OYEBANJI SPONSORS EKITI DELEGATES TO AFRICA YOUTH FESTIVAL IN ACCRA, GHANA.

OYEBANJI SPONSORS EKITI DELEGATES TO AFRICA YOUTH FESTIVAL IN ACCRA, GHANA.

…reaffirms commitment to youth development and empowerment.

In demonstration of his unwavering commitment to youth development, empowerment, and global exposure, the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun  Oyebanji, has sponsored Ekiti delegates to attend the Africa Youth Festival Conference 2025, scheduled to hold from November 4th to 9th in Accra, Ghana.

The delegation includes the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Development, Amb. Olu-Ajayi Maxwell and ten members of the Ekiti State Youth Parliament (4th Assembly), led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olusanya Babatunde, who will be representing the State at the continental event. The Africa Youth Festival, organized by the Innovation for Empowerment and Development (IFED Global), serves as a platform for youth leaders across Africa to exchange ideas, build leadership capacity, and explore innovative solutions to challenges confronting young people in today’s world.

Governor Oyebanji’s gesture once again underscores his consistent passion for investing in Ekiti youth — a commitment that has been evident since the inception of his administration. Notably, this is not the first time the Governor will sponsor Ekiti youth to international and continental leadership programs. However, the increase in the number of delegates this year highlights his expanding vision to empower more young leaders and promote youth inclusion in governance.

The participation of Ekiti youths at the Africa Youth Festival Conference is expected to broaden their leadership skills, enhance their global perspective, and strengthen their capacity to contribute meaningfully to the State’s socio-economic development. The event will also provide a valuable networking opportunity for the delegates to connect with other young innovators, policymakers, and change-makers across Africa.

Ekiti youths have expressed profound appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in the potential of young people, describing his administration as “a beacon of hope for the next generation.”

Governor Oyebanji’s action aligns with his administration’s Youth Development and Human Capital Development Pillar, under his Six-Point Development Agenda, aimed at raising a productive, self-reliant, and globally competitive youth population.

“Our Goal Is to Make Quality Healthcare Accessible to Every Ekiti Resident” — Oyebanji.

“Our Goal Is to Make Quality Healthcare Accessible to Every Ekiti Resident” — Oyebanji.
…Upgrades Ijan-Ekiti General Hospital to Boost Healthcare Delivery.
By Olamide Akinwumi

The administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that quality healthcare is within reach of all Ekiti State residents, regardless of their location.

As part of efforts to strengthen the healthcare system, the government has completed the upgrade of the General Hospital, Ijan Ekiti, equipping it with modern medical facilities and tools to enhance service delivery.

The newly upgraded hospital now boasts an impressive array of state-of-the-art equipment, including:
📌 General Ultrasound 3 probes

📌 Foetal Monitor CTG Machine

📌 Defibrillator AED

📌 Anesthesia machine

📌 IV Pole

📌 Suction Pump

📌 Diathermy 300watts

📌 Nebuliser

📌 Laryngoscope

📌 Bench top centrifuge

📌 Blood Count Analyzer

📌 Electrolyte Analyzer

📌 Hormone Analyzer POC

📌 Semi Auto Chemistry Analyzer

📌 Patient Monitor on trolley (for vital signs)

📌 Examination light halogen on castors

📌 Phototherapy

📌 24 Hours Solar Powered Light etc.

According to the state government, the upgrade of the hospital has brought numerous benefits to the host community and its environs.

Among these benefits are:

Improved Healthcare Delivery: With this modern equipment, healthcare professionals in the hospital now provide more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment, which has led to better health outcomes.

Increased Access to Healthcare: Residents of Ijan, Iluomoba, Aisegba, and surrounding areas now access quality healthcare facilities without having to travel to Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

Reduced Mortality Rate: Timely access to medical care has significantly reduced mortality rates, especially in emergency situations.

Enhanced Patient Experience: The upgraded hospital has provided a more comfortable and safe environment for patients, leading to faster recovery rates and improved patient satisfaction.

Increased Confidence in Healthcare System: The upgrade demonstrates the government's commitment to healthcare, instilling confidence in the healthcare system and encouraging people to seek medical care when needed.

The state government noted that this initiative is a significant step towards achieving Governor Oyebanji’s vision of providing quality healthcare to all Ekiti residents.

It described the development as a testament to the administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people and building a healthier, more prosperous Ekiti community.

Akinbobola Charges Workers to Uphold Their Health Beyond Other Endeavours.

Akinbobola Charges Workers to Uphold Their Health Beyond Other Endeavours.

By Asubiojo G.O

In a passionate appeal, the Head of Local Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, has urged staff of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government to prioritize their health above every other pursuit in life.

Speaking during an interactive session with staff on Monday, Mrs. Akinbobola emphasized that good health remains the foundation of productivity, excellence, and sustainable service delivery.

She cautioned against neglecting personal well-being in the pursuit of work or material goals, reminding all that “a healthy worker is a productive worker.” She further encouraged regular medical check-ups, balanced diets, and adequate rest as essential habits for a fulfilled and impactful life.

Beyond health matters, Mrs. Akinbobola enjoined staff to be diligent and discreet in handling official assignments, particularly in the treatment and safekeeping of official documents. She also charged them to adhere strictly to deadlines and maintain discipline in the preparation and submission of their Annual Performance Evaluation Reports (APER), stressing that timely completion of the form is vital for both administrative order and career advancement.

According to her, one of the major significances of the APER form is that it serves as a formal tool for assessing each staff member’s performance, commitment, and productivity — forming a key criterion for promotion and progression within the civil service.

Mrs. Akinbobola further assured the staff of her unflinching support for the forthcoming NULGE Week, scheduled for December 2025, pledging her office’s full cooperation towards its success.

In his response, the NULGE Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus (aka Lawii), appreciated the ever-resourceful and caring HLA for her motherly disposition, professional guidance, and leadership style. He reaffirmed the commitment of staff to remain diligent, disciplined, and dedicated to duty, while urging management to continue channeling staff welfare matters to the appropriate quarters.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with staff expressing satisfaction over the cordial relationship between the NULGE leadership and the management of the local government, describing the session as both inspiring and impactful.

2026: Ignore Blackmailers, Your Good Works 'Il Speak For You, Fayose Tells Oyebanji.

2026: Ignore Blackmailers, Your Good Works 'Il Speak For You, Fayose Tells Oyebanji.

....as ex-gov commissions road project.

...Oyebanji urges Igbara Odo/ Ikogosi communities to end land dispute.

A former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Ayodele Fayose, on Monday,  told Governor Biodun Oyebanji to ignore social media rants and cheap blackmail by  those he branded “blackmailers and players of morbid politics" attacking his government on social media platforms. 

The former governor also said the recent governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC)  in Ekiti State, has exposed some betrayers among  people who were close to the Governor, urging the Governor to be magnanimous and forgive such people. He said such a developments is a normal occurrence in any political system. 

Fayose spoke in Igbara Odo Ekiti, on Monday, while commissioning the 14 - kilometer  Igbara Odo-Ikogosi road, as part of activities marking the third anniversary of Biodun Oyebanji's government .

Addressing the mammoth crowd that  thronged the venue of the ceremony, Fayose warned those attacking the Governor  to be wary of their actions, saying collective success of Ekiti is dear to the heart of the current number one citizen. 

Fayose saluted Governor Oyebanji  for uniting Ekiti leaders and citizens  across party lines, saying this has further accentuated his mastery of politics, governance and management of people of diverse interests and idiosyncracies. 

"I am not here today to praise you, but to celebrate with you. We are now in Ekiti under your reign  celebrating unity of purpose among leaders and our people. We thank God that we have a Governor like you with capacity to turn  things around. 

"Don't be bothered about blackmailers and wailers barking at your backyard, especially those making negative narratives on the internet. Allow them to be there.   The people of Ekiti are not moved by their rantings. I experienced serious crises during my tenure, but you are taking things easy, turning things around and uniting everybody.

"The array of works you have done speak for themselves. I reconstructed this  road 21 years ago, likewise the one that links Igbara Odo to Ikere. You have done well and  I am happy about your popularity among the masses.

"Your product is selling and marketing  itself. Like I said on Sunday, the siege is over. Thank God for your magnanimity, humility and simplicity to accommodate people". 

Predicting victory for Oyebanji in the 2026 governorship poll, Fayose said: "in my.mind, we have already concluded the  voting. With what is happening here today, whoever is opposing you will be disgraced. We are to unite and not to divide. Let other parties bring out their candidates for Ekiti to see. Nobody comes near Governor Oyebanji. 

"I have no apology supporting you. They said I was the one handling the flyover contract, I am not a contractor, that was part of their blackmails. For me and everything I represent, I will continue to support you. To all the former governors supporting you, I appreciate them, but let us do it till the end, so that Oyebanji can achieve collective success". 

Governor Oyebanji, in his response, was enthralled with the quality of job done on the road and the expeditious spate at which it was delivered, saying these attested to the proficiency of the Contractor that prosecuted the project and the supervising authorities. 

The Governor appreciated the torrent of commendations and accolades being given to his government in terms of performance, but pointed out that the economic reforms being engineered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made it possible.

He said the roads being undertaken by his government were not only to bolster transportation, but to open up communities, and  unlock their potentials in the areas of economy, tourism and trade relations. 

" I want to plead with you,let us because of this road settle the land dispute between Igbara Odo and Ikogosi communities. This is the time to resolve the issue. 

"People have contacted me and said I should locate a higher institution between these two communities. But there are no lands to do it. But if you can resolve the issue, the government is ready to develop that corridor. 

"If we are going to site any institution here, this matter must be settled. Our people can no longer go to farms because of fear of attacks. This is the time to resolve this matter one and for all", he pleaded. 

The Arajaka of Igbara Odo, Oba Edward Jayeola,  who thanked the Governor for the road, urged his  community to reciprocate the gesture through support for the success of the Governor and the realisation of his reelection bid. He promised to protect the facility from vandals to engender durability.

Present at the event are: the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, Mr. Makinde Araoye, House of Assembly members, members of the state  executive council, traders, driver unions, among others.

Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju Hails Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji on Historic EKSU Alumni Hall of Fame Investiture.

Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju Hails Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji on Historic EKSU Alumni Hall of Fame Investiture.

Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju, the Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has extended profound congratulations to the Executive Governor of Ekiti State and Visitor to Ekiti State University (EKSU), His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his prestigious investiture into the EKSU Alumni Hall of Fame. This exceptional honour is not only a recognition of the Governor’s current outstanding performance but also a historic moment, as Governor Oyebanji becomes the first alumnus of the institution to ascend to the highest political office in the state.

Hon. Olarenwaju stated that this investiture, the highest honour bestowed by the Alumni Association is a richly deserved accolade that reflects Governor Oyebanji’s unwavering commitment and immense contributions both outside and within the office of the Governor. 

The accolades poured on the Visitor to the institution by the Chancellor and the Vice-Chancellor, particularly citing the over 100% increment in the subvention to Ekiti State University and his consistent support, serve as a powerful testament to the Governor's deep connection to his alma mater and his dedication to its growth.  

"Governor Oyebanji is a shining example of the quality of leaders nurtured by Ekiti State University," Hon. Olarenwaju remarked. "His impressive performance in office is matched by his demonstrable passion for the development of the university, proving that he has not forgotten his roots. This distinguished honour is a celebration of his exceptional leadership, visionary governance, and his success in making the alumni body profoundly proud. We celebrate this unique and historic achievement with His Excellency and look forward to even greater strides in his continued service to Ekiti State and the nation."

This remarkable investiture solidifies Governor Oyebanji’s legacy as a distinguished alumnus and a transformative leader whose actions have directly and significantly impacted the progress of EKSU, setting an inspiring benchmark for current and future students.

Oyebanji Boosts Ekiti Agriculture with Over N4bn Land Clearing, Rome-Ploughing for Farmers.

Oyebanji Boosts Ekiti Agriculture with Over N4bn Land Clearing, Rome-Ploughing for Farmers.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

In a major step towards strengthening food security and attracting agro-investors, the Ekiti State Government, under the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has invested over N4 billion in land clearing and Rome-ploughing across the state’s 16 Local Government Areas.

The initiative, which forms a key part of the administration’s agricultural transformation agenda, is aimed at making large expanses of land readily available for immediate cultivation by farmers and agro-investors.

According to figures released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, a total of 4,752 hectares of land have been cleared across the state. A breakdown shows that Ikole LGA recorded the highest with 1,366 hectares, followed by Oye (680 hectares), Emure (630 hectares), and Ikere (400 hectares). Others include Ekiti West (370 hectares), Ado (306 hectares), Ekiti South West (170 hectares), Ijero (150 hectares), Ido Osi (140 hectares), Ekiti East (130 hectares), Gbonyin (125 hectares), Ise Orun (110 hectares), Ilejemeje (100 hectares), Efon (95 hectares), Irepodun/Ifelodun (70 hectares), and Moba (10 hectares).

The intervention covers free land clearing, free Rome-ploughing, and free land packing, all fully funded by the state government to reduce startup costs and enhance agricultural productivity.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Boluwade Ebenezer, described the programme as a “landmark investment in Ekiti’s agricultural future,” noting that it would transform the sector and improve the livelihoods of thousands of farmers across the state.

“This bold step by Governor Oyebanji is a testament to his unwavering commitment to agricultural development and food security. By removing the financial burden of land preparation, we are giving our farmers and agro-investors a strong head start. This initiative will expand access to farmland, increase food production, and create thousands of jobs for our youths,” Hon. Boluwade said.

He further emphasized that the intervention would stimulate agribusiness investments, reduce rural-urban migration, and position Ekiti as a major food production hub in Nigeria.

“With more land now available for cultivation and proper mechanized preparation in place, we expect a sharp rise in both commercial and smallholder farming activities. This will not only boost food availability but also strengthen the entire agricultural value chain,” he added.

Governor Oyebanji, who has consistently identified agriculture as a cornerstone of his administration’s economic development plan, reaffirmed his resolve to make Ekiti a leading state in modern, technology-driven agriculture.

“With this intervention, we are empowering our farmers, boosting food production, and laying a sustainable foundation for agribusiness investment in Ekiti,” the Governor said.

Highlighting the broader implications of the initiative, Hon. Boluwade Ebenezer noted that the intervention goes beyond immediate economic benefits. According to him, it will increase accessibility to farmland, reduce startup costs for farmers, boost food security, and create sustainable employment opportunities for Ekiti youths. He added that the policy demonstrates Governor Oyebanji’s vision of building a self-reliant agricultural economy capable of feeding the state and contributing to national food sufficiency.

Supporting this view, agricultural experts lauded the state government’s foresight, describing the initiative as one that would “reshape Ekiti’s agricultural landscape.” They noted that the provision of cleared, ploughed, and packed land would not only encourage youth participation in agriculture but also attract large-scale investors seeking ready-to-cultivate farmlands.

They maintained that if sustained, the programme could turn Ekiti into a major food production hub, reduce food importation from other regions, and enhance the state’s overall economic resilience.

No Enemy to Fight, I believe in Unity, Togetherness, Oyebanji Assures Citizens.

No Enemy to Fight, I believe in Unity, Togetherness, Oyebanji Assures Citizens.

....Ex- Ekiti Govs Brand Oyebanji a Unifier, back his re-election.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has restated that scrambling over the 2026 governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and criticism of his government would not make him hold grudges against anybody or label any Ekiti citizen as an enemy.

Oyebanji said he is prepared to accommodate all those who are genuinely interested in pursuing a common interest of developing the State, even as he expressed  appreciation to those who have consistently criticized his government constructively. 

This display of leadership came to the fore, at the Emmanuel Church Cathedral, Ado-Ekiti during a special thanksgiving service held in commemoration of the third anniversary of his administration even as former Governors of the state urged Oyebanji to consolidate the gains of democracy for the people, assuring him that his re- election is a done deal. 

Oyebanji who addressed the congregation, quoting copiously Psalms 136 , emphasized that it is only in forgiveness that Ekiti can triumph, prosper and develop, adding that he had nobody to fight as the Governor superintending over the State in trust for the people. 

"By nature, I dont bear grudges against anybody. I have forgiven those who took a different course in the process of our party's primary . I want to use this opportunity to spread hands of fellowship to all who want to genuinely reconcile with the party and I assure them I bear no grudge against them for taking a different course in pursing their ambitions.

"For those that are objective in their criticisms, I thank you for keeping us on our toes. Let me thank the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele for prophesying that I will be a consensus candidate, it looked impossible then, but he spoke and God heard him.

"My intention is to serve God through Ekiti people. As long as I live, I will continue to serve Ekiti people faithfully, sincerely and with the fear of God. May God help me".

Oyebanji, who branded all the former governors as his benefactors, specially thanked Dr Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adebayo, for their mentorship and wise counsels since the advent of his political journey. He also thanked Former Governors Segun Oni and Ayodele Fayose for their sundry support. 

In their separate submissions at the event all the former governors of the State predicted overwhelming victory for Governor Oyebanij in next year election.

Former Governor Segun Oni, saluted Oyebanji for meandering the state towards  economic prosperity , despite the meagre resources, saying it was evident the Governor came prepared for governance. He said his victory at the next governorship election was certain, given massive support by the people. 

Immediate past Governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi, who was represented by his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Congratulated the Governor and his team for not betraying the confidence reposed in his ability and the spirit of continuity. “ You have done well. Ekiti will witness greater development and prosperity in your second term. 

"Mr Governor, I want to congratulate you, your wife and your team.  You have governed this State within the meagre resources as effectively as a possible. You have made Ekiti  a respected State in Nigeria. I pray the next election goes peacefully and you will come out victorious in the mighty name of God". He added. 

Also speaking, former Governor Ayodele Fayose predicted a landslide victory for Oyebanji in 2026, saying he had succeeded in emasculating his opponents .

However, Fayose advised the Governor to  forgive all his  traducers for Ekiti to be in peace and become a united force in the country.

"You have been a unifier among us and you have raised the bar of politics and governance by showing that there is strength in unity. Please,  bear no grudge against anyone, forgive all of us. If you are not criticised, who would be criticised? You are the leader.  

"What I know for sure is that, nobody can divide this State again after you. You have taken away divisive tendency from us. Our .people all over the world are watching our body languages as leaders. 

" Regarding your reelection, the siege is over. When we do the election, you will see the votes that will be given to you. You will win all the wards and local governments. You have no opponent and you are not contesting against anybody. I congratulate you on your achievements, God will help you", Fayose said.

In his address, the first civilian Governor, Otunba Niyi Adebayo appreciated Governor Oyebanji for uniting all the past governors despite their duels, past differences and political gulfs, saying the governor has succeeded in etching his name in the political  hall of Fame for achieving the daunting task.

Regarding the 2026 election, Adebayo said: "Ekiti people, don't let us miss this golden opportunity. Our governor is working hard. He has done well. For the good of our state and our people, let us come out and support him in the next election".

The Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, reassured the Governor of the loyalty of National Assembly members from the State, saluting the Governor for doing the leaders proud in the last three years. 

In his homily, the Bishop of Ekiti  Diocese, Anglican Communion, Most Rev Olusola Ajayi, commended Oyebanji for keeping fidelity with his promise to Ekiti people through prompt payment of salary, infrastructure and inclusivity, which have integrated all the strata of the society into his governance nucleus. 

Speaking on the theme of his sermon: "Celebrating God's Progress as Bedrock to Testimony", the Bishop quoting copiously from Pslams 138 verse 8 and Isaiah 59 verse 11,burged Governor Oyebanji not to forsake God in his service to the state, even in the faces of many albatrosses and tribulations, so that  God can fulfil His  promise of prosperity for Ekiti.

Bishop Ajayi appealed to cabinet members to maintain doubtless loyalty, for the Governor to remain focuced and be able to ramp up development within the next one year. 

Present at the special church service are: Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Ekiti State First Lady, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, members of the House of Representatives, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, former Ekiti State Deputy Governor,  Erelu Bisi Fayemi, members of the Ekiti State Executive Council, traditional rulers, business tycoons, politicians, market men and women, Okada Riders, driver unions, civil servants, among others. there