WE ARE WITH YOU, OYEBANJI ASSURES EKITI PEOPLE AFTER HEAVY RAINSTORM.

WE ARE WITH YOU, OYEBANJI ASSURES EKITI PEOPLE AFTER HEAVY  RAINSTORM.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has sympathised with the people of the state over the havoc wreaked by rainstorm in some parts of the state on Saturday.

The storm affected many private and public buildings as well as facilities across the state. However, no life was lost.

Moved by the development, the Governor has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to immediately commence an assessment of properties that were affected with a view to assisting the victims.

While assuring the people of the state that they would not be left alone at this critical period, Governor Oyebanji urges the people of the state to remain calm and go about their daily activities without any fear, while Government takes inventory of the damaged properties and facilities with a view to responding appropriately.

“We are in it together”, the Governor assures the people in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, and made available to newsmen in Ado-Ekiti on Saturday evening.

“The Biodun Oyebanji administration is committed to the welfare and wellbeing of the people of the state and will not leave any stone unturned in providing timely succor to the victims of the rainstorm”, the statement added.

EKITI TO OBSERVE APRIL EDITION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION EXERCISE.

EKITI TO OBSERVE APRIL EDITION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION EXERCISE.

The Ekiti State Government has announced that the April edition of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

 The State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe said that, to ensure full participation of citizens, all markets and commercial centers will remain closed during the exercise.

However, she disclosed that there will be no movement restrictions for this month's sanitation exercise due to the ongoing Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, to enable affected students and officials move freely.

According to her, the theme of this month’s exercise is "Your Environment, Your Health: Let's Clean Together." 

Aluko-Ajisafe explained that the theme emphasizes the shared responsibility in maintaining a healthy environment for the overall wellbeing of residents.

She stressed the need for collective efforts in keeping the state clean, urging everyone to adopt proper waste disposal habits and maintain good environmental hygiene throughout the year.

As part of the exercise, market women are expected to clean their shops and stalls during the Thursday market sanitation, while government employees are expected to tidy up their offices and surroundings on Friday.

She added that Environmental Health Officers from the Ministry of Environment, Local Government Areas (LGAs), Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), NGOs and security agencies will be on ground to monitor the exercise and enforce necessary measure.

While reiterating the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Aluko-Ajisafe called on residents to embrace the sanitation exercise as a collective responsibility for a healthier and cleaner Ekiti State.

Ekiti North Stakeholders plan Grand Endorsement Rally for Governor Oyebanji, and Deputy.

Ekiti North Stakeholders plan Grand Endorsement Rally for Governor Oyebanji, and Deputy.

Stakeholders across the five local government areas of Ekiti North Senatorial District — Ido/Osi, Ilejemeje, Ikole, Moba, and Oye — are set to hold a Grand Endorsement Rally in honour of the Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), and his deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Aduye, to add their voice to the growing call for his return to office for a second term.

According to a release by the planning committee, the rally is scheduled for 10.00am on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the Event Arcade, Akinlade Estate, Olojudo Road, Ido-Ekiti.

Themed *“One Ekiti North! One Voice! One Agenda! BAO Again!!!”*, the event represents a powerful, collective affirmation of support for Governor Oyebanji’s sterling leadership and impressive developmental strides across the state.

The decision to endorse the Governor and his deputy follows extensive consultations and careful consideration by stakeholders across all segments of Ekiti North. The consensus is unambiguous: Governor Oyebanji is not only fulfilling his promises, but has exhibited exemplary integrity, proven competence, and a compassionate, people-first approach to governance. His inclusive style, pragmatic reforms, and relentless commitment to infrastructure, public service delivery, and human capital development have earned him widespread admiration and trust.

The rally will convene a broad-based coalition of political leaders, youth and women’s groups, professionals, artisans, the traditional institution, and civil society actors — all united by a common belief in the Governor’s transformative record and forward-looking vision for Ekiti State.

At the heart of the endorsement lies a triad of values that define the Ekiti North identity:

*United* – Our strength lies in our solidarity. Across wards, communities, generations, and political affiliations, we stand as one people with a shared destiny.

*Progressive* – We are forward-looking, committed to bold ideas and sustainable development that uplift every member of our community.

*Principled* – We are guided by values. Integrity, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to service form the core of our political culture.

> “This moment is a reflection of our collective resolve to uphold leadership that is rooted in vision, values, and verifiable results,” said Chief S.I. Abejide, speaking on behalf of the Rally Planning Committee. 

“Governor Oyebanji embodies the spirit of selfless service and transformational leadership that our people deeply respect. Ekiti North is not only endorsing him — we are reaffirming our confidence in a leader who represents the very best of our aspirations.”

Stakeholders emphasize that the rally is more than a political gathering — it is a civic declaration of trust, unity, and a shared vision for the future of Ekiti.

Jointly signed by:

Rep. Akintunde Rotimi, Jr.

Member, House of Representatives (Ekiti North 1 – Ikole/Oye)

Co-Chairman, Events and Media Sub-Committee

Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye.

Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly

Co-Chairman, Events and Media Sub-Committee

Ooni, Oyebanji lauds Agbeyewa Farms, Harps on Synergy Between Investors , Royal Fathers and Host Communities for Economic Development.

Ooni, Oyebanji lauds Agbeyewa Farms, Harps on Synergy Between Investors , Royal Fathers and Host Communities for Economic Development.

The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has stressed the importance of traditional rulers in fostering economic growth and community development.

The foremost traditional ruler who spoke on Thursday in Ikogosi Ekiti, Ekiti State at the two days  2025 Traditional Rulers Retreat sponsored by Agbeyewa Farms, tagged "Unlocking Ekiti's Potential : The Role of Traditional Rulers in Attracting Investments"  said community development should not be left for government alone while he called on private individuals  with the resources to join hands with royal fathers in repositioning the state economically.

Ooni maintained that the roles of traditional institutions have  metamorphosed over the years from the custodian of culture, norms and traditional values to be actively involved in policy making, developmental  projects and nation building.

The Monarch  particularly modeled the founder of cavista holdings Mr Niyi John Olajide whom he lauded for his  efforts in fusing community and private sectors with robust synergy  believes the action has  proven that traditional rulers can also be a  catalyst of human and infrastructural development .

" Traditional rulers have important roles to play, for example  Agbeyewa Farm who has involved us from the conceptualisation, to the plannings and execution of projects. It is worthy to note that they have successfully turned  areas known to be a  kidnappers den in Ekiti to a viable economic axis."

 

Oba Ogunwusi while celebrating  Agbeyewa's success said the Cavista Holdings will also serve as a model for the entire country. He also urged  more  collaborations with royal fathers of respective communities in  fostering economic pact which he believed will hasten development in Nigeria communities.

 

Earlier, the Ekiti State Governor  Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji reaffirms the government commitment   to create conducive environment for investors to strike meaningful partnership with traditional rulers.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo, the Governor identifies traditional rulers as peace brokers that would enhance development in their domain.

Governor Oyebanji used the opportunity to  call on other investors to cooperate with them for the progress of their investments.

Earlier in his opening speech, the Founder of Cavista holdings which also doubles as the parent body of Agbeyewa Farms, Mr. Niyi John-Olajide declares that  Agbeyewa Farms Limited, is the largest cassava farm in Nigeria and has  empowered over 1,500 people with its 5,000 targeted hectares of cassava farm across communities in the state.

While thanking the traditional rulers for allowing Agbeyewa to excel, the founder of Cavista holding called on other communities to receive him with open hands for the growth of Ekiti State for sustainability.

Managing Director of  Agbeyewa Farms Oska Aiyeleso in his address gave a comprehensive report about the activities of the company which he attributed its significant growth from

2023.

He explained that the company was able to progress  to 380.5 hectares with the  goal  to build a foundation that is  solid, sustainable, and scalable. "When I assumed the mandate of leadership in August 2024, the farm was coming off a modest season,only 8.1 hectares had been cultivated between January and July. Yet, the vision handed to us was ambitious: 3,000 hectares of cultivation before year-end of 2024.With urgency and purpose, we rallied the team, retooled our systems, and rekindled our partnerships"

Aiyeleso said he was able to  achieve the  almost impossible task of  planting over 1,000 hectares of cassava across  farmlands. 

"This leap wasn’t accidental. It was the product of vision, investment, innovation, and most importantly, the unwavering support of our leaders and host communities." He concluded that the supposed  limitations made scaling almost impossible and kept productivity low but was glad that the efforts is yielding positive results

FG relaunches school feeding programme.

FG relaunches school feeding programme.

The Federal Government is relaunching the school feeding programme. The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Yusuf Sununu, revealed this on Wednesday.

Speaking during a meeting with development partners, NGOs, and government officials in Abuja, Sununu said the relaunch would take place to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office.

He said the programme aims to combat child hunger and improve educational outcomes across the country.

Sununu highlighted the plan’s holistic design providing daily nutritious meals using locally sourced ingredients to support both children’s health and local farming communities.

He stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and collaboration to sustain the programme and ensure its long-term success.

“The initiative aims to benefit 10 million children and could increase school enrolment by 20 per cent and academic performance by 15 per cent by 2025,” he said.

The relaunch comes amid projections that over 30 million Nigerians may face hunger, underscoring the urgency of swift and effective implementation.

“Our mission is to feed every public school pupil in Primary One to Three, nurturing their potential and building the nation’s future,” he stated.

The programme is also designed to reduce malnutrition, boost school retention rates, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

He described it as a major step towards fighting hunger, malnutrition, and low school enrolment across the country.

He urged community ownership, active parental involvement, and training for cooks, while noting the programme’s potential to empower women and smallholder farmers.

Development partners, including the AMA Foundation and private firms like Tetra Pak, have pledged support for the renewed initiative.

The government also promised reforms, improved monitoring, and collaboration to guarantee sustainability and measurable impact.

Sununu called on all stakeholders to unite, stressing that the programme is capital intensive and requires joint effort for success.

Dr Aderemi Adebowale, National Programme Manager of RH-NHGSFP, described the programme as an investment in the nation’s future.

She said the aim extends beyond feeding — it also includes empowering women, youth, and farmers through inclusive and sustainable practices.

Adebowale noted that N100 billion has been allocated in the 2025 budget to scale up reach and deepen community impact.

“The updated RH-NHGSFP will provide daily meals to public primary pupils using food grown and sourced locally,” she explained.

She emphasised the power of collaboration, saying success would depend on collective action and a shared national vision.

Between 2018 and 2022, the programme improved nutrition and enrolment, but struggled with supply chain and farmer involvement issues.

Adebowale disclosed new QR-coded supply chains and real-time tracking for better transparency, quality control, and accountability.

According to her, the programme will fully integrate women, youth, cooks, and farmers, offering targeted training and income opportunities.

“Nutritionists, health professionals, and supervisors will monitor food quality and assess pupil health and programme outcomes.

“The focus remains on local sourcing, especially through women-led cooperatives, aiming to reduce rural poverty by 40 per cent,” Adebowale said.

She said collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission would ensure all beneficiaries are registered and tracked.

She urged partnerships with development agencies, community leaders, politicians, and state governors to ensure nationwide ownership.

Dr Badamasi Lawal, CEO of NSIPA, said the relaunch represents a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against child hunger and inequality.

Represented by Dr Binta Musa, he called on stakeholders to unite and secure a healthier, more inclusive future for children.

The meeting ended with a call for strategic partnerships to align the initiative with key Sustainable Development Goals.

Vanguard News

EKSG Honours Two Monarchs Over Resolved Boundary Dispute.

EKSG Honours Two Monarchs Over Resolved Boundary Dispute.

The Ekiti State Government, has presented Awards of Exemplary Leadership to the Olosan of Osan Ekiti, Oba Tajudeen Jimoh and Elepe of Epe Ekiti, Oba Michael Atolagbe, in Moba Local Government Area, for resolving the lingering boundary disputes between them using internal mechanisms.

The government was emphatic that the spirit of “sportsmanship” as well as “give and take” exhibited by the monarchs and elite from the two communities, was commendable, thereby attracting the honours to serve as examples to other towns locked in land squabbles that there is nothing to profit in violence.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, spoke in Ado Ekiti, on Thursday, during the official presentation of report of Permanent Boundary Demarcation between Osan and Epe Ekiti communities.

The two communities, had in letter written in January 2024, and jointly signed by Professors Ayan Adeleke and Williams Adebayo, informed the government about their readiness to resolve their boundary crisis using internal mechanism.

Professor Adeleke, is the immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor, Ekiti State University, while Prof Adebayo, is a serving Deputy Vice Chancellor of the same prestigious institution.

Mrs Afuye, via a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, said the honours presented by government to the traditional rulers, was in recognition of their sterling qualities and display of the spirit of sacrifice in the resolution of the bedlam.

The Deputy Governor commended the traditional rulers, members of the committee, elite from the towns and others, who participated in the resolution of the land tussle, saying history would continue to be kind to them.

Expressing the current government’s readiness to partner the traditional institution to further advance development, the Deputy Governor, was emphatic that Governor Biodun Oyebanji wont backtrack in his mission to make all Ekiti towns bereft of bloody boundary dispute that can impede progress.

“As the custodians of tradition and culture and the values of omoluabi, our traditional rulers have demonstrated that leadership is not merely about authority, but about service to humanity. Peaceful resolution of disputes places selfless service over personal wants and needs. Our Kabiyesis had demonstrated this.

“Your efforts have not only prevented bitterness and conflict, but have also laid the foundation for sustainable development in your communities as well as in our state. Today, we recognise and celebrate your unwavering commitments to peace and peaceful coexistence.

“I want to place on record and appreciate the role played by the chairmen of the committee: Prof Ayan Adeleke and Prof Williams Adebayo from Osan and Epe respectively, for taking the lead in the resolution of this crisis .

“As we present these awards to our royal fathers from Epe and Osan Ekiti, let them serve as reminders of the power of unity, cooperation, dialogue and peaceful resolution of differences. I believe this would inspire traditional rulers from other towns to follow your footsteps and contribute to the peace and progress of our beloved state”, she stated.

Describing the government’s position as timely and heartwarming, the Elepe of Epe Ekiti, Oba Michael Atolagbe, applauded the state government for the honour and for favourably disposed to the proposal pushed forward by the communities to settle their differences between themselves.

“I am happy about this honour and particularly that the two communities showed readiness to live together peacefully. The history we are making today will serve as a shining light to other towns that we have nothing to gain in fighting or killing ourselves over land dispute”.

Enthralled by the government’s action, the Olosan of Osan Ekiti, Oba Tajudeen Jimoh, said the mutual understanding between the two contiguous communities will help in stabilising the local government and fasttrack development across board.

“I am happy today that we are making history and it happens under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji. Let me emphasize that no sacrifice is too great to be made for the sake of peace.

“I appreciate the members of the committee and the state government who allowed this peace building initiative proposed by the two communities”, the monarch said.

The Chairman of Traditional Council in Moba Local Government and Oore of Otun Ekiti, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, said he was excited by the position taken by the two communities and government, saying this will further elevate unity and promote brotherhood among the towns in the council.

The Chairmen of the Committee set up by the towns to resolve the matter , Professors Ayan Adeleke and Williams Adebayo, applauded the government for allowing them to mediate in the prolonged crisis that ushered in this era of peace and unity.

Ikere West LCDA Celebrates Multiple Births with Gifts and Joy.

Ikere West LCDA Celebrates Multiple Births with Gifts and Joy. 

The Ikere West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) on Tuesday celebrated multiple births in the community, an event spearheaded by the wife of the council chairman, Mrs. Aderonke Olorunfemi.

The colourful event, which took place in Ikere West, was aimed at recognizing and appreciating the unique blessings of multiple births—such as twins and triplets—in the area.

During the celebration, the Executive Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi, expressed gratitude to God for His continued mercy on the people of the council and Ekiti State at large. He also commended the wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for initiating and supporting programs that care for multiple birth families across the state.

The LCDA distributed cash gifts, food items, soft drinks, and biscuits to the children and their families, demonstrating the council’s commitment to the welfare of these special families.

The wife of the LCDA chairman, Mrs. Aderonke Olorunfemi, in her address, appreciated the chairman and the Ekiti State government for their support. She said:

 "Distinguished guests, esteemed mothers of multiple births (twins, triplets, and others), and honored officials of Ikere West LCDA, I am delighted to be part of this special celebration. Today, we come together to recognize and appreciate the unique blessings of multiple births in our community.

"I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi, Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, for his unwavering support and commitment to initiatives that benefit our community. Your leadership has made a significant impact on the lives of our people, and we are grateful for your dedication.

"To the mothers of multiple births, I commend your strength, love, and care. Raising multiple children can be challenging, but your devotion and perseverance are truly inspiring. I urge you to continue providing the best possible care for your children, and know that you are not alone in this journey.

 "I also want to express my appreciation to Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, wife of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for her visionary initiative to care for multiple births in Ekiti State. This gesture demonstrates her commitment to the well-being of our citizens, and we are grateful for her kindness.

 "As we celebrate today, I want to assure you that Ikere West LCDA will continue to support and care for our multiple birth families. We will work tirelessly to ensure that our community provides a nurturing environment for all children to thrive.

"Once again, I thank everyone who has made this celebration possible. May God bless our children, our families, and our community."

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Osaloni, the wife of the Ado Local Government Chairman, lauded the initiative and the commitment of the state government to the welfare of citizens.

 "I am honored to be part of this celebration, and I commend the wife of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for her kindness and vision. This initiative is a testament to the government's commitment to the well-being of its citizens, particularly those with unique needs.

 "I also want to express my gratitude to Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi and the Ikere West LCDA for their support and care for multiple birth families. Your efforts are truly making a difference in the lives of our people.

 "I urge all mothers of multiple births to continue providing love, care, and support to their children. You are not alone in this journey, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way."

On her part, the Head of Department, Community, Mrs. Asana, expressed her appreciation and joy over the event.

"I am delighted to be part of this special occasion, and I commend the Ikere West LCDA for their commitment to supporting and caring for multiple birth families. This gesture demonstrates the community's love and care for its members, particularly those with unique needs.

 "I urge all mothers of multiple births to take advantage of the support and care provided by the government and the LCDA. Let us work together to ensure that our community provides a nurturing environment for all children to thrive.

 "I thank everyone who has made this celebration possible, and particularly the chairman and the government for their support and initiative. May God bless our children, our families, and our community."

Dignitaries present at the celebration included: Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi, Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Vice Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Secretary of Ikere West LCDA, HLA of Ikere West LCDA, D.A of Ikere West LCDA, Wife of Ikere West Vice Chairman, Wife of Ikere West LCDA Secretary, Wife of Legislative Leader of the House, HOD Community, Mrs. Asana, Mrs. Osaloni, wife of Ado Local Government Chairman, Mrs. Sanusi, former woman leader ATIBA, HODs of all departments in Ikere West LCDA, Political functionaries in Ikere West LCDA, Wife of Chairman, Ifedara LCDA, Wife of Chairman, Ado West LCDA and Multiple birth families and their mothers

Signed,

Mrs. Aderonke Olorunfemi,

Wife of Ikere West LCDA Chairman