Oyebanji Launches Harvesting Hope Caravan, signs insurance policy for farmers.

Oyebanji Launches Harvesting Hope Caravan, signs insurance policy for farmers.

…Receives National Agribusiness policy Award.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji was on Monday honoured as a champion of the National Agribusiness Policy Mechanism (NAPM) in the Southwest, just as he  launched the Harvesting Hope Caravan, a component of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu focusing on food security.

The Governor also signed an insurance policy on behalf of Ekiti farmers as part of efforts to boost food production and economic development. 

Performing the launch in Ado Ekiti On Monday, Governor Oyebanji commended the President and NAPM for counting him and Ekiti State worthy of the honour, as he reiterated his administration’s commitment to change the narratives in agricultural development. 

The Governor also commended  efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the areas of food security and socio-economic development across Nigeria. 

The Governor stated that  the food system programme is in consonance with the Renew Hope Agenda of Mr. President which aims to creates a formidable and unified lasting change in national food system.

Highlighting the importance of the insurance policy to include provision of support for farmers in the event of natural disasters that may affect their crops, Governor Oyebanji promised to continually support every effort of President Tinubu geared towards achieving growth and development of Nigeria especially in his strategic direction to achieve food security that will transform the country's food systems through data-driven policies, public-private partnerships, and initiatives to increase agricultural productivity, stabilize food prices, and drive sustainable rural development. 

“We are very proud to associate with the agriculture policy of the Federal Government as we share the same policy objectives. The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is in tandem with the 6-Pillars of our Administration. Hence, the need to ensure that Ekiti people collaborate and benefit from the Federal Government’s interventions.”

The Governor added that the Harvesting Hope Caravan is a grassroots platform and a bottom-up approach to foster dialogue, build partnerships, and unify the numerous national and sub-national efforts to strengthen agricultural development and food security in Nigeria.

“This present administration is committed to improving the food systems in Ekiti State, this is more reason we have invested massively in agriculture, rural and food systems since we assumed office till date. In addition, we have created an enabling and secured environment across the length and breaths of Ekiti state.

“Our State is adjudged the safest State in Nigeria. It is therefore pertinent to mention that the present administration has developed numerous strategies aimed at positioning the State as a First Choice Investment Destination to agro-investors and drawdown huge Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to the State. This can be attested to with the influx of credible investors to the State, since 2023 till date.

“It is therefore pertinent to mention that the present administration has developed numerous strategies aimed at positioning the state as a first-choice investment destination to agro-investors and draw down huge foreign direct investment to the state. This can be attested to with the influx of credit investors to the states since 2023 to date. Our administration has done 4,800 hectares of land clearing for communities, cooperatives and individuals on free of charge basis. 

“We also provided free fertilizer distribution to farmers in 2024 and gave 50 percent subsidy in 2025. Over six thousand hectares of land preparations at 50 percent subsidy for tractorization, likewise 50 percent subsidies on agro-chemicals and seed stock seedlings were provided for our farmers. The Governor stressed.

He commended YSJ Farms Limited for its effective collaboration with the state government to champion the Bring Back the Youths into agriculture stating further that over 5,000  young farmers are participating in the project leading to the construction of Renew Hope Farm dormitories across farm clusters to provide conducive accommodation for the youth on the farm.

Aside massive land clearing, other initiatives of the administration according to Governor Oyebanji include provision of free fertilizer to farmers in 2024, 50 percent subsidy on fertilizer in 2025 and preparation of over 6,000  hectares of land at 50 percent subsidy for tractorization and agro-chemicals among others.

He affirmed that his administration’s policies in the sector aim to strengthen empowerment of farmers through provision of mechanized farming and improve the agricultural value chain in the state.

In her remarks, the Executive Secretary, Presidential Food Security Coordinating Unit, Office of the Vice President, Ms Marion Moon, explained that the team was in Ekiti State to identify priority programmes and existence structures with a view to improving and strengthen agricultural value-chain in the state.

Ms Moon reaffirmed President Tinubu’s mission to unlock Nigeria’s immense economic potential with particular focus on fostering collaboration with subnational to tackle the food deficits affecting Nigerians stressing the urgent need to address the root cause of the crisis in order to develop national sustainable food system.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade thanked Governor Oyebanji for signing the insurance policy for Ekiti farmers saying it will engender farmers to get necessary support in case of natural disaster, while caravan approach will attend to the demands of farmers as identified at various their localities.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the state executive council among others.

Ekiti Teachers Critical to Our Shared Prosperity Agenda - Oyebanji.

Ekiti Teachers Critical to Our Shared Prosperity Agenda - Oyebanji.

Ekiti State Governor Mr Biodun Oyebanji has stated that teachers in the state are critical agents in the actualization of the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

Governor Oyebanji stated this in Ado- Ekiti when he received the new leadership of the State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), led by its Chairman, Comrade Lawrence Egbeyemi, accompanied by the Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Kolapo Olusola. 

According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, in Ado- Ekiti on Sunday, Governor Oyebanji hailed the teachers for their remarkable contribution to human capital development agenda of the administration, assuring them of more welfare packages. 

The Governor said their overall well-being would have a multiplier effect on the government’s drive for quality education for students in the State.

While maintaining that the era of looking down on teachers as second class citizens is over, the Governor said his government would leave no stone unturned in bringing the state into the forefront of education in the country.

While explaining that education remains the foundation of sustainable development in the state, Governor Oyebanji noted that teachers are the one shaping the future of the state through their daily efforts in classrooms, adding that the prosperity and future of the State is tied to the quality of education its children receive.

He further assured them that his government would continue to prioritize their welfare, provide opportunities for professional growth, and create a supportive environment that will make their work more rewarding and impactful.

The Governor also promised to look into the issue of proposed 65 years retirement age for teachers, upward review of allowance payable to science teachers, as well as efforts to defray all outstanding gratuity before the end of his fist tenure.

Congratulating the new executives of the NUT, the Governor said his administration will continue to invest in human capital development as a pathway to growth, stressing that teachers are critical partners in this regard. 

“Let me start on the note of appreciation to the NUT for your support before I became Governor and since I became Governor of this state. The NUT is one of the unions that stand out when it comes to support for our administration, and I am extremely grateful to you.

“Education is the most important factor we can give to our children and you are in the business of educating our children. If you are happy, you will build a future for us because the children are the future of any society, so whatever investment we made in education is investment for our own peace and that is the reason we have to do everything possible to ensure that we make you happy. The era of looking down on teachers is over”. The Governor assured.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of NUT, Comrade Lawrence Egbeyemi, who thanked Governor Oyebanji for showing genuine love and concern for teachers in the state, noted that the Governor has consistently placed the welfare of teachers at the forefront of his administration.

He explained that under the present administration, teachers have enjoyed prompt payment of salaries, improved working condition, career progression of teachers to grade level 16, employment of over 2000 teachers, and greater recognition for their contributions.

While assuring the Governor that teachers in the state are appreciative and will reward his hard work and commitment during the gubernatorial election, the NUT chairman revealed that the Governor has addressed more than 85 percent of the union’s demands, describing it as unprecedented in the history of the state.

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

Ojuawo Urges Constituents to Participate in the Ongoing Voter’s Registration Exercise.

Ojuawo Urges Constituents to Participate in the Ongoing Voter’s Registration Exercise.

A member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Rep. Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Ojuawo  Rufus Adeniyi, has called on members of is constituency and residents of Ekiti State to massively participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter’s Registration (CVR) exercise embarked upon by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Hon Ojuawo made this call in a statement issued on his behalf by his Media Office on Friday, where he emphasized the importance of voter registration in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

According to the retired Air Vice Marshal, “the Continuous Voter’s Registration (CVR) exercise presents an opportunity for eligible voters in Ekiti State and across the country to register and exercise their civic responsibility to choose their leaders during the next governorship election in Ekiti State in 2026, as well as the general elections coming up in 2027.”

He urged his constituents to take the exercise seriously and ensure that they register, correct their cards or  transfer to their nearest polling unit closer to them.  stressing that massive participation in the CVR would guarantee their active involvement in shaping the electoral process in 2026, 2027, and beyond.

The grassroots-oriented lawmaker also seized the opportunity to express his profound appreciation to the electorate for their unwavering support, with a firm promise to remain accessible and responsive to their yearnings at all times.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

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.”