Oyebanji Named Disability Inclusion Champion as NASET Conference starts in Ekiti.

Oyebanji Named Disability Inclusion Champion as NASET Conference starts  in Ekiti.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has been hailed as Champion of Disability Inclusion in the country, by the Nigeria Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) at its 36th annual conference which started in Ado- Ekiti on Tuesday.

 

The Ekiti State Governor, who was also honoured as a NASET Fellow  at the opening session of the conference with theme: “Transformative Solutions and Inclusive Education for Learners with Disabilities”, was applauded for pioneering major policies and programmes for disability inclusion in the state.

 

The National President of the Association, Dr Catherine James Atteng, said Governor Oyebanji became a voice for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) by embedding inclusivity into state policy, stressing that by doing so the Governor has also made Ekiti a “model for Nigeria”. 

 

Dr Atteng, in her opening address to the participants drawn from the 36 states of the Federation and FCT,  hailed Ekiti’s “unprecedented accessibility”, contrasting it with bureaucratic hurdles usually experienced elsewhere, adding that Governor Oyebanji makes everyone feel valued. 

 

Governor Oyebanji in his keynote address, detailed some sweeping reforms that have impacted positively on PWDs in the state, including the establishment of Ekiti’s first therapy centre in Ado-Ekiti,  free sessions, meals, and transport for Persons with Disabilities. Upgrading of facilities at the state’s three special schools to global standards with cutting-edge equipment and trained specialists, preparation of students for national exams like WAEC and UME, with many securing university admissions.

 

Others programmes of the administration, according to the Governor, include economic empowerment, vocational training, trade certifications, and start-up grants for PWDs. He added that all PWDs now access free healthcare statewide.

 

Speaking further, the Governor, who was represented at the vent by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, said that disability inclusion has become the administration's cornerstone and  he is  walking the talk through policies and actions.

 

Governor oyebanji noted that the creation of the office of Special Education and Social Inclusion and Agency for Disabilities Affairs, backed by the Ekiti State Disability Laws are some of the strategic moves responsible for the success witnessed in the area of inclusion. He urged participants to make the conference result- oriented with workable policies and recommendations knowing well that the success of the advocacy to improve the lives of people with disabilities is a collective responsibility.

 

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, in her welcome address as the Host, thanked the Governor for providing necessary support for the PWDs community and special schools in the state.

Agboola disclosed that in furtherance of the Governor’s passion for special students, the state would witness the establishment of Nigeria’s first inclusive school, billed to take off in Ikole by September. The aim, according to her is to integrate PWDs with their peers- a move that is already fueling high enrollment in the special schools. 

In her own remarks, the State Commissioner for Education,  Dr. Adebimpe Aderiye, credited the Governor for his “empathy-driven leadership,” citing the creation of the Office of Special Education  and Social Inclusion as a “game-changer” for synergy across ministries.

Ekiti 2026: Ekiti Drink Vendors Endorse Gov Oyebanji For Re-Election.

Ekiti 2026: Ekiti Drink Vendors Endorse Gov Oyebanji For Re-Election.

Members of Ekiti State Beer, Wine, Food, and Drink Sellers Association have endorsed Governor Oyebanji for second term in office, citing the Governor’s commitment to fostering a business–friendly environment and driving economic growth in the state for their decision.

The Association members, who held an endorsement road walk in support of the Governor’s second term bid on Monday, stormed the Governor’s office in Ado Ekiti to register their endorsement. They commended Governor Oyebanji  for his significant contributions to the development of micro and small enterprises in the state, and for creating a conducive environment for economic growth. 

Speaking on behalf of the Association, the President, Mr Williams Ogundare  said the Governor has consistently demonstrated commitment to the prosperity of businesses in the state with various policies and programmes that have significantly enhanced the ease of doing business for small and medium enterprises in the state, particularly the beverage sector. 

Highlighting the Governor’s efforts and pointing to his achievements in enhancing infrastructure, supporting and patronizing local businesses, and streamlining tax policies to encourage growth, Ogundare said these strides have positively transformed the state and the industry, hence the need to support the Governor for a second term so as to be able to consolidate on these gains and ensure sustained progress.

Responding on behalf of the Governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, who expressed gratitude to the Ekiti State Beer, Wine, Food, and Drink Association for the endorsement, described the association’s support as a reflection of the positive impact the Oyebanji led-administration’s policies have on the state’s business environment and overall development.

While highlighting the government’s dedication to the implementation of initiatives that address the challenges faced by business owners, particularly those in the food and beverages industry to ensure sustained progress and economic stability, Prof Adubiaro assured the association that the Governor remains committed to the growth and prosperity of all sectors in the state.

She explained that Governor Oyebanji sees the endorsement as a call to action to continue working tirelessly for the betterment of the state, stressing that the Governor’s second term would not only consolidate on its achievements but also introduce new measures to create more opportunities and improve the livelihood of all Ekiti residents.

Ekiti State Champions Inclusive Education, Hosts Special Educators' National Conference.

Ekiti State Champions Inclusive Education, Hosts Special Educators' National Conference.

Ekiti State has taken centre stage in the national discourse on inclusive education as it plays host to the 36th Annual National Conference of the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET). 

Themed “Transformative Solutions to Inclusive Education Practices and Accessibility for Learners with Special Needs and Teachers in Nigeria,” the event calls attention to urgent gaps in Nigeria's special education system and the need for systemic reforms.

The conference, supported by the Office of the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, kicked off with a sensitisation rally through the streets of Ado-Ekiti, led by NASET National President, Dr. Catherine Atteng. 

The walk began at the Oke Iyinmi roundabout and ended at the Governor’s Office, where participants were received by Ekiti State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Folakemi Olomojobi, and Special Adviser on Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola.

Dr. Olomojobi described the special educators as “exceptional nation builders,” acknowledging their role in executing reforms championed by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji in special education schools. 

She emphasised the need for continuous professional development, encouraging teachers to leverage government empowerment initiatives and seek personal advancement.

On her part, Princess Agboola, who facilitated a tour of the Children Therapy Centre in Oke Orí-Omi, in the state capital, stressed the Governor Oyebanji administration’s commitment to enhancing inclusive learning infrastructure, therapy access and welfare support for children with disabilities and their caregivers.

The NASET’s leadership later received further commendation, during a courtesy meeting with the Commissioner for Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Olabimpe Aderiye, where the commissioner emphasised the role of sign language and other inclusive tools in bridging communication gaps in classrooms and society. 

“Inclusion goes beyond sympathy. It means full integration, support and equal opportunity, praising Princess Agboola’s proactive leadership in social inclusion," she said. 

Dr. Aderiye recalled the impacts of some of the inclusive practices already put in place in Ekiti, including an online sign language course which the commissioner said she had personally benefited from and further expressed her intention to learn braille, emphasizing that being equipped with tools to communicate with all learners, regardless of ability is a responsibility every education stakeholder must take seriously.

Responding, NASET President Dr. Atteng lauded Ekiti’s growing reputation as a pacesetter in special education and commended the transparent and responsive governance of the state’s education sector. 

“Ekiti is setting a standard in inclusive learning. The support given to special educators here is both symbolic and practical,” she noted.

Dr. Atteng also drew attention to the unique skill set of her members, trained to teach in both conventional and special schools, calling on other states to emulate Ekiti’s inclusive governance model.

OJUAWO TASKS CONSTITUENTS ON MORE INVESTMENTS IN AGRICULTURE.

OJUAWO TASKS CONSTITUENTS ON MORE INVESTMENTS IN AGRICULTURE.

.....as he gives two years account of stewardship.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, lawmaker representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, has tasked his constituents to invest more in agriculture. This call comes as he presents a comprehensive two-year report of his stewardship in the National Assembly. The report highlights impactful account of stewardship in the core areas of legislation, representation and oversight functions in the House of Representatives.

The retired Air force Chief and first-time member of the House of Representatives addressed a news conference on Saturday, June 14, where he told journalists his efforts as a representative of his people since taking office in June 2023. 

According to Ojuawo, he has sponsored four significant bills and co-sponsored several others, moving six motions on the floor of the House.

In the area of legislation, the bills sponsored by Hon. Ojuawo include:

1. A Bill to Establish a Federal College of Agriculture and Forestry in Ise Ekiti (July 2023)

2. A Bill to Amend the Veteran Federation of Nigeria Act (2024) to enhance welfare and healthcare for military veterans

3. A Bill to Amend the Armed Forces Cap 20 Law of the Federation of Nigeria (2004) to ensure efficient military force application in national security

4. A Bill to Include Private Tertiary Institutions in Government Research Grants from TETFUND

He has also moved six significant motions, namely:

1. A motion advocating for Leadership Training in School Curriculum 

2. An urgent motion seeking thorough investigation into the fatal armed robbery in Ikere Ekiti on December 14, 2023

3. A motion calling for investigation into the tragic death of Master Damilola Iyanda, a serving youth corps member from Ogotun Ekiti

4. A motion to address the economic impact of exporting raw materials and importing finished goods

5. A motion to replace road checkpoints with strengthened highway patrols

6. A motion urging the federal government to channelize the Oruwo River and rebuild the collapsed reservoir in Igbara Odo Ekiti

In addition, Hon. Ojuawo has implemented people-focused projects across education, agriculture, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and social welfare development within his two-year tenure.

Key interventions by Hon. Ojuawo in his constituency include:

Education and Training

- Sponsored secondary school students to a 5-day leadership training organised by Children of African Leadership and Value Development Initiatives in Abuja annually started since Nov 2023

- Trained 32 elected councillors in Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1 for effective and efficient service delivery

- Constructed a six-classroom block at Ogotun High School

- Trained and empowered 55 farmers on fish farming with starter kits and grants

Agriculture and Youth Empowerment

- Established Ojuawo Empowerment Farm at Ogbese, Ise Ekiti, for farmers from Ise, Orun, and Ikere Ekiti

- Established another cluster farm at Ikato Ogotun Ekiti for farmers from Ilawe, Igbara Odo, and Ogotun

- Distributed 875 bags (50kg each) of fertilizer to farmers

- Facilitated supplies of farm tools and inputs to farmers

Infrastructure and Utilities

- Graded roads in various locations, including Ayetoro Transformer Road and Upaso Farm Road

- Facilitated construction of a 2km road on Ajegunle to Agbado Road in Ise Ekiti

- Drilled boreholes and solar-powered boreholes in several locations 

1. BOUESTI Hostel, Ikere Ekiti

2. Ayetoro Community, Ikere Ekiti

3. Federal College of Education site, Ilawe Ekiti

4. Ojuawo Empowerment Farm, Ikato Ogotun

5. Ojuawo Empowerment Farm, Ogbese Ise Ekiti

6. Arogbodo Street, Ojude Ise Ekiti

- Distributed 228 solar streetlight poles across the constituency

- Facilitated supplies of two 300KVA transformers to Obasanjo Estate and Erinwa Quarter

Welfare and Social Programs

- Provided monthly allowances for Local Government Party Excos

- Offered ₦1 million support to Saw Millers Association in Ikere Ekiti

- Purchased roofing sheets for food vendors association in Ilawe Ekiti

- Distributed 25 motorcycles to constituency members

- Purchased a Golf car for a party member who lost his vehicle in an accident during the 2023 elections

-Supported the ₦500 million Arinjale Palace fundraising during the OJOADUSE Day 2023 Festival in Ise Ekiti

At a press briefing, Hon. Ojuawo reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing service delivery. He outlined his future plans, prioritizing:

- Youth empowerment and employment

- Social programs for elders

- Sports development

- Improved health services

He urged constituents, especially youths, to acquire relevant skills for today’s competitive society. Quoting the adage, “An idle hand is a workshop for the devil,” 

Hon. Ojuawo emphasized the importance of farming as a profession of innovation, not just tradition. He encouraged skill acquisition, leadership training, and mentorship to prepare youths for the future.

Hon. Ojuawo urged the people of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I to continue supporting Governor Oyebanji’s administration and its Shared Prosperity vision for a better future, encapsulated in the theme “Ekiti First, Ekiti Together, Ekiti Forward.”

He also called on party leaders and members to align with the Governor’s Six-point Agenda and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing them as “life-changing blueprints” that are already yielding positive results, reflected in the nation’s GDP growth.

In recognition of his transparency and forthrightness, Hon. Ojuawo was recently honoured with the Icon of Integrity award by the Zero Tolerance for Corruption Association of Nigeria among other several awards

️OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM.

EKITI 2026: NULGE NATIONAL LEADERSHIP RALLIES SUPPORT FOR GOV OYEBANJI'S RE-ELECTION.

EKITI 2026: NULGE NATIONAL LEADERSHIP RALLIES SUPPORT FOR GOV OYEBANJI'S RE-ELECTION.

….Describes him as "a shining example among governors in Nigeria".

The national leadership of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has rallied support for the re-election of Ekiti State Governor, Mr  Biodun Oyebanji on the strength of his administration's better welfare package for council workers in the state. 

The umbrella body of local government workers in Nigeria also described Oyebanji as "an exceptional leader and a shining example among governors in Nigeria" for his consistent support and unwavering commitment to the welfare of local government workers in Ekiti State.

The NULGE President General, Comrade Aliyu Haruna Kankara, in an appreciation letter addressed to Oyebanji said the national body of the union stands by the Governor as the Ekiti governorship election approaches and also celebrates the impact of his administration on the lives of LG workers in the state.

The national NULGE, according to the letter dated 11th June, 2025, said Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to improving the lots of local government workers by ensuring prompt payment of their benefits including the outstanding arrears he met on ground, promotion of workers and provision of incentives that have boosted service delivery.

Kankara in the letter said the union is also delighted by the Ekiti Governor's gesture of appointing three NULGE members as Permanent Secretaries, seven others as Executive Secretaries, and many Heads of Local Government Administration in addition to regular promotion of workers as well as clearing of outstanding arrears of salaries and leave bonuses.

The letter reads in part: "His (Oyebanji's) recent approval of additional N100 million for LG Staff Loans Board, in addition to the prior recapitalization of N200 million, reflects the Governor's dedication to empowering the staff thus providing them with necessary resources to fulfill their aspirations of owning cars and building houses of their own.

"It is gratifying to acknowledge the efforts you are making in touching the lives of pensioners through the allocation of more funds for gratuity payments, as well as your consistent work in fulfilling campaign promises thereby improving the lives of residents of Ekiti State by providing socio-economic infrastructure across the length and breadth of Ekiti State.

"We are particularly grateful for your resolution of the longstanding issue of CONHESS and CONMESS and the payment of 100 percent arrears in the health sector. This, no doubt, has provided the much-needed relief to our members in that sector after 13 years of agitation.

"In the same vein, Your Excellency's directive in respect of the upcoming promotion exercise for 2024/2025 is a significant step towards the career growth of our members which will translate to efficiency and effective service delivery at the grassroots.

"Your Excellency's generosity in acquiring 49 Toyota Corolla cars for HLAs in the LGAs and LCDAs and a new Toyota Hiace business for the Ekiti State NULGE Chapter is a testament to your commitment to easing the mobility challenges faced by local government management staff.

"As the gubernatorial election approaches, we stand by you and celebrate the positive impact you have made in the lives of our members and the local government service through intentional institution reforms.", the NULGE President added.

Akomolede Hails Chief Samuel Abejide at 79, Describes Him as Formidable Leader, Father of Repute.

Akomolede Hails Chief Samuel Abejide at 79, Describes Him as Formidable Leader, Father of Repute.

By Rotimi Akomolede 

The Permanent Secretary of the Ekiti State Local Government Loans Board, Mr. Rotimi Akomolede, has celebrated the 79th birthday of the Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel A. Abejide, describing him as a pragmatic and formidable leader and a father of repute whose legacy of service continues to resonate across Ekiti State.

In a goodwill message made available to journalists on Wednesday, Akomolede praised the elder statesman, an illustrious son of Ipao Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area, for his decades of outstanding contributions to public administration and grassroots development. He said Chief Abejide remains a shining example of visionary leadership and a staunch advocate for the welfare of local government workers.

“Chief Abejide is a rare gem whose consistent advocacy for improved conditions for our local government staff is deeply appreciated. His wisdom, integrity, and tireless commitment to grassroots development have left an indelible mark on the Ekiti public service,” Akomolede said.

He commended the veteran administrator’s achievements since assuming office as Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, noting that his tenure, backed by the unwavering support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has brought about a new era of reform and accountability in the system.

According to him, Chief Abejide led one of the largest promotion and conversion exercises in Ekiti’s local government history, affecting over 1,800 staff across various cadres. He also spearheaded welfare improvements and enhanced logistics for workers across all 16 local government areas and facilitated intensive capacity-building programmes to retrain council workers in modern administrative practices.

Akomolede further highlighted Chief Abejide’s critical role in strengthening the Local Government Staff Loans Board through his close collaboration with the Oyebanji-led administration. He listed key interventions including the promulgation of the Ekiti State Local Government Staff Loans Board Law 2023, the release of an initial ₦200 million recapitalization fund in September 2023, the procurement of two Toyota Corolla vehicles in April 2025 to support the Board’s operations, and a fresh ₦100 million recapitalization fund approved in May 2025.

“These interventions and reforms under Chief Abejide’s leadership have not only restored confidence in the system but have also set a new standard for service delivery, transparency, and worker empowerment in Ekiti’s local government administration,” Akomolede stated.

He prayed for long life, good health, and renewed strength for the elder statesman while expressing deep gratitude for his fatherly guidance and steady contributions to the growth of the state.

As Chief Abejide marks his 79th birthday, colleagues, associates, and admirers across the state have continued to pour in goodwill messages, celebrating his enduring influence and statesmanship in public service and community leadership.

INEC Commissioner Kunle Ajayi Donates Moot Parliament to EKSU

INEC Commissioner Kunle Ajayi Donates Moot Parliament to EKSU.

By Olamide Akinwumi.

The National Commissioner representing the South-West at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Kunle Ajayi, has donated a newly constructed Moot Parliament House to the Department of Political Science at Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti.

Ajayi, an alumnus and lecturer in the department, handed over the facility to the university management during a brief ceremony held on campus.

Speaking at the event, Professor Ajayi described the gesture as his own modest way of giving back to the institution that shaped his academic and professional journey. He praised the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Babatola Ayodele, for approving and supporting the project from its inception.

According to him, the Moot Parliament is intended to serve as a practical learning laboratory for students, particularly in courses related to democracy and governance.

"It is my strong desire to make functional and practical knowledge available to Political Science students," Ajayi said.

"The Moot Parliament is expected to transform the teaching of democratic and legislative processes from mere classroom theorizing to something more practical and impactful."

He noted that the structure would also provide a proper venue for parliamentary debates by the National Association of Political Science Students (NAPSS), EKSU chapter, and help the department meet the requirements for future accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Babatola Ayodele, expressed gratitude to the donor on behalf of the Governing Council and university community. He assured that the institution would make optimal use of the facility for academic and extracurricular development.

Ayodele also used the occasion to call on other stakeholders and alumni to emulate the kind gesture of Professor Ajayi by contributing to the university's growth. He urged staff, particularly those in the Faculty of Social Sciences, to ensure the facility is properly maintained.

The event was attended by principal officers of the university, including Deans, Professors, Directors, and other staff members, who were later led on an inspection tour of the new building.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by Bode Olofinmuagun, anipr, Deputy Registrar and Head of the Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs.