Hon. Oluwagbenga Oluwatuyi Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir, Urges Peace and Unity.

Hon. Oluwagbenga Oluwatuyi Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir, Urges Peace and Unity.

BY Asubiojo G.O

The Executive Chairman of Irepodun-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, popularly known as CHENCO, has extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful across the local government and beyond as they celebrate the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir festival.

In a goodwill message personally signed and made available to newsmen on Friday Hon. Oluwatuyi congratulated all Muslim residents, staff, stakeholders, and citizens of Irepodun-Ifelodun for witnessing yet another blessed occasion, describing the festival as a symbol of sacrifice, obedience, and unwavering faith in God.

He emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence among all religious groups and called on Muslims to reflect deeply on the lessons of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience, which lies at the heart of Eid-el-Kabir.

 "On behalf of the entire leadership and staff of Irepodun-Ifelodun Local Government, I felicitate with our Muslim brothers and sisters on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Kabir. This season reminds us of the power of sacrifice, faith, and unity. I urge us all to continue living in harmony, promoting peace, and upholding the values that make our local government and state stronger together," he stated.

Hon. Oluwatuyi further reaffirmed his administration's commitment to inclusiveness, improved welfare, and infrastructural development across all communities under the local government.

He also praised the resilience and patriotism of the people of Irepodun-Ifelodun, urging them to continue supporting the government at all levels for sustained development.

 "Let us not only celebrate but also extend hands of love and support to the needy. Eid-el-Kabir is a call to sacrifice and compassion. As your Chairman, I remain committed to policies and programs that uplift every citizen and make life more meaningful," he added.

He concluded by praying for lasting peace, prosperity, and God's protection for all residents of the local government and the entire nation.

Ekiti Government Brokers Deal With Tippers Union to Ease Building Material Costs in Ekiti.

Ekiti Government Brokers Deal With Tippers Union to Ease Building Material Costs in Ekiti.

...as the Union Reduces Charges Rates, Offers Free Environmental Services.

As part of efforts to bring cost relief to builders, artisans, and residents across Ekiti State, the Union of Tippers, Suppliers, and Quarrier Employers, after a meeting with the Director General of the Bureau of Local Content, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, has announced a reduction of five thousand Naira per trip in service charges. 

The initiative is aimed at easing the burden of construction costs while also reinforcing commitment to community service.

Speaking on the development, Hon. Ijidale said his office has been engaging the union for the past two months on how to reach modalities concerning the reduction in the prices of building materials such as sand supply and Tipper transportation. 

He maintained that the idea was targeted at reducing inflation and increasing local patronage while plans are underway to address other areas to get prices of commodities reduced and that meetings with quarry owners in Ekiti have been held to equally have their aggregate price controlled. 

The union, in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti by its secretary, Mr Idowu Okunola, says the development comes at a time when rising inflation and surging costs of building materials have slowed construction activities across Nigeria, with many small-scale builders and contractors struggling to stay afloat. 

It says the decision offers a much-needed lifeline to these groups, particularly in Ekiti, where the state government is pursuing multiple infrastructure projects, assuring the public that the reduction will not affect the quality or efficiency of services.

According to the union, the price cut, which takes immediate effect, is mandatory for all its members, urging residents and clients to report defaulters to the State Secretariat or call the number: 0803-232-3270 to ensure compliance. 

Beyond economic support, the union also reaffirmed its partnership with the state government on environmental sustainability, pledging the continued provision of tippers free of charge on designated Environmental Days to aid in clearing waste and debris from public spaces.

It notes that the gesture is in direct support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s “Operation Keep Ekiti Clean” initiative, an environmental agenda that has gained momentum across local government areas in the state.

The union said for many residents, especially in rural communities, the free use of tippers for waste evacuation represents more than just logistics; it is a rare example of organized labour actively contributing to public health and safety.

The Tippers, Suppliers and Quarrier Employers union concluded its statement by expressing gratitude to the Governor for his continued support and encouraged contractors, artisans and the general public to take advantage of the new pricing and environmental services.

Ajoni LCDA Chairman, In a strategic engagement session with Representatives of CIS-International, USA.

Ajoni LCDA Chairman, In a strategic engagement session with Representatives of CIS-International, USA.

In a significant step towards enhancing the well-being of the people of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), the Executive Chairman, Amb. QPrince Michael Ogungbemi, FCPA, convened a strategic meeting with representatives of Counselling in the Street, an arm of Interweave Solutions International (ISI) USA, during their visit to Nigeria.

The delegation to the country was led by Professor Sherry Curtis, the Director of CIS, International. The productive  engagement with the Executive Chairman and his team centered on the formation of a mutually beneficial working partnership in the areas of health and wellness, particularly addressing the physical, mental and emotional health needs of the grassroots populace.

Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi welcomed the delegation warmly and expressed his administration's commitment to fostering collaborations that promote the overall development of the people of Ajoni. He emphasized that good health is foundational to economic productivity and community prosperity. “Our vision is to build a healthy, educated and empowered society. Partnering with credible foreign organizations like Interweave Solutions International will help us actualize this vision,” he said.

Professor Curtis appreciated the Chairman and lauded the LCDA’s progressive drive. She gave an overview of the global and local impact of Counselling in the Street and ISI USA, stating that their focus is to reach underserved communities with psychosocial support, life skills training and holistic health education. She further expressed their readiness to launch tailored health and wellness programs in Ajoni Local Council Development Area, including mental health awareness, youth mentorship and community-based wellness outreach.

The productive partnership concludes with a mutual agreement to begin preliminary needs assessments and mapping exercises in selected communities in the LCDA. Both parties are optimistic that this partnership will yield impactful and sustainable results for the benefit of the people.

This collaboration aligns with the BAO'S administration and  envisions Ajoni LCDA management policy with commitment to inclusive governance, people-centered development and fostering international partnerships for local transformation at the grassroots.

As the chairman post this help me make my own comments to it in perfect way

You are Partners in Progress, Oyebanji Hails EKHA at 2nd Anniversary Plenary.

You are Partners in Progress, Oyebanji Hails EKHA at 2nd Anniversary Plenary.

…Signs Six new Laws, as lawmakers endorse him for second term.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Wednesday hailed the state Assembly for playing a  very crucial role in the growth and development recorded so far even as he signed six bills into law at a special plenary session commemorating the second anniversary of the Assembly. 

The new laws designed to strengthen health care delivery, promote local participation in economic activities and deepen growth and development include: the Ekiti State Quality of Healthcare Bill, 2025; Ekiti State Water Resources, Sanitation and Hygiene Sector law, 2025; Ekiti State Local Content (2nd Amendment) Law, 2025;  

Others are the Ekiti State Statistical (First Amendment) Law, 2025; Ekiti State Senior Secondary School Board Law, 2025; and Ekiti State House of Assembly Service Commission Pension and Loans Board (First Amendment) Law, 2025.

A major highlight of the special plenary session which was witnessed by many frontline leaders, traditional rulers and heads of institutions was a vote of confidence passed on the Governor by the Assembly for his exemplary leadership and endorsing the renewal of his social contract with the people till 2030. 

Speaking after signing the bills into law at the open plenary session, held at the Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the significance of each of the new laws, which according to him, were aimed at providing and improving data management for evidence-based planning, educational governance, staff welfare, local content in procurement, improved water and sanitation, and enhanced healthcare quality.

Commending the lawmakers for their unwavering  cooperation and commitment to the Ekiti project since the inception of the administration, describing them as partners in progress, the Governor noted that their collaborative efforts have been instrumental in advancing his administration’s developmental agenda.

Governor Oyebanji, who also lauded the Assembly for its dedication to the growth and well-being of the state, said the legislature’s focus on enacting laws that address critical issues such as healthcare, water management and local content, demonstrates their unwavering commitment to the sustainable development of the state and the prosperity of its people.

The Governor stated further  that the success achieved thus far are testament to what can be accomplished when there is alignment of vision between the executive and the legislative arms of government, urging the Assembly members to sustain the synergy, which according to him is vital to building a state that meets the aspiration of its citizens.

While assuring the lawmakers of his administration’s continued collaboration, respect and support,  Governor Oyebanji said that the shared vision of transforming Ekiti State into a model of good governance would remain the guiding principle of their partnership.

“Let me use this opportunity to thank members of the House of Assembly for being responsible and responsive, I can’t thank you enough for your commitment to the development of Ekiti State, with the new bills sign now, that will bring the total number of bills singed to 30 in two years, no assembly has done that in the history of the state and it speaks to your resilient, commitment, and it also speaks to the fact that you want the best for your constituents.

“I am extremely grateful to you for the unity of purpose, thank you for aligning yourself with the vision of the party, and thank you also for being a partner in progress, for your patience”, the Governor said.

In his welcome address, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, who expressed the appreciation of the 7th Assembly to the Executive Governor of the State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji for his unwavering support, counsel, and collaboration with the legislative arm, said the synergy have been instrumental to the remarkable milestone it has achieved under his visionary leadership which helped to attain national recognition for the integration of information and communication technology in governance.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye reflected on the legislative achievements of the assembly in the last two years to include enactment of laws that stimulate socio-economic transformation, exercise diligent oversight to ensure accountability in governance as well as deepen constituent engagement bringing about deliberate synergy with their constituents.

The Speaker also affirmed that the Assembly demonstrated extraordinary legislative commitment passing 24 bills into law which almost doubled the previous Assembly’s output in a comparable timeframe as well as 63 resolutions on matters ranging from youth unemployment to environmental conservation.

He added that the laws, which addressed critical areas of data management for evidence-based planning, educational governance, staff welfare, local content in procurement, improved water and sanitation, and enhanced healthcare quality reflected their commitment to an integrated legislative framework that safeguards the well-being of Ekiti people.

While also thanking Ekiti people for entrusting them with the mandate to legislate, oversight, and represent them, the Speaker hinted that the assembly had gone digital with installation of a digital voting system on the floor of the House, as well as launching an in-house broadcasting platform that live-streams plenary sessions and committee hearings to all parts of the state.

In the same vein, the House of Assembly members moved the motion for the endorsement of Governor Oyebanji to continue his administration beyond 2026 to renew his social contract with the people of Ekiti State.

Speaking while moving the motion for the endorsement, which was ratified through a thunderous voice vote by the constituents, Hon. Jacob Adeyemi Awoniyi representing Moba constituency 2, who said Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated exemplary leadership and delivered transformative policies that have positively impacted the lives of Ekiti residents, emphasized that the Governor’s achievements in critical areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare are clear evidence of his commitment to the state’s progress.

Also present at the event were, Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the state Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Acting Chief Judge, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, members of the House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, and Constituent across the state, among others.

Oyebanji restates commitment to digitalized learning, commissions Smart School.

Oyebanji restates commitment to digitalized learning, commissions Smart School.

… Harps on merit-based teachers’ recruitment.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revolutionizing education through digital learning, by establishing digital classes in all schools in the state.

Governor Oyebanji stated this on Tuesday during the commissioning of a Digital Smart School donated by the Chairman and Chief Executive of Equipment Hub Group, Mr Gbolahan Olayomi at the Government College, Ado Ekiti. 

The Governor acknowledged that the Digital Smart School, equipped with Modern ICT tools and e-learning Platforms, is part of his administration’s education blueprint to elevate the standards of public schools, adding that other public  schools in the state would soon benefit from the opportunity.

Commending the Donor for giving back to the Community,  Governor Oyebanji stated that the e-learning facility donated by the Equipment Hub was designed to boost instructional delivery in the school and facilitate effective teaching and learning for improved learning outcomes.

While disclosing that the school was situated at the Government College based on its history of high academic performance, Governor Oyebanji said, ”When the request came, I asked the Ministry of Education, which school in the state has been doing well. If a donor has come to give us this magnitude of investment, there must be value addition. Because their decision is to take it to my community, and I said no. And I know this will add more value to your performance and I thank God that I didn't allow primordial sentiments to obscure my sense of objectivity.”

He also disclosed that his administration will soon embark on training and retraining of teachers that  will align with global digital trends and can fit into the digital world with excellent use of computer and other Interactive technology gadgets among others.

The Governor stated further that his government had also finalized plans to recruit 1,800 teaching and non-teaching staff to strengthen the education system as well as prepare them for introduction of digital smart schools in other secondary schools in the state.

“I just spoke with TESCOM chairman, and I'm going to say this publicly, very soon we are going to start recruitment for teachers. I approved recruitment of 1,800 teachers and non-teaching staff, and It must be based strictly on merit. And if anybody comes to you using my name just know it is a lie. I'm not going to send anybody to you, and I'm saying it publicly here”, the Governor added. 

The encouraged teachers and students to continue to take advantage of various capacity building programmes of government to improve themselves and enhance their performance, restating the commitment of his administration to making quality education accessible to school age children through the free and compulsory education programmes from primary to secondary school level.

In her remarks, the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi commended Governor Oyebanji for his phenomenon transformational leadership in the state, which she said has touched virtually all sectors of the economy.

Dr Olomojobi, who equated the facility in the school to what is available in developed countries of the world called on parents to take advantage of facilities in the school by enrolling their children and wards in order to benefit from the world class technology available in the smart school.

In his address, the Donor, Mr Gbolahan Olayomi described the project as a bold step towards transforming Education in Ekiti State adding that the project aligns with Governor Oyebanji’s vision in preparing Ekiti children for the demands of a technologically advanced world. 

He added that the facility replaces traditional chalkboards and marker boards with state-of-the-art, interactive digital screens equipped with cameras as well as digital screens that capture classroom activities and allow students to revisit lessons at any time, while also enabling remote participation for learners outside the school premises.

The facility, according to Mr Olayomi comprises of 16 solar powered smart classrooms, 16 interactive touchscreens from Wowbii brand, Internet access into all the classrooms and CCTV for effective monitoring.

Oyebanji Charges Churches to Lead Campaign Against Corruption, Get-Rich Quick Syndrome.

Oyebanji Charges Churches to Lead Campaign Against Corruption, Get-Rich Quick Syndrome.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has charged the church to take the leading role in the fight against corruption, illicit wealth acquisition, money rituals, and other get-rich quick syndrome undermining the moral and ethical values in the country. 

The Governor also urged the church leadership to use the pulpit to champion the promotion of godly character and enduring values, stressing that the Nation must be united to fight the demon of materialism that has held the people down for long. 

Governor Oyebanji stated these on Tuesday while declaring open the 2025 annual Conference of Presidents’ Retreat of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, held at the Abiyamo Esther Oyebanji Event Center, Ikogosi Ekiti, with the theme, leading with skills and integrity. He emphasized the need for hard work and integrity in the collective pursuit of peace and prosperity

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to ethical governance, Governor Oyebanji expressed optimism that with the church’s support, the fight against societal vices would gain momentum, thereby leading to a more prosperous and morally upright society.

The Governor expressed concerns over the prevalence of illicit wealth acquisition and fraudulent practices in the country,  stressing that while  wealth creation through hard work remains a virtue for the spread of prosperity in the society, there is need for well meaning Nigerians to collectively fight the crazy appetite for get-rich- quick syndrome that has eaten deep into the fabric of our society, including the Church.  

“I call on the Church to join us in the campaign against the dangerous evils of corruption, illicit wealth acquisition, money rituals and fraudulent activities of some Nigerians.”, he said. 

Containing, the Governor said : “I want to charge the Church to continue to be in the vanguard of the promotion of peaceful coexistence and to use the pulpits for the promotion of godly character and enduring values. As a nation, we must unite to fight the demon of monism in our society”.

Expressing gratitude to God for the opportunity to host the conference for the first time in the history of Ekiti State, the Governor commended the Baptist Mission for its historic role in the development of Ikogosi Ekiti, particularly through the early missionary work of Rev. John Dimagi, who discovered ikogosi warm and cold springs in 1952.

Governor Oyebanji who noted that the church has greatly influenced the town spiritually, educationally, and socially, said most families in ikogosi have benefited from the Baptist mission’s presence over the years.

While calling on the church to continue to support and pray for his government, the state and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Oyebanji said President Tinubu’s reforms have helped steer the nation away from financial collapse, adding that the country has begun to show signs of recovery. 

“We are indebted to the Church for its pioneering role in the development of education and the provision of opportunity for our people. It is for no reason that Ikogosi is a Baptist Town. There is hardly a household that has not benefited one way or the other in the missionary work of the Baptist in this community.

“Let me also implore you to continue to pray and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu whose bold policies and reforms halted the country’s slide into depression and bankruptcy. It is a fact that the economy has started showing sign of stability and recovery. Your prayers and support are needed at this critical time for peace and progress of the nation”. The Governor asserted

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman, Nigerian Baptist Convention Conference Presidents Fellowship, Rev (Dr.) Koeleh Saleh, who commended the Governor for been a good ambassador of Christ and for leading with the fear of God, said afford the conference the opportunity for pray for further progress and development in the state and the country at large.

Also in his welcome address, the host Conference President, Rev (Dr.) Emmanuel Aribasoye explained that the retreat serves as a platform for reflection, strategic planning, and fostering unity among Baptist leaders to promote peace, integrity, and godly values across the country.

Presidents of Baptist Conferences from across the states of the federation and their spouses are part of the retreat, an annual conference of the Baptist mission in the country.

100 Days: Ayedatiwa Sets to Commission Solar-Powered Boreholes, Begins Water Reticulation in Ondo.

100 Days: Ayedatiwa Sets to Commission Solar-Powered Boreholes, Begins Water Reticulation in Ondo.

As part of activities marking his first 100 days in office, Governor Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa of Ondo State is set to commission a series of solar-powered borehole water projects across the three senatorial districts of the state.

The projects, which are tagged as “quick-win interventions” in the water sector, are designed to improve access to clean and portable water in underserved communities.

Some of the benefiting areas include Iyani-Ibaram, Iwanrin-Oka, Oba-Akoko, and Owo, while others include the HOS/PS Secretariat in Alagbaka, Akure, Igbokoda, Ode-Aye, Ode-Erinje, Iju-Odo, and Obe-Nla, among others.

In addition to these borehole projects, the state government has commenced the reticulation of water pipelines from the Owena Multipurpose Dam to communities in seven local government areas under the first phase of the broader water access initiative. The affected LGAs are Akure South, Akure North, Idanre, Ifedore, Ondo West, Ondo East, and Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mrs. Victoria Adetoye, said other local government areas would be covered as soon as the first phase is completed, adding that the entire project is expected to be rounded off before the end of next year.

Also speaking, the General Manager of the Ondo State Water Corporation, Engr. R.S. Ogunjobi, and his counterpart at RUWATSAN, Engr. Oladimeji Rotimi, urged residents of beneficiary communities to safeguard the water facilities and ensure proper maintenance. They also appealed for patience from communities yet to benefit, assuring them of the government's commitment to ensuring equitable distribution of clean water across the state.

Signed:

Olukoju Clement.

Communication Officer (PIU) ODWC.