Education, Skills, Health Lead in My Human Capital Devt Plan – Oyebanji.

Education, Skills, Health Lead in My Human Capital Devt Plan – Oyebanji.

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has disclosed that his government places premium values on functional education, improved health and skills acquisition in his Human Capital Development plans, as a strategic way to unlock the potentials of productive population.

Oyebanji said education remains a leveler between the rich and the poor, while skills acquisition remains the best way to stay relevant under the current economy, with health and wellbeing playing pivotal roles in actualizing the vision of citizens, saying people with deteriorated medical conditions can’t contribute to economic growth.

Oyebanji gave the clarifications in Ado Ekiti, at the official launch of the Human Capital Development(HCD) Strategic Plan Document, by the Ekiti State Government, in collaboration with the National Office of the Human Capital Development, Abuja, on Tuesday.

The governor, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, revealed that the HCD document has been endorsed by State Executive Council, thereby making it an effective framework to ramp up quality education and provide foundation to build a good future for the citizens.

The governor charged the development partners, corporate organisations, public servants, individuals, Civil Society Organisations and other stakeholders to key into the HCD vision, that was primary conceived to fight unemployment, poverty and extreme exclusivity in the system.

“Human Capital Development is the third pillar of this administration with the Hallmark to provide functional education and equip our children with the foundation required to build successful lives.

“What we have in this document might look ambitious, but they are achievable. They reflect our shared aspirations for Ekiti citizens where every individual has access to quality education, healthcare, skills and opportunities for personal and professional growth”.

In his submission at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Human Capital Development, Hon. Gbenga Agbeyo, said the programme marked a significant milestone in Governor Oyebanji’s strategic action to develop the human resources available to the state.

Agbeyo added that the document was specifically conceptualised to focus primarily on thematic areas like education, health and wellbeing, labour force participations and inclusivity.

The Special Adviser stated that the conceptualisation was targeted at fostering a culture of excellence, where human resources can be made productive and self reliant, based on the available statistics that Ekiti State has 68% dependency ratio.

“This document was put together to enhance the skills of our youthful and productive population and to make sure that Ekiti residents are made to be well educated, well skilled, gainfully employed and healthy to operate in any part of the economy”.

Reviewing the strategic document, the former Statistician -General, Ekiti State Civil Service, Mr. Jide Oguntimehin, warned that the Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government should work cohesively to implement the document without distrust and mutual suspicion.

Flowing from the foregoing, Oguntimehin added that the document was fashioned in strict alignment with the six-point agenda of Governor Oyebanji’s administration, with cardinal intention to provide sustainable jobs, facilities, education, and improve the wellbeing of the people.

He charged the government to up its games in the areas of adequate financing, monitoring and governance, describing these as the major impetuses that will lubricate frictions that can derail the implementation process.

Lending credence to the fact that political will won’t be lacking, the Chairman, Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Ekiti State, Prof Christopher Oluwadare, was upbeat that Governor Oyebanji has the requisite gravitas to implement the plan for the benefit of the state.

Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management Applauds Agbeyewa Farms as a Model for Food Security and National Development.

Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management Applauds Agbeyewa Farms as a Model for Food Security and National Development.

The Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management (NACOLM) has hailed the pioneering efforts of Agbeyewa Farms in driving food security and rural transformation through its large-scale cassava farm in Ekiti.

The commendation came during an official visit by a delegation of the College led by the Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies, Brigadier General J.I.B. Manjang, as part of the Exercise Nigeria Study Tour 2025. The visit, which brought together officers including faculty members and 30 senior participants of the Senior Leadership and Staff Officers’ Course (SLSOC) 3/2025, formed a critical part of a national study designed to explore the role of public-private partnerships in strengthening national security through a “whole-of-society” approach.

Speaking during the tour, Brigadier General Manjang expressed admiration for the scale, innovation, and impact of Agbeyewa Farms’ operations. “Before our visit, we had a limited understanding of what to expect from a cassava farm,” he said. “However, after seeing Agbeyewa’s work firsthand, I can confidently say the farm is on the right track and fully aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to make agriculture attractive, especially to the youth.”

The General emphasized that such agricultural models not only contribute to food self-sufficiency but also provide viable livelihood opportunities for retired military personnel and civilians alike, reinforcing national security through economic empowerment.

Receiving the delegation, Agbeyewa Farms Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Seyi Aiyeleso, shared insights into the farm’s transformational journey. Founded just over two years ago, Agbeyewa has evolved into Nigeria’s largest cassava farm with a mission to revolutionize cassava farming across the country. Mr. Aiyeleso revealed that the farm currently cultivates nearly 5,000 hectares of cassava in Ekiti State with a 10-year target of 100,000 hectares; Over 1,000 jobs have been created for people across nine local communities, reducing unemployment and boosting rural economies and Agbeyewa’s operations are fully mechanized, supported by the acquisition of 8 bulldozers and 40 tractors;

He further noted that Agbeyewa’s presence has dramatically improved local security in the area. “The area where we operate was once plagued by insecurity and kidnappings. Today, thanks to our strategic collaboration with government security agencies, this same region is a thriving hub of agriculture and commerce.”

The study visit also allowed students to explore the broader role of agriculture in national stability. Major B.I. Sunday, the study sponsor and directing staff, explained that the objective was to expose officers to successful stakeholder collaboration and its relevance in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in regions like Ekiti State.

The visit concluded with a colorful parade by NYSC corps members currently serving at Agbeyewa Farms, showcasing the farm’s ongoing commitment to youth engagement and national service.

Juju Musicians endorse Oyebanji's second term bid.

Juju Musicians endorse  Oyebanji's second term bid.

... Hinges support on demonstrated commitment to welfare, development.

The Ekiti state chapter of the Association of JuJu Musicians of Nigeria  (AJUMN) has declared support for the second term bid of Ekiti state Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, saying that the Governor's unwavering commitment to welfare of the common people and overall development of the state makes them to consider him for second term in office.

The juju musicians who danced and sang as they staged their endorsement walk to the Governor's office on Monday, led by their Governor, Mr Femi Apadidun, said the state has grown in leaps and bounds in less than three years of the Governor's administration.

They stressed the need for the good works to continue till 2030.

Apadidun, who revealed that members of the association have received unprecedented support from Oyebanji's administration, declared the unflinching commitment of his members to returning the Governor for second term, stressing that they will not only come out massively to vote for him but will also canvass  support for the Governor across the state.

“Our endorsement of Governor Oyebanji today is about the development of Ekiti state, it is about the welfare programme of the Governor. So,  we have come out en-masse to come and show our support and solidarity as well as show our appreciation to the Governor. 

“We are not here to ask for anything, we know that Mr Governor is a man who knows what is good, he will do us well. I want to assure you today that come 2026, we are returning Mr Governor back to Oke Ayoba.” Apadidun reiterated.

Receiving the members of the association on behalf of the Governor, the Secretary to the State Governor, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro commended members of the association for taking a bold step to pronounce their support in public adding that the developmental strides of the Governor in the state had remained unrivalled in the annals of the state.

Prof. Adubiaro stressed the importance of collection their Voter’s card to be able to realize their dream of ensuring the Governor Oyebanji remains in office till 2030 because their votes matters in the drive to ensure that the good works of the Governor is not truncated.

“You are all here today because of the visible monumental achievements of Governor Oyebanji in the state, the achievements are innumerable. We appreciate you for the bold steps you have taking to come our in public to endorse Mr Governor for second term in office. As you have come today, we know you have band boys, you have families whom you planned to canvas to vote for Governor Oyebanji. But I must use this opportunity to enjoin you to collect or validate your voter’s cards as this is the only way we can realize the good plans we have for our Governor”. She stated.

Also present were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Inter-Party Affairs, Chief Jide Awe; Special Adviser,Gender Empowerment, Mrs Kemisola Olaleye ; Chairman, ALGON, Mr Olusegun Ojo; and  Director-General, Community Communications, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotoso among others.

We’ll make Ekiti Business Environment more attractive, Oyebanji Assures Investors.

We’ll make Ekiti Business Environment more attractive, Oyebanji Assures Investors.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reassured investors and business owners that his administration would not relent in improving the business environment in order to attract investment to the  State.

The Governor who gave the assurance during a Technical Session and State wide town hall meeting organized by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) in collaboration with Ekiti State Development and Promotion Agency (EKDIPA) in Ado Ekiti on Monday said his government is already fostering economic growth through strategic reforms and collaboration with the private sector. 

Oyebanji said he remains committed to policies and reforms aimed at positioning the state as a top choice for investors in Nigeria by eliminating obstacles, improving infrastructure, and implementing business friendly policies

Describing the town hall meeting as crucial to aligning the state reforms with the national efforts to improve Nigeria’s business climate, Governor Oyebanji, who was represented by the Commissioner of Finance, Mr. Akin Oyebode, explained that that State Government identified improving the business environment as a critical part of its developmental agenda. 

The Governor Highlighted key reforms undertaken by his administration to enhance the ease of doing business in the state to include, waiver for business fee for initial registration, a functional One-Stop Shop within the Investment Promotion Agency to streamline Investment processes, transition law ratified by the State’s House of Assembly to ensure that projects initiated by one administration are guaranteed to continue, even in the event of change in government. Others include investment aftercare for the provision of continuous support for investors to enhance their business operations and ensure sustained success, among others.

The Governor also explained that his government has made significant strides in improving power supply and critical infrastructures that would help investors to thrive in the state

While commending and appreciating the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) for organizing the town hall tour to further strengthen state-level ownership of reform initiatives and deepen the implementation of the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms, the Governor said his government remains committed implementing sustainable reforms that will attract investment, create jobs and promote economic growth.

Speaking on behalf of the Director General Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, the Senior Reform Leader, Suzana Abdul-Kabdir, who commending the state government for the various efforts at ensuring ease of doing business in the state, said the purpose of the town hall meeting was to review progress, identify challenges, and engage stakeholders on strategies to sustain reforms.

Highlighting the council’s initiative and the purpose of the statewide meeting, the Senior reforms leader explained that PEBEG was established to remove obstacles to doing business in Nigeria and create environment that supports economic growth and investment

Also in her remarks, the Director General, Ekiti State Development and Promotion Agency (EKDIPA), Ms Lolade Olutona, who commended Governor Oyebanji for his dedication to creating an enabling environment for business emphasized that EKDIPA remains committed to attracting more investors, fostering economic growth, and supporting the government’s vision for a prosperous and business-friendly environment

Highlighting the state governments efforts through EKDIPA in driving investment-focused reforms in the state, Miss Olutona explained that the state government regularly engages with business owners in the state to resolve operational challenges and ensure their sustainability

Oyebanji’s Wife Donates Sports Equipment to Boost Youth Empowerment.

Oyebanji’s Wife Donates Sports Equipment to Boost Youth Empowerment.

By Olamide Akinwumi

The First Lady of Ekiti State, Prof. Olayemi Oyebanji, has donated a variety of sports equipment to support and inspire young athletes across the state.

The donation, which includes footballs, volleyballs, skipping ropes, whistles, and other essential sporting items, was presented on behalf of the First Lady by her Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters, Hon. Toyin Adepoju.

Speaking during the presentation, Adepoju said the gesture reflects Prof. Oyebanji’s deep commitment to youth development through sports, adding that it aligns with the broader vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to promote youth empowerment and job creation across the state.

“The First Lady believes strongly in the potential of sports to change lives. This donation is part of her ongoing efforts to nurture talents and provide young people with the tools they need to succeed,” Adepoju said.

The generous act showcases her commitment to nurturing young talents and supporting the Governor's administration pillar of youth empowerment and job creation.

In his remarks, the Technical Assistant on Sports Development to the Governor, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, commended Prof. Oyebanji for her consistent love and commitment to sports development in the state, particularly her strong support for the Ekiti Queens Football Club, fondly known as the BAORESS Babes.

“Her Excellency has always stood by the sporting community. Her motherly backing for Ekiti Queens FC and other young athletes continues to boost morale and performance. She is not just a supporter, but a key driver of sports transformation in Ekiti,” Osetoba said.

Prof. Oyebanji has continued to show keen interest in the welfare of the state’s sporting community, with stakeholders describing her efforts as a “motherly touch” that has uplifted morale and reinvigorated grassroots sports in the state.

Residents and sports enthusiasts have hailed the initiative as a “fantastic leap forward” in Ekiti’s sporting journey, expressing optimism that the state will continue to produce world-class talents with the right support structures in place.

Oyebanji Empowers Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman with Official Vehicle, Reiterates Grassroots Development Agenda.

Oyebanji Empowers Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman with Official Vehicle, Reiterates Grassroots Development Agenda.

By Asubiojo G.O

In a move that underscores his administration’s commitment to grassroots empowerment, the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has presented a brand-new official vehicle to the Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, popularly known as Chenco.

The official handover, which took place at the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, was met with joy and appreciation from local government officials and residents alike, who hailed the gesture as both timely and impactful.

According to sources at the event, the vehicle was provided to improve the chairman’s mobility and administrative efficiency, thereby elevating the operational standards of local governance. Governor Oyebanji, while presenting the vehicle, emphasized that strong local leadership remains a critical component of his administration’s development strategy.

 “This donation is not just symbolic—it reflects our belief in the importance of functional governance at the grassroots. We must ensure that our local government leaders are well-equipped to meet the needs of their communities,” the governor said.

Hon. Oluwatuyi, in response, expressed deep gratitude to the governor, describing the gift as a major motivational boost.

“This gesture by His Excellency is a testament to his love for the grassroots. I am more than ever committed to justifying the trust placed in me by delivering on people-focused initiatives,” he stated.

True to his pragmatic and charismatic leadership style, Hon. Oluwatuyi celebrated the arrival of the vehicle with staff members of the local government secretariat, sharing the moment with warmth and humility. His inclusive celebration was described by many as a show of solidarity and appreciation for the workforce that supports local development.

The Head of Local Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, also commended the governor for the landmark gesture, noting that the altruistic and selfless nature of the donation marks the beginning of a new phase of tangible support for local governance.

Prominent political stakeholders in the local government praised Governor Oyebanji’s consistency in empowering grassroots institutions and reinforcing a people-first governance model. Many observers regard the move as another clear example of the administration’s resolve to bridge the gap between high-level policies and on-the-ground realities.

The presentation joins a long list of initiatives led by Governor Oyebanji aimed at strengthening local governance, promoting transparency, and advancing infrastructural and human capital development across all Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Ekiti State.

As the state continues on its path toward inclusive development, stakeholders have called on other leaders to take a cue from Governor Oyebanji’s proactive and practical approach to supporting local authorities for optimal service delivery.

BAO in the Soil: How Governor Oyebanji is Cultivating a New Era of Agriculture and Youth Empowerment in Ekiti State.

BAO in the Soil: How Governor Oyebanji is Cultivating a New Era of Agriculture and Youth Empowerment in Ekiti State.                                 By Olamide Akinwumi

In Ekiti State, agriculture is no longer just a tradition — it's fast becoming a symbol of innovation, youth engagement, and economic revival. Leading this transformation is Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), whose administration has made agriculture the bedrock of development, rural empowerment, and food security.

In a powerful display of hands-on leadership, Governor Oyebanji was recently spotted tending to his personal farm in Ikogosi-Ekiti. With no fanfare or media circus, the Governor was seen inspecting crops, engaging with farm workers, and demonstrating his personal commitment to agriculture. Videos and photos of this visit have since gone viral, not just for their rarity but for the message they send: leadership must begin with example.

"Governor Oyebanji is showing us that farming is not beneath anybody, not even a Governor," a local farmer remarked. That simple act has become a rallying cry — agriculture is dignified, and everyone, especially the youth, can succeed through it.

Governor Oyebanji’s approach to agriculture is not symbolic — it is strategic, systematic, and deeply intentional. His administration has rolled out several key initiatives that are already yielding transformative results:

🌱 1. Youth Farm Settlements:

Specialized clusters are being developed across Ekiti to engage young people in agriculture. These settlements provide access to cleared land, modern tools, training, and cooperative support — creating a new generation of agropreneurs.

💳 2. Access to Agricultural Credit:
Through strategic partnerships with agricultural finance institutions, smallholder farmers and agripreneurs now enjoy easier access to credit for seeds, technology, and equipment.

🚜 3. Tractorisation Subsidy Scheme:
Over 1,000 hectares of farmland have been cleared and ploughed under a subsidy scheme benefiting more than 400 farmers. Subsidies also extend to agro-chemicals, seeds, and seedlings — all available at 50% cost reduction.

🚛 4. Produce Buy-Back Program:
Innovatively, the state introduced a produce buy-back model where the government facilitates the purchase of farm produce from young farmers, ensuring guaranteed returns on their investments.

🧑🏽‍🌾 5. “Bring Back Our Youths to Agriculture” (BBYA) Initiative:
This flagship programme has engaged over 1,000 youths in profitable agricultural ventures in partnership with YSJ Farm Limited — equipping them with land, tools, and training.

 6. Agro-Processing Support & Fertilizer Subsidies:

Agro-based enterprises now receive grants, access to equipment, and business incentives. Additionally, 18,000 bags of fertiliser were distributed free to farmers, enhancing productivity across the state.

Ekiti State is a proud participant in the $22 million Cocoa Rejuvenation Programme funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the TRACE Project. Local cocoa farmers are being trained in climate-smart agricultural practices.

Governor Oyebanji understands that agriculture thrives on access. That’s why his administration has invested heavily in farm-to-market roads, rural electrification, and irrigation systems to reduce costs and post-harvest losses. Key road projects include:

✅ 6 km Aramoko Odeyemi farm road – Aramoko Ekiti

✅ 2.5 km Abulefon farm road – Ikere Ekiti

✅ 6.5 km Ilumoba/Ajebamidele farm road – Aiyekire LG

✅ 6 km Odogbo/Ajebamidele farm road – Awo, Irepodun/Ifelodun LG

✅ 2 km Temidire/Ilukunno farm road – Temidire, Ijero LG

✅ 3 km Onijuja farm road – Emure Ekiti

✅ 2 km Isaya farm road – Isaya Ekiti

✅ 6.5 km Oyikaka/Ayegun farm road – Ipoti, Ijero LG

✅ 6.1 km Gbadamosi/Sakoro farm road – Ikoro, Ijero LG among other's.

In partnership with the World Bank under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), over 1,000 km of rural roads are completed or nearing completion across the state.

Governor Oyebanji recognizes that food security begins with physical security. His administration has made Ekiti one of the safest states in Nigeria through:
●Deployment of surveillance tools and operational vehicles for security agencies

●Clearing of known criminal hideouts and converting them into farmlands monitored by security operatives.

●Establishment and training of the Agro-Marshals Corps, a new specialized security outfit under the Ministry of Agriculture, trained and equipped to provide protection to farmers and farmlands across the state. The corps now works hand-in-hand with the Amotekun Corps to combat rural insecurity, theft, and invasion of farmlands.

These initiatives have restored confidence among farmers and investors alike, enabling the agricultural sector to flourish in a safe and supportive environment.

Governor Oyebanji’s leadership goes beyond policies — it’s deeply personal and people-centered. He was recently seen tending to his personal farm in Ikogosi-Ekiti.

His frequent farm cluster visits and direct interaction with farmers have resulted in responsive interventions — like the provision of dormitories and transport buses for young farmers.

Governor Oyebanji’s agricultural revolution is more than a policy — it is a movement. A movement rooted in dignity, passion, and opportunity. It is about turning Ekiti into a hub for agro-entrepreneurship, where the youth can thrive, investors are welcome, and communities are empowered.

His approach blends vision with visibility. Passion with practicality. And governance with grassroots impact.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji is not just growing crops — he is cultivating a future filled with hope, dignity, and shared prosperity. Under his watch, Ekiti State is becoming a national model for inclusive, youth-driven agricultural development.

In BAO’s Ekiti, agriculture is no longer an obligation — it is an opportunity.

Kudos to a Governor who leads from the front and inspires from the soil.

Written by Olamide Akinwumi, Ado-Ekiti.