You 've Entrenched Purposeful Governance For Ekiti Citizens, Sanwo-Olu Salutes Oyebanji.

You 've Entrenched Purposeful Governance For Ekiti Citizens, Sanwo-Olu Salutes Oyebanji.

....canvasses support for Tinubu, Oyebanji's Second term.

....God specially prepared Oyebanji for Ekiti governance- Ewi.

Lagos State Governor,  Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has declared that his  Ekiti State counterpart, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, had in three years of his administration, succeeded in entrenching the culture of  purposeful governance that has benefitted all the strata of the state.  

To sustain this trajectory of good governance initiated by the Governor, Sanwo-Olu canvassed support for Governor Oyebanji and urged Ekiti voters to return him for a second term to further consolidate  democracy gains for the citizens.  

Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke at Iworoko Ekiti, Irepodun/ Ifelodun Local Government Area, on Wednesday, during the commissioning of the Ado Ekiti Ring Road Phase 1, as part of the activities marking the third year of Biodun Oyebanji's administration. 

Speaking at the ceremony, the Governor of the Centre of Excellence, showered encomiums on the House of Assembly for cooperating with the Governor and strengthening Executive-Legislative partnership that spiralled development in the state.

Sanwo-Olu described the Ring Road project, as strategic and pivotal to the development of the state, stressing that the governor has not disappointed and that through him, purposeful governance is spiralling and consolidating fast in Ekiti.

With his sterling performance, the Lagos State Governor averred that the Ekiti State Governor has demonstrated that leadership is about service and not showmanship or acquisition of wealth at the expense of the populace.

"I am impressed with how you are consolidating purposeful governance for Ekiti people. This is a governance they can see and feel, not in the air. You have proven to be an embodiment of what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who has continued to challenge all of us at the subnational that we must represent the people well. 

"You have a man who in three years have done what some people can't do in four or five years. He has shown that leadership is about service, is about talk and do, is about once you are given a commitment, there shouldn't be any excuse. I stand here truly proud of what you have done. Ekiti can't afford to reject you for a second term", Sanwo-Olu stated. 

The Lagos State Governor further saluted Oyebanji  for connecting the towns through good roads and streetlights, saying this will help in powering meaningful economic prosperity and purposeful governance in the state. 

"This is not just politics or rhetorics, this is an achievement we can all touch  and feel. He has told you all the roads he has constructed , all the  health centres he has built and all the youths he has engaged. For you to stop this stop and start that you do, I want you to vote massively for him in 2026 election. Return him back to office to work for you. 

"With this achievement that we are all proud of, Governor Oyebanji's  second term is a second term of  additional prosperity, second term of more youth empowerment, second term of more hospital construction, second term of more empowerment for  Senior citizens, and for our women, to feel more dividends of democracy.

"We need to galvanize ourselves and give him votes you have never recorded before. Votes that can transform the state into a centre of excellence and that will be a precursor to what will happen in 2027 for President Tinubu. It is only  when you do that, that  you can see continuity of governance.

"With the way things are going in Ekiti under Governor Oyebanji, in 2030, you will see small London in Ekiti. You will see an Ekiti that is a pride of  southwest and glory of  Nigeria that will drive our people home from where they work abroad".

Commenting on how pivotal the road project is to economic growth, Governor Oyebanji, revealed that the project was specifically conceptualised to decongest Ado Ekiti metropolis of vehicular gridlock and spike up economic activities along Iworoko, Afao, Are, Igbemo, Araromi Obo and other adjoining towns.

Exhibiting confidence that his strategic thinking will open up the state to better prosperity, Oyebanji was upbeat that with this road,the first of its kind in the state, a new Ado Ekiti town will be created along the corridor that will drive industrial growth and urban development that will add  value to the state. 

Besides road construction, Oyebanji revealed that an aggregate of 103 health centres have been constructed with modern facilities to offer quality healthcare for the citizens at the grassroots. 

"This road, which is about 17.85 kilometres, is just the first phase and we are grateful to President President Tinubu for freeing more money to the subnational and we  promise that we will triple our votes for Mr President in 2027. 

"So those who have done INEC's online registration and have not done physical capturing, go and do it so that you can show to Mr. President that you love him.

"With your support, I will break the jinx of continuity in Ekiti in 2026 . The era of a government spending four years and being sent packing is over, to drive  development, happiness and  prosperity, so that our people can plan for their future".

Speaking for the contractor, Craneburg Construction Company, that prosecuted the project, Mr Elie Adem, branded  the Ring road as a strategic project, not only to connect towns, but to ensure economic development and regional connectivity that attests to purposeful leadership.

Tracing the trajectory of Governor Oyebanji's participation in the epic battle for the creation of Ekiti State in 1996, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti , Oba Rufus  Adeyemo Adejugbe, commended the governor for his shrewd economic policies and said his enigmatic drives have made all the political, religious, market men and women, and youth groups to endorse him for a second term.

"I am not surprised at what you are doing, because you are material prepared for this job long ago. You are humble, kind and generous.We pray for Ekiti to be in peace for you to continue to serve the people. God will help you succeed", the monarch said.

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.