Ekiti Deputy Gov Warns Political Appointees Against Disloyalty, Treachery.

Ekiti Deputy Gov Warns Political Appointees Against Disloyalty, Treachery.

As the race to the June 20, 2026 governorship poll gathers traction, the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has warned political appointees against disloyalty and treacherous acts that could undermine their reputations.

Mrs Afuye said it would be disservice for those holding political positions to be playing spoilers' roles, saying there are gains in being steadfastly loyal to one's  benefactor and Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who offered  them platforms to render services to the state.

The Deputy Governor, gave the warning in Ado Ekiti, on Sunday, during the burial thanksgiving in honour of her late mother, Olori Esther Iyalaje Adegboye, held at the Government House Chapel, Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital.

Olori Adegboye, who died on February 18, 2025 at the age of 97, was laid to rest on June 27, 2025, with a glamorous funeral at her Ikere Ekiti country home. 

At the spiritual event, attended by the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, top government functionaries and high profile politicians, prayers were offered for the success of Governor Oyebanji's administration, for sustainable peace of n Ekiti State and the nation in general.

Addressing the congregation, Mrs Afuye, appreciated Governor Oyebanji, the First Lady, political class, traditional rulers and all Ekiti indigenes, for their solid backings that made the funeral successful and grandiose. 

Tactically speaking about the 2026 governorship poll and the need for invincible cohesiveness in government, the Deputy Governor, appealed to those holding political positions to be wary of their actions and be loyal to their principal in the interest of their dignity and honour.

"Let us be committed to the government in whatever position we are given. You might be holding a small position, be contented with it and be loyal to that cause.

'We thank God that Ekiti is peaceful under Governor Oyebanji and moving forward in all aspects. This has been recognised near and far, not only in southwest alone, but across Nigeria, that our governor is performing and delivering.

 "There is nothing the governor can do that can please the adversaries. That is why you are seeing those negative comments coming, you can't but expect them. To those of us who are inside, let us be loyal and do what is right at all times. 

"I know that by this time of next year, we will be jubilating and rejoicing in the life of Ekiti State and our Governor by the grace of God", she said. 

In his sermon, the Chairman of the Christians' Association of Nigerian, Ekiti chapter, Dr. Emmanuel Aribasoye, who quoted from the Book of Psalms, chapter 17 verses 1-12, urged the citizens to live righteous and honest lives to exalt and lift the nation beyond the present stage. 

While the Government House Chaplain, Pastor Segun Awolumate, led the prayers for the deceased's family, Governor Oyebanji, all Ekiti citizens, the state government and the nation at large.

Oyebanji Commissions Ekiti Builders' Market.

Oyebanji Commissions Ekiti Builders' Market.

…Restates Commitment to Enabling Business Environment.

In a bid to further enhance commercial activities and provide a central location for sourcing building materials in the state, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Friday commissioned a newly completed ultra-modern market for building materials, describing it as a milestone achievement in the state’s drive towards economic growth and infrastructure development.

 

The market, which is a Public- Private  Partnership between Ekiti State Government, through its trading arm- Fountain Holdings Limited, and New Frontier Development Limited comprises of 191 lock-up shops, security  post, Cafeteria, Clinic, car parks, warehouse, among others.

Speaking while inaugurating the market complex in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji said the project is in line with his administration’s commitment to creating enabling environment for business to thrive, adding that the market would not only ease access to building materials but also stimulate local trading, create job, and boost the internally generated revenue.

Governor Oyebanji, who noted that before the intervention, traders in building materials operated in scattered and unregulated spaces, making it difficult for customers to access what needed in one place, said the new market would also address the gap by bringing all categories of building materials dealers together under one roof, thereby promoting convenience, orderliness, and safety in original and commercial transactions

The Governor said “The building materials sector played a critical role in the growth of our construction industry, by providing a centralized, well organized place for business. We are not only improving access to quality building materials, we are creating an enabling environment for small and medium enterprises.”

While commending the main partner- New Frintier Development Limited for delivering the project within record time, the Governor charged traders and shop owners to maintain the facilities, adhere to environmental standards, and work together to make the market a model for other commercial centers in the state

“The state government has made several efforts to provide a conducive atmosphere for traders within Ado Ekiti metropolis by providing alternative but conducive market space that will not hinder the flow of traffic at the city center. Such help us manifested the free flow of traffic at the popular Atikankan market, we moved the traders to the new shasha market, the advantage of this new local market is that it will provide a work structure for builders thereby creating a synergy between the builders and the traders.

” To our youths, women and artisans, let this market be a reminder that there is opportunity in hard work, dignity in enterprise and hope in the promise of a better tomorrow. Our administration will continue to roll out initiatives, support you through skill acquisition, access to finance and infrastructural support” the Governor asserted.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Fountain Holdings Limited, Mr Adetunji Tolani who described the market as a testament to the power of strategic partnership, said project was in response to the growing demand for a well-organized commercial hub where building materials  could be accessed in a single location.

While explaining that the market was designed with the end users in mind, incorporating essential intrastructure such as power supply, security, cafetarial and convenience facilities to ensure a functional and business-friendly environment, Mr Tolani said fountain holding remains committed to driving impactful projects that align with the administration’s development agenda

Also speaking on behalf of Managing Director of New Frontier Development Limited, the Executive Director, Salma Muhamed who expressed pride in the successful completion and commissioning of the builders market, describing it as a model project that demonstrates what can be achieved when the public and private sector collaborates effectively, noted that the company was motivated by a shared vision to contribute meaningfully to the growth of Ekiti State through quality infrastructure development.

It is recalled that the complex had been abandoned by successive administrations before Governor Oyebanji directed that the project be revisited last year.

EKSU Shines at SEG Sub-Saharan Students’ Conference, Emerges First Runner-Up.

EKSU Shines at SEG Sub-Saharan Students’ Conference, Emerges First Runner-Up.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, has emerged as the first runner-up at the 2025 Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) Sub-Saharan African Students' Conference and Challenge Bowl.

The event, which held between Monday, June 23 and Wednesday, June 25, brought together over 15 institutions from across Sub-Saharan Africa to compete in a rigorous academic showdown centered on Geosciences.

The competition featured a multi-stage quiz contest known as the Challenge Bowl. EKSU’s representatives advanced through the preliminary and semi-final stages to secure a place among the top five, eventually clinching the second position overall.

The University of Lagos claimed the top spot, while Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) came third. The three institutions will now represent the region in the global finals of the SEG Challenge Bowl at a yet-to-be-announced date.

According to the organisers, the first prize for the Sub-Saharan regional competition was pegged at $100, with the first and second runners-up receiving $60 and $40 respectively.

EKSU was represented by Boluwatife Osasona and Lawrence Blessing, both 300-level students of the Department of Geophysics. They were assisted by Olayioye Idowu Iyanuoluwa. The team was coordinated by Prof. Adeyinka Aturamu and Mr. M. A. Adeniran.

Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor of EKSU, Prof. Babatola Ayodele, congratulated the students and commended the department’s staff for their commitment to academic excellence.

He stated that the feat further reinforces the university’s reputation for honour and outstanding performance on both national and international stages.

“This achievement is a testament to our resolve to promote excellence at all levels. EKSU remains committed to sustaining its legacy of honour and raising global champions,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

The university’s Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs, in a statement signed by its Head, Bode Olofinmuagun, lauded the achievement, describing it as a major milestone for the institution.

Venite University Hosts Are-Ekiti Progressive Union to Celebrate the Appointment of Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor K.A. Aduloju.

Venite University Hosts Are-Ekiti Progressive Union to Celebrate the Appointment of Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor K.A. Aduloju.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, was agog on Saturday as it played host to the Are-Ekiti Progressive Union (APU), during a courtesy visit held in honour of Professor Kelvin Aduloju, who was recently appointed as the Acting Vice Chancellor of the institution.

The event, which took place at the university’s Senate Chamber, was not just a courtesy call but a symbolic gesture laden with cultural pride, communal solidarity and celebration of academic excellence.

The delegation, led by the President of APU, Professor Michael Oke, was made up of prominent indigenes of Are-Ekiti, including Chief Peter Adekunle (Vice President), Hon. Adewumi (Secretary), Barr. Segun Dipe (Public Relations Officer), Hon. Olowojebutu, Hon. Idowu Oke (Organising Secretary), Mr. Dare Ajayi (Assistant General Secretary), and Mrs. Adesina, among others.

Professor Aduloju, who doubles as the Coordinator of the Are-Ekiti Progressive Union at Ekiti State University, was described by many in attendance as a "shining example of academic brilliance and communal humility."

In his remarks, Professor Michael Oke lauded the university’s management for identifying and elevating Professor Aduloju to the position of Acting Vice Chancellor, noting that his appointment is not only a personal achievement but a win for the entire Are-Ekiti community.

“Professor Aduloju is a man of sound character, high intellect, and unquestionable loyalty to the ideals of education and development. His rise to this esteemed position is a testament to hard work and merit,” Professor Oke said.

Also speaking, Barrister Segun Dipe commended the university for promoting homegrown excellence and reiterated the union’s readiness to collaborate with the institution on development initiatives that would benefit both students and the host communities.

Responding, Professor Aduloju expressed deep appreciation to the APU delegation and described the visit as one of the most humbling moments of his academic career.

“I am overwhelmed by this show of love and solidarity from my people. This appointment is not just mine, but for all of Are-Ekiti. I dedicate it to every young Are indigene striving to make a mark in their field,” he said.

He further pledged his commitment to driving academic innovation, infrastructural development, and institutional stability during his tenure as Acting Vice Chancellor.

The visit ended with an exchange of gifts, prayers for success in office, and a brief campus tour led by the university's registrar and management team.

The colourful event not only reinforced the bond between Venite University and the Are-Ekiti community but also highlighted the importance of celebrating local heroes in leadership and academia.

For more, visit: https://veniteuniversity.edu.ng/2025/07/05/venite-university-hosts-are-ekiti-progressive-union-to-celebrate-the-appointment-of-acting-vice-chancellor-professor-k-a-aduloju

2026: Oyebanji Counts on Your Solid Backing, Ekiti Deputy Gov Tells APC Women.

2026: Oyebanji Counts on Your Solid Backing, Ekiti Deputy Gov Tells APC Women.

Considering the plans of the All Progressives Congress ahead of 2026 governorship poll and  the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has placed women on red alert, saying they have pivotal role to play in the actualisation of the dream.

In prosecuting the campaign, Mrs Afuye advised them to be united and pursue aggressive mobilisation of members across the 16 local government areas to place women in the book of reckoning within the ruling party. 

Afuye said this in Ado Ekiti on Friday,  while interacting with the Ekiti APC Women Leaders in her office, via a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje. 

Addressing the party bigwigs that attended the meeting, she urged them to ensure they carry other members along in order to avert loopholes that could stoke acrimony and cleavages, with dire backlashes in APC.

She mentioned that the party belongs to all members and that Governor Oyebanji is an ardent promoter of inclusivity, stating that no member should be alienated in the scheme of things.

The Deputy Governor  mandated the women leaders to synergise with other arms and groups within APC, so that the proposed women mobilisation tour can hit the right target, which is to sensitise the people about the reasonability of the governor's  second term bid.

In her submission, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, announced that the local government tour would kick off on Monday 7th, July, 2025 in Ekiti East .

She said other schedules regarding the tour shall be released in due course to keep all stakeholders informed about the impeding mobilisation drives. 

Buttressing the SSG, the Director General, Office of the Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotoso, charged the women leaders to work zealously towards achieving their common interest.

She posited that the programme was the initiative of the first lady of the state, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who believed in party's cohesion and inclusivity, saying  all hands must be on the plough to accomplish victory for Oyebanji's re-election.

The Chairperson of APC Elders' Forum, Women Wing,  Mrs Ronke Okunsanya, commended the leaders for their unshakeable support since the inception of Governor Oyebanji's administration, describing this as an impetus for good delivery in governance and  strong bond of unity in APC.

The two time Commissioner emphasized the importance of oneness as a tool to achieving greatness and victory in the re-election of Governor Oyebanji for second term in 2026.

AMANA STATE MOVEMENT CALLS FOR THE CORRECTION OF A HISTORICAL INJUSTICE IN THE STATE CREATION PROCESS.

AMANA STATE MOVEMENT CALLS FOR THE CORRECTION OF A HISTORICAL INJUSTICE IN THE STATE CREATION PROCESS.

The Amana state movement has addressed the Senate Committee public hearing on constitutional amendment and is calling on the National Assembly to create a State to be known as Amana State out of Adamawa state and Uba Chiefdom of Borno State. The group called it the Correction of a historical injustice meted on the Area by the Nigerian State.

Additionally, the group claimed that there is a breach of trust on the part of the Nigerian Nation that promised that the area in question which voted willingly to join Nigeria through a United Nations conducted plebiscite on the 1 Ith February of 1961, was received by the late Sadauna of Sokoto Sir Ahamdu Bello and other representatives of the Nigeria Government with a pledge that;

i. The area will remain a distinct entity as a province or state within the Nigerian Nation and

ii. That the capital city of Mubi will remain equal to other capitals such

Kano, Katsina, and Ilorim

Unfortunately, both promises were not kept by the Nigeria Nation. Speaking at the Senate Public hearing on Constitution Amendment in Maiduguri Borno state, the leader of the delegation, His Highness Alhaji Sali Bello Dan Amar Mubi said both promises were breached since 1967 when the first 12 state were created in Nigeria. In his words 'We came here as a delegation not to beg or just try to plead for the creation of an Amana State. rather we are here to demand for the correction of a historical injustice done to an area that suffered injustice and a breach of a Solemn promise by the Nigerian State" 

The Amana State movement posited that they have fulfilled all the criteria for  the creation of a state including population required, Landmass, Economic Potentials and Sustainability factors as prescribed by the guidelines.

Addressing the Nigerian Senate directly the elder Statesman leading the delegation called on the current Senate and National Assembly to write their name in Gold by correcting this gross historical injustice. He ended by saying "May you be the instrument God will use to Correct this historical injustice".

The Agitation and movement for the creation of an Amana state has been the most consistent in the history of Nigeria dating back to May 1967 when the first set of 12 states were created in Nigeria. Since then, during every state creation exercise a request has been presented by the group, including during military regime.

Signed:

Ahmad l. Sajoh, fnipr

Director Media and Publicity

Amana State Movement

Cavista Holdings and Agbeyewa Farms Champion Nigeria’s Agricultural Transformation at World Cassava Day 2025.

Cavista Holdings and Agbeyewa Farms Champion Nigeria’s Agricultural Transformation at World Cassava Day 2025.

The 2025 World Cassava Day celebration was held in grand style at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja, spotlighting cassava as a cornerstone for food security, rural prosperity, and global competitiveness. The event, themed “Farm to Global Markets: Driving Industrialization, Food Security & Exports”, brought together leaders from government, business, and development institutions to chart a new course for cassava-led growth.

Cavista Holdings, in partnership with its agribusiness subsidiary, Agbeyewa Farms, served as headline sponsors of the national event, reaffirming their joint commitment to Nigeria’s agricultural and industrial future.

Delivering the keynote address, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, declared cassava a symbol of national resilience and opportunity.

“Cassava, which for long symbolised food security for the vulnerable, can also signify prosperity for the ambitious,” said the Vice President.

“This administration is repositioning cassava as a driver of industrial development, rural livelihoods, and import substitution. We are moving from subsidy-heavy programmes to investment-led solutions anchored on private capital, research, and coordinated national action.”

In a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by Mr. Olumide Olayomi, Executive Director and Vice President of Government and External Affairs, the Chairman of Cavista Holdings, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, emphasized cassava’s strategic importance to national development.

“We see cassava not just as a crop — but as a strategic asset in Nigeria’s journey toward economic diversification, rural empowerment, and global competitiveness,” said Mr. Olajide.

“Our investment through Agbeyewa Farms — with 5,000 hectares already under cultivation — is a bold statement of intent. We believe that the real wealth of a nation lies in its people, and the best policy is jobs, jobs, and more jobs.”

He commended the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing pride in Cavista Holding’s role as a private sector partner committed to agriculture, job creation, and shared prosperity.

“As we celebrate World Cassava Day, let us remember: every hectare planted, every youth trained, every innovation scaled — is a step toward a more secure, prosperous and export-ready Nigeria,” said Mr. Olajide.

Also speaking, Cavista’s Director of Strategy, Kabir Shagaya, reaffirmed the company’s strategic commitment to food security, inclusive growth, and innovation-led agriculture:

“At Cavista Holdings, cassava is more than a crop — it is a platform for national development. Our investments reflect our belief that business must be a force for good, with agriculture at the heart of shared prosperity,” he said.

A major sponsor of the celebration, Agbeyewa Farms is leading Nigeria’s cassava revolution through a landmark public-private partnership with the Ekiti State Government. From a modest start just two years ago, the farm now operates at scale:

• 5,000 hectares under active cultivation

• Over 1,000 direct jobs created

• Yields of up to 32 tons per hectare, exceeding national averages

• Starch content of 27.7%, above industry benchmarks

“Our goal goes beyond cultivation — we are building an integrated value chain to process cassava into starch, ethanol, flour, and more,” said Mr. Seyi Ayeleso, OSKA, Managing Director of Agbeyewa Farms.

“With support from the Ekiti State Government and strong community partnerships, Agbeyewa is proving that agriculture can be a platform for national pride and prosperity.”