EKSU Alumni Honour Oyebanji: A Hall of Fame for a Life of Purpose.

EKSU Alumni Honour Oyebanji: A Hall of Fame for a Life of Purpose.

By Olu-Ajayi Maxwell

EAF Media

In a world where leadership often bows to the theatrics of eye service, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji stands as a refreshing contrast  a man whose story redefines purpose, service, and genuine humanity. His recent induction into the Ekiti State University (EKSU) Alumni Hall of Fame is more than an honour; it is a loud testament to a life that has, from youth, embodied the true meaning of impact and leadership rooted in integrity.

From my research,  his early days as a student, Oyebanji didn’t just dream of change  he lived it. Those who crossed paths with him on campus recall a young man who carried himself with quiet strength and a deep sense of responsibility. Long before governance became his calling, service was already his language. His rise was not accidental; it was a consistent climb powered by discipline, humility, and a vision larger than self.

To the youth of today, his journey is both a challenge and a guidepost. Sociolinguistically, Oyebanji’s leadership speaks a universal language one that transcends class, tribe, or political leaning. He embodies a communicative style that connects intellect with empathy, authority with approachability, and governance with genuine service. Sociologically, he mirrors the evolving portrait of leadership Nigeria yearns for: the leader as mentor, as motivator, as mirror of values long forgotten in public life.

Governor Oyebanji’s life teaches that true governance begins with self-discipline and purpose. His commitment to high service  not for applause, but for humanity  continues to shape lives across generations. His Hall of Fame recognition is therefore not merely a plaque of honour but a symbol of what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and authenticity.

To every young mind watching, Oyebanji’s story says one thing clearly: impact is not in position, it is in purpose.

Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju Extends New Month Felicitations, Assures Ekiti Kete of Substantial 'Dividends of Hope'.

Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju Extends New Month Felicitations, Assures Ekiti Kete of Substantial 'Dividends of Hope'.

 Honourable Ibrahim Olarenwaju Kunle, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on National Assembly Matters, has conveyed his sincere felicitations to the esteemed people of Ekiti State, as they transition into the month of November.

The SSA utilized this opportunity to reiterate the unwavering commitment of both the Federal and State governments to the sustained welfare and exponential progress of the citizenry. He confidently assured the people of Ekiti that their robust support for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) will culminate not merely in the traditional dividends of democracy, but in concrete and transformative "dividends of hope."

Honourable Olarenwaju stated with conviction that November is poised to herald significant advancements and a plethora of beneficial initiatives for the Nigerian populace from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and specifically for the people of Ekiti State from Governor Oyebanji.

"The profound hope and immense trust the Ekiti Kete reposed in Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji through their overwhelming mandate will be fully and comprehensively justified," Hon. Olarenwaju declared. "Governor Oyebanji is resolutely determined to deliver not just the conventional dividends of democracy, but the substantial, life-changing dividends of hope that genuinely elevate the socio-economic standing of our people."

He affirmed that both leaders are exceptionally credentialed and fully equipped to steer the affairs of the nation and the state, respectively. He emphatically stressed that they possess the requisite competence and resolute political will to effectively recalibrate the economic and social narrative, thereby securing a demonstrably better quality of life for their constituents.

Honourable Olarenwaju, an illustrious indigene of Ekiti State, concluded by earnestly appealing to the citizens to maintain their unflinching faith in the current leadership.

He underscored the crucial alignment between the progressive reform agenda of President Tinubu at the centre and Governor Oyebanji's Shared Prosperity Agenda in the state.

He emphasized that this synergistic collaboration is fundamental, ensuring that Ekiti State will be a prime and indisputable beneficiary of federal policies and interventions designed for national economic revitalisation.

"The collaborative vision of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji represents their greatest strategic asset," the SSA noted. "They have profoundly demonstrated their preparedness and capacity to lead, and they possess the necessary fortitude to fundamentally alter the narrative for their citizens, guaranteeing a tangible and measurable improvement in their living standards."

The SSA concluded by offering a prayer for a peaceful, productive, and prosperous month for all Ekiti Kete and Nigerians at large.

Adebayo Salutes Oyebanji at project commissioning, Promises to Lead His Reelection Campaign.

Adebayo Salutes Oyebanji at project commissioning, Promises to Lead His Reelection Campaign.

...2026: My work 'll speak for me, Oyebanji says.

The first civilian Governor of Ekiti State,Otunba Niyi Adebayo, has pledged to lead Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re- election campaign train for the 2026 governorship election in appreciation of the Governor’s superlative performance which has impacted positively on the state. 

Adebayo, who governed Ekiti State under the defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD) between 1999 and 2003, averred that he won't be leading the campaign on account of party affiliation, but on the premise of Oyebanji's scintillating performance and fidelity to Ekiti citizens since 2022.

The former Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, said these in Ikole Ekiti, on Friday, while commissioning the 20 kilometre Ikole-Ara-Isinbode road constructed by Governor Oyebanji's administration, as part of the activities commemorating the third anniversary of his government. 

Appraising Oyebanji's government in the last three years, Adebayo scored the government high in road and power infrastructure; health care delivery, agriculture , and human capital development among others. 

He also thanked Governor Oyebanji for standing by him while he was Governor between 1999 and 2003 and for the honour he always accorded him ever since. 

The former Governor said he felt pained that he couldn't construct the Ara- Isinbode- Ikole road during his tenure due to financial impediment. This, he said, makes the project very impressive and dear to his heart. He said he felt highly fulfilled coming around to commission the same road years after. 

Adebayo said he was proud of Governor Oyebanji's superlative exploits in all sectors of the economy, urging the electorate to massively vote and retain him in power till 2030.

"If you look at this our Governor, he is a great son. God is using him for Ekiti. I am always very enthusiastic about his issues, because he is special to me . 

"When I came to Ekiti in 1998 to begin my political journey, Governor Oyebanji was the first person to join me. He worked with me and we won that election.

"Even when I lost reelection in 2003, he stood by me and we still maintain that cordial relationship up to today. I am grateful to you for your loyalty and steadfastness to Ekiti people. 

"When campaign starts for your reelection in 2026, I will be at the forefront, because you have not disappointed us". 

In his submission, Governor Oyebanji, who went down memory lane, revealed that he undertook the road project on the platform that it was part of what pained Otunba Niyi Adebayo most, because of his inability to reconstruct the road during his tenure.

The Governor added that the former Governor Segun Oni also took step to reconstruct the road, but couldn't due to unforeseen circumstances.

Oyebanji stated that the project was the seventh to be commissioned  to mark his third anniversary, while pledging that his government will work harder to make Ikole-Ijesa Isu road motorable for commuters, despite being a federal road.

"The inability of Otunba Niyi Adebayo to reconstruct this road that time was the reason why I dedicated resources to complete this project and  invited him to come and commission it today. I was part of that government and I knew his feelings then".

To ensure durability, Oyebanji, said: "We are going to put barricade on this road to prevent unnecessary pressure. I plead with you, don't make bonfires on any of our roads, they will get damaged if you do that. 

"It is our collective responsibility to preserve the road. Besides these road infrastructures, we have extended electricity to Ikole Local Government and upgrade your state specialist hospital to a Federal Medical Centre. I have connected Ikole Ekiti to Igbemo through road and this has been done and completed. 

Citing the significance of the road to the growth of rural economy, the Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo, said besides connectivity, it will bolster the development of agriculture and curtail incidences of kidnapping along that route.

Adebayo said the road was undertaken to enhance trade, equitable distribution of public utilities and free movements of commuters, saying the government will continue to rehabilitate all inter and intra state as well as  feeder roads to spread infrastructures to all the towns in the state. 

Representing the contractor that prosecuted the project, Dromo International Company Limited, Engr Folorunso Omoya, appreciated the Governor for patronising indigenous contractors, saying this has motivated him to execute the project to specification to indicate that they have the expertise.

In their commendations, the Elekole of Ikole Ekiti, Oba Ajibade Fasiku, Alara of Ara Ekiti, Oba Samuel Fatoba  and Onisin of Isinbode, Oba Akinyemi Adesoji, said the road looked jinxed from time immemorial, because of its parlous and dangerous state, describing the quality as the best in Ekiti.

Ekiti 2026: UK-based APC member congratulates Oyebanji on winning party ticket again.

Ekiti 2026: UK-based APC member congratulates Oyebanji on winning party ticket again.

A United Kingdom-based member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Barrister Gbenga Ojo, has congratulated the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on his emergence as the party’s candidate for the 2026 governorship election.

In a congratulatory message issued through his media team, Ojo described the governor’s affirmation as the party’s flagbearer as proof of his good deeds, visionary leadership and commitment to the development of Ekiti State.

Ojo, an indigene of Ilogbo-Ekiti in Ido/Osi Local Government Area, noted that the leaders of the party across the state made the right decision by giving the ticket again to a man who has brought peace and stability to Ekiti State.

“Governor Oyebanji became the first person in the history of the state to win the governorship ticket through consensus. His native intelligence and ability to work harmoniously with all stakeholders in the state were the reasons he was able to win the hearts of the Ekiti people.

“With what we are seeing, there will be a resounding victory for the party in the general election because the people of the state are in love with Governor Oyebanji. I have interacted with some members of the opposition, and it seems even they desire continuity,” Ojo said.

Ojo also commended members of the APC in Ekiti for their unity and support for the governor, urging them to remain steadfast ahead of the 2026 polls.

He stressed that the coming election should be seen as an opportunity to consolidate the gains of the Oyebanji administration rather than a contest of bitterness.

“What the governor needs now is our collective support to sustain the ongoing development across sectors from infrastructure and education to youth empowerment and rural transformation. Ekiti is on the path of progress and it is our duty as loyal party members to ensure continuity,” he added.

Ojo, a legal practitioner based in the United Kingdom, has been an active member of the APC diaspora community and a consistent advocate of good governance and youth inclusion in Ekiti politics.

He expressed confidence that Oyebanji’s second term, if given the mandate by the people, would further entrench good governance, inclusive leadership, and socio-economic advancement in the state.

The APC governorship primary in Ekiti State, which produced Oyebanji as a consensus candidate, has been widely hailed by party members and stakeholders as a model of internal democracy and unity within the party.

Adaramodu Appreciates Ilawe-Ekiti Residents for Supporting Oyebanji’s Re-election.

Adaramodu Appreciates Ilawe-Ekiti Residents for Supporting Oyebanji’s Re-election.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Senator Yemi Adaramodu has expressed gratitude to residents of Ward 1, Ilawe-Ekiti, for their massive support towards the re-election of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

The senator, who spoke during an appreciation visit to his ward on Friday, October 30, 2025, lauded the people for their steadfastness, unity, and unwavering commitment to the progress and development of the state.

Adaramodu noted that the overwhelming support for Governor Oyebanji reflected the people’s confidence in his leadership and developmental agenda for Ekiti State, saying, “The people of Ilawe-Ekiti have once again demonstrated their trust in purposeful leadership and their desire for continuity in progress under Governor Oyebanji.”

He reaffirmed his personal commitment to ensuring sustained growth, effective representation, and improved welfare for the people of Ekiti South Senatorial District.

 “I deeply appreciate the good people of Ilawe-Ekiti, especially my Ward 1, for standing firm behind Governor Oyebanji. Your support is a testament to your belief in good governance and our shared vision for a greater Ekiti,” he said.

Oyebanji Revives Farm Settlements, pledges Security for Ekiti Farmers.

Oyebanji Revives Farm Settlements, pledges Security for Ekiti Farmers.

....commends Tinubu's Renewed Hope Farm  dormitory Initiative. 

Determined to boost food production, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has revived Farm Settlements initiative in the State with the commissioning of three of the six Renewed Hope Farm Dormitories built for young farmers in different farm clusters in the state.

Oyebanji, who saluted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his initiative that encourages farming,  promised to tackle headon, those he described as  unscrupulous elements  and criminally minded individuals, who were determined to sabotage his efforts  and make farming difficult in the state.

The Governor spoke while commissioning the Farm Dormitory located at Eporo Ekiti, Emure Local Government Area, on Wednesday, to mark the third anniversary of his administration. 

The Governor also commissioned the ones built at Iyemero and Ikere Ekiti, targeted at increasing food production and bringing down food prices in the state. 

Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, said besides reviving the moribund farm settlements built by the administration of the Premier of the defunct Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, that another 13 had been created to give comfort to the youth farmers in their farming areas. 

He described the Renewed Hope farm settlement as being outstanding on the strength of involving technology for agricultural planning and innovation to attract youth as well as partnership with firms to ensure that Ekiti contributes to food production and food surplus that can guarantee security in the country.

He said with the farm dormitory project, the rural economy can be stimulated, especially with modular irrigation provided to make all the youth farmers to work round the year and secure their future through financial gains that can support their families.

"Today, the dormitories we are commissioning in Eporo, Emure and Iyemero are built to provide convenient abode, so that the youth farmers can enjoy the comfort of the city and they won't be distracted from their main focus.

"As of now, about 5,000 youths have been employed through this initiative. The rural economy has been stimulated while our youths are now more than ready to go into farming.

"We are not unaware of the activities of the unscrupulous elements who wanted to sabotage our efforts. I am assuring you that I will work with security agencies to secure all the farm settlements, so that you can work and live here without any harassment or fear if being kidnapped".

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, said the building at Eporo Ekiti can take about 200 farmers and have facilities like solar power lights and generating sets to ensure regular supply of light and water that can offer the required comfort.

Boluwade said the farm settlement has about 300 hectares of land apportioned to the youth farmers, which has helped to tame the menace of kidnapping and banditry that were common in the axis before the positive change of events.

To further strengthen farming and production, the Commissioner added that  Agric Transformation Centre worth over N20 million, with modern  facilities, will be sited at  Emure-Eporo axis to further radicalize agriculture, saying the project will contain poultry, pet house and other farming sectors that will add value to the state.

He appealed to the young farmers to make good use of the opportunity provided by the state government, saying Ekiti rising to food security status remains the focus of the current government.

 Speaking at the event, the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the YSJ Farms , Mrs. Oluwayemisi Joluwe, revealed that the young  farmers being guided by the firm  made a  profit margin of N800 million between 2024 and now, saying efforts are on to increase to a sum.of N1 billion before the end of 2025 farming season. 

Joluwe praised Governor Oyebanji for being visionary and steadfast in pursing his vision to make encourage commercial farming and as well promote youth employment in the state.

About the exploits the firm has made within a shorty period, Mrs Joluwe stated that the company makes a profit of N138 million in 2024 while operating in just three local governments. 

She revealed that the profit margin has been lifted to a staggering sum of N800 million with the operation now expanded to 13 local governments, with a target to increase the profile to a sum of one billion Naira before the end of 2025. 

Mrs Joluwe said commercial farming midwifed by the state government in partnership with the firm has radicalised food production in Ekiti State and responsible for why Ekiti State us now rated as having the least food inflation  in the country by the National Bureau of Statistics. 

"Today’s occasion is more than just the commissioning of a building; it is a celebration of vision, leadership, and partnership — the kind that transforms communities, empowers young people, and builds a better tomorrow.

"Last year, we recorded a profit of ₦138 million operating in just four local government areas. As of today, we have expanded to thirteen local governments and surpassed ₦800 million.

"We are confident that before the end of this year, we will close above ₦1 billion in profit.While we commend the ongoing efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture, we must not overlook some of the challenges faced by our young farmers". 

To consolidate the gains further, the YSJ Managing Director, said incidences of insecurity have made youth farmers  hesitant to return to their farms,  appealing to Governor Oyebanji  to swiftly address these concerns, so that the youth  farmers can continue their noble work with confidence, safety, and pride.

The Elemure of Emure Ekiti, Oba James Babatunde Ajiboye, commended the government for the innovative actions being deployed to boost agriculture in the state, describing this as a masterstroke that will revamp the sector in the state. 

"All of you should go and get your voter cards. We will return  votes that had never been witnessed in Emure Ekiti since 1999 that will shake other local governments. We are grateful that you have restored orderliness here. Nobody can come to this axis before because of the fear of kidnappers. You have succeeded in turning a dangerous zone to a zone of success".

The representative of the youth farmers, Mr. Olanrewaju Saliu, revealed that the governor has been fair to Eporo-Emure axis through cluster farming, health centre and school renovation, saying all these shall be reciprocated in the next election.

Saliu particularly praised the governor for ensuring security, by siting a Military post close to the dormitory and farming sites, sating this will change the face of farming in the state and turn Ekiti into a food basket of Nigeria

Hausa Community in Ekiti Congratulates Gov. Oyebanji on APC Consensus Candidacy, Vows Full Support for 2026 Re-election.

Hausa Community in Ekiti Congratulates Gov. Oyebanji on APC Consensus Candidacy, Vows Full Support for 2026 Re-election.

The Hausa Community in Ekiti State, under the leadership of its Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Liman, has heartily congratulated His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his emergence as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the forthcoming 2026 Gubernatorial Election in Ekiti State.

The consensus affirmation, which took place recently, is viewed by the Hausa community as a resounding testament to Governor Oyebanji's extraordinary performance and exemplary leadership over the past three years in office.

The Chairman, Alhaji Liman, specifically highlighted the remarkable strides made by the Oyebanji administration across key sectors, stating, "Governor Oyebanji's tenure has ushered in an era of unprecedented development." This success is evident in: Infrastructure, with commendable progress in road construction and urban renewal; Education, through significant investment in improving standards and facilities; Agriculture, with concrete steps taken to empower farmers and boost food security; and Human Empowerment, with life-changing initiatives aimed at uplifting the socio-economic status of Ekiti indigenes and residents.

More importantly, the Hausa community particularly lauded the Governor's unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and fostering unity among all ethnic groups domicile in Ekiti State, of which the Hausa community is a proud and active member. "His Excellency has proven to be a Governor for all, ensuring that every resident, regardless of their ethnic background, feels secure, valued, and included in the developmental agenda of the state," Alhaji Liman remarked.

The community also expressed profound gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for the appointment of Husseni Bawa as his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Hausa Matters. "The selection of Husseni Bawa is a clear demonstration of Governor Oyebanji's inclusive politics. Mr. Bawa has been a wonderful representative, proving himself as a good ambassador of the Hausa community and, equally, a diligent representative of the Government," the Chairman asserted.

In conclusion, the Chairman emphatically reinstated the Hausa community's unflinching support for the current administration. "We assure His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, that the entire Hausa community in Ekiti State will actively mobilize our members across all 16 local government areas to unanimously support his re-election bid in 2026. This is to ensure that the good work and the foundation of peace and progress he has so brilliantly started are sustained for the prosperity of all," Alhaji Liman concluded.