Oyebanji’s Scorecard: Ekiti Workers, Pensioners, Students Reap Dividends of Proactive Governance.

Oyebanji’s Scorecard: Ekiti Workers, Pensioners, Students Reap Dividends of Proactive Governance.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

As the dust settles on this year’s Workers’ Day celebration, held across the country on Thursday, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State is receiving renewed praise for his administration’s remarkable strides in worker welfare, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

The event provided yet another opportunity for labour leaders and key stakeholders to commend his people-centered governance and to echo the growing call for continuity beyond 2026.

Since assuming office, Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated a resolute commitment to human capital development, with bold and tangible reforms targeted at improving the welfare of workers, students, and retirees across the state.

According to data from the State Ministry of Finance, the Oyebanji-led administration has disbursed an impressive N7.2 billion and N4.23 billion in gratuities to State and Local Government retirees, respectively, from October 2023 to April 2025. Policy watchers describe the move as a critical relief for pensioners who had long been burdened by delayed entitlements.

The administration’s impact on the education sector has been equally significant. Ekiti State recently recorded the recruitment of over 2,400 teachers and education officers, comprising 1,500 primary school teachers, 930 subject teachers, and 48 education officers. These personnel additions are supported by far-reaching infrastructure upgrades, the integration of digital tools, and the provision of solar-powered Internet-enabled devices in more than 100 public schools—part of the state’s ongoing effort to modernize its learning environment.

Healthcare has not been left behind. Governor Oyebanji approved a landmark 90% implementation of CONHESS and 100% Hazard Allowance for Local Government health workers, placing Ekiti ahead of many states in health worker remuneration across the Southwest.

The administration also facilitated the disbursement of over N400 million in loans to 1,447 teaching and non-teaching staff. These funds, targeted at housing and vehicle acquisition, were lauded by labour unions as timely interventions that boost morale and support long-term staff welfare.

In another bold move, Oyebanji approved the long-demanded career progression to grade level 16 for primary school teachers—a policy that education stakeholders say reflects his keen understanding of career development and staff motivation.

The state’s response to transportation challenges also stands out. In a bid to cushion the effects of rising transport costs, the government introduced free shuttle buses for both civil servants and students. Thousands now benefit from this initiative daily.

Speaking at a recent media engagement, Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the welfare of workers. “I am not in government to play politics; I am here to serve. The workers are the backbone of this administration, and we will continue to invest in their wellbeing,” he said.

Beyond policy, the governor's leadership style has drawn admiration for its directness and accessibility. He is widely acknowledged for engaging with communities, holding town hall meetings, and maintaining a feedback-driven governance approach—a leadership model seen as a refreshing departure from traditional bureaucracy.

Observers have also pointed to the harmonious partnership between Governor Oyebanji and his wife, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji. The couple has been described as the embodiment of Yoruba “Omoluabi” virtues—a reference to individuals grounded in discipline, education, and community values.

All power and support from above are firmly aligned with BAO’s vision and leadership, ensuring a strong and unwavering continuity of his administration until the year 2030. From the Federal level down to the grassroots, stakeholders across all sectors—political, traditional, and civil—stand united in their support for BAO. His consistent delivery of development, stability, and visionary governance has earned him the trust and confidence of the people.

Governor Oyebanji has proven to be a symbol of progressive leadership, transparency, and excellence. His achievements in education, infrastructure, healthcare, and youth empowerment are evident across every local government area. This is why the call for continuity is not just a political statement—it is a necessity for sustained growth.

As citizens look to the future, it becomes increasingly clear that the path to lasting development lies in the capable hands of BAO. His leadership brings hope, direction, and prosperity.

For those who may not know, “Omoluabi” in Yoruba ethos means a thoroughbred person who is imbued with proper education (eko ile).

The words of Prophet Amos in the Book of Amos, Chapter 3, Verse 3 — “Can two walk together except they be agreed?” — have found clear expression in the “Yorubanness” and Omoluabi virtues shared by BAO and his wife. Clearly, they agree on most fronts!

In BAO we trust, in BAO we believe—for the greater good of the people and the future of our land.

Continuity till 2030 is not just a desire—it is a duty. With growing endorsement from the people and credible development strides in all sectors, supporters insist the work must continue — and so must Oyebanji.

~Comr. Olamide Akinwumi writes from Ado-Ekiti.

Residents Hail Hon. Adaba and Gov. Oyebanji as Agbado Roads Get Facelift.

Residents Hail Hon. Adaba and Gov. Oyebanji as Agbado Roads Get Facelift.

Residents of Agbado-Ekiti, located in Ayekire Local Government Area of Ekiti State, have commended Hon. Babatunde Adaba, a board member of the Ekiti State Fire Service, for facilitating the grading of major roads in several neighbourhoods across the town.

During the flag-off ceremony, the Ooro of Agbado-Ekiti, Oba Samuel Adesina, expressed deep appreciation to Hon. Adaba for this timely intervention, describing the project as a significant relief for road users in the area. The monarch highlighted that the gesture reflects recognition of the community’s steadfast support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji, especially following residents’ recent appeals to the government for infrastructural upgrades during the construction of major routes in the town—a request, he noted, that was graciously granted.

Oba Adesina offered prayers for Hon. Adaba, commending him for the thoughtful gesture. He also expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for extending developmental projects to Agbado-Ekiti, ensuring the community is not left behind in ongoing state progress.

Residents joined in prayers for Hon. Adaba, the traditional ruler, and Governor Oyebanji, voicing hopes for sustained progress and prosperity in Agbado-Ekiti and the state at large.

Speaking with reporters, Hon. Adaba explained that the project was his way of supporting the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. He noted that the graded roads will benefit not only Agbado-Ekiti, but also users from neighbouring towns. He also emphasized that the project will give the All Progressives Congress (APC) a strategic advantage in Agbado and surrounding communities poised to reap its benefits.

“This is not the first time I am intervening in the affairs of our community. Recall that I also gave financial support to the family of our late APC chairman, Barrister Paul Omotosho. I won’t stop here—I will continue to do everything necessary to secure Governor Oyebanji’s victory in Agbado and ensure Ayekire Local Government Area remains an easy win for the APC come the 2026 elections,” he added.

The revitalized roads have rekindled hope among residents, who look forward to more developmental projects under the current administration.

May Day: Oyebanji Hails Ekiti Workers' Resilience, contributions to development.

May Day: Oyebanji Hails Ekiti Workers' Resilience, contributions to development.

…. Says his govt has significantly improved workers welfare.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has commended the resilience, sacrifice, commitment and patriotic zeal of Ekiti State workforce to the growth, development and socio-economic progress of the state.

Governor Oyebanji, who gave the commendation on Thursday while addressing workers at the 2025 edition of May Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado Ekiti, said the dedication of workers in the state has been instrumental in driving the state’s economic growth and sustaining its progress.

The Governor described workers as the backbone of the state’s progress and prosperity, and hailed Ekiti workers for the pivotal role they play in ensuring smooth running of the state’s economy and governance. 

He added that his administration has fulfilled his critical obligations to the workforce by ensuring a safe and healthy work environment, fair wages and benefits and respect for workers’ rights, thereby restoring the dignity and pride of workers.

Governor Oyebanji explained that his government has been able to strengthen the workforce and reduce unemployment through various programmes instituted to reposition the public service.

Highlighting some of the notable achievements made by his dministration that have positively impacted workers’ welfare, the Governor hinted that his government has recruited over 1,500 primary school teachers, 930 subject teachers in public secondary schools, 48 education officers, infrastructure upgrade, capacity development programs, approval and payment of minimum wage, disbursement of over 400 million naira house and vehicle loan to over 1,447 teaching and non-teaching staff, approval of career progression for primary school teachers to grade level 16, among others.

While reaffirming his commitment to transparent engagement with labour unions and policies that promote the workers welfare, the Governor urged labour leaders to note that this is a period for dialogue, synergy, mutual understanding in proffering solutions to perennial economic crisis and accountability in governance. He urged them to come forth with ideas, constructive opinions and strategies to transform the economy for the greater benefit of citizens.

“Today’s event is an opportunity to pay tribute to the working class and to appreciate their invaluable contributions and unflinching commitment to the overall development of Ekiti State and humanity in general. Let me therefore salute the industrious contributions of Ekiti workers, both in public and private sectors who have kept Ekiti moving and created the ever expanding Ekiti Economy for their hard work.  

“I urge you to note that this is a period for dialogue, synergy, mutual understanding in proffering solutions to perennial economic crisis and accountability in governance. I urge workers as major stakeholders to come forth with ideas, constructive opinions and strategies to transform the economy for the greater benefit of the citizens. Let me assure you that on our part, all hands would continue to be on deck to explore better avenues that would make lives convenient for our people”. The Governor asserted.

In her welcome address, the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi asserted that capturing the civic space by workers has become more critical than ever stressing the need for it to be retained through joint efforts of the government and workers through the various labor unions. 

The Head of Service commended Governor Oyebanji’s cordial relationship with labour leaders. She also said the increased minimum wage for workers in the state is a reflection of the commitment to the Governor to the welfare of Ekiti people. The minimum wage, she said, had assisted  every worker to inch  forward in earning a living wage which would help provide basic necessities of life for themselves and their families.

Also speaking at the event, NLC Chairman, Comrade Kolapo Olatunde and TUC Chairman and national president of ASUSS, Comrade Sola Adigun expressed the appreciation of Ekiti workers to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his proactiveness to the welfare of workers in the state acknowledging his good nature and disposition to human resource development as well as all round infrastructural breakthrough in the state.

The labour leaders highlighted the achievements of the Governor in the labour sector to include approval and prompt payment of minimum wage to all workers, defrayment of all salary arrears,  approval for the payment of primary school workers' car and housing loan as well as provision of palliative  buses to convey workers to their workplaces and students to schools free of charge to ease the burden of high transportation costs.

They called on government stall levels to respect and uphold the rights of Nigerian workers adding that no democratic nation could thrive when its workers are pauperized, its unions intimidated and citizens silenced.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Deputy Speaker,  Rt Hon Bolaji Olagbaju, Members of the state executive council and leaders of labour unions.

Oyebanji restates commitment to community development.

Oyebanji restates commitment to community development.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated the commitment of his administration to initiatives that address the needs of local communities across the state, particularly in areas that would have the most significant impact on the lives of residents. 

The Governor stated this Wednesday in his office, while playing host to leaders of Okemesi Ekiti, led by former Attorney General of the state, Barr. Olawale Fapounda (SAN), who came to express appreciation to the Governor for various infrastructure development projects witnessed in their community. 

Emphasizing the importance of grassroots development as a cornerstone of his administration, the Governor said he will not relent in his efforts to drive meaningful development across all communities, stressing that no community will be left behind in the state’s developmental agenda.

While expressing his appreciation to the leadership and people of Okemesi for appreciating and recognizing the efforts of his government in fostering development in their community and the state at large, the Governor assured them that more projects are underway including the construction of Okemesi to Ido Ile road, reconnection of their electricity to a supply station, rehabilitation of water tank, among others.

“Well, I'm excited. You know, people say that political office is a thankless job, So for a community to stand up to say, we are here to thank you, it really touched my heart and I'm so grateful to the leaders of the community. 

“We are encouraged and we are happy that the little we are doing is connecting with the people and it's meeting their needs and aspirations. And my promise to them is we continue to fire on and continue to meet the needs and aspirations of our people because that is why we were elected”. The Governor said.

Earlier in his remarks, Barr. Wale Fapounda, who explained that the purpose of their visit was to express the community's appreciation to the Governor, highlighted construction of okemesi to Itawure road, comprehensive renovation of Okemesi General Hospital, electrification project, among others as part of the dividends of democracy that have accrued to the town under the current administration

Describing these interventions as unprecedented in the history of the town, Fapounda assured the Governor of the continued support beyond 2026

Also at the meeting were, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, among others.

Workers' Day: Ajoni LCDA Chairman Felicitates with Workers, Commends Governor on Welfare Initiatives.

Workers' Day: Ajoni LCDA Chairman Felicitates with Workers, Commends Governor on Welfare Initiatives.

As workers across the nation mark this year’s Workers’ Day, the Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, FCPA, has extended his heartfelt felicitations to the resilient and dedicated workforce of Ajoni.

In his message, the Chairman commended the workers for their steadfastness, commitment and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the LCDA. He noted that their dedication to duty, even in the face of challenges, has remained a pillar of the council's steady progress.

Amb. Ogungbemi also lauded the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for prioritizing the welfare of workers through the timely payment of salaries, housing and car allowances, as well as consistent remittance of deductions. He emphasized that such responsive governance has continued to boost workers’ morale and productivity across the state.

He further reaffirmed his own administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare at the local level, highlighting initiatives such as the annual celebration and recognition of the Best Worker of the Year and his readiness to support workers in times of personal or professional need coupled with in-service trainings for the senior staff in the council. According to him, motivating the workforce remains a top priority in his leadership agenda.

The Chairman charged the workers to redouble their commitment to service delivery, urging them to continue upholding the principles of discipline, diligence, and integrity in their daily assignments.

“On this special occasion of Workers’ Day, I salute all Ajoni workers for their sacrifices and unwavering spirit. Let us remain focused and continue to work in unity for the betterment of our communities and Ekiti State at large,” he said.

GOV OYEBANJI THANKS EKITI PENSIONERS OVER SECOND TERM ENDORSEMENT.

GOV OYEBANJI THANKS EKITI PENSIONERS OVER SECOND TERM ENDORSEMENT.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed his profound gratitude to pensioners in the state under the umbrella of the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) for endorsing his re-election for a second term in office.

The pensioners had, during a programme held at their state secretariat in Ado-Ekiti, on Tuesday, unanimously endorsed the Governor for a second term in office, saying they would repay the good gestures of the Governor to them with their votes in the 2026 governorship election.

The Pensioners praised Governor Oyebanji for placing a high premium on their wellbeing and welfare, thereby reversing high morbidity and mortality rates within their ranks.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, made available to newsmen in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, appreciated the senior citizens for their sundry support for his administration and for their endorsement for a second term in office.

“We appreciate our senior citizens for their support for this administration and for this endorsement. We do not take this show of love for granted.

“The endorsement means a lot to me and to us as a government, especially coming from our highly revered pensioners who are not politicians, but respected senior citizens whose main concern is the development and greatness of our dear State.

“I feel humbled, blessed and highly encouraged by this endorsement by our senior citizens, and I sincerely thank them. Prioritizing the welfare and wellbeing of workers and the senior citizens is a choice we have made from the inception of this administration. And this we shall continue to do conscientiously within available means”, the Governor said in the statement.

In similar vein, Governor Oyebanji also expressed his appreciation to the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress ( NLC); Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and other professional bodies and trade unions that had earlier endorsed him for a second term in office. “We appreciate the love and support of all workers in the state and our senior citizens in our quest for shared prosperity for all Ekitis”, he added.

Workers’ Day: Ekiti LG Chair Warns Against Sabotage, Reaffirms Commitment to Staff Welfare.

Workers’ Day: Ekiti LG Chair Warns Against Sabotage, Reaffirms Commitment to Staff Welfare.

By Asubiojo G.O.

The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, popularly known as Chenco, has warned against acts of sabotage and internal disloyalty within the council workforce, urging staff to uphold discipline and dedication in their service delivery.

Chenco gave the warning in a Workers’ Day message delivered through the Director of Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Asubiojo G.O., during a brief engagement with key management staff at the council secretariat in Igede-Ekiti on Thursday.

While acknowledging that the majority of workers were on holiday to mark the annual Worker's Day celebration, the chairman said the address was necessary to remind staff of their responsibilities and to reiterate the administration’s commitment to staff welfare.

“This administration is committed to transparency and accountability,” he said. “We must all work together in one accord. Let us do away with all divisive activities and meetings held in the shadows to destabilize our collective progress.”

He maintained that unity and focus were crucial to the success of the local government and called on workers to align with the administration’s vision for growth and development.

“As your chairman, I remain committed to your welfare. This administration has never taken your wellbeing lightly, and we will continue to listen to your needs and respond accordingly,” he added.

In his reaction, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Irepodun/Ifelodun chapter, Comrade Aina Festus-Olawole, lauded the chairman’s leadership style, noting that his consistent engagement and openness to workers’ concerns were commendable.

“We appreciate your leadership and your continuous engagement with the workforce. Your commitment to our welfare is evident. I urge our members to show gratitude by remaining committed and productive,” Aina said.

Also speaking, the Head of Local Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola D.B., described the message as timely and encouraging. She urged council staff to avoid distractions and remain focused on their responsibilities.

“The path to greatness in governance lies in synergy between leadership and staff. Let us all play our part faithfully,” she said.