Ekiti Gets First Inclusive School as Oyebode Hands Over Adaptive Learning Facilities in Ikole-Ekiti.

Ekiti Gets First Inclusive School as Oyebode Hands Over Adaptive Learning Facilities in Ikole-Ekiti.

History was made on Thursday as the Irepodun Community Pilot School, Ikole-Ekiti, was officially handed over to the state government as the first inclusive school in Ekiti. 

The project, spearheaded and donated by the Former Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Akintunde Oyebode, features retrofitted adaptive classrooms and facilities designed to provide children with special needs equal access to quality education alongside their peers.

The newly completed facility was handed over to the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion, headed by Princess Adetoun Agboola, in a colourful ceremony witnessed by dignitaries including the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye (representing Governor Biodun Oyebanji), Special Adviser on Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, former Attorney General, Barr. Wale Fapohunda (SAN), Hon. Dapo Karounwi, the Elekole in Council, represented by Chief Olotin and community leaders, among others. 

Hon. Oyebode, while addressing pressmen, said his vision for the project was driven by compassion and the urgent need to reduce the struggles faced by children with disabilities in accessing education.

“This project is about giving every child a fair chance. Before now, children with special needs in Ikole and neighbouring towns had to travel far to find inclusive schools. This new facility eliminates that burden and ensures they can learn in a supportive environment close to home,” he said.

He explained that the classrooms were carefully designed to meet inclusive education standards, stressing that the gesture was not charity but an investment in human dignity and the future of Ekiti State.

The Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, described the event as a major milestone in Ekiti’s journey toward mainstreaming children with disabilities. 

She noted that the Federal Ministry of Education had urged states to develop actionable work plans for  Inclusive Education and Ekiti was already taking bold steps in that direction under Governor Oyebanji.

“Inclusive education ensures that children with disabilities learn in the same classrooms as their non-disabled peers. It fosters empathy, equity and opportunity. Hon. Oyebode has again shown his commitment to people with disabilities in Ekiti by initiating this groundbreaking project,” Agboola said.

She further disclosed that parents of registered children had been given tokens to purchase uniforms, a step she said would encourage immediate enrollment and early resumption of the children in school. 

Speaking on behalf of Governor Oyebanji, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye praised the initiative, describing it as a vital complement to the administration’s people-centred policies.

He said the project shows that private individuals and government can work together to create an inclusive and enabling environment for every child, saying Hon. Oyebode has shown great compassion, with a call on other well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters to emulate the gesture of giving to society. 

Hon Aribasoye reaffirmed the commitment of the Ekiti State Government to providing an enabling environment for the people living with disabilities across the state. 

Also speaking, Special Adviser for Information, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, highlighted the importance of private contributions to public development. 

He noted that government cannot provide all infrastructure alone, stressing that initiatives like Oyebode’s are a great addition to humanity.

High Chief Shayo Okunola, who represented the Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, conveyed the monarch’s appreciation to Hon. Oyebode, describing him as a worthy ambassador of the town; just as he assured him of the community’s continuous support in his political journey.

He expressed the belief that the opening of the school means that children with special needs no longer have to endure long commutes to access quality education without discrimination.

Craneburg pledges job security for Ekiti indigenes, as Government strengthens partnership on the Local Employment Drive.

Craneburg pledges job security for Ekiti indigenes, as Government strengthens partnership on the Local Employment Drive.

Craneburg Construction Company Limited has given fresh assurances that Ekiti State indigenes engaged on the ongoing Ekiti State ring-road project will remain employed and will be redeployed to other company projects after the contract ends.

The pledge came during a working visit to the company’s Lagos head office by the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content, Mr Olalekan Ijidale, who was received by Craneburg’s Head of Procurement, Mr Fouad G. Boulos.

Mr Ijidale commended Craneburg for complying with the state’s local-content guidelines and actively recruiting Ekiti indigenes across national offices and project sites. 

He explained that Ekiti is the only state in the country  with Bureau of Local Content, noting that the policy had created jobs for many indigenes and produced a “tremendous” socio-economic impact by helping to prevent capital flight from the state.

“Our people have been benefiting from projects executed in Ekiti because the money is from the taxes they pay. They are the ones financing all projects being executed across the state, and they must benefit from their efforts. When companies hire locally and invest in local skills, families are supported, and the state’s economy grows,” Ijidale added.

He re-emphasised the State government's commitment to institutionalise local content, a policy he described as central to protecting local jobs, compensating the taxpayers and keeping project value within the state.

Responding, Mr Boulos reiterated Craneburg’s commitment to the workforce already hired for the ring-road project, saying the company would continue to engage Ekiti workers even after the project’s completion and would redeploy them to other worksites where needed. 

He also pledged to inform the Bureau of Local Content whenever vacancies arise that could be filled by Ekiti indigenes.

Both parties agreed to maintain close communication to ensure smooth redeployment of workers and to monitor ongoing compliance with the state’s local-content framework.

Ekiti South West APC Mobilizes Full Party Machinery for BAO and PBAT’s Second Term Bids.

Ekiti South West APC Mobilizes Full Party Machinery for BAO and PBAT’s  Second Term Bids.

In a major show of solidarity, the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership and party structure in Ekiti South West Local Government have resolved to fully mobilize the entire party machinery behind Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s second term bid and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.

The declaration was made at a high-level political gathering in Ilawe-Ekiti, which drew the participation of prominent political leaders across the Local Government, APC Local Government Executives, Ward Executives, party delegates, and hundreds of party faithfuls.

Leaders present at the meeting include:

Hon. Makinde Araoye; Chairman of Ekiti South West Local Government, Hon. Richard Apolola; Hon. Oluwole Ariyo; immediate past SA to the Governor on Social Investments, Hon. Yemisi Ayokunle; Member representing Ekiti South West Constituency I at the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Tony Adaramodu; Hon. Tope Agidi; Hon. Fola Afolalu; a State Party Exco, Hon. Adedara Phillips; Chief Gbenga Agbona; former SA to the Governor on Parliamentary Matters, Hon. Raphael Abiola Olowookere; the APC Chairman in the Local Government, Hon. Felix Olajide; the Igbara-Odo/Ogotun LCDA Chairperson, Hon. Bose Arowolaju; Hon. Ogundana Benjamen; Hon. Olaluwoye; and Hon. Tunji Amodi, an SSA to the Governor, among others.

Speakers at the meeting praised Governor Oyebanji’s impressive performance in office and reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to deploy the full party structure and grassroots machinery to secure his re-election. They also pledged total loyalty to President Tinubu, applauding his bold reforms and developmental agenda for Nigeria.

Furthermore, party members across Ekiti South West have been encouraged to intensify mobilisation efforts for new voter registration across all wards and communities to ensure a strong showing at the polls.

This move consolidates the growing statewide momentum within the APC for Governor Oyebanji’s second term bid and signals strong grassroots backing for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.

Over N200Billion Expended On Roads Construction In Ekiti, Says Oyebanji.

Over N200Billion Expended On Roads Construction In Ekiti, Says Oyebanji.

Ekiti State Governor Mr Biodun Oyebanji has disclosed that his administration has awarded road contracts exceeding 200 billion naira to cover 350 kilometres across the State.

This, he said is in line with his administration’s vision to upgrade road infrastructure as part of efforts to enhance socioeconomic development.

Governor Oyebanji, disclosed these on Wednesday at the plenary of the meeting of the Standing Committee of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), holding at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. No fewer than100 bishops and other leaders of the church were in attendance at the meeting.

The Governor said that over 150 billion naira had already been paid to contractors with 126 kilometres completed while others are at various stages of completion.

The Governor also disclosed that his administration has spent over 118 billion naira in the payment of gratuities, pensions, leave bonuses and other regular replenishment of various loan schemes to state and local government retirees in the state since the inception of his administration.

The five-day standing committee meeting is being presided over by the Archbishop, Metropolitan and the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba.

Addressing the clergy men at the meeting, Governor Oyebanji, who commended the Church for its immense contribution to the social, education and healthcare development of the State, described the Anglican Communion as partner in progress and a formidable institution that has consistently laid foundation for the Ekiti’s social and economic development.

Speaking on the theme of the convocation, “The Sanctity of the Church Contending for Christian Faith and Witness in the World", the Governor challenged political leaders and those in high office to see themselves as missionaries that are called to the service of God to make life better for the people and to elevate the downtrodden.

The Governor explained that it was for this reason he has centered his government policies on the welfare of the ordinary people and have stayed faithful to the social contract signed with Ekiti people and religiously implementing government programes, projects and policies that are of great benefit to them.

He highlighted the achievement of his government to include, security of lives and properties, youth development and job creation with employment of over 5,000 youths, provision of stable electricity, construction of 350 kilometres of roads, renovation and equipping of over 177 health facilities and engagement of over 5,000 youths in agriculture through Bring Back the Youth into Agriculture scheme, among others.

Explaining that his administration has continue to prioritize the welfare of workers and the retirees, Governor Oyebanji said “As we cater for the need of those still in service, we remain committed to the welfare of the retired workers. The State spends an average of N5 billion per month on salaries and pensions  and has spent over N40 billion on this since the beginning of the year.

“ In addition to this, the state has paid N7.5 billion to state retirees and another N4.3 billion to local government retirees as gratuities, making a total of N11.8 billion. This is in addition to the payment of leave bonuses and regular replenishment of various loans schemes.

“Similarly we have invested in road and transport infrastructure, till date, the state has awarded road contracts exceeding N200 billion, covering 350 kilometres across the state, out of this, over N150 billion has been paid to contractors with 126 kilometres completed, while others at various stages of completion and this road were carefully selected to connect commercial hubs, large communities as well as provide alternative routes for commuters.

While thanking the Church of Nigeria for allowing the state to host the meeting of such magnitude, the Governor maintained that the state remains indebted to the Church for the historical role the church has played in the socioeconomic development of the state even before creation.

Earlier in his address, the Primate Henry Ndukuba, thanked Governor Oyebanji for being an ambassador of Christ in government and commended him for the development strides in the state. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the bold steps being taken to reform the Nigerian economy as well as infrastructural development across the country.

The Primate noted that despite the President’s efforts and reforms the common man continues to suffer hunger, poverty, poor healthcare delivery and insecurity.

To further overcome this challenges, the Primate urged the Federal Government to ensure that trade policies are reviewed in line with the current global trade realities, engage with countries whose trade policies are favourable, seek trade relationship with suppliers in jurisdiction with lower tariff, tackle insecurity, fight oil bunkering and increase production of local refining capacity.

In his welcome address, the Bishop of Ekiti Anglican Diocese, Rt. Revd. Andrew Olusola Ajayi noted that the event marks a significant moment in the history of the church, as he stressed that the zeal for the Gospel, commitment to Anglican orthodoxy as well as passion for Kingdom service has grown stronger especially in the drive to ensure an egalitarian Nigeria through the church.

While expressing his appreciation to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his unrivalled leadership quality, commitment to justice, and promotion of peace and development, Revd. Olusola expressed delight that the relationship between the church and Ekiti State Government has been marked by mutual respect and worthwhile partnership.

Igede-Ekiti Steps into Global Spotlight as 2025 World Tourism Day Host.

Igede-Ekiti Steps into Global Spotlight as 2025 World Tourism Day Host.                                        By Asubiojo G.O

The vibrant town of Igede-Ekiti, headquarters of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, is set to wear a new look on September 27, 2025, as it plays host to this year’s World Tourism Day.

For the people of Igede, this is more than just a global calendar event. It is a defining moment that will showcase their rich cultural heritage, natural endowments, and lively spirit to the world.

At the centre of this bold step is Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, whose administration has made tourism development a key plank of its economic blueprint. Though not a native of Igede, Oyebanji has consistently championed policies that highlight Ekiti’s potential in eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and agro-tourism.

From creating the Bureau of Tourism Development to supporting community-based projects, he has been widely hailed as “the most committed tourism governor in Nigeria.”

Why Igede?

Sources at the Bureau of Tourism Development explained that the choice of Igede stemmed from its unique blend of natural attractions, cultural history, and grassroots readiness.

Among the attractions are:

●The Source of the Osun River, a sacred water body with deep cultural and religious significance.

●The Legendary Elemi River, long regarded as a wonder of nature.

●Ogbese River Source and Oke Esu Hills, offering opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure.

●The historic spread of the Baptist Church from Igede to states including Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Osun.

●Together, these sites tell a story of a town where history, nature, and spirituality converge.

At a press briefing, the Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (Chenco), described the hosting right as a landmark achievement.

“This is not just about Igede; it is about putting Ekiti State on the global stage. The limelight will beam on us, and the world will come to see our treasures. With the support of His Excellency, Governor Oyebanji, the best governor for tourism in Nigeria, we are determined to make history,” he said.

Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director Bureau of Tourism Development, who led a team to Igede on September 18, echoed this commitment. He visited the Osun River Source and paid homage to the Kabiyesi, stressing that tourism in Igede must be domesticated and projected globally.

“We must showcase Igede to the world, even without a dime. Eco-tourism here can be developed like what exists in Efon. The Osun Source should be projected as a world heritage centre. To show our readiness, there must be a local government tourism committee in place. Kabiyesi himself is tourism personified, and this event must truly reflect the essence of Igede,” he declared.

Dr. Idowu Austin Ibikunle, President of the Igede Progressive Association (IPA), charged the chairman and Ambassador Ojo-Lanre to remain steadfast, assuring that “Igede is fully prepared to host the world, and we will not disappoint.” He added that the unity and commitment of the community will make the celebration a reference point for future hosts.

Also speaking, Comrade Olufemi Adebayo, a pragmatic and youth-oriented representative from Igede, described the event as a “golden opportunity for Igede youths to show their creativity, energy, and cultural pride to the world.” He urged young people to position themselves to take advantage of the opportunities that tourism development will unlock.

Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, the Head of Local Government Administration, added a touch of reassurance with her words of commitment:  “We are fully prepared to give this celebration the administrative backing it deserves. Every necessary logistics will be provided to make Igede shine before the world. This is not just an event; it is a legacy project that will outlive the day. Our cultural pride, hospitality, and organizational strength will be on full display. Igede will speak with one voice, and the world will hear us.”

Experts say the global event could trigger ripple effects across the local economy. Hotels, transporters, artisans, and cultural troupes are expected to benefit, while investors may seize the opportunity to channel resources into infrastructure and hospitality.

Already, stakeholders have initiated plans to raise a ₦500 million development fund for infrastructure and cultural promotion, a move expected to gain momentum with the international spotlight.

Tourism analysts believe the event will help decentralize tourism attention in Ekiti by spotlighting new destinations, while also reinforcing Igede’s cultural and historical importance.

For Igede, September 27 will not just be another date on the calendar. It will mark the beginning of a new journey—one that places the town at the heart of global tourism conversations.

And as the world gathers in Ekiti, the message from Irepodun/Ifelodun is clear: Igede is ready for the world, and the world is welcome to Igede.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji's 'Iruwa, Ogiri wa!' Philosophy Ushers in a New Era of Inclusive Governance in Ekiti.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji's 'Iruwa, Ogiri wa!' Philosophy Ushers in a New Era of Inclusive Governance in Ekiti.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) has seamlessly integrated the core Yoruba ethos of Omoluabi—character, integrity, and excellence—into the fabric of governance in Ekiti State. His unparalleled humility and profound passion for good governance have set a new standard in the state's political history.

This unique approach was crystallized during a recent meeting in Iyin Ekiti, the hometown of the respected leader and first Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Adeniyi Richard Adebayo. It was here that Governor Oyebanji introduced a powerful new lexicon to Ekiti politics:"Iruwa, Ogiri wa!"

Literally translated as "Our Portion, Our Shared Meal," this concept is broadly and effectively interpreted as Inclusiveness. It signifies an administration where everyone, from all walks of life, is actively carried along. Under BAO's leadership, both the high and low are valued participants in the Ekiti Project, thanks to his open-door policy and the hand of fellowship he has extended to all critical stakeholders.

A hallmark of this philosophy is the successful unification of all former governors and their deputies, fostering a rare spirit of political harmony. Furthermore, Governor Oyebanji maintains regular consultative visits with Ekiti's senior citizens and traditional rulers, recognizing them as indispensable custodians of the state's heritage and progress.

This commitment is evidenced by his numerous courtesy calls to esteemed personalities, including but not limited to:
Chief Afe Babalola, SAN (Founder, Afe Babalola University)
Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN (Legal Luminary)
Chief Femi Falana, SAN (Human Rights Advocate)
Chief Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi (Renowned Pharmacist and Elder Statesman)

This deliberate and respectful style of leadership has cemented widespread endorsement across the state. It is a governance model that the people of Ekiti (Ekiti Kete) have enthusiastically embraced, saying a resounding 'YES' to a second term.

As Ekiti looks forward to the gubernatorial primary on October 27, 2025, and the general election on June 20, 2026, the stage is set for the continuity of the unprecedented progress and growth that defines the BAO administration.

The journey continues. #B.A.O Back 2 Back: 2026
Malam T S Salami
Convener and DG
BAO SOLIDARITY MOVEMENT
EKITI STATE.

EKITI GOVERNMENT ACKNOWLEDGES NBS REPORT AS PROOF OF EFFECTIVENESS OF OYEBANJI’S AGRICULTURE INITIATIVE.

EKITI GOVERNMENT ACKNOWLEDGES NBS REPORT AS PROOF OF EFFECTIVENESS OF OYEBANJI’S AGRICULTURE INITIATIVE.

The Government of Ekiti State is pleased to note the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) August 2025 Consumer Price Index (CPI) report which shows a moderation of food prices in the State.

The NBS, in the monthly release for August, said food prices, which is often the driver of state-level inflation, actually eased significantly during the period.

According to the report, food index dropped by 6.8 percent month-on-month, while annual food inflation at 16.8 percent, is currently below the national average.

The significant improvement, though still far from the target set by the Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, is as a result of concerted efforts and the administration’s huge investment in agriculture development.

The administration’s approach to agriculture is anchored on youth involvement as well as Government’s strategic partnership with the private sector. This has led to more youth involvement in agriculture with attendant food surplus and drop in cost of food items. In addition, the price moderation reflects the impact of Ounje Ekiti, an initiative of the Ilu Eye Trading Company which now undertakes strategic intervention in boosting food supply. 

However, the Government also noted the NBS report which indicated that the State had the highest inflation rate for the month of August. According to the NBS release, the State recorded an all-item inflation rate of 28.2 percent year-on-year.

The report indicated that inflation in Ekiti is powered by non-food categories such as housing, transport, electricity and other services.

The State Government expects that interventions like its ease of doing business reforms will eventually bring down housing costs; investment in our road network will reflect in lower transportation costs; and finally, the investment in community electrification will also moderate power costs. 

In addition, the Government will reinforce its engagement with both private and public institutions and continue to adopt a data driven approach to improving the lives of Ekiti people.