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Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Our Agricultural Interventions Curbing Crime in Rural Communities, says Oyebanji.

Our Agricultural Interventions Curbing Crime in Rural Communities, says Oyebanji.



Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to boosting the economy and tackling societal challenges through strategic agricultural interventions.


Speaking at the official launch of the Odu’a Agro-Industrial Hub and flag-off of the SWAgCo-BATNF Sustainable Development of Maize Micro-Enterprise Farmers Project in Oke-Ako, on Tuesday, Governor Oyebanji emphasized that previous agricultural efforts by his administration have yielded significant results over the past two and a half years.


Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, the Governor commended the initiative by SWAgCo and the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), describing it as a vital step towards youth empowerment, enhanced agricultural productivity, and sustainable development in the state.


He noted that the project is designed to address hunger, stimulate productivity, and contribute to tackling insecurity, especially in rural and semi-urban communities. 


According to him, Ekiti State’s agricultural interventions have not only created employment opportunities but also helped reduce crime in high-risk areas like the Agric Processing Zone.


Oyebanji announced that with the anticipated success of the current phase of the SWAgCo-BATNF maize farming initiative, the number of participating farmers will increase from the initial 100 to several thousands.


“We currently have about 5,000 participants in our ‘Bring Back the Youths into Agriculture’ programme. At the beginning, especially in Erinfun, Ado Ekiti, it was difficult to convince youths to join. But after the first harvest, when they saw the financial benefits, more joined the programme”, he said.


Also speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director of Odu’a Investment Company, Mr. Abdulrahman Yinusa, said the maize cultivation initiative represents what can be achieved through collaborative efforts between strong institutions and committed partners.



He explained that the Oke-Ako agro-industrial hub is not merely a production site but a comprehensive platform integrating all key players in the agricultural value chain, from land development and input supply to mechanization, processing, storage, and logistics. 


He said the hub is designed to promote inclusive growth, empower youth and women, and drive local economic development.


In his remarks, SWAgCo Chairman, Mr. Owolabi Salami, described the hub as a centralized ecosystem designed to support all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain, including land developers, input suppliers, extension services, commodity processors, and logistics firms.


The General Manager of British American Tobacco Nigeria, Mr. Olúdáre Odusanya, highlighted the project's aim of empowering smallholder farmers to become drivers of sustainable development. 


He noted that participating farmers will benefit from access to improved maize seed varieties with better yield potential and climate resilience, agronomic training, extension services, financial support, market linkages, and a robust community support system designed to ensure long-term impact.

Oyebanji, God's Factor and the Merchants of Blackmail.

Oyebanji, God's Factor and the Merchants of Blackmail.
 By Raheem Akingbolu.



In a desperate move to suppress my anger over the level of propaganda and  lies going on around Ekiti State Governor, H.E Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), I picked one of my favourite Islamic Literature books; ‘Hasad: A Condemnation of Envy and Envious People’ and I spotted the quote below on page 16.

  

“To envy is to desire the removal of Allāh’s Blessings from their owner. This is the first level of envy. The second level is to hope misfortune follows the servant [as a shadow would follow its object]. On this level the envious one wishes that the object of their envy remains ignorant, poor, weak, and hopes that their heart is separated from Allāh.”

 

 

Yes, envy was described as a sickness by the Prophet of Islam, the current situation in Ekiti has reaffirmed this position. Even though the months before elections are generally tense, with blackmailing merchants and purveyors of half-truths struggling to steal the show, the current situation in Ekiti is inhuman and abnormal. In the last few weeks, I have observed these abnormalities and I have been provoked to ask if this is Ekiti.  As a people, we are known for truth and principle but these virtues appear to be eluding us little by little.

 

When Oyebanji became governor, Ekitis trooped out in celebration that at last they had gotten the governor they desired. We saw the homegrown advantage of the new helmsman as a blessing and we hoped for the best in terms of human and infrastructural developments. Months into the administration, BAO’s activities and approach to governance further lent credence to the fact that he was well groomed to pilot the ship of the state. He knew the problems and how best to address them. He was accessible to all and this shows in his relationship with all the stakeholders -traditional rulers,  civil servants and ordinary men and women on the streets.

 

Prior to his emergence as governor, many towns were locked in total power outage in Ekiti  but BAO hit the ground running immediately and restored electricity. In a resolute effort to boost the local economy and propel industrial development through the robust growth of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Ekiti State, the governor commissioned the extension of the 132/133 KVA power substation from Omisanjana in Ado Ekiti to reconnect Ikogosi-Ekiti and other communities back to the national grid after years of power outages.

The Governor emphasised that his government would not tolerate the idea of towns being left in perpetual power outages for a period of 15 years. He described this as a potential danger that could cripple businesses and increase the poverty level in the state.

 

There was no nightlife, ditto the flourishing economy. Insecurity spiralled like a bush fire in the harmattan. The local economy was comatose and poverty soared to an alarming and tremulous dimension. But, when the righteous are in power, the people rejoice. This is exactly the case of Ekiti State currently.

Shrewd and apt enough, ‘Infrastructure and Industrialisation’ is one pillar in the policy-thrust of Oyebanji’s administration. But nobody knew the magic wand he wished to wield to industrialise the state. He had a focus and this is steadily gaining momentum and manifesting in folds and miles.

 

Beyond infrastructural development, welfare of Ekiti workers was given a special priority under Oyenbanji and since he assumed office, the issue of nonpayment of salary has become a thing of the past. From Local government to those in the main stream of local government, it has now become a honeymoon. Another achievement of the administration is the offsetting of the backlog of pensions owed the retirees. Perhaps the most innovative of Oyebanji policies is the way he factors in the interest of the informal sector, which gives artisans and market men and women a say in his government.

 

As a result of all these, Ekiti people saw the need to further support the governor and urged him to go for the second term in office. This explains the recent jamborees in various communities and the endorsement of Oyebanji for the second term in office. Unfortunately, some naysayers, who were threatened by the governor’s popularity and acceptability, took offence and started mapping out strategies to nail him.

Knowing well that it would be difficult to point out any flaw in his government and approach to governance, they resorted to blackmail. First was the attempt to set him against Mr. President that he orchestrated an ‘illegal’ endorsement. Of course, this died a natural death immediately with the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu himself by those who knew the President deserved another term to fully actualise his political and economic reforms.

 

Again, in an attempt to throw a spanner into chummy relationship between the governor and the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, they cooked another story that BAO was working with former Governor Niyi Adebayo to frustrate the taking off of the newly established Federal University of Technology and Environmental Science, Iyin Ekiti. Interestingly, this was also debunked by stakeholders, including the ministry of education and the Oluyin in council, with statements proving the governor’s support through the unconditional release of the state’s state of the earth permanent site of the Science College for the takeoff of the University.  Case closed.

 

The final straw that broke the camel’s back was the recent endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second term bid by President Tinubu. Immediately the timetable for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election was released, those who were hell-bent that a certain gubernatorial hopeful must become governor came to town with another concocted lie that the President had given his nod to the aspiration of their candidates. But with Tinubu’s position during his meeting with former Governor Ayodele Fayose and the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejuyigbe, their lies fell like a pack of cards.

 

At this stage and with the backing of all the former governors of the state, the traditional rulers, the civil servants, the artisans and the political neutrals, is it not high time everybody surrendered and queued behind the chosen one for the benefit of Ekiti people. In Oyebanji, Ekitis seem to have gotten their political messiah.

 

By continuing to run down BAO for personal gains, the promoters of hate speeches in Ekiti will end up destroying their lives and future. Excerpts and Adaptation from Al-Hidaayah: the Book “Diseases of the Hearts and Their Cures” should be suffixed enough for those who are still chasing shadows.

According to  Ibn Taymiyyah who described envy as a disease of the heart, it’s one of the major sins which is bound to destroy good deeds as fast as the fire burns the wood and dry grass to ashes. “Jealousy eats away at good deeds, just as fire eats away at firewood.” [Sunan Ibn Majah]

If indeed envy is hating the good that happens to others, then those who have taken this as their trade simply because of their evil determination to scuttle BAO’s second term agenda, should expect nothing but consequences of their actions.

It is said that the people who have the greatest degree of restlessness are the envious people. Such a person has no peace and is continuously grieved.

The greatest harm from envy comes to the envier, who with one’s displeasure with God’s decree attains a great loss to oneself.

A Tribute to a Shining Star: Agbaje Oluwadamilola Fatima.

A Tribute to a Shining Star: Agbaje Oluwadamilola Fatima.



The Ministry of Youth Development, Ekiti State, is gutted and heartbroken by the sudden and deeply painful loss of a shinning star and an exceptional young leader, Agbaje Oluwadamilola Fatima. Her untimely departure has left an immense void in our hearts and in the vibrant youth community she so passionately served.

Damilola was much more than a bright prospect; she was a truly knowledgeable, outspoken, and beautiful young lady with the whole world at her feet. Her intellect shone brightly, her voice was a powerful advocate, and her future held limitless potential. It is heartbreaking to reflect on the bright path that lay before her, a path now tragically cut short.

Her commitment and brilliance were evident in her remarkable achievements, which, though accomplished in a life too brief, stand as a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication. 

Damilola graduated with First Class Honours in her Law programme from Elizade University, a clear mark of her academic excellence. She diligently served as the Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State Youth Parliament, where she tirelessly championed the aspirations of young people across our state. She also proudly represented Ekiti State as a distinguished Fellow of the prestigious Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI). Having just completed her Law School, she was on the very brink of being called to the Nigerian Bar poised to embark on a legal career that promised significant impact. 

Furthermore, Damilola's leadership was instrumental to the review of Ekiti Youth Policy document as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee in the Ekiti Youth Parliament, a role in which she helped shape the foundational policies that will empower future generations.

Damilola's boundless passion for youth development, her steadfast commitment to justice, and her inspiring leadership will be sorely missed. She was a beacon of hope and a living embodiment of what true Omoluabi entails. 

Her enduring legacy will continue to motivate Ekiti youth to pursue excellence and to passionately advance the causes she held so dear.

Our deepest condolences and thoughts are with her beloved family, cherished friends, Ekiti State Youth Parliament, dedicated colleagues, and everyone whose lives were touched by her extraordinary spirit. May her gentle soul find eternal peace.

Signed,
Adesola Gold Adedayo
Hon. Commissioner, 
Ministry of Youth Development, Ekiti State.
Chairman, Nigeria Youth Commissioners Forum.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman, Hon. Oluwatuyi, Celebrates Chief Abejide with Poise and Passion.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman, Hon. Oluwatuyi, Celebrates Chief Abejide with Poise and Passion.
...Describes Him as the Architect of a New Dawn in Ekiti LG System.
By Asubiojo G.O.



The Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Oluwatuyi Gbenga, fondly known as Chenco, has issued a glowing birthday tribute to the Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel Abejide, on his 79th birthday, calling him “the architect of the new dawn in Ekiti's local government history.”

In a joint statement signed by Hon. Chenco and the Head of Local Government Administration, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, the duo paid resounding tribute to a man they described as “both a compass and a craftsman”—one who not only envisioned change, but meticulously built it.

“Chief Abejide is not a man of abstract theory,” said Hon. Chenco, “he is a man of practical impact. From the corridors of power to the heart of every LG staff member, his work echoes.”

They credited Abejide with lifting the morale of local government workers across the 16 LGAs through:
🌟 Institutional restructuring and enhanced administrative efficiency
🌟 Staff-friendly reforms, including welfare prioritization
🌟 Expansion of departments from 7 to 13—ensuring specialization and productivity
🌟 Regular promotion and fair disciplinary processes
🌟 The building of a state-of-the-art Commission headquarters symbolizing a bold new era

Mrs. Akinbobola added that Abejide’s reforms were not just about paperwork, “but about the people behind the files—fathers, mothers, youths—who now feel seen, respected, and empowered.”

“Under his watch,” she continued, “the dignity of LG workers has been restored. He leads with grace, listens with depth, and decides with wisdom.”

The statement also lauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his unwavering support, which they say has given Abejide the platform to manifest his visionary ideas.

As the Commission Chairman celebrates his 79th year, Hon. Chenco and Mrs. Akinbobola joined the chorus of voices statewide in prayer and praise:

“May this new year bring you greater strength, deeper peace, and the satisfaction of knowing that you have rewritten the story of local governance in Ekiti.”

Princess Bamisile Adesola Clara Hails Chief Samuel Abejide on 79th Birthday.

Princess Bamisile Adesola Clara Hails Chief Samuel Abejide on 79th Birthday.
…Says His Reforms Have Reshaped LG System, Uplifted Workers’ Welfare.
By Adesola Oluwayemisi.



The Executive Chairman of Oye Local Government, Princess Bamisile Adesola Clara, has joined hundreds of well-wishers across Ekiti State to celebrate the Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel Abejide, on the occasion of his 79th birthday, describing him as “a trailblazer and an institution in grassroots governance.”

In a congratulatory statement personally signed by Princess Bamisile—the first female Chairman of Oye Local Government—she described Chief Abejide as a father figure whose commitment to public service continues to leave indelible marks on the fabric of local government administration in Ekiti State.

“Today, we are not only celebrating a man of great wisdom and capacity, but a reformer whose leadership has redefined the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission,” she said. “Chief Samuel Abejide embodies resilience, compassion, and excellence in service. His 79 years have been a journey of impact and transformation.”

Princess Bamisile highlighted a number of Abejide’s major achievements, especially during his tenure as Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission. She praised his role in ensuring the regular and prompt payment of salaries, including the clearing of outstanding arrears that once burdened local government workers.

According to her, “Chief Abejide brought back dignity to local government service by treating workers not just as employees but as essential partners in governance. His prioritization of leave bonuses, merit-based promotions, and disciplinary fairness is a testament to his uncommon leadership.”

She also applauded his structural reforms, including the expansion of LG departments from seven to thirteen, a first-of-its-kind development in the Southwest, as well as the upgrading of the Commission’s leadership structure, which now boasts three Permanent Secretaries for improved efficiency.

“Under his visionary watch, we now have a befitting LG Service Commission headquarters—a landmark achievement that speaks to his legacy of institution-building. All these, of course, are with the unwavering support of our people-loving Governor, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji,” she noted.

Princess Bamisile further described Chief Abejide as “a disciplinarian with a heart of gold,” commending his fatherly disposition, humility, and his open-door policy which, according to her, makes him accessible to all—junior staff and senior officials alike.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Oye Local Government, I celebrate a living legend today,” she concluded. “May God continue to strengthen you, bless you with sound health, and grant you more impactful years in service to humanity.”

The 79th birthday celebration of Chief Samuel Abejide has attracted accolades from various quarters, affirming his status as one of the most respected administrators in the Ekiti public service space.

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

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.