Agbeyewa Unveils Kits for Agbeyewa Cup 2025 Finals as Tournament Receives Accolades.

Agbeyewa Unveils Kits for Agbeyewa Cup 2025 Finals as Tournament Receives Accolades.

Agbeyewa Farms has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development, excellence, and community empowerment as the third edition of the Agbeyewa Cup football tournament enters its semi-final stage.

At a media conference held in Ikere-Ekiti, key stakeholders from Agbeyewa Farms, the Ekiti State Ministry of Education, and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) gathered to unveil the official branded kits, match balls, and gift items, as well as to review progress and discuss preparations for the grand finale scheduled to hold at the Olukismet Stadium, Ikere-Ekiti.

In his address, Mr. Dauda Lawal, Director of Community Engagement at Agbeyewa Farms, highlighted that the vision behind the Agbeyewa Cup was inspired by the company’s Chairman, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, whose passion for youth empowerment through sports continues to drive the initiative.

“The Agbeyewa Cup is not just a competition — it is a capacity-building project,” Lawal stated. “We’re reviving what the old Principal’s Cup represented: talent discovery, discipline, and youth development.”

He noted that the tournament, which began three years ago, has continued to record remarkable growth through its strategic partnership with the Ekiti State Ministry of Education.

“Each edition gets better. We’ve had no casualties, and we continue to learn, improve, and expand our impact,” he added.

Lawal also announced the cash prizes for this year’s edition: ₦1 million for the champion, ₦750,000 for the first runner-up, ₦500,000 for the second runner-up, and ₦250,000 for the third runner-up. All four semi-finalist schools will also receive branded kits and special gift packages.

According to Mr. Isaac Elegbeleye, Deputy Director of Schools Sports, Ekiti State Ministry of Education, a total of 150 schools across Ekiti State participated in the 2025 tournament, producing champions from the 16 local government areas.

Unveiling the semi-final fixtures, Elegbeleye announced that Aramoko District High School will face Efon High School at Ekiti Baptist High School, Igede-Ekiti, while Igogo Commercial High School will take on Eporo High School at CAC Comprehensive High School, Ado-Ekiti,

both matches scheduled for Thursday, October 23rd, 2025.

Elegbeleye commended Agbeyewa Farms for reviving the glory of school sports in Ekiti State. He noted that the excitement and high level of participation witnessed in this year’s competition are clear reflections of the company’s substantial investment and commitment to delivering a top-notch tournament.

Delivering the welcome remarks, Mr. Rotimi Wusu, Head of Marketing and Communications at Agbeyewa Farms, expressed appreciation to the media and partners for their continued support.

“We’re not just hosting a competition — we’re building a legacy,” Wusu said. “The Agbeyewa Cup is reviving the spirit of the old Principal’s Cup and giving students something to be proud of. The finals promise to be a carnival-like celebration of youth and sports, with provisions in place for an exciting and memorable experience.”

Looking ahead, Lawal hinted at Agbeyewa’s broader vision to establish an Agbeyewa Sports Academy dedicated to nurturing young talents discovered through the competition.

“Our chairman is thinking beyond football. We envision creating platforms for multiple sports, building academies, and raising future national athletes,” he revealed.

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Kayode Omilero, Chairman of the Referees Committee, Ekiti State, assured that the Nigerian Referees Association is fully prepared for the semi-final and final matches, pledging the highest standards of officiating.

Now in its third year, the Agbeyewa Cup has grown into more than a football tournament — it stands as a symbol of youth empowerment, discipline, and corporate-community collaboration in Ekiti State.

Oyebanji Restates Ekiti’s readiness to partner with genuine Investors.

Oyebanji Restates Ekiti’s readiness to partner with genuine Investors.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the resolve of his administration with genuine investors willing to explore the vast economic opportunities available in the state, affirming that his government has already put in place structures that guarantee a seamless and business-friendly environment for investors. 

Governor Oyebanji who stated this on Tuesday in Ado Ekiti while receiving a team from the British High Commission led by the Deputy High Commissioner , Lagos, Mr Jonny Baxter. He said Ekiti remains open to credible partnership that would further accelerate its development agenda and improve the living standard of the people.

The Governor explained that his government has prioritized reforms in critical sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and technology to attract both local and foreign investors, adding that the State also offers a peaceful atmosphere, abundant human capital, and strategic locations that make it an ideal destination for investment.

The Governor also said that his government has been consistently rated high in transparency, accountability and integrity in governance, stressing that those core values have earned the state the confidence of development partners and investors.

Commending the British Government for its continued interest in Nigeria’s development, Governor Oyebanji expressed optimism that the renewed engagement would open new areas of collaboration between Ekiti State and the United Kingdom. He assured the team that his government would continue to provide the necessary support and enabling environment for investors to thrive in the state.

“We believe strongly that capital will move to any community or state where it is treated well, so we have in place structures like infrastructure, security and access and we also put in a strong reforms and institution that will make doing business in the state seamless.

“In the last three years, we tick all the boxes with respect to accountability, transparency and integrity in governance and most of the agencies have rated Ekiti very high on fiscal transparency and accountability and I also head the committee of ease of doing business in the state to ensure we put up structure that will make business run very well in the state and remove all those impediment that may stand in the way of doing business”. The Governor said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy British High Commissioner, Mr Jonny Baxter, who lauded Governor Oyebanji for his visionary leadership and for creating a business friendly environment in the state, expressed readiness of the United Kingdom to strengthen ties with Ekiti State in the areas of mutual interest.

Emphasizing that the United Kingdom values collaboration with subnational government that demonstrate clear commitment to reforms and sustainable development, the Deputy Commissioner said the state’s conducive business environment and leadership make it a viable partner for future economic and development cooperation.

In attendance at the meeting were, the Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode and Technical Advisor on Ecological and Green Economy, Dr Akinyemi Akinyua.

Cavista Holdings Strengthens Partnership with Nigerian Army During Courtesy Visit to 148 Battalion.

Cavista Holdings Strengthens Partnership with Nigerian Army During Courtesy Visit to 148 Battalion.

In a renewed effort to deepen collaboration and strengthen development, a high-level delegation from Cavista Holdings paid a courtesy visit to the 148 Battalion, Nigerian Army, Ikere-Ekiti. The visit aimed to formally welcome the new Commandant and reinforce Cavista Holdings longstanding commitment to partnership, peace, and community growth in Ekiti State.

The visit had in attendance key representatives from Cavista Holdings portfolio company— Agbeyewa Farms, and Glocient Hospitality operators of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre. Discussions centered on enhancing improved relations, promoting development, and ensuring sustained peace to support ongoing Cavista Holdings investments in agriculture, and hospitality.

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, Managing Director/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for their unwavering support.

“This visit reflects our shared commitment to strengthening collaboration for the benefit of our communities,” he said. “At Agbeyewa Farms, we believe that security and development go hand in hand. Our success in large-scale agriculture making us the largest cassava farm in the world would not be possible without the stability provided by the Nigerian military and other security agencies.”

Representing Glocient Hospitality, Mr. Lanre Balogun, General Manager, highlighted the transformational impact of Cavista’s investment in the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.

“At Cavista Holdings, transforming lives and creating value define our purpose,” he said. “When we took over Ikogosi, the resort was in decline. Within two years, we revitalized it into Nigeria’s number one resort, employing over 185 young Ekiti residents. Our collaboration with the Nigerian Army has been vital — their presence ensures safety and stability, allowing businesses like ours to flourish. The doors of Ikogosi are always open; the Army is part of our family.”

In his remarks, Mr. Dauda Ismail, Chief Security Officer of Cavista Holdings, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to mutual collaboration and regional security.

“Our partnership with the Nigerian Army is crucial to sustaining development in the region,” he said. “We are delighted to welcome the new Commandant and reaffirm our continued support for a peaceful and secure Ekiti State.”

Adding her perspective, Ms. Anthonia Attoh, Vice President, Operations, Agbeyewa Farms, underscored the company’s innovation and inclusive approach.

“One of Cavista Holdings’ greatest strengths is inclusiveness — we celebrate diversity. Our operations are driven by local expertise and partnerships built on mutual respect and shared value.”

The commandant of the 148 Battalion Lieutenant Colonel S.A Inusa expressed appreciation to the Cavista Holdings delegation for the visit and for the company’s continued contribution to the economic advancement of Ekiti State through job creations, large-scale cassava farming, hospitality development, and community empowerment initiatives. He added that the Battalion is open to feedback and more collaborations as a new formation in Ekiti State.

The visit concluded with mutual expressions of goodwill and a renewed commitment to strengthen community relations in support of peace, security, and socio-economic progress. It is worthy to note that Cavista Holdings is the first organization to visit the new Battalion since its creation.

Also present during the visit were Lt. Col. Ajayi Bamidele (Rtd.), Senior Head of Security, Agbeyewa Farms; Oluwarotimi Wusu, Manager, Marketing & Communications, Agbeyewa Farms; Ayo Ademiluwa, Community Engagement Manager, Glocient Hospitality; and Barrister Idiongo Udofia, Legal Adviser, Glocient Hospitality.

King Dasilva to Convene Strategic Leadership Gathering in Support of Governor Oyebanji’s Vision for Shared Prosperity.

King Dasilva to Convene Strategic Leadership Gathering in Support of Governor Oyebanji’s Vision for Shared Prosperity.

In a resounding demonstration of civic commitment and visionary leadership and deepening democracy at the grassroot Mr. Lawal Adeshina, popularly known as King Dasilva, would convene a Strategic Leadership Gathering aimed at galvanizing support for the ongoing developmental strides of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) while fostering a new generation of service-driven leadership in the state.

The event, which will draw together political stakeholders, youth leaders, professionals and community influencers, served as a rallying point for progressive minds dedicated to the sustainable growth and prosperity of Ekiti State. At the heart of the gathering was King Dasilva’s unmistakable passion for Governor Oyebanji’s agenda of shared prosperity, a policy vision anchored on inclusivity, human capital development and infrastructural renewal.

Known for his grassroots engagement and unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, King Dasilva has continually proven himself as a leader with both vision and action. His ability to connect with the people, articulate solutions and inspire collective responsibility highlights the depth of quality leadership embedded in his character.

His convening of this strategic gathering is not merely political optics. It is a deliberate and thoughtful step towards building a more enlightened, engaged and forward-thinking citizenry. It reflects a clear understanding that real progress lies in continuity, collaboration and capacity building.

King Dasilva has continually eulogized Governor Oyebanji as a leader whose performance has transcended politics, delivering measurable results across education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and youth development.

"Governor Oyebanji has shown what true leadership means: humility, competence and accountability. His model of shared prosperity is not just a slogan, it is a lived experience for the people of Ekiti. This gathering is our way of showing that we see the progress, we feel the impact and we are ready to play our part in sustaining it," he stated.

The gathering will also serve as a platform for King Dasilva to share his broader vision for participatory governance and youth inclusion. As a leader being closely watched by many in Ekiti and beyond, his actions continue to suggest a readiness to serve at higher levels. His message was clear: leadership is service, and service must begin with a heart for the people.

With this strategic gathering, King Dasilva has once again positioned himself as not only a bridge between the people and government but as a rising force in Ekiti’s political future — prepared, passionate and purpose driven.

In an era where quality leadership is more crucial than ever, King Dasilva stands out as a beacon of hope and a champion of progress. His efforts to rally support for Governor Oyebanji’s transformative governance while preparing the next generation of leaders are both commendable and timely.

Ekiti is watching. The people are inspired. And the future, with leaders like King Dasilva in view, looks promising.

IREPODUN/IFELODUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT HOLDS 2026 BUDGET APPRAISAL SESSION.

IREPODUN/IFELODUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT HOLDS 2026 BUDGET APPRAISAL SESSION.

It was an atmosphere of brilliance, intelligence, and focus on Tuesday, as Directors of all Departments in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area presented a comprehensive appraisal of their respective financial estimates. The exercise was aimed at ensuring pragmatic relevance, transparency, and alignment with the Ekiti State Government’s Six-Point Agenda, as championed by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

The deliberations also focused on ensuring that all proposed capital projects conform strictly with the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) — making the 2026 Budget realistic, achievable, measurable, and of clear economic value to the people of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

The 2026 financial plan is envisioned to have direct, tangible, and far-reaching impacts on the socio-economic well-being of the people of Awo and Igede-Ekiti. It prioritizes:

Infrastructure Renewal – improvement of roads, drainage systems, and public utilities to enhance connectivity and economic activities.

Agricultural Advancement – empowerment of local farmers through modern inputs, extension services, and smallholder support for food security and rural prosperity.

Healthcare Delivery – revitalization of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) for accessible and qualitative healthcare.

Environmental Sustainability – stronger measures on sanitation, waste management, and clean water access under the WASH programme.

Community and Social Development – youth empowerment, education enhancement, and inclusive welfare programmes to uplift living standards.

The effective communication of government policies, promotion of transparency and citizens participation through modern information channels and civic Education ,is the ultimate responsibility of the information department.

In essence, the 2026 Budget is not merely a fiscal document but a strategic instrument for growth, job creation, and sustainable development for all residents of Awo and Igede-Ekiti.

The Executive Chairman, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (CHENCO), commended the directors for their diligence and charged them to adhere strictly to the approved financial estimates. He emphasized that each director must ensure full implementation and be ready to defend their budgetary proposals in consonance with the Governor’s Six-Point Agenda and the MTEF principles.

The Executive Secretary, Honourable Dr.  Sule Olatunji lauded the directors’ professionalism, urging them to present attainable and pragmatic financial estimates rather than speculative or unrealistic figures. He described the appraisal as a bold step towards accountability and fiscal discipline.

The Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, described the event as a milestone in the annals of the local government system, stressing that for the first time, the entire budget process is being appraised in strict conformity with the developmental vision of Governor Oyebanji. She urged all directors to comply with the letters and spirit of the budget, ensuring faithful implementation.

Mr. Hassan Subir, the Director of finance in his professional submission, emphasized the need for continuous alignment with budgetary discipline and performance-based management. He commended the directors for their proactive approach and renewed commitment toward a results-oriented budgeting culture.

The Director of BPR&S, Mrs. Odeyemi Mosunmola, expressed her delight over the quality of presentations and the directors’ impressive sense of responsibility. She outlined key professional reasons why the budget appraisal must be held to the highest standards expected by Ekiti State, which include:

1. Fiscal Integrity – ensuring all budget items are verifiable, transparent, and within the financial capacity of the local government.

2. Compliance with State and National Standards – maintaining strict adherence to the MTEF and other statutory guidelines for public financial management.

3. Performance-Based Budgeting – linking every expenditure to measurable outputs and socio-economic impact.

4. Sustainability and Value for Money – guaranteeing that every project proposed delivers lasting benefits and economic efficiency.

5. Equity and Inclusiveness – ensuring that both Awo and Igede communities benefit equitably from developmental projects.

She concluded that such disciplined and professionally guided appraisals will make the 2026 Budget stand the test of time and serve as a model for other local governments in Ekiti State.

FUOYE Denies VC Ordered SSANU Leaders’ Arrest, Blames Union for Campus Disruption.

FUOYE Denies VC Ordered SSANU Leaders’ Arrest, Blames Union for Campus Disruption.

The management of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has denied claims that its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina, was behind the arrest and detention of some leaders of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) in the institution.

In a statement issued on Monday, the university described the allegation as “misleading and entirely baseless,” clarifying that Professor Fasina was on official duty in Abuja at the time of the incident and had no authority to direct police operations.

According to the university, the Vice-Chancellor was at the Nigerian Law School in Abuja for the accreditation of FUOYE’s law students when the police invited the union leaders over a reported security threat to the campus.

The statement explained that a security report had indicated plans by some SSANU members to disrupt the Vice-Chancellor’s return to office on October 14, 2025, after a six-month accumulated leave.

Acting on the intelligence, the police invited the union leaders for questioning on October 13, but they reportedly said they were out of Ekiti State at the time.

However, when the VC eventually resumed, tensions heightened as about ten SSANU members, led by Mr. Benjamin Faleye, allegedly disrupted a meeting with the university community and threatened that the Vice-Chancellor “would not be allowed to work and walk around the university.”

Following the incident, the university security unit filed a report identifying the union members’ conduct as a potential threat to peace on campus. When the union leaders later reported to the police, investigations revealed that they became unruly and refused to cooperate, prompting their brief detention.

A police source quoted in the statement confirmed that the invitation was part of routine measures to maintain public order and that “no individual is above the law.”

Contrary to the union’s claims, the university disclosed that upon learning of their detention, Professor Fasina personally contacted the Commissioner of Police and appealed for their immediate release, which was subsequently granted.

“The VC was away at the Nigeria Law School when he heard that some union leaders had been invited by the police. Associating him with their detention is misleading and entirely baseless,” the statement read.

The management condemned the conduct of the union officials, describing their actions as “a disgrace in an academic environment,” and reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue, staff welfare, and institutional progress.

FUOYE further urged all members of the university community to embrace peace, collaboration, and constructive engagement rather than spreading falsehoods that could disrupt the institution’s stability.

You Came well Prepared for Governance, Gov Ododo Commends Oyebanji.

You Came well Prepared for Governance, Gov Ododo Commends Oyebanji.

...Kogi Gov commissions road, hospital projects in Ekiti.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo on Tuesday said his counterpart in Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has demonstrated capacity which indicate that he was well prepared for the task of governing the State. 

This, he said, continue to reflect in Oyebanji’s excellent performance across all sectors, in the last three years. 

Governor Ododo posited that there are verifiable and convincing evidence across the critical sectors of the economy, that point to the fact Governor Oyebanji has fulfilled the social contract he signed with the people of the Ekiti State.

Governor Ododo disclosed these in Ilawe Ekiti, on Tuesday, while commissioning the 21- kilometre Ikere-Ilawe road, and the renovated General Hospital, projects of the Governor Oyebanji administration. 

Addressing the large crowd of residents that thronged the venue of the ceremony, Governor Ododo, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, applauded Oyebanji for hiring the services of local contractors to execute some of the road projects.

The Kogi Governor stated that such extreme display of leadership speaks volume of Oyebanji's unflagging belief in the development of human resources that are available to the country.

Governor Ododo saluted the Ekiti Governor for making the state pass through the trajectory of impactful governance in the areas of infrastructure, human capital development, tourism, agriculture, and youth development, which audibly speak to the government’s inclusion policy.

"With what I have been briefed, this road started in 2022 through self- financing under the last administration, but could not go far due to some difficulties. Once a leader is focused and forward looking, his vision will outlive transitions. 

"With your governance and leadership in Ekiti, you have demonstrated that government is about vision and performance. With what I have seen and the solid support you are getting from Ekiti people, it is evident that you came solidly prepared for governance. 

"Even your opponent knew that you have performed well and they knew that BAO has bowed their heads with great performance. Ekiti and Kogi States do not just share common boundaries, we share a history and close ties of brotherhood and the development of our people.

"Let me assure you that all the progressive governors are behind you and I hope that you will continue with this tempo till 2030. We have the same vision, which is to serve the people and nothing more.

"I want you to remain focused and don't be distracted by the confusion being caused by the members of the opposition. You are a quiet person, but your actions speak louder in your performance. I am proud of your achievements", Gov Ododo said.

In his address at the event, Governor Oyebanji described the completion of the road  as a jinx breaking expedition, saying whatever he has achieved in Ekiti could be hinged on the enigmatic economic reformations being carried out at the federal level by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Oyebanii stated further that his administration has not borrowed a dime to fund any of the capital projects being undertaken for the benefit of the masses. He thanked the president for making more resources available to the subnational.

"I have not borrowed a dime to fund any of the capital projects going on in Ekiti State and this is because of the audacious reforms being carried out by President Tinubu that has made more monies available to states".

Oyebanji said an aggregate of 10 roads spread across Ekiti will be commissioned to mark  the third anniversary, which were strategically undertaken to drive tourism, local economy, transportation,  small and medium enterprises and agriculture.

Speaking about the initial hurdles that stalled the completion of the road, Oyebanji, said: "We inherited this road from the last administration. That we have completed it speaks volume of the gains of  continuity of vision and when there is alignment of vision, the people will see the gains and this is what we are seeing today. 

"I congratulate the people of Ilawe Ekiti for this landmark achievements, because there are two projects to be commissioned here today and all the people of the state on the third anniversary of this administration". 

For the third anniversary, the governor revealed  that a total of six hospitals, with state -of -art facilities will be commissioned to serve the people at the grassroots, saying the rehabilitated  general hospital in Ilawe Ekiti will facilitate improved quality healthcare for the masses.

The Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Alabi, applauded the Governor for clearing all hurdles and ensured speedy completion of the road, after the initial setback that nearly stalled the readiness of the road for usage.