Ekiti State's Maxwell, a political aide of the Ekiti State Governor BAO, Shines at an International Conference for Youth-in-politics.

Ekiti State's Maxwell, a political aide of the Ekiti State Governor BAO, Shines at an International Conference for Youth-in-politics.                                                                      By Olamide Akinwumi 

Amb. Olu-Ajayi Maxwell, Special Assistant on Youth Affairs to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, recently represented Ekiti State at a capacity-building training for young political leaders at the American Corner in Lekki, Lagos. The training, sponsored by the US Diplomatic Mission and Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association, provided a platform for Maxwell to showcase the Governor's remarkable achievements in Ekiti. 

Maxwell's presentation impressed the US Consular, Mr. Mike Ervin, who praised Governor Oyebanji, stating he is "getting it absolutely right." The Governor's reputation and achievements garnered widespread admiration, with many participants commending BAO and wishing him well ahead of the upcoming governorship election in Ekiti State. As a proud ambassador of BAO's ideology, Maxwell's participation further solidified the Governor's positive reputation on the international stage.

In his remarks after the event, Maxwell reaffirmed his commitment to continuously promoting Governor Oyebanji’s ideology of shared prosperity and good governance. He noted that the Governor has deliberately opened up the political space for youths, creating opportunities for young minds to contribute meaningfully to decision-making processes in Ekiti State.

Participants at the conference also commended Maxwell’s delivery, noting that Ekiti State stood out as a model of youth-inclusion in governance. Many of them expressed admiration for the Governor’s leadership and extended goodwill messages ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial elections, wishing BAO success in his continuity agenda.

The conference further served as a networking hub for Maxwell and other young leaders, where partnerships were fostered for future collaborations in the areas of policy development, civic engagement, and democratic strengthening.

By shining brightly on such a prestigious stage, Amb. Olu-Ajayi Maxwell has not only lifted Ekiti’s name but also reaffirmed Governor Oyebanji’s rising profile on the national and international political scene.

Ojuawo condoles with Late Alhaji Ekundayo and Hon Kehinde Olokesusi families over their demise.

Ojuawo condoles with Late Alhaji Ekundayo and Hon Kehinde Olokesusi families over their demise.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, the Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, has extended his condolences to the families of the late Alhaji Gbadamosi Ekundayo and Hon Kehinde Olokesusi.

In his condolence message, Hon Ojuawo described the loss of these two prominent political figures within 24 hours interval as a significant blow to the progressive family in Ise/Orun. He acknowledged Alhaji Ekundayo as a father figure in progressive politics in the region, whose exit leaves a void that would be challenging to fill. Hon Ojuawo acknowledged Alhaji Ekundayo’s contributions to the growth of progressivism at both the local government and state levels, particularly highlighting his experience in dealing with  complex situations and promoting peace 

Regarding Late Hon Kehinde Olokesusi, Hon Ojuawo expressed his deep sorrow over the sudden loss, describing it as a heavy blow to him. He acknowledged Olokesusi’s service as a Special Assistant to the Governor of Ekiti State, noting that he had left an indelible mark.

‘Alhaji Gbadamosi Ekundayo is one of the founding fathers of progressive politics in Ise/Orun, whose dedication and experience were invaluable to the party’s growth and development and my dearest sister, Kehinde Olokesusi, a dedicated public servant who served as a Special Assistant to the Governor of Ekiti State, leaving a lasting impact on the community.’

Hon Ojuawo prayed God to overlook their shortcomings and grant them peaceful eternal rest. Likewise, he extended his condolences to the APC family and the Ekiti State Government. May their legacies continue to inspire our future generations.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

“Oyebanji’s Agric Revolution Already Changing Lives” — Boluwade.

“Oyebanji’s Agric Revolution Already Changing Lives” — Boluwade. 

....inspects 2,500 birds loading at Erinfun project site.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, on Friday, paid an unscheduled visit to Erinfun where he inspected ongoing activities at the state’s flagship poultry project.

The commissioner, who arrived unannounced, met participants actively discharging their duties and later sighted a truck stationed to load about 2,500 mature birds in the night — a development he said underscored the steady progress being made in Ekiti’s agricultural value chain.

Boluwade commended the workers for their dedication, stressing that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration would not relent in driving policies that guarantee food security, job creation and sustainable livelihoods for residents through agribusiness initiatives.

He said, “What we are seeing here tonight is proof that Governor Oyebanji’s vision for an agricultural revolution is not just a policy on paper, but a reality that is already changing lives. From food security to job creation, this project is showing that Ekiti can feed itself and also contribute to the nation’s food basket.”

The commissioner added that the Erinfun project, alongside similar interventions across the state, is a major component of Governor Oyebanji’s administration, which is determined to transform agriculture into a driver of economic growth and youth empowerment in Ekiti.

Eid-el-Maulud: Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chair, Oluwatuyi, Greets Muslims, Seeks Prayers for Oyebanji.

Eid-el-Maulud: Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chair, Oluwatuyi, Greets Muslims, Seeks Prayers for Oyebanji.

By Asubiojo G.O

The Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, popularly known as Chenco, has congratulated Muslims in the council area and across the state on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Maulud celebration.

Oluwatuyi, in a goodwill message made available to newsmen on Thursday evening, urged Islamic faithful to use the spiritual essence of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of Ekiti State, Nigeria, and its leaders at all levels.

Specifically addressing Muslims in Igede-Ekiti, Awo-Ekiti, and workers within the council, the council boss charged adherents to emulate the Prophet’s virtues of piety, honesty, fairness, justice, and peaceful coexistence in their daily lives.

“As we mark this sacred occasion, I extend warm felicitations to Muslims in our communities and beyond. The Prophet’s teachings remind us of the values of love, equity, tolerance, and commitment to our duties as citizens,” Oluwatuyi stated.

He also called on residents to continue to support the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, stressing the need for ceaseless prayers for the governor’s success and for his victory in the October 27 All Progressives Congress (APC) primary ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.

According to him, “It is our collective responsibility to promote unity in diversity, avoid divisive tendencies, and work together for the advancement of our dear state.”

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.