SALUTING THE PILLARS OF OUR NATION: A WORKERS’ DAY MESSAGE FROM SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU.

SALUTING THE PILLARS OF OUR NATION: A WORKERS’ DAY MESSAGE FROM SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU.

As Nigeria joins the global community in celebrating Workers' Day, I, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, extend my warmest felicitations to all Nigerian workers across every sector (public and private). Today is a powerful reminder of your resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to national development. Your daily efforts keep our economy thriving, our communities functioning, and our collective hope for a better Nigeria alive.

On this special day, I salute your diligence and patriotism. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth and Sports, Spokesperson of the Senate, and a proud representative of Ekiti South, I have witnessed firsthand the strength and dedication of our workforce. I remain firmly committed to advancing legislative measures that protect workers’ rights, promote their welfare, ensuring fair wages, safe workplaces and meaningful opportunities for career growth.

Let this Workers’ Day rekindle our shared hope for a brighter future. Together, we will continue to build a prosperous nation where the dignity of labour is not only respected but also rewarded.

Happy Workers' Day once again. May your efforts always be recognized and celebrated.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu

Ekiti South Senatorial District.

BAO: The Tree With The Ripe Fruit Attracting Development To Ekiti State.

BAO: The Tree With The Ripe Fruit  Attracting Development To Ekiti State.

By Olu-Ajayi Maxwell 

In the vibrant heart of Ekiti State, a transformative leader has emerged a beacon of hope and progress, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO). Just as Matthew 7:16-17 reminds us that we shall know them by their fruits, the people of Ekiti have keenly observed the remarkable fruits of his labour, confirming that they have indeed picked the right tree to bear fruit for their future.

Governor Oyebanji’s tenure has been marked by visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to the development of Ekiti State. Early in his administration, he recognized the urgency of preserving the state’s precious heritage. Through innovative policies and proactive governance, he has effectively salvaged Ekiti's rich cultural, tourism and educational legacy, preventing it from decaying under the weight of neglect. His swift interventions in areas like agriculture, youth empowerment and job creation , health, human capital development and infrastructure development have revitalized the state’s economy and enhanced the quality of life for its people.

BAO’s vision for shared prosperity is rooted in the six pillars of his administration: Governance, Youth Development and Job Creation, Human Capital Development, Agriculture and Rural Development,  Infrastructure and Industrialization, Arts, Culture and Tourism Development. Each pillar is a testament to his earnest desire to uplift every Ekiti citizen. For instance, under his leadership, the educational sector has seen substantial reforms aimed at improving learning outcomes and restoring the glory of Ekiti as a center of academic excellence. Initiatives like the Ekiti State Scholarship Scheme have opened doors for countless students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their aspirations. As at today, students of Ekiti State have been awarded the sum of N332 Million for bursary and scholarships. Renovation of schools and provision of educational materials across the Local Governments and consistent training of teachers among others.

 *Compassion is central to Governor Oyebanji's leadership approach.* 

Governor Oyebanji has actively sought to address the grievances of the sad and dissatisfied, providing pathways to hope and recovery. His social investment programs have been instrumental in alleviating poverty, with targeted support reaching vulnerable groups, thereby fostering an inclusive environment where every citizen feels valued and heard.

The response from the people of Ekiti has been overwhelmingly positive. From farmers benefiting from modern agricultural techniques to entrepreneurs accessing better funding options, the resonance of BAO’s policies is visible across the state. His engagement with communities, listening to their needs, and incorporating their feedback into his governance has created a sense of ownership among the populace.

As Ekiti navigates the complexities of development and modernization, BAO's leadership has been characterized by a commitment to inclusivity and participatory governance. This approach has not only bolstered trust in public institutions but has also empowered citizens to take an active role in shaping the future of their communities. No wonder  the three Senatorial Districts can boldly endorse BAO for second term because of his outstanding leadership and impactful governance, hereby reaffirming their unwavering support and loyalty being confident in his capacity to continue steering Ekiti State towards greatness.

As Ekiti continues to thrive, the state has also become a model for other regions in Nigeria. The ripple effects of BAO’s policies are sparking interest from policymakers and development agencies looking to replicate successful programs elsewhere. The emphasis on grassroots participation serves as a powerful reminder that when communities are engaged and empowered, they can drive significant change.

Today, we have a ripe fruit that has positioned the state for sustainable growth and an enhanced quality of life for all its citizens.

Tell it to them that there's no vacancy in Ekiti State till 2030 has the ripe fruit keeps attracting development to the State.

#BAOEffect

#BAOImpact

#BAOTill2030

Stockbrokers hail Oyebanji’s fiscal policy, development agenda.

Stockbrokers hail Oyebanji’s fiscal policy, development agenda.

….as Gov says state ‘ll collaborate with CIS to deepen growth.

 

The Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) has hailed Ekiti State Government’s fiscal policy, saying it is instrumental to the pace of development in the state, in addition to making the state attractive to investors.

The President of the institute, Mr Oluropo Dada, stated this during a courtesy visit by members of the Governing Council of CIS to the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, in his office in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday.

Dada cited the recent rating of Ekiti State as the first (among 36 states) in the Q4 2024 States Fiscal Transparency ranking by BudgIT, among other milestones recorded by the government as indication of the state’s commitment to fiscal discipline and economic growth, using the administration’s six development pillars as roadmap.

He said the CIS would be willing to enter into strategic partnership with the state government in some critical areas in order to further enhance economic growth and development as well as financial empowerment of the people.

The CIS President said the Institute, as part of efforts to support the government’s economic plan, is ready to organize regular financial literacy programmes for all categories of government workers focusing on finance, securities and investment opportunities for public servants, emphasizing the importance of making money as well as sustaining the tempo of financial breakthrough at any point in time.

He also hinted on the planned introduction of securities and investments related programmes in the two state owned universities in Ekiti as well as a plan to introduce no fewer than 1,000 Ekiti undergraduates to the CIS qualifying examinations, as a way of equipping them with the required skills and certification that would make them key players in the investment world.

Governor Oyebanji who thanked the CIS council members for the meeting said his administration would collaborate with the Institute and leverage on its financial expertise to drive strategic reforms for economic growth of the state and residents.

 

Governor Oyebanji said Ekiti State has been able to earn investors’ confidence based on the fiscal policy of his administration which is anchored on accountability and transparency.

 

The Governor charged the Institute on the need to organize and create opportunity for financial literacy and inclusion in order to ensure sustainable financial growth of the citizenry. He wondered why people retire from public office and get into penury almost immediately, hinging it on lack of financial intelligence.

 

He stressed the need for people at both state and national levels to understand the importance of stockbroking, calling for more advocacy in that direction.

 

“Just as the CIS President said, when it comes to issue of transparency, accountability, and reforms, we’ve done so well. We come from the tradition of a reform-minded people. I used to tell people that when it comes to PhD per capita, Ekiti is the number one in the country. So, our education should count in terms of planning and wealth creation, otherwise it is useless.

 

“We were just been rated as number one when it comes to fiscal transparency ranking in the country. And since we came to office, we hover between number one and number two, and that speaks to the fidelity of commitment to accountability and transparency in the state”, he said , adding that the state government is set to collaborate with the Institute on a number of areas.

 

Governor Oyebanji said Ekiti State is a good place to invest. According to him, “Our airport is undergoing certification presently and by July or thereabout, we  hope to get the approval for commercial flights operation at the airport. We pride ourselves as one of the few airports with the best runway in the country, 3.2 kilometers runway and we are in the process of procuring an ILS that enables night flights and that also enable planes to land at extreme weather, that process is on.

 

“We are a small state but we have big ideas, and we believe also that because we are knowledgeable and educated, education should count for something. People cannot be educated and poor you know but that is our story. Our six pillars is to change that narrative and ensure that we make our people productive, while believing strongly that the pathway to prosperity is productivity”, the Governor said.

Also at the meeting were Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Niyi Adebayo; commissioners for Finance, Mr Akintunde Oyebode; Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, Mrs Tayo Adeola; Special Adviser (Media), Mr Yinka Oyebode; Director General, EKDIPA, Mrs Lolade Olutona and Group Managing Director of Fountain Holdings, Mr Adetunji Tolani.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BOSS, LEADER, MENTOR, AND BENEFACTOR, HON. DR. OLUBUNMI TUNJI-OJO (BTO), HONOURABLE MINISTER OF INTERIOR.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BOSS, LEADER, MENTOR, AND BENEFACTOR, HON. DR. OLUBUNMI TUNJI-OJO (BTO), HONOURABLE MINISTER OF INTERIOR.

Today, I celebrate not just a birthday, but a man whose life continues to be a beacon of excellence, service, and transformational leadership. Happy birthday to an exceptional leader, an inspirational mentor, and a rare gem—Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Words may fall short in expressing just how incredible your leadership journey has been—from your days as a distinguished Member of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on NDDC, to your current role as the Honourable Minister of Interior. At every stage, you have raised the bar and set new standards in governance, innovation, and people-centered development.

You are not just a leader; you are a visionary whose impact is deeply felt—across Nigeria, in Ondo State, and in the lives of countless individuals, including myself. Your humility, intellect, and unwavering commitment to nation-building continue to inspire a new generation of leaders.

Thank you for being a pillar of support, a guide, and a light to many. Your mentorship has transformed lives, and your dedication has redefined public service.

On this special day, I join millions to wish you continued wisdom, divine protection, and many more years of impactful leadership in sound health and fulfillment.

Happy birthday once again, my boss and leader. May your days be long and your legacy eternal.

Apostle Sunday Iwalefun

(BTO AMBASSADOR)

Honouring a Visionary Leader: A Birthday Tribute to Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Honouring a Visionary Leader: A Birthday Tribute to Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

By: BTO Ambassadors: The Progressive Vanguard Group.

Social critics, public affair analysts, economic theorists, political commentators, and footloose Nigerians have ingloriously stirred the hornet by unpatriotically equating Nigeria to all things evil, backward, brutish, and unfortunate. You will hear them echoing –“may Nigeria not happen to you.” No matter how hard they tried to sound and look original, in their borrowed garments, by their fruits we have known them, that they are agents of disorderliness, and are hell-bent on bringing down the whole house, wanting to undo the honest works and tireless efforts of those readily available and willing to revamp our economy and retool the socio-economic viability of Nigeria.

 

After the metamorphosis of what becomes the All Progressive Congress, APC, was the “Change” mantra in which the APC rode into power in 2015. Intellectual bandits (in the guise of activists) and serial wailers went to town, inciting unsuspecting public, the blind blindfolding the gullible not to see anything to have changed in the eight years of Muhammadu Buhari's democratic dispensation. This is the height of notoriety those suffering from bellyaching of self-righteousness could repulsively attain. Pessimists don’t see anything good in whatever their fellow imperfect human being does.

 

Political dramatis personae from differing party scope and size recruit vulnerable citizens to undermine the government of the day because their trophy-less aspirations hit the brick wall. So, being embittered, they regrouped and redoubled their onslaught trying to destabilize the present administration. Wreaking wanton havoc left, right, and center. They went as far as bringing into the country foreign militia elements. These terror urchins slaughtered people mercilessly and dashed the hopes of innocent young and old alike.

 

But, regardless of their resentment and scandals, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unfazed. Like John Maxwell said: “A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back to the crowd.” This is because the “emilokan of Africa” came to power well-prepared with a visionary mindset and a strong determination to lead. And that is the true hallmark of decisive and well-intentioned leadership. A purposeful leadership arises out of a courageous stance, convincing boldness, and audacity of hope.

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been running with his vision statement of Renewed Hope Agenda and doing things differently from business as usual. He is forcefully blowing the certain whistle that the hopes of Nigerians need to be renewed for the now and posterity. Evidence-based results in infrastructural development, economic sustainability, enduring legacies in the education sector, and progressive rebirth in all sectors in PBAT’s time have attracted international acclaim, even though wailers and traducers want us to believe that he is only picking teeth in the Aso Rock.

 

One of the greatest acid tests of a leader is the people he surrounds himself with in the pursuit of a restorative goal. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a gifted builder and strategic leader. When he appointed his cabinet members, the Jagaban Borgu was widely given credit for having an eagle's eye. This is because of the roll call of men and women of heavyweight personages he chose. One of the cabinet member he gave a nod for his appointment is the former Okeagbe Akoko born parliamentarian – Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who represented Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency in the 9th Assembly and for a brief time in the 10th Assembly.

 

Initially canonized for the Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo was later re-appointed as Minister of Interior of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Interestingly, Hon. Tunji-Ojo set the ball rolling in sync with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The coming of Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to the Ministry of Interior is a blessing in disguise. Why? Because he came with a Midas touch, and whatever he touches transforms into golden footprints.

 

In less than one year of assuming office, Dr. Tunji-Ojo has breathed life and excellence into the Ministry. He became the legitimate “weapon” fashioned against the Ministry of Interior, and obviously, the ministry is prospering. He is dutifully rejigging the Ministry, leaving no stone unturned. He has proven his mettle in leading and demonstrated his energy and charm as a result-driven individual. Without mincing words, Dr. Tunji-Ojo is the jewel of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Federal Executive Council and a diamond in the skyline to behold in the present administration of PBAT’s Presidency. Wouldn’t you wonder who this man, BTO, is?

 

To the best of his strength and inspiration, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is doing commendably well. He is, however, leveling up the game on the shoulders of his predecessors who had broken the ground for his ingenious exploits. It is to his credit that Nigeria has earned a golden spot in the international communities as a fast-growing economy and has once more put the country in the front burner as a truly giant of Africa now that President Bola Tinubu is leading the most populous African country. It is to the future benefits of our children’s children and Nigeria that Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo has been a part of our collective journey during this time of national rebirth.

 

In sum, as this year’s Workers’ Day coincides with Hon. Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’s birthday anniversary, we the Progressive Vanguard: the BTO Ambassadors warmly celebrates the Nigerian Workers as the lifeblood of the totality of the Nigerian Labour Workforce.

 

And, do also, merrily rejoice with our humane boss, compassionate leader and graceful benefactor — the Honourable Minister of Interior on the occasion of his birthday. Sir, we heartily wish for you longer life and stronger health as you remains steadfast in your service to the Federal Republic of Nigeria with your intellect and wealth of experience as a cosmopolitan and cherished patriot.

 

As the kites appear yearly, so shall you be vibrantly and handsomely seen. Amen. May the new trip around the sun be more blissful and enchanting!

 

Congratulations, Boss! Happy birthday, Sir!

 

BTO AMBASSADORS: THE PROGRESSIVE VANGUARD GROUP.

1/05/2025

Pensioners Endorse Oyebanji for Second Term, Brand Him Reliable Leader.

Pensioners Endorse Oyebanji for Second Term, Brand Him Reliable Leader.

....Your wellbeing not optional, but statutory, Oyebanji replies.

The reelection bid of the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday gathered traction, as members of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners(NUP) endorsed the gocernor for second term to continue with his lofty programmes targeted at disentangling the citizens from poverty and neglect. 

The retirees predicated their action on Oyebanji's impressive performance, promise keeping spirit, inclusive governance, and regular payments of all thwir statutory entitlements, including pensions and gratuities. 

The Governor was represented at the event, held at the NUP Secretariat, Oke Ori, in Ado Ekiti, by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, and was graced by NUP top echelons, including members of the highest decision making body: State Executive Council.

Rationalizing the endorsement, the NUP Chairman, Ekiti chapter, Com Tope Popoola, said Governor Oyebanji made history in Nigeria, by appointing the first Special Adviser on Pension Matters, making Ekiti to be pioneer in this stead.

With the chanting of a thunderous "yes" when he posed the endorsement votes to members, Popoola applauded the governor for placing premium on the welfare of his members, thereby reversing high morbidity and mortality rates within their ranks. 

"This endorsement is total. All members collectively agreed to endorse the best Governor in Nigeria, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, because he initiated regular payments of monthly pension, gradual liquidation of the inherited gratuities, payment of pension arrears and payment of N10,000 palliatives fund to our members.

"The governor's personal donation of a sum of N15m towards our guest house project, appointment of Advisor on pension Matters, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, are areas where our lives have been touched directly by this governor. We are happy that you made promises and fulfilled them. 

"While thanking you for all that you have been doing for the pensioners to enhance our welfare, we have come with one voice to adopt you and reciprocate your giant strides with unflinching support during the next elections".

Also buttressing the position canvassed by the Chairman, the NUP National Vice President, Com. Ayo Kumapayi, commended Oyebanji for restoring the respect and dignity of pensioners in the state, and make them credit worthy to be able to participate in the economic activities.

"I could remember a time in this state, our members were so poor that we became subjects of ridicule in the market. But today, Oyebanji has reversed this trend and restored our respect and dignity. We now go to market and buy whatever we need. God bless our governor", he said.

Describing the endorsement as a catalyst for him to further rev up the pedal of development, Oyebanji, saluted the pensioners for their unflinching support, saying their full backing further lent credence to the fact that his government hasn't disappointed the populace. 

Oyebanji added that the retirees had devoted their productive years serving Ekiti State, and that it was just fair and human, that the government prioritises their needs, to bolster their means of livelihoods. 

"I wish to assure you that the interest of our senior citizens and indeed the people of Ekiti State is paramount to us and he would not relent in the good works we have commenced. We are committed to addressing the challenges being faced by our senior citizens.

"We understand the importance of timely payment of pensions, gratuities and access to quality healthcare to enhance your quality of life. These are actions that reflect our vision for a society that values and uplifts its elders. 

"Your wellbeing is not just a matter of obligation, it is a priority that aligns with our vision of inclusive governance and commitment to shared prosperity. We shall continue to pursue this within available resources".

2026 Guber: Ekiti North leaders, stakeholders Endorse Oyebanji, Deputy for Re-election.

2026 Guber: Ekiti North leaders, stakeholders Endorse Oyebanji, Deputy for Re-election.

Ahead of the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, political leaders, stakeholders, and members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ekiti North Senatorial District have unanimously endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, for a second term in office, describing the administration as “a golden era” that must not be interrupted.

The leaders and party members took the decision on Tuesday at a special meeting of the APC stakeholdres, held at Events Arcade, Ido Ekiti, citing the administration’s achievement in infrastructure, education, healthcare, human capital development as well as the Governor’s inclusive style of governance for their decision.

 

 

Bigwigs at the event include, Senator Cyril Fajuyi, (North Senatorial District) members, House of Representative, Hon Akinlayo Kolawole and Hon Akin Rotimi,; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeboye Aribasoye, Ekiti APC Chairman Bar Sola Eleshin as well as former and serving members of the state and National assembly.

 

The endorsement of the North Senatorial leaders came barely two weeks after the State Caucus of the APC passed a confidence vote on the Governor and endorsed him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

 

Emphasizing the importance of continuity in sustaining the spate of development in the state, the leaders said Governor Oyebanji's administration has laid a solid foundation for transformative progress that must not be disrupted, stressing that his second term would ensure completion of numerous impactful projects already underway, safeguard Ekiti’s future and further elevate the state to new heights of prosperity.

 

Speaking while moving the endorsement motion, which was ratified through a thunderous voice vote, the Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, who praised Governor Oyebanji for his outstanding leadership and dedication to grassroots development, said the Governor has touched every local government in the Ekiti North Senatorial District with transformative projects that have directly impacted the lives of the people.

Describing the Governor as a man of his words, whose action reflects his campaign commitments, the Senator explained that the Governor has fulfilled all his electoral promise to Ekiti people and effectively delivered on the six pillars of his administration, which include infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, governance, and social development.

 

“Because the Governor has done well, he has over performed and we have all seen him, this is the first time we are having this kind of a thing where all political parties will endorse a sitting Governor. He has delivered on all the six pillars of his administration and Ekiti North has felt his presence, we have felt his impact in all the five local governments in Ekiti North and a good turn deserves another.

 

“So, I Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing the good people of Ekiti North move a motion today the 29th of April, 2025 for the endorsement of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye to continue and contest for second term from 2026 to 2030”.

 

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Ekiti North Progressive Leader’s Forum, Chief Abejide said the Governor has ensured that the benefit of governance are felt in grassroots level hence their believe that the path to sustain growth and good governance in the state lies in re-election of Governor Oyebanji.

 

He said “Governor Oyebanji has governed with integrity, competence, and compassion. In just over two years in office, his administration has had tangible impacts in key areas that are the pillars of his administration”.

 

Also speaking, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye commended the Governor for his exceptional leadership and the tangible development his administration has brought to every corner of the state.

 

In a resolute declaration, the Speaker vowed that no individual or group would be allowed to disrupt the pace of development in the state, stressing the importance of unity and collective efforts in sustaining the gains achieved under the Oyebanji led-administration.

 

Responding on behalf of the Governor, the Special Adviser on Political Matters and inter-party affairs, Chief Jide Awe, expressed his gratitude to the leaders and stakeholders for the overwhelming support and endorsement, describing their confidence in the Governor's leadership as a humble reminder of the collective responsibility to serve the people of the state.

 

While assuring them that his government remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people, the Governor said every decision and project undertaken by his government  has been guided by the overreaching goal of improving the quality of life for all citizens.

 

It is recalled that the leaders of the Central Senatorial District had earlier in February unanimously endorsed the Governor and his deputy for a second term at a leaders and stakeholders meeting held in Ado-Ekiti. The leaders from the South senatorial district had their endorsement rally in support of Governor Oyebanji and deputy, Chief Mrs Monisade Afuye earlier in January.