti State Government Celebrates International Forest Day 2025 with Grand Event Focused on "Forests and Food".

Ekiti State Government Celebrates International Forest Day 2025 with Grand Event Focused on "Forests and Food".

The Ekiti State Forestry Commission, under the leadership of Executive Secretary Otunba Adekunle Sunday David, hosted an impressive celebration for the International Day of Forests 2025. The event, themed "Forests and Food," took place at the Commission's office in Ado-Ekiti and was attended by notable dignitaries and representatives from various sectors.

In her address, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, the Head of Service representing the Ekiti State Governor, expressed her gratitude for being part of this significant occasion. She acknowledged the global importance of forests, emphasizing their crucial role in sustaining life on Earth and their myriad benefits, including biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation. 

"The theme 'Forests and Food' highlights the interconnectedness of our ecosystems and the essential relationship between forests, food security, and sustainable development," she stated. Olomojobi underscored that forests are vital not only for timber and other resources but also for supporting livelihoods and contributing to food and water security for millions.

Among the attendees were Rt. Hon. Taiwo Franklin Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Information, and Mr. Ojo Babatope, Permanent Secretary of Agriculture and Food Security. Hon. Oladele Ogunsakin, Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, also addressed the gathering, commending the state's efforts in sustainable forestry practices. He praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji's six-pillar agenda aimed at transforming Ekiti State and ensuring a safe and healthy environment for its citizens.

"The protection of our forests is paramount," Ogunsakin remarked. "Together, we must reaffirm our commitment to sustainable forest management and actively participate in afforestation and environmental conservation."

Several non-governmental organizations advocating for restoration and sustainable forest management, including GADEF and TGED, also attended the event, reinforcing the call for collective action in safeguarding forest resources.

In his closing remarks, Otunba Adekunle Sunday David expressed appreciation for the governor's unwavering support towards the Commission's initiatives. He highlighted the importance of forests as essential resources for both the environment and revenue generation for the state. The Executive Secretary announced that the Commission would provide 100 seedlings to each participating school as part of an awareness campaign aimed at instilling the value of forestry in younger generations.

David lamented the adverse effects of overlogging and the resultant environmental degradation in areas like Oke-Ako in Ikole-Ekiti. He underscored the need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges of deforestation and its impact on local communities.

As part of the celebration, the Governor presented trees to invited secondary schools, including Christ School, Ado Muslim College, St. Augustine Oye-Ekiti, and SUBEB Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, fostering a spirit of environmental stewardship among the youth.

The event underscored the critical role of forests in a sustainable future and emphasized the collective responsibility of individuals, communities, and government to protect and restore these invaluable resources. 

"Let's work together to keep Ekiti working, embracing the theme of the day and taking actionable steps to promote sustainable land use practices," Olomojobi concluded, encouraging participants to celebrate and protect the forests for generations to come.

Ekiti Wealth Creation and Employment Program: Commissioner Solicits Support of Tertiary Institutions for Oyebanji's Youth Empowerment Programmes.

Ekiti Wealth Creation and Employment Program: Commissioner Solicits Support of Tertiary Institutions for Oyebanji's Youth Empowerment Programmes.

…..says data collation exercise to enhance planning and execution of program.

Ekiti State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Otunba Kayode Fasae has solicited the support of Tertiary Institutions for the success of the ongoing data collation exercise for youths and active citizens in the State.

Otunba Fasae who made the call while on courtesy visits to the Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Oye Ekiti ( FUOYE), Prof. Abayomi Fasina and the Rector, Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti, Dr. Osinkolu Ajeigbe in their offices, said the collection of data was designed to enhance planning and execution of various programs aimed at creating wealth and employment opportunities.

Fasae explained that students of higher institutions who are captured in the data collation exercise would be eligible to benefit from youth empowerment programmes and other different business opportunities being facilitated by the State Government provided.

He highlighted the benefits of registering during the exercise to include eligibility for selection in the proposed Ekiti State Government /Wema Bank Plc training of 100,000 artisans and youths in financial management, trade and vocations.

Fasae also identified other Government  programmes that students could benefit from to include the  Agency banking programme which would expand banking services to the unbanked areas of the state and  the proposed Ekiti State Employment Trust Fund (ETF)  which Governor Biodun Oyebanji had promised to set aside  a yearly start up loan of N1billion   to support eligible Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the State .

He disclosed that Students of Ekiti origin in tertiary institutions are also eligible to register under the Labour Market Information System ( LMIS) which is an essential basis for employment for job seekers stressing that very soon a Public Private Dialogue ( PPD) would be held.

In their separate remarks, the heads of the two Tertiary institutions commended the Oyebanji Administration for coming up with policies that will benefit youths in  the State.

The FUOYE VC, Prof. Fasina lauded the present administration for the wonderful initiatives through youth development and job creation stressing that youths must be empowered with vocational skills. 

Prof. Fasina however appealed to government and corporate organisations to motivate and engage the youths/ students in Agribusiness, Information Communication and Telecommunications (ICT) and other lucrative business opportunities to bring out the best in them.

The Rector of Ekiti State Polytechnic Isan-Ekiti, Dr. Ajeigbe who described youths  as the strength of any nation ,said his  institution is ready to key into the lofty ideas of the ministry. 

Dr. Ajeigbe said the State  Programmes highlighted by the Commissioner were in tandem with the main objectives of the Polytechnic  to  produce  graduates with sound academic background with vocational skills that would make them  self reliant and create  job for others