OYEBANJI FELICITATES SENATOR ADETUNMBI ON 70TH BIRTHDAY.

OYEBANJI FELICITATES SENATOR ADETUNMBI ON 70TH BIRTHDAY.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Chairman of South West Development Commission (SWDC), Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi on his 70th birthday.

The Governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode, congratulated Senator Adetunmbi on attaining the landmark birthday in good health and sound mind.

He noted that Senator Adetunmbi's life trajectory has been marked with diligent and distinguished service to his state, nation and humanity at large.

The Governor hailed the celebrant for making enduring impact as a technocrat in the development circles, a policy and boardroom guru, a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a statesman who is passionate about the growth and development of his state, the South West region and Nigeria as a whole. 

He said Senator Adetunmbi showed the stuff he was made of during his tenure in the National Assembly with his well researched and highly detailed motions and debates delivered  in lucid language,  adding great value to legislative business and earning huge respect from his colleagues and accolades from Nigerians. 

The Governor pointed out that Ekiti State is proud of Senator Adetunmbi and would always tap from his invaluable experience in taking the State to the peak of development through his interventions in economic planning as an  Economic Adviser to the Governor, and Chairman of the State Economic Management Team, roles he played without drawing a salary. 

While wishing the septuagenarian many happy returns of the day, the Governor prayed God to grant him long life, sound health and more success in his future endeavors for more service to humanity.

“On behalf of my family, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, we wish our highly cerebral Senator Adetunmbi a happy birthday as he joins the class of septuagenarians and pray that God continues to uphold and strengthen him through the years ahead”.

Ekiti 2026: EKSU Alumni Association Presents APC Governorship Nomination Forms to Oyebanji.

Ekiti 2026: EKSU Alumni Association Presents APC Governorship Nomination Forms to Oyebanji.                                                                     “I ‘ll continue to make you proud” says Governor

The Ekiti State University (EKSU) Alumni Association on Thursday formally presented the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to Governor Biodun Oyebanji as part of their support for the Governor’s re-election in the June 2026 governorship election in the state.

The presentation of the forms which took place at the Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti came barely four days after the Alumni Association under aegis of EKSU Alumni Solidarity Group for BAO purchased the forms at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja. Leaders of the Alumni Association said the gesture was driven by the outstanding performance of the Governor which they would like him to re-enact in his second term in office.

Speaking while presenting the forms to the Governor at the brief but colourful event, the Life Patron of the Association who is also the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, described Governor Oyebanji as a pacesetter and applauded him for his exemplary leadership and remarkable achievements which have drawn applause and support from the association and other critical stakeholders in the state.

The Senate Leader noted that Oyebanji’s performance in critical sector in the state such as infrastructure, education, agriculture, human capital development has distinguished him as a visionary leader that should be supported and encouraged to continue in the best interest of Ekiti people.

The life patron who explained that these outstanding achievements were the reasons the association decided to purchase the nomination forms for the Governor stressed that Oyebanji’s leadership has not only brought pride to the alumni but also transformed the fortunes of the state.

The Senate Leader urged the association to be vibrant campaigners of the good work the Governor is doing, noting that some political elements had resolved to mischievously continue to attack the government on social media without any justification.

He said that the Governor, working in collaboration with national assembly members has been engaging appropriate authorities, including the Presidency on the affected federal roads, which had resulted in the recent award of two of the federal roads.

Also in his remarks, the Global President of the Association, Mr Seyi Idowu, who unveiled the EKSU Alumni Solidarity Group for BAO, said the group’s objective is to launch a house to house and social media campaign for the second term bid of the Governor, stressing that the Governor has satisfactorily fulfilled the aspiration of the members by raising the banner of governance in the state

 

The EKSU Alumni President said the decision to buy the nomination forms for Governor Oyebanji was as a show of confidence in his leadership, emphasizing that the Governor’s impressive track record in governance and his commitment to the welfare of the people made him the right choise to continue steering the affairs of the state

The Director General of theEKSU Alumni Solidarity Group, Engr. Dipo Bamisaye explained that the association deemed it worthy to obtain the expression of interest form for the Governor to run for a second term as Governor of the State due to his exceptional performance, strength of character, vision and impeccable leadership

He highlighted the achievement of the Governor in less than three in office to include, creation of peaceful business and political atmosphere, infrastructural development across the state, increment of subvention to all tertiary institution in the state, defrayment of gratuities, among others.

In his response, Governor Oyebanji, who expressed his profound gratitude to the his colleagues in the Alumni Association for purchasing the nomination form on his behalf. He described the gesture as a uncommon show of love and confidence, said he would continue to make the Alumni proud through impactful policies and projects that promote inclusive governance, economic development and educational advancement

The Government explained that his government has been able to recued the University through strategic constitution  of the governing council and the management team as well as interventions which including increase in the subvention accruable to the institution with more efforts underway to make the university a world-class

 

Describing the event as an emotional moment, the Governor said that he was not unmindful of some political elements agenda to disturb the peace of the state as well as discredit the efforts of the Federal Government in the state. He said Ekiti people are not ingrate and that his achievements were enough to defeat opponents

Oyebanji also appealed to party members to embrace peace and avoid any form of violence as political activities heighten. He urged them not to retaliate when provoked, noting that opponents might resort to lies and provocations to incite conflict.

“On behalf of myself and my wife who is also a member of this association, I am extremely grateful to the alumni association, the EKSU alumni solidarity group for BAO and to those that contributed and are still contributing. Let me assure you my brothers and sister, I will continue to make you proud and government will continue to provide enabling environment for the university to do better.

“This is a wake up call for me and other politicians that people are watching us, they are watching out conduct and it is a wakeup call to APC members that there are other alternative platforms of support, even when the people decide act otherwise, God will raise his own army

"This is an emotional moment for me, but before I end my speech, let me appeal to all our party members that they should please be at peace with everyone. I am aware that politics is on, they are going to annoy you, lie about you, do a lot of things, don't fight with anybody. We need peace in this state, what they are trying to do is to draw you out for a fight so you can make them popular. They cannot take us out on our performance”. The Governor asserted

 

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, Secreatry to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, members  National Assembly, members of the state house of assembly

Oyebanji Cautions Against Politicizing Ekiti Federal Roads.

Oyebanji Cautions Against Politicizing Ekiti Federal Roads.

…Says President Tinubu Has Been Fair to Ekiti State.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has warned distractors against discrediting the Federal Government on the state of federal roads in the state, noting that all challenges cannot be surmounted overnight.

Speaking at the 2025 Udiroko Festival in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, Governor Oyebanji expressed displeasure at the narrative that the Federal Government has abandoned Ekiti State in view of the deplorable state of the Ado-Aramoko-Itawure road.

The Governor said distractors are aware that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu- led Federal Government has awarded the construction of Ado- Ikere- Akure road, Ado-Ijan-Iluomoba road which are currently under construction, but are on the mission to discredit the President because of Ado-Aramoko-Itawure road which has not been awarded for construction.

He explained that the ongoing construction of the two federal roads in the state is an indication that the President loves Ekiti State but cannot attend to all requests at a go. He added that the State has also completed the reconstruction of the Ado- Iworoko- Ifaki federal road to complement efforts of the Federal Government. 

While stressing that Ekiti State remains eternally grateful to the President, Governor Oyebanji said, “let me use this opportunity to tell Ekiti people that the President of this country is supportive of Ekiti State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing everything humanly possible for the State and I stand here to give testimony to that. The President has supported us a lot but it is not possible for him to solve all our problems in two years.

“As I speak today, the construction of Ado-Ikere-Itaogbolu-Akure road is ongoing, also the Ado-Ijan-Iluomoba road has been awarded, while the state has also completed the reconstruction of the Ado- Iworoko- Ifaki federal road to complement the efforts of the federal government. it is unfair for any Ekiti indigene to use the condition of Aramoko-Itawure road to measure this government. Ekiti People are not ingrates, we reject that narrative and we say the President is supporting us and Ekiti people are in support of the President”, he added. 

While congratulating the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe for the 2025 Udiroko festival, the Governor, who lauded the monarch’s efforts in fostering peace, unity and cultural heritage of Ado Ekiti, described the royal father as a symbol of wisdom and an embodiment of Ekiti rich cultural heritage.

Governor Oyebanji said the reign of the monarch has brought remarkable progress to Ado-Ekiti and the state at large, emphasizing that Udiroko festival remains a testament to the monarch’s visionary leadership, which has sustained the Ekiti tradition in a modern society.

 “ I congratulate Kabiyesi, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti for the development you have brought to the State capital and Ekiti state at large. I thank you for your commitment to the development of Ado and the state in general, you are one Oba who love Ekiti with every fibre in you and am grateful to you for the support you have given to our government. Thank you for being a father indeed”.  The governor said.

In his addresss, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe noted that Udiroko Festival has been transformed from its traditional view to a dynamic platform for community development and engagement serving as an avenue to reflect on the collective Journey of Ado Ekiti people, evaluate progress, as well as envision a future that is in tandem with the values of unity, growth, adaptability and development.

Oba Adejugbe, who hailed Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment and concrete policy drive towards good governance, accountability and effective service delivery added that Udiroko remains the springboard for many developmental projects over the years including the construction of the Great Fajuyi Hall, modern palace, a modern architectural amphitheater among many others, all of which have transformed the city into a tourist attraction.

The Monarch further commended the Governor on his various efforts to facilitate development programme to the state with visible impacts in the socio-economic, political and cultural life of the state which has brought massive gains to the people.

He highlighted some of the landmark achievements of Governor Oyebanji to include legacy projects such as Agro-allied International airport which has opened Ekiti State to the world, effective linkage roads through the ring roads that navigate the state capital facilitating easy inter and intra-city/town movement,  construction of an overhead bridge to give Ado-Ekiti a befitting status as the capital of Ekiti State among others.

Oba Adejugbe called on all political actors in the state to work towards  peaceful coexistence and not to see political position as a do or die affair, stressing the need to respect the preference of the people for the collective development of Ekiti State in particular and Nigeria in general.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for the far-reaching reforms he has introduced to bring succour to Nigerians using the platform of the festival to appeal to the people to endure the initial pains that may feel, adding that he was sure the gains of the reforms would be enduring . 

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; former Governor Niyi Adebayo, Former Governor Ayodele Fayose, former and serving members of the National Assembly, former and serving members of the state house of assembly, members of the state Executive Council, among others.

Senator Adaramodu Urges Ekiti South Constituents to Collect PVCs as INEC Begins registration and revalidation Exercise.

Senator Adaramodu Urges Ekiti South Constituents to Collect PVCs as INEC Begins registration and revalidation Exercise.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, has called on all eligible constituents to actively participate in the ongoing registration and revalidation exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and ensure they collect and register their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Speaking in his capacity as the representative of Ekiti South constituents and the spokesperson of the 10th Nigerian Senate, Senator Adaramodu emphasized that the PVC remains the most powerful tool for citizens to shape the future of governance. He described it as essential for sustaining the momentum of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to consolidate the reforms going on across all sectors of the nation's governance, as well as to ensure the continuity of the developmental strides under Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Deputy Governor Monisade Christiana Afuye BAO/MCA in Ekiti State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC beyond 2026 and 2027, respectively.

“The PVC is not just a card—it is the voice of the people and the foundation of democratic continuity,” Adaramodu stated, urging constituents to seize the opportunity to register and revalidate their voter information.

Ekiti Assembly Delegation Visits Agbeyewa Farms, Commends Agricultural Investments.

Ekiti Assembly Delegation Visits Agbeyewa Farms, Commends Agricultural Investments.

 

The Ekiti State House of Assembly, led by its Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, today paid an official visit to Agbeyewa Farms, the largest private agro-allied investments in Ekiti State.

The delegation, which included principal officers and lawmakers across various constituencies, were warmly received by the Managing Director/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, alongside senior management staff. The visit commenced with a colorful parade mounted by NYSC Corps members serving on the farm, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and celebration.

In his welcome address, Mr. Aiyeleso expressed gratitude to the legislators for taking out time to visit, noting that their presence was a strong show of support for private investment and agribusiness in Ekiti. He highlighted the farm’s ongoing projects in Cassava cultivation, aggregation, processing. agro-trading and community empowerment, Stressing that Agbeyewa Farms was committed to food security, youth employment, and economic transformation of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.

In his welcome address, Mr. Aiyeleso expressed gratitude to the legislators for taking out time to visit, noting that their presence was a strong show of support for private investment and agribusiness in Ekiti. He highlighted the farm’s ongoing projects in Cassava cultivation, aggregation, processing.  agro-trading and community empowerment, Stressing that Agbeyewa Farms was committed to food security, youth employment, and economic transformation of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.

In his response, the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye, commended Agbeyewa Farms for its massive investment and foresight in agricultural development. He noted that the project aligns with the vision of the Ekiti State Government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji to position agriculture as the bedrock of economic growth and job creation.

“We are impressed by the scale of investment we have seen here today. Agbeyewa Farms is not only contributing to food production but is also creating jobs for our people and adding value to the economy of Ekiti State. The House of Assembly will continue to support initiatives like this that place Ekiti on the map of agribusiness excellence,” he said.

During the tour of the expansive farm facilities, both at Ipao axis and Gede/Iyemero, the lawmakers were briefed on the farm’s mechanized systems, upcoming modern processing facilities, and sustainable agricultural practices. The delegation also interacted with local workers, NYSC Corps members, and technical staff, who shared testimonies of how the farm has positively impacted their livelihoods.

Agbeyewa Farms, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, has continued to position itself as a key player in agribusiness, promoting innovation, sustainability, and community development. The visit by the Ekiti State House of Assembly further strengthens the partnership between government institutions and private investors in driving development across the state.

Barrister Aluko Advocates Collective Support for Systemic Progress in Local Government Service.

Barrister Aluko Advocates Collective Support for Systemic Progress in Local Government Service.

...Back Oyebanji’s Reforms.

By Asubiojo G.O

The newly deployed Executive Zonal Inspector for Ekiti Central in the Local Government Service Commission, Barrister Ayodele Aluko, has charged workers of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government to prioritize discipline, punctuality, and dedication to duty above political distractions.

Aluko gave the charge during his maiden meeting with the council’s staff and directors, where he warned against lateness, absenteeism, and the misuse of social media to malign government officials or policies. Instead, he urged workers to promote the achievements of the present administration.

“As a union leader, I will always support the legitimate demands of workers. But it is equally important that we stand with Governor Oyebanji in his pursuit of good governance,” he said.

The inspector applauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji for placing workers’ welfare at the center of his administration. He listed some of the governor’s interventions to include:

●Regular payment of salaries before month-end.

●Settlement of outstanding arrears and deductions.

●Prompt payment of leave bonuses.

●Training and retraining programmes for staff.

●Timely promotions, conversions, and upgrading of workers.

Improved welfare packages for local government employees.

Aluko also expressed delight over the ongoing renovation of the Traditional Council Chambers, describing it as a reflection of Governor Oyebanji’s respect for culture and tradition.

He commended the Department of Agriculture for its efforts at boosting the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the local government through the cultivation of oil palm, cocoa, and orange seedlings, as well as piggery, poultry, and root crop farms. He encouraged other councils in Ekiti to emulate the initiative.

In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (popularly known as CHENCO), described Aluko as a pragmatic leader with professional acumen capable of inspiring systemic growth in the service.

He noted that Oyebanji’s reforms had brought relief to local government workers and gave updates on ongoing projects, including the reconstruction of lock-up shops at EBHS (80% completion), renovation of the Traditional Council Chambers (75% completion), and procurement of office equipment for improved service delivery.

Also speaking, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, thanked Aluko for his guidance and appreciated the chairman for prioritizing staff welfare, pledging continued loyalty to the state government.

Other dignitaries at the meeting included the Vice Chairman, Hon. Engr. Remi Alade; Executive Secretary, Hon. Dr. Sule Olatunji-F; Supervisor for Agriculture and Natural Services, Hon. Olubuyide Ayodeji; and all departmental directors.

Abbey Awesome Storms Ado-Ekiti to Light Up Town Tavern Lounge Ahead of Grand Opening.

Abbey Awesome Storms Ado-Ekiti to Light Up Town Tavern Lounge Ahead of Grand Opening.

Ado-Ekiti is set to witness a major entertainment boost as popular Juju maestro, Abiodun Awesola, popularly known as Abbey Awesome, storms the city for a special pre-opening showcase of Town Tavern Lounge, one of the newest and biggest hospitality spots in the state capital.

Scheduled for August 20, 2025, the event coincides with the colourful annual Udiroko Festival, offering residents and visitors a rare blend of cultural heritage and premium entertainment in one unforgettable night.

Strategically and conspicuously located at Km 8, beside Pastoral Centre, off Ikere Road, Ado-Ekiti, Town Tavern Lounge is owned by entertainment-loving couple, Mr. and Mrs. Taiwo & Omolola Olorunbukunmi, who described it as a state-of-the-art leisure and lifestyle destination designed to redefine nightlife in Ekiti.

With its modern architecture, soothing ambience, top-quality sound systems, football pitch, curated drinks and VIP-style services; all in a secure environment, the lounge manage by Mister Heybee Hospitality Solution, promises a refreshing night-time experience for fun lovers. To mark the opening, entry has been made completely free.

As anticipation for the full grand opening gathers momentum, Town Tavern Lounge is poised to offer a seamless hospitality treat to tourists and fun-seekers in Ekiti. All staff are specially trained by Mister Heybee Hospitality Solution under a customised service culture known as “S.T.A.R” (Smile – Take Responsibility – Anticipate Customers’ Request – Respond Quickly), geared towards delivering world-class guest satisfaction. 

The timing of the event which coincide with Udiroko; a festival celebrated for its cultural storytelling, rites, and communal celebration, underscores the organisers’ desire to fuse traditional glamour with contemporary entertainment, making the show attractive to both youth and culture enthusiasts.

Expectations are high that the Town Tavern Lounge will not only elevate Ado-Ekiti’s social scene, but also stimulate tourism, hospitality and small businesses within the Ikere Road axis and its environs.

As the countdown begins, Abbey Awesome, presence in Ado-Ekiti is already generating excitement among fanals, music aficionados and nightlife lovers to witness a high-octane performance that will light up the new venue.