Ekiti Govt Urges Regents to Shun Sit- Tight Syndrome.

Ekiti Govt Urges Regents to Shun Sit- Tight Syndrome.

Following the installation of the first female regent in Aramoko Ekiti, Ekiti West Local Government Area, Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration, has advised female citizens occupying traditional stools to shun sit-tight syndrome and action capable of perpetuating them in their temporary positions. 

The Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, gave the charge in Aramoko Ekiti, on Thursday, during a visit to the newly installed Regent, Princess Serifat Owolabi, through a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje.

Her installation followed the existing vacancy in Alara stool, after the demise of  Oba Olu Adegoke Adeyemi, from Arakale ruling house, who joined his ancestors on August 9, 2025.

Addressing the stakeholders, Mrs Afuye, charged Alara-in-council to ensure firm support for the regent, for her to savour  successful reign that will benefit the masses.

In the same vein, the government charged the stakeholders and the  community to cooperate  with the regent, in the overall development of the town, warning that no town can develop under the atmosphere of unrest and multifaceted crises.

She pleaded with the kingmakers and other stakeholders to channel their energies towards producing a monarch in a manner that portrays  the fear of the God, to promote peace, progress and unity in the ancient town.

Afuye maintained that a new era has begun in Aramoko Ekiti, following the request of the community for the installation of a female regent, in a clear departure from the old practice, when a male Chief was allowed to oversee the community after the death of their monarch.

"When you made the request, we looked at the reason behind it as a government and it was quickly ratified and approved by the State Executive Council, after thorough and proper scrutiny.

"I plead with the regent to work towards establishing a cordial relationship among the community sons and daughters, as their healthy relationship would promote the development of this town.

"As a government, we believe what should be uppermost to our Regents is how to ensure smooth selection process to produce substantive successors and not how to prolong their stay, because this can cause unnecessary crisis and we don't expect this to happen". 

Speaking earlier, Princess Owolabi, commended the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for granting approval to the community's request, which has established a new era in the town.

Princess Owolabi posited that the new traditional norm would further restore the  unity and sense of trust among the chiefs  in Aramoko community, describing unity as a potent force for development.

She pleaded with the state government to help in establishing a university in Aramoko Ekiti and as well help rehabilitate the roads connecting the town with other neighbouring communities.

Buttressing the Regent, High Chief Diran Adebayo, the Asao of Aramoko Ekiti, saluted the State Government for restoring peace in the interest of the town through swift intervention in the regency controversy. 

Chief Adebayo urged the state government  to locate a project in the town that would be of lasting memories of the new practice and serve as a  mark of respect for the first female regent in the community.

Oyebanji Commends Ekiti Labour Leaders for harmonious working relationship.

Oyebanji Commends Ekiti Labour Leaders for harmonious working relationship.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has commended the leadership of organized labour in the State for sustaining industrial peace and harmony, which, according to him, has enhanced economic growth and development in the past 35 months of his administration.

Governor Oyebanji, gave the commendation in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday during a meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the newly inaugurated executive members of the Women's Wing of the Congress. The Governor noted that the understanding and cooperative spirit of labour unions in the state have provided a conducive atmosphere for the Government to implement people-oriented policies, stressing that without peace, the administration’s stride would not have been possible.

While noting that no investor would put resources in a volatile environment, the Governor said the peaceful disposition of the workers in the state has not only boosted the Government’s development drive, but has also positioned Ekiti as a preferred destination for investors.

Governor Oyebanji further explained that the union leaders have shown greater understanding for his administration because of its openness, transparency and accountability, stressing that he does not hide anything from them. In spite of this, he said he does not take their support and cooperation for granted.

The Governor said:  “let me thank the labour in the state for the peaceful atmosphere, it is because you have allowed peace that we are able to achieve all these things. If you have been fighting me, calling for strike, shutting down institutions, even investors will not come to the State but the State has being peaceful, one of the safest in the country."

While congratulating the newly inaugurated Chairperson of the Ekiti State Chapter of  NLC Women's Wing of the Ekiti State Nigeria Labour Congress, Mrs Bade Gboyega and other executive members, the Governor assured them that his government would support them to achieve success in their new assignment.

 

The Governor also assured the workers in the state that brighter days are ahead, stressing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms are already producing positive results which will soon translate into improved welfare and greater opportunities for Ekiti people and the country at large.

“One thing I know very well is that between now and by the time we complete this tenure, most of the outstanding issues would have been addressed. We are going to get to a point very soon where we will have more than enough because the President reforms are beginning to yield fruit and I know that it can only get better”. The Governor asserted.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of NLC, Ekiti State Chapter, Comrade Kolapo Olatunde, said workers in the state are pleased with the Governor’s leadership style and assured the Governor that the workforce will continue to stand by him, stressing that workers’ loyalty would not only be demonstrated through cooperation in service but also at the polls when the time comes.

Also in her remarks, the new Chairperson of the Women's Wing of the NLC, Comrade (Mrs) Bade Gboyega, hailed the Governor for creating a conducive environment where women can contribute meaningfully to governance and the development of the State.

She assured the Governor that women's wing of the union would stand firmly with the Governor, stressing that the women folks in the workforce are grateful for his inclusive policies and recognition of their role in the State’s progress.  She added that women across the labour movement will work tirelessly to mobilize support for the Governor, promising that their voices and votes will be a strong force for  continuity in the forthcoming election.

Also at the meeting were, Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Director General Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotoso, Senior Special Assistant  on Labour Matters, Comrade Faromiluyi, among others.

Ekiti Youths Drive Agric Revolution, Raise 160,000 Broilers Under Oyebanji’s Scheme.

Ekiti Youths Drive Agric Revolution, Raise 160,000 Broilers Under Oyebanji’s Scheme.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Ekiti State is witnessing an agricultural revolution as over 160,000 broilers have been raised by youths under the State Broilers Production Scheme (EBOPS) between late 2023 and now.

The programme, which kicked off at Erinfun, has since spread to Ikole, Ilupeju, Ido and the Technical College, Ado Ekiti, training more than 150 young people in its first two cohorts. Participants not only managed the entire process but also took full ownership of the profits, which already run into millions of naira.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, said the scheme has positioned Ekiti as a state with a competitive edge in poultry production. With World Bank support, he added, the state is set to optimise its potential to create jobs and wealth along the poultry value chain.

He further disclosed that a Commercial Processing Plant is in the pipeline to unlock opportunities within the poultry ecosystem, while plans for commercial cattle markets would streamline the beef industry and introduce traceability systems to guarantee healthy red meat for consumers. According to him, these initiatives would also boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

Boluwade praised and thanked Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his “vision, dedication and unwavering commitment” to agricultural development, stressing that the governor’s leadership is the driving force behind the successes recorded so far.

The commissioner urged eligible bidders to obtain further information at the State Project Coordinator’s Office, Odo Ado, Ado Ekiti.

Ekiti 2026: Ekiti LG Workers Donate N10m towards Oyebanji’s Re-Election Bid.

Ekiti 2026: Ekiti LG Workers Donate N10m towards Oyebanji’s Re-Election Bid.

Workers in Ekiti State Local Government Councils under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), yesterday reinforced their support for the re-election bid of the incumbent Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji with a donation of the sum of 10 million naira to his campaign.

The cheque for the amount was presented to Governor Oyebanji during a meeting with the Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Local Government Administration (HLAs) and Directors across the 16 Local Government Councils and 22 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) at the Governor’s office, Ado-Ekiti.

NULGE President, Mr. Oluseyi Olatunde, who presented the cheque to the Governor on behalf of the workers, said the financial contribution was a demonstration of the local government workers’ unshaken confidence in the Governor Oyebanji’s leadership, adding that the gesture reflects their collective resolve to ensure the Governor serves a second term in office.

Describing Oyebanji-led administration as “a golden era” for workers in the state, Olatunde said Governor Oyebanji has changed the fortunes of local government employees in the state and restored dignity and confidence in the service, adding that the local government workers’ support for the Governor’s re-election is not just about continuity of good governance, but also about safeguarding the progress and stability that the administration has brought to the local government in the state.

Stressing that the Governor is the answers to Ekiti people’s prayers, the NULGE  President vowed that Ekiti workers will not allow anybody to truncate the pace of development currently being enjoyed in the state. This he said, informed their decision to mobilize support as well as resources for the re-election of the Governor.

 

The NULGE President highlighted various achievements of the Governor in the local government, including payment of five months salary arrears, regular payment of deductions, payment of leave bonus arrears, payment of  N70,000 minimum wage, construction of ultra-modern office complex, payment of seven months arrears of gratuity, and appointment of Local Government Officers as Permanent Secretaries, among others.   

In his  remarks, Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide, who commended Governor Oyebanji for repositioning the local government system in the State, said the Governor’s leadership style has strengthened efficiency and restored confidence in the local government administration.

Chief Abejide assured the Governor that the local government workers are grateful for his impactful administration and would demonstrate their gratitude with their votes, adding that the workers are determined to mobilize support across the State to guarantee victory for the Governor.

The LGSC boss charged the local government workers to mobilize and encourage the people in their various local council areas to update their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC), which according to him, is the ticket to translate their support for the Governor into the reality.

Governor Oyebanji, in his response, thanked the Council workers for their trust and support for his government since inception. He also expressed his appreciation for the gestures, assuring them that his government’s policies will continue to prioritize their welfare, enhance service delivery, and accelerate development across the State.

While expressing optimism about the forthcoming primary and gubernatorial elections, Governor Oyebanji said the overwhelming support he continues to receive from the council workers and citizens across various strata gives him confidence of victory.

Speaking further, the Governor said his administration remains open to constructive criticism, the Governor frowned at individuals fabricating contents on social media to discredit his performance and that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the state, stressing that the President has been very supportive of his administration and the State.

 

The Governor used the opportunity to urge the council workers to mobilize and encourage people in the local council to update and collect their Permanent Voter cards.

Also at the meeting were, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Special Adviser Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode, among others

Ekiti 2026: APC South Senatorial Leaders, Ward Chairmen Rally for Oyebanji, Vow 100% Loyalty Ahead of Primary.

Ekiti 2026: APC South Senatorial Leaders, Ward Chairmen Rally for Oyebanji, Vow 100% Loyalty Ahead of Primary.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti South Senatorial District has again thrown its weight behind Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and his deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye (MCA), with a resounding declaration of loyalty, unity and commitment to their continuity agenda till 2030.

The resolution was reached at a well-attended meeting held on Tuesday the APC Party Hall in Ikere-Ekiti. The gathering was presided over by the Senatorial Chairman, Chief Akinbowale, with the Senatorial Secretary, Hon. Afuye Oluwaseun, ward chairmen, local government chairmen, women leaders, youth leaders and other stakeholders in attendance.

In his keynote address, Chief Adebowale applauded Governor Oyebanji for what he described as “landmark achievements across all sectors of governance,” urging party faithful to intensify efforts in grassroots mobilisation. He cautioned members against attending meetings not authorised by the party, warning that disunity could derail the collective progress made so far.

“Governor Oyebanji has proven himself to be a true servant-leader. We must rally around him, mobilise at the grassroots and ensure that his continuity till 2030 becomes a reality. This is our responsibility as party leaders, and we will not fail,” Adebowale declared.

Speaking in the same vein, Senatorial Women Leader, Chief (Mrs) Adesina, and Iya Adeniyi hailed Oyebanji’s inclusive leadership style, stressing that APC women across the district were determined to deliver overwhelming support for the governor at the October 27 primary election.

The Senatorial PRO, Comrade Ajakaye Idowu, and Youth Leader, Comrade Sikiru Daramola, equally pledged massive mobilisation of their constituencies, noting that the youth and media arms of the party had already been activated for grassroots campaigns.

Ward chairmen, who spoke on behalf of their colleagues, described Governor Oyebanji as “a dependable leader who has never neglected the party structure.” They appreciated his constant support for the wards, affirming that his style of governance had given them confidence and motivation to work harder.

“We are grateful to Governor Oyebanji for always carrying the wards along in his government. He has touched the grassroots more than any other leader in recent times. We want to assure him of one hundred percent loyalty and commitment. We are united, and we will work tremendously to ensure his second term,” one of the ward chairmen said to a thunderous applause.

Another chairman praised the APC South Senatorial leadership for convening the meeting, noting that it provided them the platform to openly declare their stance for the governor and strengthen unity within the party.

“This meeting has rekindled our spirit and reaffirmed our loyalty to the party. We now return to our wards fully energised to mobilise and work for the victory of BAO/MCA. We will not betray the trust of our leaders,” he assured.

In his closing remarks, Senatorial Secretary, Hon. Afuye Oluwaseun, reiterated the popular belief that “the devil we know is better than the stranger we don’t.” He maintained that Governor Oyebanji remains the best option for Ekiti, describing him as “a committed leader who has placed Ekiti’s interest above personal ambition.”

Present at the meeting were: APC South Senatorial Chairman, Chief Akinbowale Adebowale; Senatorial Secretary, Hon. Afuye Oluwaseun; APC South Senatorial PRO, Comrade Ajakaye Idowu; APC South Senatorial Youth Leader, Comrade Sikiru Daramola; all APC ward chairmen across the South Senatorial District; APC local government party chairmen across the district; APC women leaders from all wards and local governments in Ekiti South; and youth leaders representing the entire senatorial region.

The meeting ended with a unified pledge of loyalty to the APC and a collective resolution to intensify mobilisation at the grassroots for BAO/MCA continuity till 2030.

Agbeyewa Farms Hosts Brazilian Technical Partners, Showcasing Nigeria’s Cassava Revolution.

Agbeyewa Farms Hosts Brazilian Technical Partners, Showcasing Nigeria’s Cassava Revolution.

Agbeyewa Farms yesterday welcomed its technical partners from Brazil, Mr. Pascoal D’Andrea Filho and Mr. Liviston Teles Sena, on a working visit to its expansive cassava farm across Ipao, Gede, and Iyemero communities in Ekiti State.

This visit is in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent State Visit to Brazil during which Nigeria and Brazil signed five key Memoranda of Understanding across trade, aviation, science, finance, and as well as commitments in agriculture, energy, technology transfer, and agro-industrial investment.

The duo who are renowned veterans in large-scale cassava farming, processing, and mechanization were on an assessment tour and lauded Agbeyewa Farms for what they described as a groundbreaking agricultural transformation.

Commending Agbeyewa’s Chairman, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, for his visionary leadership, Mr. Pascoal expressed amazement at the scale of cultivation. “This is impressive. We came to Nigeria to meet Agbeyewa Farms, and it’s an incredible project. We have never seen so many cassavas planted in one extension area as we saw today—fields upon fields of cassava. It’s fantastic, and we must thank John for the vision and the courage to do something of this magnitude,” he said.

The delegation praised Agbeyewa’s progress in cultivating over 5,000 hectares of cassava within just two years, highlighting the farm’s unique integration of mechanized farming technology with local community resources. They noted that the project is not only advancing food security but also creating jobs, empowering rural communities, and fueling agro-industrialization in Nigeria.

Pointing to the global importance of cassava widely consumed in countries such as Brazil, Thailand, and Vietnam, Mr. Pascoal emphasized its role as a versatile, gluten-free food solution. He urged stronger government support for private-sector innovators like Agbeyewa Farms and its parent company, Cavista Holdings, whose bold initiatives are shaping Nigeria’s agricultural future.

“The future of cassava in Nigeria lies in replicating the revolution Agbeyewa is pioneering,” he added, calling on government at all levels to deepen support through partnerships and policy backing.

Comparing practices between Brazil and Nigeria, he explained that Brazil’s reliance on fully mechanized farming is driven by high labor costs, a model Nigeria can adapt progressively with the right investments.

In his remarks, Agbeyewa’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Oska Seyi Aiyeleso described the visit as a valuable opportunity for knowledge exchange and collaboration. “It is my pleasure to host our friends from Brazil, who are global leaders in cassava farming. We have much to learn from their experience, and this engagement strengthens our vision to scale cassava production and deliver transformative impact across the value chain,” he said.

Mr. Aiyeleso revealed that Agbeyewa’s leadership team will also undertake a reciprocal visit to Brazil to deepen cooperation and learn from Brazil’s cassava industry.

Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Private Sector Partnership for Economic Growth.

Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Private Sector Partnership for Economic Growth.

….Receives First Bank MD.

The Ekiti State Governor Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to partnering with critical private sector players and institutions as a strategic driver for economic growth and sustainable development of the state.

Governor Oyebanji stated this on Tuesday, when he received the management team of the First Bank of Nigeria Limited First Bank Plc led by the Managing Director/CEO, Mr Olusegun Alebiosu in his office, in Ado-Ekiti. He said that his administration has continued to intensify efforts at creating conducive environment for investors and development partners towards economic transformation of the state.

While explaining that Government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of economic development, the Governor emphasized that private sector participation remains crucial in unlocking the state’s vast potential. He also highlighted agriculture and innovation as key sectors where private investors can play active roles to accelerate growth.

Governor Oyebanji maintained that his administration has continued to prioritize agriculture and innovation as a way to productively engage the youths, address unemployment and banish poverty. Stressing that his administration has strengthened the security architecture of the state to protect lives, property, and investment, the Governor said Ekiti is safe for business.

While congratulating the Ekiti State born First Bank MD, Mr Alebiosu, for his appointment as the head of the financial institution, the Governor affirmed that his government has been able to strengthen the security architecture of the state, calling on the bank to consider opening profitable branches in different parts of the state to drive local economy.

 “The pathway to prosperity is productivity and if the people are not productive they cannot prosper. We also recognize that Government does not have the capacity to engage everybody, so there is need to partner with critical private sector players to create an eco-system where people can be productively engaged. So, partnering with First Bank is going to be beneficiary in driving our shared prosperity agenda. We want to get facilities for informal sector such as artisans and the youth’’. The Governor asserted

Earlier in his remarks, the First Bank MD, Mr Olusegun Alebiosu, who commended the economic drive of Governor Oyebanji’s administration particularly, the global face given to the Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, emphasized on the need to increase the industrial base of the state to encourage local production and increase revenue generation.

Emphasizing that First Bank remains a trusted partner in promoting sustainable growth, Mr Alebiosu assured the Governor that the financial institution would collaborate with the state and provide the necessary financial backing to drive key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and small-scale enterprise.

Also at the meeting were, the Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Accountant General of the State,  Mrs Titilayo Olayinka, and Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mrs Bamisile Lucy, and a member of the state House of Assembly, Hon Oluwole Akale.