Tinubu to Wike: ignore busybodies, continue the good works.

Tinubu to Wike: ignore busybodies, continue the good works.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to remain focused on his good works and ignore those he referred to as ‘busybodies’.

Tinubu gave the charge on Tuesday while speaking at the inauguration of the rehabilitated International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja, which has been renamed Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.

The President, who noted that the Minister of the FCT has reflected Nigeria and Nigerians in their real characters as a people with taste and strong determination, commended him for portraying the country as such in the quality of works he does at the FCT.

Tinubu, who was taken through a guided tour of the refurbished facility, also hailed the work done on the conference centre, which hosts some of the most significant events in the FCT, also described Wike as a transformational leader.

“You reflect us as people of quality, people of character, people of determination, people of great spirit. That’s what we are. And I’m glad you are reflecting that. Don’t pay attention to the busybodies and the bystanders, whatever they say, continue with your good work. 

“You are a transformational leader. You have the foresight, the vision and determination to succeed. Thank you very much, the President said.

Ekiti Gov Poll: APC Won't be Complacent, We 'II Work Hard to Win - Elesin.

Ekiti Gov Poll: APC Won't be Complacent, We 'II Work Hard to Win - Elesin.

...as deputy gov, party chieftains meet women leaders.

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Sola Elesin, has disclosed that the party has begun aggressive mobilisation and taking strategic actions to galvanise support for the party ahead of the 2026 governorship poll.

Elesin who ruled out chances of complacency, explained that the party's deft  actions came on the heels of the release of the timetable for the off-season Ekiti governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

This revelation  came to the fore, as the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye and top echelon of the party, on Tuesday, met with APC  women leaders across the three senatorial districts and the 16 local government areas to strategise on how to aggressively mobilise the womenfolk ahead of the impeding poll.

Also present at the political meeting held at the Deputy Governor's Office in Ado Ekiti were: Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Governor, Chief Jide Awe and  APC State Women Leader, Mrs Cecilia Eegunlusi

Other high profile politicians at the meeting were: The Director General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mrs Mary Oso Omotosho, the three senatorial women leaders, women leaders across the 16 Local Governments, among others. 

Speaking on behalf of the group tagged: "APC Women Think- thank", the State party Chairman, Barr. Sola Elesin, said the meeting was a prelude and part of the  preparations ahead of the coming election.

Elesin, who branded women as great mobilisers, added that the effort was targeted at ramping up their awareness that INEC had released the governorship time table, so that they can begin aggressive mobilisation in their respective domains.

The APC stalwart expressed confidence that the party will work assiduously to ensure that the party triumphs in the forthcoming poll.

"We invited the women leaders from the three senatorial districts and the 16 Local Governments to officially inform them that INEC had released the Ekiti governorship time table, knowing what women are in politics: great mobilisers.

"What we are doing is a prelude to the readiness for political campaign when INEC finally lifts the ban. The election time table is out. We need to keep our people  abreast of the happenings, so that we can effectively  mobilise our supporters ahead of the election".

On how confident the party is to winning the poll, Elesin said: "Go and do you Independent findings, you will see things for yourself. It is something that is a visible and that  you can see who is going to win the election. Our party is firmly on ground and highly acceptable to the populace".

Speaking further, the APC Chieftain stated that the much awaited governorship  primary  that is gradually becoming a fait accompli on account of the series of endorsements already accorded Governor Biodun Oyebanji shouldn't generate any frenzy or anxiety, saying the party will handle it proficiently.

"Primary is an  internal affairs of a political party. You can see the series of endorsements that Governor Biodun Oyebanji had received from the three senatorial districts and other interested groups. These wont create any crisis. When will get to the bridge, we will know how to cross it".

Eid-el-Kabir: Olufaki of Ifaki-Ekiti Preaches Unity, Joins Muslim Faithful at Eid Ground.

Eid-el-Kabir: Olufaki of Ifaki-Ekiti Preaches Unity, Joins Muslim Faithful at Eid Ground.

The Olufaki of Ifaki-Ekiti, Oba (Dr.) John Adegbenro Falore Ajigbade III, on Friday joined Muslim faithful at the Eid ground along Ifaki/Ayegbaju-Ekiti Road to commemorate the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The traditional ruler, accompanied by his chiefs and respected community leaders, was warmly welcomed by the congregation. His visit was hailed as a powerful symbol of unity, love, and religious harmony in the community.

While addressing worshippers, Oba Falore—an ardent advocate for peaceful coexistence—urged residents to reflect on the spiritual depth of Eid-el-Kabir, emphasizing themes of sacrifice, obedience, and unwavering faith in God.

“The lesson of Ileya lies in the obedience and sacrifice demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim. God commanded him to sacrifice his son, but in His infinite mercy, He replaced the child with a ram. This teaches us not to harm our children or others in the name of faith, but rather to trust and obey God in all things,” he said.

The Chief Imam of Ifaki-Ekiti Central Mosque, Alhaji Jimoh Bashiru, delivered the Eid sermon, urging the faithful to remain devoted to Almighty Allah and embrace the values of gratitude, compassion, and unity.

 “Giving thanks to Almighty Allah enhances our devotion and strengthens our commitment to His will,” he said.

Special prayers were offered by Muslim clerics for peace, prosperity, and development in Ifaki-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and Nigeria at large. They also prayed for divine guidance for leaders at all levels and for the protection of lives and property across the nation.

Community members and worshippers commended the Olufaki for his presence, describing his leadership as inclusive and impactful, consistently promoting religious tolerance and mutual respect within the town.

In a special remark, Oba Falore applauded the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his thoughtful gesture during the festive period. He lauded the Governor for providing rams, food items, and financial support to Muslim faithful across the state, describing the act as a demonstration of love, inclusivity, and responsive leadership.

He also acknowledged the Dangote Foundation for extending similar generosity to both Muslims and Christians during the celebration, commending the brotherly love and commitment to community welfare shown by the Foundation.

Present at the occasion were several notable personalities, including Alhaji Lanre Bakare, the Balogun of the Central Mosque, Ifaki; Hon. Muhideen Suleiman, a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor; on Public Mobilization,Alhaja Sinatu Yusuf, Iya Alasalatu; Alhaji Yesufu Suleiman, the Baba Adini; Chief Abdul Bello, the Aro Egun; Chief Tunde Oke; Asua Egun, Barr Alhaj Haruna Sule, Alhaj Fatai Bakare among others. Their presence added prestige and significance to the event.

Below are the pictures of the event:

Gov. Oyebanji’s Green Agenda: Securing Food and Future in Ekiti.

Gov. Oyebanji’s Green Agenda: Securing Food and Future in Ekiti.

By Oladimeji Oni 

The leadership of Gov. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) in two and half years have exceeded expectations. His administration, guided by six strategic pillars—'Governance, Youth Development and Job Creation, Human Capital Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, Infrastructure and Industrialization, Arts, Culture and Tourism'—has ushered in visible progress across Ekiti State.

In the 2025 budget, Governor Oyebanji explicitly identified Agriculture and Food Security as a top priority. This wasn’t mere rhetoric. His actions have demonstrated a deep understanding of the factors critical to agricultural development—security, infrastructure, land availability, youth empowerment, and market access.

Gov Oyebanji understands that Food security begins with physical security and has tackled this head-on, ensuring that Ekiti remains one of the safest states in Nigeria. Through continuous engagement with security agencies, his administration has equipped operatives with operational vehicles, surveillance tools, and other logistics to respond swiftly to threats. More significantly, known criminal hideouts, especially kidnappers’ dens, have been cleared, ploughed and transformed into productive farmlands. These farms are now monitored by security personnel, creating a safe and stable environment for farmers.

BAO has constructed several farm roads which are not limited to, the construction of 3km Onijuja farm road in Emure Ekiti; 2km Isaya farm road in Isaya Ekiti; 6km Aramoko Odeyemi farm road in Aramoko Ekiti; 2.5km Abulefon farm road in Ikere Ekiti; 6.1km Gbadamosi/Sakoro farm road in Ikoro, Ijero LG; 6km Odogbo/Ajebamidele farm road in Awo, Irepodun/Ifelodun LG; 6.5km Oyikaka/Ayegun farm road in Ipoti, Ijero LG; 2km Temidire/Ilukunno farm road in Temidire, Ijero LG; 6.5km Ilumoba/Ajebamidele farm road in Aiyekire LG. Also, in partnership with the World Bank, over 1,000km of rural roads under the "Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project" (RAAMP), have either been completed or nearing completion. These are not limited to mega road construction in towns and cities.

Governor Oyebanji’s agricultural vision places a strong emphasis on youth inclusion. His agriculture strides has made agriculture lucrative for the youths.

BAO cleared and ploughed about 1000ha for over 400 farmers under the "tractorisation subsidy scheme", he also released N150m for the distribution of agro-chemicals, seeds and seedlings at 50% cost reduction alongside the distribution of 18,000 bags of fertiliser to farmers free of charge. Further more, he engaged 1000 youths in agriculture under the "Bring Youth to Agriculture" in partnership with YSJ Farm Limited. Also, to boast cassava farming in the state, he signed "MoU" with Cavista Holding. But he didn’t stop there—he also equipped these young farmers with modern tools. Even more innovative is the introduction of a "produce buy-back" model, where the government facilitates the purchase of harvested crops—ensuring guaranteed returns and making agriculture a viable career path.

A defining characteristic of BAO’s governance is his grassroots connection. He is not a leader removed from the people. Rather than distancing himself, he regularly mingles with the people on the streets to understand their challenges and those of the larger community. For instance, on his way back from a function at Ogotun last month, he stopped his convoy and alighted from his vehicle to engage with residents around Adekaitan Filling Station near the GRA. They expressed concerns about the damage erosion was causing to their properties and the roads. In response, BAO swiftly took action, and the construction work to address the issue is now nearing completion.

Likewise, his frequent visits to farm clusters and interactions with the farmers has boasted a robust synergy towards food security—when young farmers requested dormitories to stay near their farmlands and a bus for transportation, BAO responded promptly—providing both. These interventions may seem modest, but to the farmers, they are game-changers.

Governor Oyebanji’s results-driven approach to agricultural development is not just commendable—it is replicable. His administration proves that with the right mix of policy, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and on-the-ground engagement, food security is achievable.

Kudos to a forward-thinking governor. His administration is not just growing crops—it’s growing hope, opportunity, and a resilient future.

Oladimeji Oni writes from Ado-Ekiti 

BAO Has Touched Every Life in Ekiti Says Adeboyejo.

BAO Has Touched Every Life in Ekiti Says Adeboyejo.

...Drums Support for Governor’s Continuity Agenda.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and grassroots political mobiliser, Hon. Oluwaseun Adeboyejo, has declared his full support for the re-election and continuity of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) beyond 2026, saying the governor has delivered impactful leadership across all sectors in Ekiti State.

Adeboyejo, who spoke with journalists over the weekend in Omuo Ekiti, Ekiti East Local Government Area, said Oyebanji’s administration has touched every life in the state through what he described as faithful leadership and people-focused governance.

“Governor Oyebanji has not only performed, but he has also outperformed expectations,” Adeboyejo said. “In Ekiti South Senatorial District and across the state, his achievements are evident from infrastructure development, youth empowerment, education, agriculture, to social investments. More importantly, his humility and accessibility stand him out.”

He noted that the governor’s inclusive approach to governance, especially his consistent engagement with citizens, support for traditional institutions, and attention to rural communities, has earned him widespread respect.

“He is the first governor in Ekiti to consult all senatorial zones on policy decisions and host youth-focused town halls that genuinely give our young people a voice,” he added. “That is not politics. That is leadership.”

Adeboyejo warned against attempts by political desperadoes to destabilise the peace and progress currently being enjoyed in the state, describing those spreading misinformation about the government as enemies of the people.

“Ekiti has never had it this good,” he said. “Instead of noise from the opposition, we must consolidate our gains. The 2030 agenda is not just about party politics. It is about the future of our state.”

He urged party members, youth leaders, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders to close ranks and mobilise in support of the governor’s continuity bid.

“We must rise above sentiments. A man who has kept his promises deserves the chance to finish strong. We owe it to ourselves and the next generation,” he said.

As part of his mobilisation efforts, Hon. Adeboyejo has sponsored the design and distribution of campaign banners promoting BAO’s re-election. The banners, which have been mounted in strategic locations including beer parlours and road junctions across Ekiti South Senatorial District, are aimed at amplifying the governor’s continuity message at the grassroots level.

In addition, Hon. Adeboyejo has consistently supported youth development in the state, not only through advocacy, but also by sponsoring empowerment initiatives. He has provided direct financial support and distributed various resources to young people across communities, reinforcing his commitment to youth inclusion in governance and economic advancement.

The APC chieftain, known for his passion for grassroots engagement, described his gesture as a token of loyalty to a leader who has prioritised the needs of the people.

“From empowerment schemes to inclusive governance, BAO has given our youths a sense of belonging. That is why we are standing with him all the way,” he said.

Political analysts believe the widespread support for Governor Oyebanji across local communities signals that the continuity agenda is fast evolving from a political campaign to a popular mandate.

IILG Workers Celebrate Commission Chairman, Samuel Abejide, on Birthday.

IILG Workers Celebrate Commission Chairman, Samuel Abejide, on Birthday.

...Hail his transformational leadership, staff-friendly reforms.

By Asubiojo G.O. 

Workers under the Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State have extended warm birthday felicitations to the Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Samuel Abejide, describing him as a rare breed of leader whose tenure has redefined the local government system across the state.

In a statement released to newsmen on behalf of the workers, the Labour Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, Comrade Aina Festus Olawole, alongside the Head of Local Government Administration, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, praised Abejide’s “trailblazing reforms, consistent staff welfare, and commitment to administrative excellence.”

According to the workers, the Commission under Abejide’s stewardship has recorded landmark achievements that have directly impacted the lives of local government workers, improved staff morale, and strengthened institutional structures.

“From the regular and consistent payment of salaries, including the clearing of outstanding salary arrears owed to LG workers, to the recognition of leave bonus as a right rather than a privilege, Hon. Abejide has shown what true leadership means in the public service,” the statement read.

They also commended the Commission Chairman for driving structural reforms that elevated the local government administration in the state, especially the upgrade from one Permanent Secretary to three, a development that has enhanced administrative capacity across the board.

“During his tenure, the Local Government Service Commission now proudly sits in a beautiful, befitting headquarters complex, comparable to those of other major ministries and parastatals in the state—a feat achieved with the immense backing of our humility-personified and altruistic Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO),” the workers said.

Other notable achievements listed include the constant training and retraining of LG staff, and the unprecedented expansion of LG departments from seven to thirteen, the first of its kind not only in Ekiti State but across the entire Southwest.

Describing Hon. Abejide as a “firm but compassionate administrator,” the workers praised his genuine love for all staff, his mature handling of disciplinary matters, and his unwavering support for issues affecting staff welfare.

“He leads with empathy, listens with understanding, and addresses challenges with fairness and justice,” the statement added. “His humility and accessibility continue to inspire confidence among local government workers.”

The statement also acknowledged that Abejide’s successes would not have been possible without the strong and consistent support of Governor Oyebanji, whose people-centered leadership has continued to foster reforms across all sectors.

As the chairman celebrates another year, the Irepodun/Ifelodun LG workforce offered prayers for continued strength, wisdom, and grace for greater accomplishments.

“Happy birthday to Hon. Abejide Samuel — a visionary reformer, a grassroots leader, and a pride to the Ekiti civil service.”

EID AL-ADHA: SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS, CALLS FOR UNITY AND SACRIFICE.

EID AL-ADHA: SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS, CALLS FOR UNITY AND SACRIFICE.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, representing Ekiti South Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, has extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world as they celebrate the holy festival of Eid al-Adha.

In a message released from his office, Senator Adaramodu congratulated Muslims in Ekiti South, Ekiti State, and the nation at large, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the occasion of this significant religious celebration.

According to the Senator, _“Eid al-Adha is not only a time of festivity but a solemn reminder of the values of faith, obedience, and selfless sacrifice, the principles that are essential to the process of nation-building and effective leadership.”_

He expressed gratitude to the people of Ekiti South for their continued support, assuring them of his unwavering commitment to quality representation and grassroots development.

_“To the good people of Ekiti South, I remain deeply grateful for your trust and patriotism. I am fully committed to ensuring that development touches every corner of our district,” he stated._

Addressing President Tinubu directly, Senator Adaramodu praised the President’s dedication to national renewal, praying for divine guidance and strength as he continues to steer the affairs of the country.

_“Mr. President, Your Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I commend your unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s progress. May this season bring you renewed wisdom, strength, and the courage to lead our nation to greater heights,” he said._

Senator Adaramodu called on all Nigerians to use the occasion of Eid al-Adha to strengthen bonds of unity, peace, and cooperation, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

_“Let this sacred period remind us of our shared values and inspire us to work collectively toward a more united, secure, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added._

He concluded by praying for the acceptance of prayers and sacrifices, and for continued blessings upon all Nigerian families and the nation.

_“May Allah accept our worship, bless our families, and uplift our dear nation. Eid Mubarak to all.”_

Signed:

Senator Yemi Adaramodu

Senator, Ekiti South Senatorial District

Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs.

6th June, 2025