Group Congratulate Oyebanji on Approval for Commencement of Commercial flights in Ekiti, says Second Tenure will Foster More Accelerated Development and Prosperity.

Group Congratulate Oyebanji on Approval for Commencement of Commercial flights in Ekiti, says Second Tenure will Foster More Accelerated Development and Prosperity.

The Economic Advancement Frontiers has congratulated the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji on the Approval for commercial flights in Ekiti Airport by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority(NCAA).

EAF Convener, Mr. Adedeji Oso in a statement made available to the press in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, said Governor Oyebanji's passion for the development of Ekiti and her people is the primary reason the group has thrown its weight behind the Governor for a second term in office.

Oso stated that the approval for commencement of commercial flights in Ekiti Airport will open the state to more economic opportunities, investments and create jobs for residents of the State which is in tandem with the shared prosperity agenda of the Oyebanji's administration.

'It is pertinent for Ekiti people to re-elect Oyebanji to complete the various infrastructural projects ongoing in the state and for broader implementations of policies of his government which has started yielding tremendous progress for Ekiti and improving the state economy.

'Oyebanji's policies, initiatives and programs aligns with the policy document of Ekiti Advancement Frontiers and we salute the Governor for his passion for the development of Ekiti and his dedication to eradicating poverty in the state through agriculture, skills acquisitions, prioritising workers and pensioners welfare amongst others.

'Judging from what we have seen so far in Ekiti in the last three years, Oyebanji's second term will usher in greater developmental projects and economic prosperity for Ekiti and we are rooting for him to conclude his good works'. The statement read.

OYEBANJI: THREE YEARS OF FOCUSED GOVERNANCE.

OYEBANJI: THREE YEARS OF FOCUSED GOVERNANCE.

By Segun Dipe

Writing on the anniversary of a sitting governor could pass for hagiography, especially when written by a publicist from the same political party as the governor. Such writer may be accused of serving a political agenda. 

Ordinarily, a party publicist should not be bashful at promoting the activities of the Party on the platform of which the governor ascended. But his job is further made easy when the governor is doing so well that positive appraisals flow in naturally from the citizens he, the publicist, should be selling the Party to. It then means that the people have already bought into the product and no point puffing it. Rather, than selling, he should simply say what is happening and known to all, leaving the discerning public to nod their heads in concurrence.

Moreover, these days, I no longer write long, flowing proses. I simply KISS my piece (Keep It Short and Simple). So as not to be guilty of “asodun” (exaggeration). I fear I would be tampering with the people's patience by wasting words to explain what they already know. 

Straightly, it is the third anniversary of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's tenure. He is still serving his first term of constitutionally approved two 4-yearly terms. His performance during the first term is his promotion ticket for the second term. If indeed the morning shows the day, the appraisal Oyebanji is getting from the people of the State is an assurance that he has earned his second term.

The dispassionate people of Ekiti State have rated Governor Oyebanji as a high performer. What qualifies him for such rave reviews he has been getting from all and sundry? Here is a thoughtful reflection on the governor's accomplishments and challenges. And I will not stop there. I will go further to offer insights into what his future plans should be and their potential effects on moving our dear State forward. 

Some of the notable achievements of Governor Oyebanji in the past three years are in the following areas:

*Fiscal Responsibility:* Governor Oyebanji has not been any reckless with spending. This is confirmed by the consistent ranking of Ekiti State top in fiscal responsibility, budget transparency and civil service reforms. The governor has also strengthened some functional institutions, among them, I could cite the ultra modern Ministry of Works complex at Ajilosun in Ado Ekiti, the State capital, which stands as a symbol of order and efficiency. 

*Economic Growth and Infrastructure*: Oyebanji's government has prioritized economic growth, investing in infrastructure development, including road construction and renovation. Over 350 kilometers of roads have been covered, with 126 kilometers completed across all 16 local government areas. Add to this the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport project, which has made significant progress in Oyebanji's time, with the Federal Government granting approval for commercial flight operations effective October 4, 2025. This development is expected to boost the state's economy, particularly in agribusiness, tourism, commerce, and medical tourism. 

*Education and Youth Empowerment*: Oyebanji's administration has focused on education, rehabilitating over 1,000 classrooms and constructing 30 new ones. The Smart School initiative at some Government Colleges is another notable project. Additionally, the Ekiti Youth Economic Empowerment Programme (E-YEEP) has provided grants, vocational training, and business support to thousands of young entrepreneurs.

*Healthcare and Agriculture*: Oyebanji's government has revitalized primary healthcare facilities, introduced mobile health initiatives, and improved access to quality care in underserved areas. In agriculture, the administration has supported farmers with inputs, credit, mechanized tools, and guaranteed offtake markets.

*Power and Water Access*: The Ilumoba–Ijesa–Isu to Ikole 33kV line is an example of efforts made at improving electricity supply, while 121 boreholes have been rehabilitated and 110 solar-powered water pumps installed for schools and health centers.

*Food Security*: The Ekiti State Food Security Project, including the Ile-Eye Aggregation Hub and Ounje Ekiti retail outlet, aims to solve post-harvest losses, inadequate storage, hoarding, and exploitation by middlemen.

*Youth Development*: The Bring Back the Youths in Agriculture initiative has provided training and funding for young farmers, while the Ekiti State Agricultural Farm powerhouse focuses on maize and cassava production.

*Security of Lives and Property:* Ekiti State has made significant strides in enhancing security of lives and property, with Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration implementing various measures to protect lives and property. The state has been recognized as one of the most peaceful in Nigeria, thanks to the governor's proactive approach to addressing security challenges. 

I pause here, but must state that these are just very few of the achievements that demonstrate Oyebanji's commitment to Ekiti State's development and his vision for a prosperous future. To confirm their impactfulness, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has earned himself accolades and recognitions from various institutions and organisations for his outstanding leadership and development initiatives in the State. 

These awards demonstrate Oyebanji's commitment to delivering impactful, people-oriented projects and his vision for a prosperous Ekiti State:

Some of the notable awards include:

- *Most Outstanding Governor of the Year (Inclusive Leadership and Grassroots Development)*: This award was given by Marketing Edge Magazine in 2024, recognizing Oyebanji's developmental approach to governance, inclusive leadership, and uplifting the standard of living in Ekiti State.

- *Silverbird Man of the Year Award*: Oyebanji won this award in 2024, beating other nominees with the highest number of votes. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields.

- *Vanguard Newspapers' Personality of the Year (Good Governance) Award*: This award was given to Oyebanji in recognition of his commitment to good governance, investment in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and community development.

- *Energy Times Magazine's Energy Governor of the Year Award*: Oyebanji received this award for his efforts in improving the state's energy sector, including reconnecting communities to the national grid and expanding house metering.

- *Governor of the Year 2024*: This award was given by the Nigerian Human Rights Community, recognizing Oyebanji's efforts in promoting human dignity, civil rights, peace building, and sustainable development in Ekiti State.

- *Award of Excellence*: Ekiti State won this award for being the best-performing state in Nigeria on Disease Surveillance at the 4th Annual Disease Surveillance Meeting of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) held in Abuja.

- *Edge Awards Grand Prix*: Oyebanji won this award in 2025, recognizing his administration's commitment to making Ekiti the new investment destination in Nigeria.

Does this then mean that everything is smooth sailing for the governor and there are no challenges? Perish the thought. There surely are some, though surmountable, challenges, and they include:

*Budget Constraints*: Whatever resources available to the governor will always be thrown at endless needs. Managing limited resources and allocating funds effectively has been a significant challenge and will always be.

*Opposition and Criticism*: Gratuitously, the governor has faced opposition and criticism from various stakeholders and he will continue facing it. This requires effective communication and negotiation skills, which are not lacking.

*Balancing Competing Interests*: Gov Oyebanji must continue to balance competing interests and priorities, ensuring that decisions benefit the greater good of the majority.

The people's governor must also keep pursuing these as his future goals:

*Sustainable Development*: Oyebanji must not stop aiming at prioritizing sustainable development, focusing on environmental protection and renewable energy.

*Education and Workforce Development*: Investing in education and workforce development initiatives have been his priority so far, but he can do more to equip the people, especially with youthful ones, with skills for emerging industries.

*Citizens Engagement*: Oyebanji has been doing it and cannot stop enhancing community engagement and participation in decision-making processes to foster a sense of ownership and accountability.

No doubt, three years is long enough to be impactful as Oyebanji has proved to the world and Ekiti people, yet it is not enough to achieve the Ekiti of his dream. As one of those who fought for the creation of the State, he cannot say Ekiti has arrived at its Eldorado. If God had used him at such a tender age to influence the State's creation, he can still be used to further its advancement, whether as a governor or statesman. Ekiti advancement is a journey, not a destination, and it is the concern of all its citizens. 

_Segun Dipe writes from Ekiti State._

Ekiti Cargo Airport: Hon. Oriniowo Hails Governor Oyebanji Over NCAA's Approval for Commercial Operations.

Ekiti Cargo Airport: Hon. Oriniowo Hails Governor Oyebanji Over NCAA's Approval for Commercial Operations.

The National Ex-Officio (South West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), 

Honorable Bunmi Ajayi Oriniowo has commended Ekiti State Governor, His Excellency, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji over Federal Government approval of Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport to commence scheduled flight operations, (otherwise known as commercial flights), effective October 4th, describing the fantastic development as Booster of Economic Development in the State. 

Recall, the development follows the expiration of  the initial approval for a non-scheduled flight approval for the airport by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), in December 2024 and compliance with regulatory requirements. The NCAA in the letter dated October 3, 2025 addressed to the Governor of the State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, confirmed the new approval for scheduled flight.

Reacting to the cheering development, Orininowo said Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport represents a model of sub-national innovation that mirrors the renewed national drive for infrastructural integration and economic turnaround.

‘I wholeheartedly congratulate His Excelleny, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Dr. Kayode Fayemi who initiated it and the good people of Ekiti State on Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority approval to start commercial flight operations in Ekiti Cargo Airport where people from outside can access Ekiti State for Business and social economic development. 

The good People of Ekiti State now have access to Abuja within one hour with emphasis on employment opportunities for Youth People and continue business drive, she added.

Oyebanji’s Media Aide, Adesoji Gabriel, Inducted as Member of FISON.

Oyebanji’s Media Aide, Adesoji Gabriel, Inducted as Member of FISON.

The Special Assistant to Ekiti State Governor on New Media, Mr. Adesoji Gabriel, popularly known as AngelGabby, has been inducted as a member of the Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON).

The induction ceremony was conducted at the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), during the society’s professional membership programme aimed at promoting excellence and innovation in the field of fisheries and aquaculture across the country.

Mr. Gabriel, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries from Ekiti State University (EKSU) and a Master’s degree in Aquaculture from FUOYE, is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in the same institution. 

He is also a student of the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), Abuja, Ado-Ekiti Campus; a reflection of his continuous quest for knowledge and professional development.

Speaking shortly after his induction, the governor’s media aide expressed delight at being part of the prestigious professional body, describing the recognition as a motivation to further contribute to national development through fisheries, aquaculture and effective communication.

According to him, the membership of FISON will not only deepen his professional commitment to fisheries research and policy advocacy but also enhance his ability to use media as a tool for promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria.

Mr. Gabriel, widely known for his creativity and commitment in the digital media space, has continued to demonstrate that passion and professionalism can thrive across multiple disciplines when driven by dedication and hard work.

The Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON) is the umbrella professional body for all fisheries and aquaculture practitioners in the country, dedicated to advancing research, training and the sustainable management of aquatic resources.

He is also a student of the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), Abuja, Ado-Ekiti Campus; a reflection of his continuous quest for knowledge and professional development.

Speaking shortly after his induction, the governor’s media aide expressed delight at being part of the prestigious professional body, describing the recognition as a motivation to further contribute to national development through fisheries, aquaculture and effective communication.

According to him, the membership of FISON will not only deepen his professional commitment to fisheries research and policy advocacy but also enhance his ability to use media as a tool for promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria.

Mr. Gabriel, widely known for his creativity and commitment in the digital media space, has continued to demonstrate that passion and professionalism can thrive across multiple disciplines when driven by dedication and hard work.

The Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON) is the umbrella professional body for all fisheries and aquaculture practitioners in the country, dedicated to advancing research, training and the sustainable management of aquatic resources.

Ekiti 2026: EAF Begins Engagement with APC Stakeholders, Says No Alternative to Oyebanji.

Ekiti 2026: EAF Begins Engagement with APC Stakeholders, Says No Alternative to Oyebanji.

A Pressure Group in Ekiti State, the Ekiti Advancement Frontiers, which has thrown it's weight behind Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a Second Term in office said it will begin its tour of Senatorial Districts in the State today 7th October, 2025.

A statement from the Convener of the group, Dr. Adedeji Oso made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti on Monday said the group will be interacting with critical stakeholders in the APC as well as vulnerable populations from the various wards in each Local Government and Senatorial Districts in the State.

Oso said the group will begin with the tour of Ekiti South Senatorial District which comprises of 6 Local Government Areas on Tuesday 7th October after which the group will tour Ekiti North on Thursday, 9th October. Followed by the tour of some parts of Ekiti Central on Friday 9th October. While the grand finale will hold in Ado at a later date.

The EAF Convener said the group will ensure Governor Biodun Oyebanji's re-election bid by mobilizing grassroots support across the state.

During the engagement, EAF will be distributing food items worth ₦20 million, including over 500 bags of 5kg rice and 500 bags of 5kg Garri to vulnerable population.

Additionally, they'll be providing cash gifts of ₦10,000 each to many vulnerable individuals across all 16 Local Government Areas, while it will also erect billboards promoting Oyebanji's continuity and "shared prosperity" agenda.

The EAF's efforts are aimed at complementing Oyebanji's policies, such as the Ounjẹ Ekiti scheme; which provides subsidized food items, fertilizer subsidies, tractorization for farmers and government cash transfers to vulnerable population in the State.

Oso concluded that Oyebanji towers above all his contenders in the race in character, reputation and performance and also a tested Promise Keeper whose 'governance shoes' are currently too big for anyone to fit in. He urged Ekiti State APC Stakeholders to return a tested Performer at the primary election in other to ensure the responsive governance being witnessed in Ekiti is not jeopardized.

World Teachers’ Day: Group Hails Oyebanji for Prioritising Ekiti Teachers’ Welfare.

World Teachers’ Day: Group Hails Oyebanji for Prioritising Ekiti Teachers’ Welfare.

A grassroots mobilisation group, Oyebanji Street Vanguard (OSV), has commended the Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, for what it described as his unwavering commitment to the welfare of teachers and the overall development of the education sector in the state.

The group made this known in a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday in celebration of the 2025 World Teachers’ Day, where it praised the governor’s “remarkable strides” in improving the lives of teachers across the state.

According to OSV, Governor Oyebanji’s administration has demonstrated an uncommon dedication to the teaching profession through several landmark initiatives. These include the sustenance of free and compulsory education, the appointment of retired teachers as political office holders, massive renovation of public schools, and the approval of career progression for graduate teachers.

The governor was also lauded for the upward review of gratuities for retired teachers, the employment of 1,500 primary school teachers and 2,500 secondary school teachers, and the extension of the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65 years, alongside an increase in service years from 35 to 40.

In commemoration of this year’s Teachers’ Day, the state government reportedly disbursed N46 million in cash rewards to outstanding teachers across various categories. Governor Oyebanji also approved the upward review of allowances for Science Teachers and Heads of Departments, and ordered the immediate payment of the 2019 leave bonus arrears to further boost morale in the education sector.

“The governor has shown, yet again, that the welfare of teachers is not an afterthought but a cornerstone of his administration,” the statement read in part.

OSV further described the Governor as a “true friend of the education sector,” noting his deep personal connection to the profession as “a product of a teacher, husband of a teacher, and child of a civil servant.”

Quoting the governor's remarks during the Teachers’ Day celebration, the group recalled: “It will always get better. I am resolutely committed to my pact with you and all Ekiti workers.”

The group urged all teachers and civil servants in the state to support the continuity of the present administration, which it said has brought stability and progressive reforms to the state.

“Governor Oyebanji’s governance has continued to position Ekiti as a model for others, and we are proud of the milestones being recorded under his leadership,” the statement concluded.

EKITI AGRO-ALLIED INTERNATIONAL CARGO AIRPORT RECEIVES NCAA APPROVAL FOR COMMERCIAL FLIGHT OPERATIONS.

EKITI AGRO-ALLIED INTERNATIONAL CARGO AIRPORT RECEIVES NCAA APPROVAL FOR COMMERCIAL FLIGHT OPERATIONS.

The Federal Government has given Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport approval to commence scheduled flight operations, (otherwise known as commercial flights), effective October 4th

The development follows the expiration of  the initial approval for a non-scheduled flight approval for the airport by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), in December 2024 and compliance with regulatory requirements. 

The NCAA in the letter dated October 3, 2025 addressed to the Governor of the State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, confirmed the new approval for scheduled flight. The approval will be for an initial period of six months.

According to the letter with reference number : NCAA/DAAS/TECH//043/Vol. 1/158 and signed by the Director, Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Engr Godwin Balang, the validation inspection was conducted on the airport between June 16th – 19th, 2025.

“The outcome revealed that the basic operational requirements for scheduled flight operations to Ado-Ekiti Airport have been significantly complied with and the instrument flight check validation report conducted by NAMA indicates satisfactory compliance with regulatory requirements.

“In view of the above and in line with the provisions of Nig CARs Part 12 Vol. 1, 2023, I have been directed to convey the Authority’s Interim Operational Permit subject to the limitations of VFR or daylight (sunrise to sunset) operations. 

 "Furthermore, Your Excellency is respectfully invited to note that this interim Operational Permit is to enable Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport implement outstanding gaps and commence the certification process which will allow for issuance of Aerodrome Operational Permit with Three years validity in accordance with the Nig.CARS Part 12 Vol.1”,  

Meanwhile, Ekiti State Government is in the advanced stage of installing the Instrument Landing System (ILS) to position the airport for night and all weather operations. 

Governor Biodun Oyebanji has hailed the development as a major boost to the economic development of the state, adding that the commencement of commercial operations at the airport would boost agribusiness, tourism development, commercial activities, and medical tourism, which will further position the state as a destination of choice for people looking for where to live, work, invest and relax.

The Governor thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the enabling environment for socioeconomic development at the national and subnational levels. He also thanked his immediate predecessor in office, Dr Kayode Fayemi, who laid the foundation of the airport project in 2019. He also thanked the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN) for his remarkable contributions to the airport project as well as members of the Airport Committee. 

Olayinka Oyebode

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekiti State 

07-10-2025