OYEBANJI'S SUPPORT BASE GROWS WITH MORE ENDORSEMENTS AHEAD OF 2026 GUBER POLL.

OYEBANJI'S SUPPORT BASE GROWS WITH MORE ENDORSEMENTS AHEAD OF 2026 GUBER POLL.

BY ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA 

With the blowing of the whistle for the Ekiti State governorship race by the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), more groups and stakeholders have been showing support for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

In line with the nation's electoral law, INEC has set 20th of June, 2026 as the date for the governorship election in Ekiti State with the tenure of the incumbent government set to expire on 15th of October, 2026 having been inaugurated on 16th of October, 2022.

The official announcement of the date for the poll has upped the ante of political activities in the Land of Honour with the party primaries due to be conducted between 20th of October and 10th of November, 2025 where party candidates are expected to emerge.

Having been elected on 18th of June, 2022 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) with a landslide victory, Governor Oyebanji was sworn to office on 16th of October, 2022. Three years and eight months down the line, there are loud clamours for his re-election in the 2026 poll.

The agitation for a second tenure for Governor Oyebanji has been very strident across the Ekiti political landscape in recent times based on his wide acceptability and commendable performance in office with verifiable proofs and evidence across the state.

Although the Governor has not officially declared intent to vie for a second term in office, a groundswell of opinions of very respected and eminent citizens of the state, traditional rulers, religious leaders, the Ekiti in Diaspora, civil and public servants, towns associations, non-indigenes resident in the state, professional and vocational bodies among others are egging him on to throw his hat into the ring once again.

Also not left out of the clamours for an Oyebanji return to the Government House are grassroots-based individuals and groups like market men and women, artisans, people living with disabilities, traditional chiefs, oloris (Obas' wives), commercial drivers, youth bodies, students' groups, teachers, local government workers, among others.

Another prominent group that has endorsed the Ekiti helmsman for another term in office are the state retirees under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP). The pensioners are solidly behind Oyebanji's continued stay in office for clearing the backlog of accumulated gratuities, increment and regular payment of their monthly pensions and their enrollment in the Ekiti State Health Insurance Scheme, among other benefits. The pensioners, who recently changed their group’s name to Pensioners Association of Nigeria (PAN), has continued to hold series of otuer endorsement programem for the Governor at various local government chapters. 

The demands for Oyebanji's retention in office started from the men and women on the streets of Ekiti who are impressed with the Governor's connection with the grassroots, his generosity and milk of kindness extended to the less-privileged, execution of life-changing projects, unprecedented support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with cash  and support for indigent and vulnerable groups in the areas of patronage and provision of tools.

Apart from regular interface with the ordinary people on the streets through unscheduled visits to local neighborhoods, markets, religious centers, schools, public squares and frequent and unexpected stopovers in which he personally feels the pulses of his people, the Governor has made his way into the hearts of the electorate who sees him as an accessible leader they can see, feel and touch.

Besides, the Governor ensures that local content is given priority in execution of projects and patronage of local artisans, businessmen, motor dealers, livestock sellers in the state. It is an open secret that Mr Governor's dresses are sewn by local tailors while competent local contractors are patronized by his administration to prevent capital flight and ensure that Ekiti wealth circulates locally. All these have endeared the Governor to his people who want the status quo to remain.

Unprecedented number of projects had been commissioned and put into public use during the first and second anniversaries of the Oyebanji administration with many projects now at advanced stages waiting to be inaugurated during the third anniversary in October and these excite the people of the state to queue behind their "performing governor" ahead of the 2026 poll.

Apart from the landmark projects in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, the Oyebanji's Midas' touch has been extended to virtually all towns and villages in the state including roads to farmsteads and farming communities which serve as the Food Baskets in the state.

For example, Isinbode-Ara-Ikole Road, another alternative road which links the Southern Senatorial District to the Northern Senatorial District; Iludun-Ipere Road, long abandoned and the hitherto dilapidated Igirigiri Road in Odo Ado, Ado Ekiti which many residents thought would never be touched are some of the examples of hundreds of community roads already receiving attention and expected to be inaugurated in record time.

The completion of the Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki dual carriageway (a federal highway), the ongoing construction of the Ado Ekiti Ring Road Project and attraction of investors to the state in agriculture, housing, hospitality, education and ongoing construction of Ijigbo-Okeyinmi flyover is being appreciated by all and Sunday in Ekiti and serves as a proof that Oyebanji is the mond the people should pitch their tents with.

Public workers are enjoying the new minimum wage on top of wage bonus enjoyed before the implementation of the new minimum wage. These are in addition to the free bus shuttles they enjoy from various designated points in Ado Ekiti and Ikere Ekiti to their places of work which have given them a cushion from spending more on transport fare.

These are some of the reasons why the various segments of the Ekiti population have been throwing their weight behind the return of Governor Oyebanji for another term of office. It cut across the Ekiti demographics: the rich, the poor, Christians, Muslims, traditionalists, the young, the old, men, women, rural dwellers and urban residents.

Recall that leaders and members of the APC in all the three Senatorial Districts, had at different times, endorsed Governor Oyebanji as their preferred candidate for their party and as their next preferred Governor on the strength of what they described as "historic, stellar and spectacular performance" since coming to office in 2022.

Oyebanji's support base has grown beyond the party circles; it has spread to other interest groups with huge numbers of voters who are also showing their support for him based on what he has done for the common man, their associations and the entire people and residents of the State. They are waiting and itching to return him back to office next year 

A strong army of supporters for the re-election of Governor Oyebanji is swelling in numbers by the day judging by public show of support for his undeclared second term ambition. Within just four days in the middle of June, the Governor's Office witnessed an "invasion" of pro-Oyebanji groups who came to identify with their preferred man for the state's number one seat from 2026 to 2030.

Opening the floodgates of endorsement for the Governor recently was the national leadership of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) who rallied its members in Ekiti to support the Oyebanji candidacy on the strength of his better welfare package for council workers and provision of incentives to boost their morale.

According to a letter to the Governor signed by NULGE National President, Comrade Aliyu Haruna Kankara, dated 11th June, 2025,  the umbrella body for local government workers in the country described Oyebanji as "and exceptional leader and a shining example among governors in Nigeria" urging its members in Ekiti to reciprocate the gesture with votes for the Governor at the polls.

The national NULGE attributed it's support for Oyebanji to include payment of outstanding arrears of salaries and allowances he met on ground, elevation of three members to the position of Permanent Secretaries and seven others as Executive Secretaries and Heads of Local Government Administration approval of additional N100 million for LG Staff Loans Board in addition to prior recapitalization of N200 million, among others.

Also on the 17th, 18th and 19th of June, three major interest groups marched on the Governor's Office to declare their support for Governor Oyebanji's re-election. These are Ekiti State Beer, Wine, Food and Drinks Sellers Association; Ekiti State Association of Tricycles and Okada Riders; Culture -based organizations under the aegis of Ekiti State Creative Artists Forum.

These groups attributed their open support for Governor Oyebanji for his all-inclusive leadership style, empowerment of their members and making available an atmosphere that thrives for their businesses and crafts which has given them economic advantage in a competitive environment.

The president of Beer, Wine, Food and Drinks Sellers Association, Mr Williams Ogundare, cited the Governor's commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and taking the lead in driving economic growth in the grassroots.

Ogundare commended the Governor for "his significant contributions to the development of micro, small and medium enterprises in Ekiti State" and for always pursuing economic growth of local businesses which is gradually turning the state to an investment hub for small business owners.

According to him, "the Governor has consistently demonstrated commitment to the prosperity of businesses in the State with various policies and programmes that have enhanced the ease of doing business for micro, small and medium enterprises."

Ogundare added that policies executed by the Oyebanji administration which include the streamlining of tax regime, enhancement of infrastructure, his administration's support and patronage of local businesses have positively transformed the grassroots economy and rubbed off positively on the State.

Before heading to the Governor's Office, the commercial motorcyclists and tricycle riders who stormed Ado Ekiti from all parts of the State, staged a colorful roadshow in the capital city to trumpet their unflinching support for Oyebanji wearing colourful attires many of which bore the portraits of the Governor.

Speaking on why they are earnestly asking Oyebanji to run for another term, the Chairman of Ekiti Commercial Motorcycle Riders Association, Mr Kunle Asaolu, described the Governor as a "Promise Keeper" who has fulfilled virtually all his electoral promises to the people of the state.

Asaolu said the union and its members are in support of Oyebanji's second term in office because of his humble leadership style, economic support and empowerment of members and for fixing of many roads in the state which has eased their operations and activities.

The Tricycle Riders Association Chairman, Mr Tolulope Alabi, hinged the group's endorsement of Oyebanji's candidacy on the Governor's commitment to the welfare of members and the entire people of the state.

Alabi added that Oyebanji sees all transport unions as equal stakeholders and carries them along in the scheme of things noting that their support for the Governor is total. He noted that mobilization of support for Oyebanji goes beyond the members only but will be extended to their families and dependants.

The amalgamation of Ekiti Arts and Culture under the auspicies of Ekiti State Creative Arts Forum who also staged an endorsement rally to the Governor's Office described Oyebanji as the most acceptable political brand in the State that everybody must embrace and support to continue the good works till 2030.

Groups under the Forum include Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association, Association of Drummers of Nigeria, Movie Makers Association of Nigeria and Egbe Olofi Association (Aso Oke Makers' group).

Their spokesmen who included Chief Ojo Olowojolu, Dr Mike Adeloye, Chief Ayodele Ilesanmi and Mr Gbenga Apadidun, attributed their endorsement of the Governor to his unprecedented support and empowerment of the arts, culture and entertainment sub-sectors in the state.

They explained that Oyebanji invested in culture to turn it into a  money-spinning industry, empowered local arts practitioners with finances, tools, equipment and costumes and also promoted Ekiti Festival of Arts and Culture, Cultural Fair and sponsorship of Cultural Troupes to international fiestas.

Another spectacular first they attributed to Oyebanji is the ongoing construction of Ekiti International Cultural Centre which they noted will place the state on the national culture consciousness and global cultural map on its completion.

The cultural groups pledged their unalloyed support for Oyebanji's second term urging all people of the State to key into the decision to keep the Governor in office beyond 2026.

More prominent individuals and interest groups are expected to endorse Oyebanji for another term in office in coming days with open rallies, street processions and public proclamations to send a message to other contestants and political parties that the Ikogosi-born Governor is a candidate to beat for the Ekiti number one seat.

*Ogunmola, a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media (Print media ), writes from Ado Ekiti

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.