Oyebanji Pays Another N2b Gratuity to Retirees, Says Making Citizens Happy brings him joy.

Oyebanji Pays Another N2b Gratuity to Retirees, Says Making Citizens Happy brings him joy.

...Reveals N14.6b paid by govt as gratuity.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday, disbursed a sum of N2 billion to 800 retirees to defray backlog of  gratuity arrears, saying wiping out tears from the faces of the citizens brings him great joy as a leader.

The Governor posited that with this current payment, his government has expended a total  sum of  N14.6 billion on gratuity, while a staggering amount of N25 billion, had been paid as pension to the elderstatesmen in three years.

Oyebanji spoke in Ado Ekiti, while presenting cheques to a new set of 800 retirees, who bowed out of the service in 2015 and 2016 respectively.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, was ecstatic that his government has fulfilled all righteousness, by keeping to his promise during electioneering to make elders happier in line with his vision. 

Having a retrospect of the good dealings he had dispensed to the retirees, Oyebanji revealed that his government in 2024 paid out a sum of N1.3 billion gratuity arrears, saying he then promised to upscale the amount, which now reflected in the N2 billion disbursement.

Oyebanji maintained that as at September 2025, there were 10,106 retirees on the State Pensioners’ Payroll, whose pensions are being paid regularly and timely. He said part of efforts to enhance the welfare include the approval of N20 million upward review of monthly pension across board for all categories of pensioners. 

The Governor was upbeat that his administration will increase the tally of payment and cover more mileage in 2026, with prudent management of resources and shrewd prioritisation of government expenditures. 

"I am more than sure that you are all excited to be here today. Let me tell you that you cannot be happier than I am today. One of the things that make me happy as Governor is seeing that I am in an position to wipe away the tears of others.

"As a son of a retired father, I understand the anxiety and uncertainty that greets every retiree as they retire. The news of many people marking time on the queue for many years before earning their gratuity can be very traumatic. 

"I wish to note that through disciplined financial management and unwavering commitment, Government has paid a sum of N25,967,151,534.89 as pension since I took over the rein of administration of this State in October 2022, while N1,140,943,594.38 was paid as arrears of pension.  

'Also, in gratuity payment, we have so far disbursed N7,600,000,000.00 to State Pensioners. With additional payment of N2,000,000,000.00 being paid today, from 2022 to date, this Government has achieved a cumulative gratuity payment of N9.6 billion to State Pensioners. 

"By implication, under this administration, all 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 State retirees would have been paid their gratuity in full. Under the Contributory Pension Scheme, a total sum of N183,868,625.40 was disbursed to 159 retirees between 2022 and 2025", he said. 

As part of his steely resolve to liquidating the backlog of gratuities, Oyebanji said his  government has continued to ensure a regular monthly release of N100 million for gratuity payment at the State level, which has provided a wider coverage in the last three years.

Commending the governor for his preference for welfarist programme, the Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, described  the payment as a fulfilment of the governor's  promise to buffer the sufferings of pensioners and make lives more rewarding  for the retirees.

Dr Olomojobi remarked that the gesture was a convincing signal and strong motivation  to those who are still in active service that they have a good  future ahead of them after retirement.

"Apart from the N250 million the governor released to pensioners for the payment of gratuity monthly, he has decided to do this to cover another round of 800 retirees for the 2015 and 2016 years. 

"Going by the records, the governor has paid a sum of N25 billion as pension, N9.6 billion as gratuity for state retirees and N3 billion for local government staff, making a cummulative of N14.6 billion in three years. This, to me, is commendable and historical", she said. 

Branding Oyebanji as a man of the masses, the Special Adviser on Pension Matters, Pa Pius Oduola, described the governor as a pensioner-friendly leader, whose success in office could be majorly predicated on his immense love and respect for the  elders.  

As the 2026 governorship poll is approaching and  gathering more steam, Pa Oduola canvassed solid backings for the governor among pensioners to realize his second term ambition, which he said he deserves and worth being given. 

The Chairmen of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Com Kolapo Olatunde, his counterpart in the Trade Union of Congress, Com.Omotola Farotimi and Joint Negotiating Council, Com Oluwafemi Ajoloko, saluted Oyebanji for changing the sordid narrative of the past, by palliating the sufferings of the retirees through prompt payment of all entitlements. 

Speaking for the beneficiaries, Mr. Oladapo Akinola And Mrs Adejoke Omoseebi, said the payment represented the governor's third year gift for the  pensioners, adding that the N14.6 billion gratuity payment in three years was outstanding and confirmed Oyebanji's empathy for the elders.

𝐄𝐤𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭.

𝐄𝐤𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭.

𝑾𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒚: 

𝑻𝒐𝒃𝒂 𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒏𝒍𝒂 

In the evolving story of Ekiti’s growth, one truth stands tall — Ekiti people value tested experience over risky experiments.

 Governance is not a guessing game; it demands a deep understanding of people, policies, and the peculiarities of our land.

His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), embodies that experience. Having spent over a decade in the corridors of governance — from serving as Secretary of the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State, making him one of the State's youngest founding fathers — BAO’s commitment is rooted in history and service.

He understands Ekiti not from afar, but from within ( that's why you see him move freely, play draught, basketball etc amongst his people)— its dreams, its challenges, and its collective strength. His leadership is not a rehearsal; it is the continuation of a lifelong devotion to the progress of his people.

On the other hand, Ekiti cannot afford the gamble of inexperience.

 Leadership is too critical to be handed to those with no known record in governance, those who see power as an experiment rather than a calling.

As the primary election and 2026 approaches, Ekiti stands firm on the side of stability, sustainability, competence, and continuity —

Ekiti chooses experience. Ekiti chooses BAO.

Disqualification of Candidates Who Fell Short of Established Criteria: A Litmus Test for Party Supremacy.

Disqualification of Candidates Who Fell Short of Established Criteria: A Litmus Test for Party Supremacy.

For political analysts familiar with the politics of the progressives, particularly in the South West and especially in Ekiti State, the ongoing political horse-trading over who clinches the sole governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is nothing new. Tracing the history of democratic and progressive ideology in the region from the First Republic to the present confirms the general belief that the Yoruba people are politically sophisticated and cannot be easily manipulated or forced to accept any leader imposed on them.

The South West, predominantly occupied by the Yoruba, has witnessed several attempts by outsiders to impose leadership on them, but such moves have consistently failed. The resistance against colonial rule and the Kiriji War between 1877 and 1893, during which the Ekiti Parapo Confederacy comprising various Yoruba states fought against the Ibadan Empire to resist domination and assert independence, became a defining moment in Yoruba history, showcasing their collective determination to defend their sovereignty. The revolt of Aare Kurunmi of Ijaye, who refused to recognize Alaafin Adelu’s authority, leading to the Ijaye War, also highlighted the Yoruba people's desire for autonomy and self-governance.

Similarly, the nationalist movement led by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a prominent Yoruba leader, symbolized the region’s refusal to accept British colonial domination. Awolowo championed education, economic empowerment, and political freedom, resisting any form of external control, including the Fulani jihadists who sought to dominate the South West. In more recent times, the united Yoruba front that defended the June 12, 1993 presidential mandate of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola (MKO), and their collective outcry against the menace of banditry during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, are testaments to this same spirit of resistance and political awareness.

On all these occasions, the Yoruba, with Ekiti playing a key role, have consistently demonstrated that they are politically conscious and will not allow anyone, no matter how wealthy or popular, to impose themselves as leaders without the people’s consent. These examples underline the Yoruba people's historical determination to resist domination and preserve their independence, a reflection of their strong cultural identity and political sophistication.

In light of this, the recent decision by the Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to disqualify some aspirants contesting for the party’s governorship ticket in Ekiti State raises serious questions that require honest answers from both the party leadership and the State Executive Council. Who is funding these aspirants, and how are their campaign resources being channeled into the state? Who are the sponsors or godfathers behind them? Are they from Aso Rock, within the state, or even among members of the State Executive Council? Are these aspirants active, financial, and bonafide members of the party? How often do they attend ward and state meetings? Is the party maintaining an updated membership register?

These are critical questions that must be answered as the party seeks to strengthen internal discipline and uphold unity ahead of the 2026 governorship election and the 2027 general elections, particularly in the context of supporting the re-election of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. Politics in this part of the world is dynamic, and trust is often transactional. Anyone boasting of automatic victory for the party in the coming elections may not be a true student of history. Victory can only be assured when the necessary internal issues are addressed. As the Yoruba say, Èjò t’ábẹ́lórí á máa sọ̀rọ̀ — the unresolved issues will eventually speak.

The experience of 2014, though different from today’s realities, remains a lesson for all. As expected, only one person can emerge as the APC governorship candidate, and that person must enjoy the confidence of both the party leadership and the majority of members. Any individual or group working covertly against the leadership of the party, no matter how highly placed, should be appropriately sanctioned. The Yoruba have a long history of rejecting imposed leadership. As the next rounds of elections approach, the values of discipline, party supremacy, and respect for progressive ideals must be upheld and protected.

Management, they say, is doing things right, while leadership is doing the right things. This is a clarion call. The recent disqualification of some aspirants should serve as a litmus test for the management and leadership structure of our great party.

~Oyebanji Street Vanguard (_OSV_)

Diaspora Engineer, Olaoluwa Dawodu, Hails NCAA Approval for Commercial Flights at Ekiti Airport.

Diaspora Engineer, Olaoluwa Dawodu, Hails NCAA Approval for Commercial Flights at Ekiti Airport.

The economic landscape of Ekiti State is set for a major transformation following the approval granted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for scheduled commercial flight operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, effective from October 4, 2025.

The landmark approval, conveyed in a letter dated October 3, 2025, to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, transitions the airport from its previous non-scheduled flight status, which expired in December 2024, into a fully licensed commercial hub. 

The new permit is valid for an initial six-month period, marking a significant milestone in Ekiti’s infrastructural and economic advancement.

Reacting to the development, an Isan-Ekiti-born, Australia-based Chartered Professional Engineer, Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu (EOD), described the NCAA approval as a laudable development that would open up the state to various economic growth elements.

Engr. Dawodu, who specializes in Designs, Maintenance/Reliability and Projects within the Mining sector, who also is the Founder and Principal Engineer, Tite Knox Pty Ltd. emphasized that inter-state and eventual international access to the numerous economic potentials of a state can only be optimally explored via safe air access.

According to him, the approval would not only boost commerce and tourism but also stimulate job creation, enhance connectivity and position Ekiti among Nigerian states with viable air transport infrastructure.

He drew parallels between the economic benefits of airports in advanced economies like Australia and the opportunities awaiting Ekiti, citing key data from the Australian aviation sector:

GDP Contribution: Australian airports added an estimated $105 billion to the national economy in 2022.

Employment Impact: The sector supported approximately 690,000 full-time equivalent jobs.

Trade and Tourism: Airports facilitate global access, drive exports, and strengthen regional economies.

Engr. Dawodu noted that Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport has the potential to become a critical economic gateway for the state, serving as a catalyst for agricultural exports, investment inflows and industrial development. 

While congratulating the government and people of Ekiti State under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the diaspora engineer commended the administration’s vision and commitment to sustainable infrastructure development.

Engr. Dawodu appealed to Ekiti indigenes at home and abroad to heed the call, return home, add value and support the Governor on everything that will help Ekiti to progress as the state ushers in a new era of air connectivity and economic expansion.

Ekiti Celebrates World Egg Day, Reaffirms Commitment to Food Security.

Ekiti Celebrates World Egg Day, Reaffirms Commitment to Food Security.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Ekiti State Government, in collaboration with the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Ekiti State Chapter, and other key stakeholders in the agricultural sector, on Friday marked the 2025 edition of World Egg Day in grand style.

The event, which held at The Pavilion, Fajuyi Park in Ado-Ekiti, drew participants from across the state, including farmers, nutrition advocates, and policy makers all gathered to celebrate the role of eggs in human nutrition and economic development.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, said the theme of this year’s celebration, “The Mighty Egg: Packed with Natural Nutrition”, aligns with the state government’s vision for improved nutrition and agricultural sustainability.

Boluwade noted that the Oyebanji-led administration is committed to promoting local poultry production, reducing malnutrition, and improving food security across the state.

“Our presence here today is a testament to this government’s continued support for our farmers, especially in the poultry sector. Eggs are not only affordable and rich in nutrients, but they also represent a key driver of our agricultural economy,” he said.

He reiterated that the state is rolling out several initiatives to empower poultry farmers, improve veterinary services, and ensure wider access to quality feed and vaccines.

Highlights of the event included sensitisation sessions on the nutritional benefits of eggs, free egg distribution to school children, and exhibitions by local poultry farmers.

Nigeria Can't Grow with Morally Bankrupt, Divisive Youth, Ekiti Deputy Gov Warns.

Nigeria Can't Grow with Morally Bankrupt, Divisive Youth, Ekiti Deputy Gov Warns.

.....Thanks Celestial youth for solidarising with Oyebanji's govt.

....As celestial youth Inaugurates BOT members.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has charged Christian youth across the country to continually position themselves as agents of change  and champion unifying actions  that will halt the existing ethno-religious wars ravaging the nation.

Mrs Afuye said youth remain the most potent  weapons available to any nation that can eliminate all divisions, uplift the spirit of patriotism and unite all tendencies, for peaceful  coexistence across religious and ethnic lines.

The Deputy Governor spoke while declaring open a Convention organised by Celestial Youth Organisation, held at the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Premier Parish, Omisanjana, Ado Ekiti, on Thursday, with the theme: "Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: The Power of Unity in Christ".

A seven-member Board of Trustees of the Celestial Youth Organisation, chaired by the Deputy Governor and has eminent member like the Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Community Communications, Mrs Mary Oso Omotoso,  was inaugurated during the event. 

Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, lauded the CCC youth for placing high premium value on their spiritual advancement, reflecting that no nation can develop when its productive population are morally bankrupt and excessively divisive.

The Ekiti's number two citizen, eulogised the church's leaders for giving the youths the required leeway to congregate and discuss issues that could shore up their spiritual growth, saying  spiritual rebirth translate into  attitudinal change and moral rebranding. 

She commended the support of the denomination to Governor Biodun Oyebanji,'s administration, pointing out that their ceaseless prayers, and sense of solidarity, lent the necessary spiritual backings for the accomplishment of all the promises made to the populace. 

"Any society where the youth lost their moral fibres often run into the ditch of criminalities and societal decay, which can derail its developmental focus and weakened other binding forces.

"It is a well established fact that no one can achieve anything on earth without being sanctioned from heaven. We are soliciting for more prayer supplications that can guarantee the success of this administration. We are counting on God and the church of God for us to accomplish our mission and set targets that will take Ekiti State to the promised land. 

"I charge the youth as leaders of tomorrow, not to joke with their spiritual growth. What you are starting today will help the nation overcomes some of its challenges because we can only assume greatness, when all hands are on the deck to redirect our nation to that path where greatness can be achieved. 

"Under this context, let us imbibe the spirit of bridge building to further cement our bonds in Christ that has united is together as a people, break the  barriers of divisions in churches and in our larger society, so that we can stand firm in that unity we are pursuing lovers of Christ and Nigerian citizens". 

She appealed to celestial youth not to deviate from the doctrines of the church, which emphasized the principles of respect to holy spirit, faithfulness, honesty, truthfulness and complete holiness. 

A guest speaker, Mr. Ademola Bolaji, in his presentation, emphasized the imperative of youth being devouted to God, rather than being ordinary  church goers, advising that spiritual renaissance requires unshaken fidelity, resilience and commitment to service. 

Bolaji reiterated that youth that are spiritually upright will be useful to themselves, their nation and the global community, while those acting otherwise will pose as dangers to humanity.

GOVERNOR BIODUN ABAYOMI OYEBANJI: A SYMBOL OF UNITY, VISION, AND CONTINUITY IN EKITI STATE.

GOVERNOR BIODUN ABAYOMI OYEBANJI: A SYMBOL OF UNITY, VISION, AND CONTINUITY IN EKITI STATE.

By Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi

Member, House of Representatives, Ekiti South Federal Constituency I.

“True leadership is not about self-glory, but about service that touches lives. In Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti has found a humble, visionary, and unifying leader.”

— Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi

A Legacy of Continuity and Progress

When His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) assumed office three years ago, he made a solemn pledge — to serve Ekiti people with humility, integrity, and purpose. Today, that promise has translated into visible achievements across every sector of the state.

From day one, Governor Oyebanji made continuity the cornerstone of his administration. He understood that governance is a relay, not a race; a process of building upon foundations laid by predecessors to ensure lasting development.

Rather than discard the projects initiated by former Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, he completed and expanded them. The Airport project, which has received Federal Government clearance to commence full commercial operations, stands as a resounding testament to the principle of continuity. As one of the pioneer Technical Advisers on the project, I must sincerely thank Mr. Governor for not abandoning it. This singular act reflects his unwavering commitment to the growth and sustainable development of our dear state.

The  rejuvenation of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone, and the ongoing Ekiti Ring Road Project stand as visible evidence of a leader who values progress over pride.

This spirit of continuity has restored public confidence in government and ensured that every tax naira counts. Through his prudence and discipline, BAO has stabilized the state’s finances while ensuring equitable development across all local governments.

A Unifier of Leaders and People

If there is one quality that distinguishes Governor Oyebanji, it is his extraordinary capacity to unite people. In a political climate often clouded by rivalry and division, BAO has emerged as a bridge builder — reconnecting leaders, reconciling factions, and rekindling brotherhood among Ekiti’s political class.

His door is always open. He consults widely before making key decisions, and he listens attentively to advice regardless of party affiliation or social status. Under his watch, Ekiti has witnessed unprecedented political harmony and collaboration.

Through his humility, he has redefined leadership — making it more accessible, more humane, and more inclusive. Traditional rulers, political office holders, and grassroots leaders all testify to his fairness and genuine love for the people.

“BAO has proven that unity is not a slogan — it is a tool for progress. Under him, Ekiti speaks with one voice again.”

Tangible Achievements Across Sectors

Governor Oyebanji’s record of performance in just three years is remarkable. His administration has touched virtually every aspect of human life in Ekiti State.

Infrastructure and Roads:

Massive road rehabilitation and new constructions have linked rural communities to major towns, opening economic corridors and facilitating trade. The revitalization of boreholes and electricity projects across local governments has improved living conditions for thousands.

Education:

Education remains one of BAO’s strongest pillars. His government has provided modern learning facilities, recruited qualified teachers, and sustained the free education policy. Ekiti continues to rank among the top-performing states in national examinations, proving that his investment in human capital is yielding results.

Agriculture and Food Security:

Through strategic partnerships, Governor Oyebanji has revived farm settlements and provided soft loans and tools for young farmers. He is turning agriculture into a profitable business, reducing unemployment and strengthening food security.

Power and Technology:

Collaborating with experts, his administration is expanding access to sustainable energy, thereby boosting small-scale industries and attracting investors.

Welfare and Governance:

Under his leadership, Ekiti workers receive regular salaries, while pensioners have regained dignity through consistent payments. His commitment to transparency and accountability continues to earn the trust of citizens and development partners alike.

A People-Oriented Governor

Beyond policies and projects, Governor Oyebanji connects deeply with his people. He attends community events, engages youth and women groups, and supports cultural development across the state.

He is a governor who listens. Whether in Ado Ekiti, Ise/Orun, Ikere, or Emure, his presence is felt not through distant promises but through tangible action. The people see him, hear him, and trust him.

As a representative of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, I have witnessed the transformation firsthand — in the roads rehabilitated, boreholes restored, schools upgraded, and local empowerment programmes launched. BAO’s leadership is not theory; it is action, compassion, and results.

Why He Deserves a Second Term

As we started another political season, one truth stands clear: Ekiti cannot afford to break the chain of progress.

Governor Oyebanji’s second term is not just a political necessity — it is a developmental imperative.

He has planted seeds of growth that require time and stability to mature. From infrastructure and education to industrialization and youth empowerment, his projects are long-term in vision and deep in impact.

A second term will allow him to consolidate these gains, attract more investments, and fully implement his economic transformation blueprint for Ekiti. With BAO at the helm, the future is not only promising but secure.

“Continuity is the soul of development. BAO has begun a good work; it is our duty to help him finish it.”

A Call to Collective Support

Now is the time for all Ekiti sons and daughters — home and abroad — to unite behind this noble cause. Let us rise above partisanship and support a leader whose only ambition is to see our state prosper.

Our unity is our strength. Our collective support for BAO is the assurance of a greater tomorrow. Let every ward, every community, every voice stand firm behind this man of peace and progress.

Together, let us sustain the vision, deepen the transformation, and secure a brighter future for the generations to come.

Conclusion: A Leader Worthy of Trust

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has redefined what it means to lead — with humility, integrity, and compassion. His leadership has restored unity, promoted development, and given Ekiti a new identity of peace and progress.

As a lawmaker and a proud Ekiti son, I, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, lend my full support to his cause. I urge every patriotic citizen to do the same.

Let us march together, in unity and faith, towards a greater Ekiti under the steady, trustworthy, and visionary leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

BAO Leads — Ekiti Rises!

Continuity for Progress, Unity for Prosperity