True Leadership Is Not Merely About Authority But About Service And Dedication To The Welfare Of All.

True Leadership Is Not Merely About Authority But About Service And Dedication To The Welfare Of All.

Obababa GCFR.

In the realm of politics, where the essence of leadership is often overshadowed by ambition and power plays, Governor Biodun Oyebanji stands out as an emblem of integrity and compassion. His journey into Ekiti politics is marked by his exceptional qualities: piety, care, and a genuine commitment to meeting the needs of his people. 

Since his assumption of office as Executive Governor of Ekiti State, HE Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has not only maintained these virtues but has also elevated them, proving himself to be a leader deserving of admiration and respect.

Beyond the massive empowerment of youths through agriculture, Construction of roads, Governor Oyebanji has made significant strides in enhancing community Government of inclusion, Swift mobilisation of security personnel to curb insecurity in the state, Construction of ring road, Construction expansive International Cultural center, prompt payment of pension, workers Salary and fringe benefits, upgrading and equipping State Hospitals across the state not only his compassion but also his innovative approach to sustainable development, significantly meant to improving quality life of the people.

Governor Oyebanji exemplifies what it means to be a worthy leader and companion. His attributes: caring, understanding, and deeply committed to the welfare of his people, serve as a model for his peers in politics. Through his actions, he has created a legacy of accessibility and compassion, reminding us that true leadership is not merely about authority but about service and dedication to the welfare of all.

Governor BAO remains an inspiring beacon of hope and a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have in a community.

Nobody changes the working team.

BAO TILL 2030.

OBABABA4BAO

Ekiti sets to employ Doctors, Nurses on National Assembly members’ bill - Oyebanji

Ekiti sets to employ Doctors, Nurses on National Assembly members’ bill - Oyebanji.     ….As Senate Leader promises to facilitate more projects to Ekiti.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Friday expressed appreciation of his government to members of the National Assembly for pulling resources together for payment of salaries of the new set of Doctors and health workers billed to be employed by the state government in the bid to strengthen healthcare delivery.

Governor Oyebanji, who disclosed this to Journalists shortly after inspecting some ongoing projects in the state, on Friday, said his government has embarked on the renovation and equipping of 11 secondary health facilities which gulped billions of Naira only to find out that the state needed more money to employ the required professionals to man the facilities. 

He added that he had to consult with the Legislators who immediate agreed to come to the aid of the government by taking care of the salaries of the new health workers on behalf of the state.

The Governor said the intervention of the lawmakers has embolden the government to commence the recruitment process for these essential health workers. 

He expressed satisfaction with the harmonious working relationship and engagement existing between his government and members of the National Assembly which has attracted scores of projects to the state describing it as a “partnership that works”. 

Governor Oyebanji, who was accompanied by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele along other top government officials inspected Special therapy Centre for children with disabilities, Agric olope main market, international Centre for art and culture, Ijigbo to Okeyinmi flyover bridge, Ado Ekiti New Town, and block of classrooms, FM Radio station and medical students hostel at Ekiti State University, all in Ado Ekiti as well as the, 17.85 kilometers Ring road and Government Science College, Iyin Ekiti where he noted that he was pleased with the level and quality of works done on the projects so far.

The Governor also affirmed that the projects which were in tandem with the shared prosperity agenda of his administration, said aside from other laudable projects, government is currently working on no fewer than 11 road projects spread across the three senatorial zones of the state.

He stressed the need for residents of the state to take ownership of the projects in their various localities in the drive to ensure proper maintenance culture that will enable such projects lasts, adding that his government will not relent in the drive to ensure aggressive development of the state.

“On the recruitment of Doctors into health facilities in Ekiti state, the advert is out, it is being funded wholly by members of the National Assembly. When we came on board, we embarked on the construction and equipping of eleven secondary health facilities and we just discovered that if we spend this kind of money, billions of naira  on the project without Doctors and Nurses, it is not going to serve the people. 

“The Ministry of Health came up with the number of doctors and nurses we would need and we are going to need certain amount of money to pay them, and the state cannot afford it. So, I approached them to ask if they could pull resources together for this and they agreed and the money is coming in. The new doctors and health workers are going to be paid by members of National Assembly.

“Ekiti can’t ask for more with the kind of representatives we have at the national level under the leadership of Senator Bamidele, the only lesson I learn from this is that when leaders align their visions, it brings benefits.

 Commenting on the projects that were inspected, Governor Oyebanji said the Contractors are working to time to ensure that they deliver on time. “ I am satisfied with the pace and quality of work done, I have more than four monitoring teams that regularly gives me feedback, so, I am here to validate what they are telling me and also to take the Senate leader along to see what we are doing here and I must thank him. Cumulatively, we have eleven road projects going on across the state.”

Also speaking with Journalists, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who expressed delight with the cordial relationship between Governor Oyebanji and the Ekiti State caucus of the National Assembly assured the Governor that the federal lawmakers will continue to encourage and support the Governor to achieve success in all his people-oriented programmes and policies.

He also promised to facilitate more projects to the state, including the construction of a bigger therapy centre for children with disabilities.

EKITI SPEAKER, TOP DIGNITARIES HONOUR PASTOR ABIMBOLA, LAUNCH NEW BOOK.

EKITI SPEAKER, TOP DIGNITARIES HONOUR PASTOR ABIMBOLA, LAUNCH NEW BOOK.   ...Cleric marks birthday in grand style as leaders rally for faith-driven leadership.

The serene Afao Quarters in Ikere Ekiti was transformed into a gathering point for prominent political, religious, and business figures as they came together on Saturday to celebrate Pastor Beloved Abimbola’s birthday and the unveiling of his latest book, More Than Gold.

The event, which took place along Ado Road, fused celebration with intellectual discourse, setting a high bar for similar events in the state. A major highlight of the day was the keynote address delivered by the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye. Aribasoye, who spoke on the theme “Church Role in Nation Rebirth,” emphasized the critical need for Christians to actively participate in the political landscape. He encouraged the church to take on leadership roles that could drive ethical governance and foster societal transformation.

The public unveiling of More Than Gold also stood out during the occasion. Mrs. Toyosi Omope, the book reviewer, captivated the audience with an insightful summary of the book’s themes, stressing its potential to inspire personal development and character growth. She particularly urged young men to seize the opportunity to read the book, describing it as a resource that could lead to life-changing decisions.

As the birthday celebration continued, Pastor Abimbola received heartfelt tributes from friends, family, and well-wishers who lauded his remarkable contributions to the community. His leadership, both in the spiritual and social spheres, was widely acknowledged, with many expressing admiration for his unwavering commitment to community development and empowering others through faith and knowledge.

The event concluded with light refreshments, where guests mingled and exchanged ideas, leaving the venue with a renewed sense of purpose and admiration for the celebrant's life and work.

Ekiti State Government Partners Diaspora Investors to Establish Multi-Million Naira Livestock Ranch in Irele.

Ekiti State Government Partners Diaspora Investors to Establish Multi-Million Naira Livestock Ranch in Irele.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Ekiti State Government has concluded preliminary talks with representatives of the Irele-Ekiti community and Ekiti Kete Livestock Development Company Limited, a firm promoted by indigenes of the state in the Diaspora, on plans to establish a 21st-century livestock ranch in the community.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the meeting, which took place ahead of a birthday celebration, was aimed at aligning all stakeholders on the land acquisition modalities required for the project.

He described the engagement as productive, stating that all parties agreed to cooperate towards ensuring a seamless take-off of the livestock investment in Irele-Ekiti.

According to Boluwade, the Ekiti Kete Livestock Development Company Limited is preparing to launch a multi-million naira livestock ranch, which is expected to boost food security, create jobs, and attract more investments to the state.

“The company is being promoted by Ekiti indigenes in the Diaspora, and this initiative is in line with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to harnessing the potential of agribusiness to drive foreign direct investment into the state,” the Commissioner said.

He further revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the company and stakeholders would be signed in the coming weeks, paving the way for the commencement of operations.

The Ekiti State Government has reiterated its readiness to provide the necessary support and enabling environment for investors willing to partner with the state in key sectors, especially agriculture.

Bawa Celebrates Eid-Fitr with Hausa Community in Ado-Ekiti.

Bawa Celebrates Eid-Fitr with Hausa Community in Ado-Ekiti.

In a heartwarming display of solidarity and community spirit, Alhaji Hussein Bawa, the Special Assistant to the Ekiti State Governor on Hausa Communities, celebrated Eid-Fitr with the Hausa community in Shasha Market, Shasha BAO, and Atikankan. This initiative reflects the commitment of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's administration to foster inclusivity and support for all communities within Ekiti State.

During the celebration, Bawa distributed over 300 packs of food items, benefiting residents and traders across the Hausa communities in Shasha Market, Ikere, Atikankan, and Agric Olope (Shasha BAO). This gesture embodies the love and support expressed by Governor Oyebanji for his constituents.

"I am honored to give back to the Hausa community as their representative in Governor Oyebanji's government," stated Bawa. "The governor has consistently urged those of us in positions of leadership to make contributions to our communities, no matter how small. This initiative is in the spirit of the recent Eid-Fitr celebrations and aims to strengthen our bonds."

This marks Bawa’s second outreach initiative, following a similar festive support activity during last year’s Sallah celebration. He vowed to continue these efforts to build trust within the Hausa community and reaffirm their vital role in the Oyebanji administration. "It is important for our community to know that Governor Oyebanji has their interests at heart," Bawa expressed.

Alhaji Hamid Musa, also known as Alhaji Yaro, the Deputy Chairman of the Hausa community in Ekiti, joined Bawa in distributing the food items. He praised Bawa as a dedicated representative and reassured him that the Hausa community's support for Governor Oyebanji remains unwavering through 2030.

The celebration not only highlighted the essence of Eid-Fitr but also reinforced the commitment of the Ekiti State government to inclusivity and community welfare. Bawa’s initiative is a testament to the importance of giving back, fostering goodwill, and ensuring that the needs of every segment of the population are recognized and addressed.

Ekiti State Government Flags Off Third Phase of Vocational Training, Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities.

Ekiti State Government Flags Off Third Phase of Vocational Training, Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities.

The Ekiti State Government has commenced the third phase of the vocational training and empowerment programme aimed at equipping persons with disabilities (PWDs) with essential skills to enhance self-sufficiency and contribute meaningfully to society.

The initiative, which took place at the Ekiti State Skills Acquisition Centre in Ilokun, Ado-Ekiti, aligns with the government’s commitment to inclusive development.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, emphasized that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration prioritizes shared prosperity, noting that the programme was specifically designed for individuals with disabilities who, due to their conditions, were unable to access formal education.

According to her, the state government is determined to equip them with vocational skills to enable financial independence. 

She explained that the training marks the third edition of the programme, with 30 participants trained in 2023, 40 in 2024 and 120 beneficiaries targeted for the 2025 phase to be conducted in two batches of 60 participants each.

Princess Agboola further explained that after completing their training, participants would undergo an Industrial Training Experience in collaboration with various artisan associations, including those in hairdressing, tailoring, ICT, catering, and shoemaking. 

She stated that artisans were actively involved in this year's edition to provide additional mentorship and post-training support, adding that the beneficiaries would receive startup kits to help them establish their own businesses, with the government closely monitoring their progress to ensure success.

She urged participants to take the training seriously and make the most of the opportunity.

Also, the  Director-General of the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Dr. John Ekundayo,  encouraged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunities presented by the programme. 

He commended Governor Oyebanji for championing their cause, describing him as a leader who deeply cares about the welfare of persons with disabilities. 

Dr Ekundayo also underscored the importance of vocational skills in addressing Nigeria’s current economic challenges.

A former beneficiary, Ife Abejide, expressed gratitude to the governor for his support, while a new participant, Adebayo Tope, vowed to make the most of the opportunity. 

Others also thanked Governor Oyebanji for fostering inclusivity and providing them with a platform to thrive, assuring the government that they would justify its investment in them.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Dr Anthony Adebayo, Head of the Department of Gender and Social Work at the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, and Mr Kehinde Otitoju, who represented the Commissioner for Trade and Investment.

The vocational training programme includes various skill categories such as Shoemaking, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Hairdressing, Catering and Tailoring. 

Through this initiative, the Ekiti State Government continues to make significant strides in empowering persons with disabilities and fostering an inclusive society.

Your Second Term is Sure, Ekiti Monarchs Assure Oyebanji.

Your Second Term is Sure, Ekiti Monarchs Assure Oyebanji.

….As govt pledges respect, smooth partnership.

The Ekiti State Traditional Rulers, under the auspices of Majority Obas of Ekiti Land (MOBEL), has predicted a landslide victory for Governor Biodun Oyebanji in his reelection bid in 2026.

The monarchs predicated their prediction on the level of peace, development, stability, and mutual respect being accorded Ekiti people, including all the monarchs by the Governor, saying these have endeared the government to the populace and critical stakeholders.

However, the Ekiti State Government, has promised to prioritize the welfare of the traditional rulers and put mechanisms in place to stop any disrespect that could emanate from any of their chiefs and subjects.

The new leadership of MOBEL, led by its Chairman and Ojurin of Ijurin Ekiti, Oba Afolabi Joachim Ajibola, gave the assurance, on Thursday, while paying a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital.

A statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media to the Deputy Governor ,Victor Ogunje, revealed that the Onikun of Ikun Amure, Oba David Olatunde, who spoke for the monarchs, promised that MOBEL, comprising grades A, B and C hierarchical monarchs, would coalesce actions with government to instil peace and stability in all the towns.

Underscoring their commitment to duties, Oba Olatunde, said what MOBEL firmly stands for is progress, unity and love, among Ekiti residents, regardless of race, creed and religious sentiments, vowing that these shall be fostered in the interest of the citizens.

To fortify traditional institution and elevate its respect, the monarch sought amendment to the Ekiti State Chiefs Law, he described as obsolete and outdated, clarifying that his members are traditional rulers and not chiefs, as being referred to in the State’s Edict.

Oba Olatunde, however, raised the issue of consistent disagreements between some of their colleagues and the chiefs, describing the rising spate as demoralizing and making them feel uncomfortable.

The monarch urged the government to look inwards and fashion our institutional framework and ways to reignite the respect being accorded royalty in the past, by fostering mutual respect in the traditional scheme.

“We are grateful to Governor Oyebanji for prioritising our welfare and for his love, respect and humility to the traditional rulers. I must say that we have been having governments in Ekiti, but this government is different and special.

“We are assuring you that the second term of His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji is sure. Even after you leave office, Ekiti will continue to respect you”, he stated.

Corroborating his colleague, the MOBEL’s Chairman, Oba Ajibola, assured that the new executive would reinforce partnership with the government to foster peace and unity at the grassroots.

Oba Ajibola appreciated the Oyebanji’s administration for its giant strides to ensure that development percolates to all the 140 towns in the state, specifically for prioritizing the welfare of the traditional rulers.

In her response, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Afuye, assured that this government won’t shy away from making the welfare of monarchs occupies a prime space and frontline priorities, revealing that Governor Oyebanji appreciated the enormity of burdens and statutory duties being discharged by the traditional rulers.

Mrs Afuye frowned at the rising brawls between the monarchs and their chiefs, saying the government won’t tolerate any form of disrespect against the traditional rulers, whom she described as the fathers of all.

“This government relies so much on you in ensuring that we enjoy peace. We are pleased with the ways you have been handling some of your duties and how you adjudicated on local issues brought before you.

“We plead that you continue in these manners, we are ready to support you always. Go and home and maintain cordial relationships with your chiefs.

“What we stand for as a government is respect for traditional rulers. Governor Oyebanji had always been emphasizing this, and on that we stand. Respect is reciprocal. Don’t remove your chiefs without the government knowing about it. As long as you are on the side of the law, no Chief can disrespect you”.