EKITI PEOPLE STAND FIRM WITH GOVERNOR OYEBANJI AMID BASELESS ATTACKS.

EKITI PEOPLE STAND FIRM WITH GOVERNOR OYEBANJI AMID BASELESS ATTACKS.

The people of Ekiti State have declared their unwavering support for Governor Biodun Abiodun Oyebanji in response to recent cowardly and baseless attacks from faceless political elements seeking cheap relevance.

Governor Oyebanji, a grassroots leader and tireless servant of the people, remains focused on his transformative agenda despite the malicious distractions being spread by political impostors with no known footing in Ekiti's sociopolitical landscape.

“These desperate attacks are nothing more than a display of frustration by irrelevant, ungrounded actors who fear the Governor’s rising popularity,” community leaders stated. “If they are truly confident in their following, they should come to Ado-Ekiti and engage the people directly.”

Under Governor Oyebanji’s dynamic leadership, Ekiti State has witnessed a remarkable wave of infrastructural renewal and inclusive governance. Key achievements include:

Construction of the Ring Road, a critical infrastructure project to improve transportation and economic activity.

Completion of the Ado-Ifaki dual carriageway, enhancing connectivity and safety.

Near completion of the Ado-Ekiti Overhead Bridge, a landmark project easing urban congestion.

Omisanjana–Ajebandele Road, Jimoh Aliu Road, and the Bawa Area/Olorunsogo–Faglo Road are completed and fully motorable.

Agric Olope Road is completed, and the Ilawe–Ikere Road is nearing completion.

Ongoing renovation of numerous hospitals and schools, restoring dignity and efficiency to public services.

These are not mere promises—they are tangible results visible to every Ekiti citizen.

Governor Oyebanji is not at war with anyone. He welcomes healthy political competition but rejects the politics of hatred, lies, and faceless propaganda. Those engaging in such malicious conduct should be cautioned: the people of Ekiti will aggressively defend their mandate and their leader.

Ekiti belongs to all, not to political desperadoes hiding behind keyboards or operating from hotel rooms outside the state. The 2026 re-election movement is people-driven, issue-based, and performance-backed.

We urge all politicians to rise above pettiness and engage in issue-based dialogue. Ekiti deserves progress, not toxicity.

I seriously thank our former Governors, Adeniyi Adebayo, Kayode Fayemi Segun Oni, and many other notable and respected leaders as well as our youths for their unwavering support.

Signed:

Fola Afolalu

NASET endorses Oyebanji for re-election, commends EKSG’s inclusion policy.

NASET endorses Oyebanji for re-election, commends EKSG’s inclusion policy.

Rising from its 36th National Conference in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state capital, the Nigeria Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) has endorsed Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji for re-election in 2026 based on the effectiveness of his administration’s PWDs-friendly policies and huge investment in special education.

Speaking on behalf of the national body and Ekiti State  chapter of the association at the closing session of the annual conference on Ado- Ekiti on Friday, the national president of NASET, Dr Catherine Atteng commended the governor for his policy of inclusion and proactiveness in lifting the status of children with special needs in the state to an enviable level worthy of emulation nationally.

Dr Atteng said she and the national executive members  were excited at the state-of-the- art structures and gadgets in all the special schools in Ekiti, adding that this was made possible because of the passion the governor has for special education. 

The NASET President confirmed that Governor Oyebanji is a Champion of Disability Inclusion nationally, in view of his demonstrated love and commitment to the welfare of Persons with Disabilities and was so honored as a fellow of the association, during the opening session of the week- long conference. 

“We can attest that from yesterday, when we visited the facilities, that there has been a remarkable improvement from what we saw the last time we came. That is why we decided to honour our retirees who studied Special Education and retired from special schools. 

“And they all attested to the fact that what the governor is doing is overwhelming. We can really see for ourselves that the Governor Oyebanji is a friendly governor as well as disability friendly.

”In some states where we have conferences like this, the government officials will not give us any opportunity because they will not send any representative, but here in Ekiti, because of the love the Governor has shown to children with disabilities, because of his passion for children with disabilities, he decided to include the excluded. So many people do not want to relate with children with disabilities, but the governor decided to stoop low and work with these people and so, we are overwhelmed.

“What do we have to say, you know as the national president, I am here as the mother of Special Education in Nigeria, all my Excos and the association in the 36 states, they are all here, for us, we have endorsed the Governor and that is why we decided to confer him with the Fellow of NASET because of his commitment and passion, we decided to do this for him. For me, if I have the opportunity to come during election, I will surely come and cast my vote for Governor Oyebanji and we have already supported him because he has carried my people along.” She stated.

All participants from the 36 states of the federation who were at the conference were visibly excited with the kind of development in the state and lend their voices to the various assertions of their president to commend Governor Oyebanji for the wonderful infrastructure he had put in place for the benefit of the disability family in the state.

Dr Margaret Uzor from Cross River state and Mr Akin Ogunola representing Rivers state spoke glowingly about their experience in Ekiti state and recommended that Governor Oyebanji should be allowed to continue in government to enable people living with disabilities continue to enjoy  his good works.

“I was in Ido yesterday and we saw what they have over there, the therapy room and some of the equipment are just so massive and they are wonderful.

“And I think that other states should copy from what Ekiti State is actually doing in terms of special kids. I am very happy the way the state government really protect them even from entry into their compound, the security and the apparatus there, they are so wonderful.

“I know that the state government is actually doing great in terms of revenue generation, and not only getting this money, the money trickles down to the individuals that actually need this and one of those are these special needs children. 

“So, if someone could come up with this and then thinking of giving their lives a new meaning, I think such a person deserves a huge recommendation.” Ogunola asserted.

NANS Honours Mr. Wisdom Kwati with National Icon Award for Smart City Innovations and Youth Empowerment.

NANS Honours Mr. Wisdom Kwati with National Icon Award for Smart City Innovations and Youth Empowerment.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the apex body representing over 40 million students across Nigeria and the diaspora, has honored Mr. Wisdom Kwati, a trailblazing entrepreneur and urban development strategist, with the prestigious award of “National Icon of Smart City Innovations and Youth Empowerment.”

The award was formally presented during a courtesy visit to Mr. Kwati’s office, where he was ably represented by two senior members of his organization due to his unavoidable absence. The engagement marked another milestone in NANS’ ongoing National Leadership and Stakeholders’ Engagement Tour, aimed at recognizing key figures whose contributions have significantly impacted youth development and national transformation.

According to Comrade Sadiq S.K. Zango, National Director of Research and Innovation for NANS, Mr. Kwati’s pioneering role in promoting smart city frameworks, urban infrastructure, and tech-driven real estate solutions aligns perfectly with the association’s vision of youth empowerment through innovation, digital transformation, and inclusive economic growth.

“Mr. Kwati has demonstrated exemplary leadership in shaping sustainable urban futures while mentoring and empowering young Nigerians. His impact extends beyond business — it inspires a new generation of innovators and nation-builders,” Comr. Zango stated.

The award ceremony also served as a platform for strengthening strategic partnerships between the student body and forward-thinking institutions across Nigeria. NANS further commended the professionalism and hospitality of Mr. Kwati’s team during the visit, highlighting the potential for deeper collaboration in education, innovation, and civic engagement.

The association expressed its gratitude for Mr. Kwati’s willingness to support the national secretariat.

This recognition reaffirms NANS’ commitment to celebrating individuals and institutions that champion student-friendly policies, community development, and transformative leadership across Nigeria.

NANS Honours Global Takers Foundation President with “National Icon of Youth Empowerment and Humanitarian Excellence” Award.

NANS Honours Global Takers Foundation President with “National Icon of Youth Empowerment and Humanitarian Excellence” Award.

The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the umbrella body representing over 40 million Nigerian students across tertiary institutions nationwide and in the diaspora, paid a high-level courtesy visit to the President of Global Takers Foundation, Mr. Ayotunde Paul Fasanya, Today 20th June, 2025, at his Abuja office.

During the visit, Mr. Fasanya was presented with the “National Icon of Youth Empowerment and Humanitarian Excellence” award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to community development, philanthropy, and youth mentorship in Nigeria.

Speaking on behalf of the NANS leadership, Comrade Sadiq S.K. Zango, National Director of Research & Innovation, emphasized that the award was a product of rigorous evaluation and was designed to honour individuals whose efforts have significantly impacted the lives of Nigerian youth and society at large.

“Mr. Fasanya’s life of service, patriotism, and empowerment reflects the ideals and aspirations of Nigerian students. His leadership through Global Takers Foundation is an inspiration and a blueprint for transformative change,” Comrade Sadiq stated.

In his response, Mr. Ayotunde Paul Fasanya expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, reaffirming his commitment to supporting educational initiatives, national development, and the empowerment of future leaders through mentorship and philanthropic partnerships.

The engagement ended on a collaborative note, with both parties exploring opportunities for future cooperation in the areas of youth capacity building, civic education, and national transformation initiatives.

NANS remains steadfast in its mission to honour excellence, foster leadership, and create meaningful platforms for youth advancement across Nigeria and beyond.

Over 1,000 sickle cell warriors enrolled with Ekiti Health Insurance for free medical care.

Over 1,000 sickle cell warriors enrolled with Ekiti Health Insurance for free medical care.

… As Group honours Oyebanji for pro-people health policy.

Ekiti State Government, through its Health Insurance scheme has registered over 1,000 sickle cell warriors into its programme with the aim of reducing the financial burden on them and  improving their total wellbeing as well as health status.

Disclosing this on Thursday during a public awareness event held in commemoration of the 2025 World Sickle Cell and Blood Donor Day at the College of Nursing Sciences, Ado Ekiti, the Executive Director of O.A. Initiative, Dr Ayomide Olanipekun said over 1,000 sickle cell warriors have been registered with the Ekiti State Health Insurance Scheme 2023 to benefit from the free health services provided by the government, since her organization started collaborating with the state government in 2023.

Dr Olanipekun, who expressed her appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for the unprecedented support received from government since 2023, noted that the testimonies of the warriors across the state particularly about their experience at the Primary, secondary and tertiary health facilities have been that of progress.

She expressed optimism that by 2026 all  sickle cell warriors in the State would have enrolled into the free health scheme to enjoy unfettered health benefits being offered by the state government. This, she said, would be made possible through awareness campaign.

Dr Olanipekun noted that the introduction of the Ekiti State Sickle Cell Policy framework document will help address Sickle Cell Disease and also improve the quality of life for individuals living with the disease, guaranteed by increase in the understanding of the disease.

“At the Centre of every treatment of our warriors is the constant need for blood transfusion, O. A. Initiative has successfully facilitated at least four successful blood donation drives with over 200 pints of blood as a token of intervention for warriors who are in critical crisis. We are proud to announce that EKSUTH Blood bank has deemed it fit to give every sickle cell warrior one pint of blood free whenever the need arises, this is due to our good relationship with them.” 

The highpoint of the event was the presentation an award of recognition to the Ekiti state Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji for his dedication and commitment to addressing sickle cell disorder in Ekiti state through his people oriented policies which also create awareness and improve care for individuals affected by sickle cell disease.

 

Receiving the award of Ekiti State Warriors’ Doctor on behalf of Governor Oyebanji, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode commended the organizers of the programme for their foresight and initiative of bringing succour to those facing the challenges of sickle cell in the state.

While thanking them for recognizing the Governor for his efforts aimed at repositioning the health sector and drive inclusion, Mr Oyebode, who reiterated the commitment of Governor Oyebanji’s administration to the realization of his mantra of shared prosperity, also said that government would continue to deliver on policies that will enliven the hearts of all Ekiti residents in the drive to give them sense of belonging.

 

The Governor’s media aide who said he was impressed by the testimonies of the warriors, which showed that the health insurance scheme of the government had saved many of the warriors from financial embarrassment, pain and hardship associated with sickle cell management.

 

 “I can hear the testimonies of people saying how they have benefitted from the health insurance scheme and how it impacted their lives positively by not spending their money on these health challenges again as a result of having access to free medical treatment.” Mr Oyebode affirmed.

Earlier, a panel comprising a member of the House of Assembly, Hon Ayo Adegbite; Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ekiti State chapter,  Dr Emmanuel Aribasoye; President, Medical Women’s Association, Dr Bola Dele Ojo; Director General, Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotoso had stressed the need for legislations that would help incorporate Genotype into the National Identity card and other national documents. They also called for more awareness in churches, mosques and schools, while also making a case for well equipped referral centre for sickle cell warriors.

In his keynote address, a professor of Paediatrics and Child Health, Prof. Oladele Olatunya commended Governor Oyebanji for his positive policy direction in the care of people living with sickle cell by capturing them in the government sponsored Health Insurance scheme that offered them free Medicare at all levels of health facilities in the state.

The Keynote speaker affirmed that the policy of government had helped reduced the financial burdens encountered by the affected families and provided them with a new lease of life.

BAO Administration: Touching Every Corner, Changing Every Life

BAO Administration: Touching Every Corner, Changing Every Life.

...As Ekiti kete Drum Support Continuity Till 2030.

The administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) has emerged as a symbol of visionary leadership, purposeful development, and people-centered governance across Ekiti State. From the remote rural communities to the bustling heart of Ado Ekiti, BAO’s impactful touch is evident, changing lives, restoring hope, and setting new standards in responsive governance.

One of the administration’s most celebrated milestones is the reconnection of 21 long-neglected communities to the national electricity grid. Communities such as Ijan, Ilumoba, Aisegba, Agbado, Imesi, Odo, Isinbode, Egbe, Iro Ayeteju, and Omuo in Aiyekire and Ekiti East LGAs, many of whom endured over a decade of total blackout, now enjoy steady electricity. This was made possible through the installation of over 100 kilometers of electrical conductors and poles and the rehabilitation of 40 transformer substations. More than just power, this restoration brought with it renewed economic activities, social revival, and a rekindling of communal hope.

In his commitment to infrastructure development, Governor Oyebanji is on a mission to connect every part of Ekiti through resilient and enduring road networks. Over 22 major road projects have been completed or are ongoing including:

● Ikole Township Road

● GRA Third Extension Dualization

● Omisanjana Sije Ajebamidele Road

● Ilawe Erijiyan Road

● Igbara Odo Ikogosi Road

● Ado Ilawe Road

● Igede Ilawe Road

● Itapaji Ijelu Omuo Road

● Ado Iworoko Ifaki Dualization

● Ekiti Ring Road Project

● Iloro Ijunrin Road

● Ikere Igbara Odo Road

● Moferere Agric Olope Odo Ado Road

● And several more under the RAAMP rural access scheme.

Particularly, the Ekiti Ring Road Phase One, which connects Iworoko to the Ekiti Knowledge Zone and Airport, is unlocking New City expansion and decongesting Ado Ekiti — a major stride in the state’s urban renewal plan.

In the health sector, BAO’s administration has made governance a vehicle for human dignity. Key interventions include:

● Renovation and equipping of general hospitals

● Establishment of adapted classrooms in special schools

● Creation of a Government Therapy Centre for children with disabilities

● Renovation of the Dialysis Centre at EKSUTH and installation of a mammogram machine

● Recruitment of 500 new health professionals

● Distribution of assistive devices including 50 wheelchairs, 100 white canes, 10 CP chairs, and 10 crutches

● Enrollment of 3.6 million residents in the Ulerawa Health Insurance Scheme

In the education sector, BAO recognizes that the path to a prosperous Ekiti lies in the empowerment of its youth. As a result, his administration:

● Paid WAEC fees for over 50,000 students (2023 to 2025)

● Sponsored thousands of students for NABTEB and JAMB exams

● Employed hundreds of new teachers at both primary and secondary levels

● Continues targeted recruitment to close existing manpower gaps

These efforts ease financial burdens on parents and invest directly in the next generation of leaders.

Governor Oyebanji’s bond with the civil service and the broader workforce remains unbreakable. His administration has ensured:

● Timely payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities

● Expanded employment across healthcare, education, and empowerment sectors

● Implementation of youth and women-focused skill acquisition initiatives

His humility and lifestyle reflect his character as a servant-leader. While others mark birthdays with extravagance, BAO celebrates in silence, directing birthday gifts to special schools and dedicating his spare time to worship and grassroots engagement rather than elitist pageantry.

Governor Oyebanji is not just building roads and schools. He is building people. His inclusive, peaceful, and progressive leadership is healing communities, opening new possibilities, and preparing Ekiti for global relevance.

To mention just a few of Governor Oyebanji’s impactful projects would be to understate his far-reaching transformation agenda. His touch across all sectors politically, economically, and socially has triggered an overwhelming show of support for his continuity in office. Ekiti Kete have spoken loud and clear. Continuity is the goal.

This is not politics as usual. This is purpose in action.

Together Let BAO Finish What He Started

Together Let’s March On With BAO Till 2030.

Together Let Ekiti Kete Rise Higher.

Olamide Akinwumi, writes from Ado-Ekiti

Atayero Urges Oyebanji to Leverage AI for Economic Growth, Sponsors 100 Residents for Training.

Atayero Urges Oyebanji to Leverage AI for Economic Growth, Sponsors 100 Residents for Training.

The Atayero of Aramoko Kingdom, His Royal Highness, M’oba Olusegun Aderemi, has called on the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic tool for economic transformation in the state.

The traditional ruler made the call on Wednesday during the closing ceremony of a free, three-day AI training programme sponsored by him for over 100 residents of Aramoko at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Centre located at Glory Model Schools, Aramoko-Ekiti.

Speaking with journalists at the event, Aderemi, who also doubles as the Nigerian Regional President of the Occupational Safety and Health Association, said the state must move in tandem with global trends, stressing that AI holds the key to unlocking numerous economic potentials in Ekiti.

“Artificial Intelligence is the new goldmine. It can increase revenue, boost productivity, and improve governance if fully harnessed. I urge Governor Oyebanji to integrate AI into the state’s developmental blueprint,” he said.

According to him, the youth cannot afford to remain ignorant of the emerging wave of digital innovation. “Any youth who doesn't understand AI is already behind. The usefulness of AI is endless; it is the path to financial independence and economic empowerment,” the monarch said.

Aderemi, in a surprising twist, also linked recent killings in Benue State to a lack of proactive intelligence. He argued that such attacks could be mitigated through the deployment of AI-powered surveillance technologies like drones.

“I attribute the Benue massacre to low intelligence. With full intelligence powered by AI, potential threats can be identified and neutralised before they escalate. We only react after attacks, and that has to change,” he declared.

The event, which attracted a number of dignitaries, also witnessed the presentation of certificates to outstanding participants. The training covered areas such as cybersecurity, digital marketing, machine learning, and prompt engineering.

Mr. Adefisoye Adesola Diligent, President of the Nigerian Entrepreneurship Youth Initiative and lead trainer at the programme, said the goal was to equip Aramoko youths with globally relevant digital skills.

“They have been taught how to control AI through prompt engineering, how to protect themselves online, and how to market their businesses globally using digital tools,” he explained.

Some of the participants who spoke to newsmen expressed gratitude to the monarch and organisers for the rare opportunity.

Joseph Fajuyigbe described the programme as “life-changing,” noting that he now feels more confident navigating the tech space, while Esther Olaniyi said the training was an eye-opener and that the certificate earned would give her an edge in the job market.

Also present at the graduation ceremony were dignitaries including Mr. Ayodele Adeyanju, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Digital Economy; Mr. Ayodele Akande, Technical Assistant on Digital Communication to the Governor; Mr. Bamidele Jegede, State Director of Admin and Supplies; and Mr. Ogunbiyi Ahmed, a digital marketing facilitator.

Other guests included Senator Babafemi Ojudu; Professor Mojisola Oyaregua, former Provost of the College of Education, Ikere-Ekiti; Pastor Gabriel Olaniyan, Proprietor of Glory Model Schools; Pastor Fatuade; Prophet James Omitade; Mrs. Olubunmi Laniyan; Mrs. Mercy Adebayo; and Prince Pedro Adebayo.

Outstanding among the participants.

They all commended M’oba Aderemi for his steadfast commitment to youth empowerment and community development.

The Atayero used the occasion to appeal to indigenes of Aramoko both home and abroad to contribute meaningfully to the town’s progress. “Development is not the duty of government alone. We all have a role to play,” he said.

Below are the pictures of the event:

The participants which cut across Ekiti and Osun States.

Outstanding among the participants.