Oyebanji Harps on Agriculture as Key to economic prosperity.

Oyebanji Harps on Agriculture as Key to economic prosperity.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has emphasized that agriculture remains the most sustainable pathway to solving Nigeria’s economic challenges of unemployment, food insecurity, and poverty. 

This, according to the Governor, accounts for his administration’s deliberate policy of using agriculture as a tool to banish poverty, create employment opportunities, and ensure food security in Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji stated these on Thursday while receiving the Consul General of Netherlands, Michel Deelen and his team in his office in Ado Ekiti. The Governor said agriculture remains a core priority of his government, not just as a means of ensuring food sufficiency but also a tool for wealth creation and youth empowerment.

The Governor explained that since inception of his administration, deliberate efforts have been made to reposition the agricultural sector through youth focused programes and modern farming initiatives.

He noted that through the State’s “Bring Back Youth Into Agriculture”, over 5,000 young people have been engaged in various aspect of agribusiness.

While commending the Netherlands for its global leadership and expertise in agriculture, the Governor expressed the state’s readiness to collaborate with the European nation to enhance productivity, expressing that suich partnership would further accelerate the state’s agricultural revolution and contribute meaningfully to the state’s overall economic growth.

“I believe strongly that for a people or a country to develop, especially in Nigeria, giving God's given resources, lands and human capital, that if we get agric rights, we will solve at least 60 percent of our problem. We will solve the problem of food insecurity, unemployment, poverty, we will solve problem of insecurity itself.

“So when we came into office, I was deliberate about our intervention in the agric sector and we are one of the few states, I can beat my chest and tell you that within two years, we pulled off the streets 5,000 youths to agric and you can verify this”. The Governor asserted.

Earlier in his remarks, the  Consul General of Netherlands, Mr Michel Deelen, who espressed his admiration for the remarkable development stride of the state government, particularly in the agriculture sector, said he was impressed with how the state has transformed agriculture into a major driver of economic growth and youth empowerment, noting that the ongoing agriculture revolution has positioned the state as one of the most promising states in Nigeria.

While expressing the readiness of Netherlands government to partner with the state in critical areas such as agricultural technology, irrigation, capacity building and value chain development, the Consul General noted that Netherlands , being a world leader in modern agriculture, would be glad to collaborate with Ekiti State government in knowledge exchange, investment promotion and introduction of innovative farming systems that can further strengthen the state’s agriculture base.

Also at the meeting were, the Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade and the Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode.

I’ve No Apology for Supporting Gov Oyebanji, Says Senate Leader Bamidele.

I’ve No Apology for Supporting Gov Oyebanji, Says Senate Leader Bamidele.

…As Oyebanji Harps on Peace, Unity as Recipe for Devt.

The Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has said he has no apologies for supporting Governor Biodun Oyebanji, describing their partnership as one that has brought unprecedented development to Ekiti State.

Senator Bamidele  stated this on Saturday at Ikogosi Ekiti, during the 2025 Ikogosi Day Celebration and launch of N1 billion Development Fund, which was attended by dignitaries across the country.

Addressing the gathering, Senator Bamidele, who was also the Chief launcher at the event, explained that his relationship with Governor Oyebanji is a synergy that is driven by a shared vision for the progress of the State and not borne out of personal or political gains. He added that the collaboration between them has translated into visible achievements across critical sectors, particularly in infrastructure, human capital development, and youth empowerment.

Describing the Governor as a man of integrity, humility and who is genuinely committed to the welfare of Ekiti people, the Senate Leader maintained that Ekiti people are the ultimate beneficiaries of the synergy between the executive and the legislative arms of government.

” Those that are angry that I am supporting BAO, I appeal to them not to be angry. We cannot see what is good and not support it, by the grace of God myself and Governor Oyebanji have been friends for over 30 years, when we didn’t even know what we are going to become and let me tell you, our friendship, is a case of glory supporting glory, so for me I have no regret whatsoever standing by Governor Oyebanji and let me assure you and Ekiti people, what is going on between us is not a conspiracy, it is a partnership for the development of Ekiti State.

“When we were elected to go and serve at the National Assembly, Governor Oyebanji invited the nine of us and gave us a list of projects that he would love us to implement as constituency projects and today, while he's doing his own at the state level, we are also picking from that list that he gave us, and things are complementing themselves and that is why every part of Ekiti that you turn to, every corner that you turn to in Ekiti, you will find a project, either being executed by the state government under the leadership of Governor Oyebanji or being implemented by National Assembly members under the watch of the Governor.

“Each time I have come to this state to do my project inspection, the Governor has suspended everything he was doing to go round with me and every project that I am doing in any part of Ekiti Central, i checked with the Governor, he okayed it for implementation so if people are there saying all manners of things, forgetting that Ekiti is benefiting from our partnership, then i really don't have any apology for such people”. He stressed.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Oyebanji, who commended Senator Bamidele for his unflinching support and collaboration, described him as a dependable partner in Ekiti project, said his administration values unity, teamwork and peace, which have made governance more impactful and inclusive across the state.

The Governor urged the people of Ikogosi and the entire State to embrace unity and peace, saying no community can experience sustainable growth without cooperation.

Maintaining that his administration’s success so far was rooted in teamwork and mutual understanding between the government and the governed, the Governor further appealed to residents to continue to see themselves as one big family, united by a common purpose, stressing that holding firmly to collective values and goals would make it easier to agree on a shared agenda for the overall development of their communities.

“To the Chairman of this occasion and the Chief launcher, my very good brother and friend, a man of distinction, a man of honor, a man of character, a man of integrity, a man that God yoked us together to develop Ekiti State, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, thank you. 

“You see now that any town that there is cooperation, there is always development there, I appeal to you, let us see ourselves as one. Once we hold our self together as one, it will be very easy for us to agree on a common purpose and a common agenda to develop our town." The Governor stated.

Over 650 million naira was realized as donation to the town’s development fund. Governor Oyebanji, while appreciating donors, assured them that the fund raised for the community project would be judiciously utilized to further enhance the town’s infrastructure and tourism potentials.

Speaking at the occasion, the Regent of Ikogosi Community, who was represented by High Chief Jide Oyebanji thanked Governor Oyebanji for his outstanding performance and unwavering commitment to the development of the state.

The regent said the people of Ikogosi are proud of the Governor’s accomplishments, particularly his efforts in promoting peace, infrastructure development and tourism growth in the community.

The royal father of the day, the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu-Alagbado who congratulated the people of Ikogosi for producing Governor Oyebanji, whom he described as a compassionate and visionary leader, said Ekiti State is fortunate to have a governor whose humility and passion for development have continued to place the state prominently on the national map.

Oba Adu-Alagbado urged the people of Ikogosi and the entire Ekiti community to remain united and supportive of the Governor’s administration, stressing that unity and peace among communities are essential to sustaining the wave of progress currently being witnessed across the state.

The colourful ceremony also featured presentation of award to some outstanding indigenes of Ikogosi  in recognition of their contributions to the growth and development of the town.    

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Senator representing Ekiti North, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, members of the State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, Royal fathers, among others.

TRUMP’S TREATMENT OF NIGERIA — THE IMPLICATIONS FOR THE WORLD, THE FOREIGN POLICY OPPORTUNITIES FOR NIGERIA, AND WHAT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST DO TO GET AHEAD.

TRUMP’S TREATMENT OF NIGERIA — THE IMPLICATIONS FOR THE WORLD, THE FOREIGN POLICY OPPORTUNITIES FOR NIGERIA, AND WHAT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST DO TO GET AHEAD.

By Olupitan B.Adebayo( Msc Finance(Unilag) ,ACIPM,MIPMA,MICA, MCIA.)

Introduction

The relationship between the United States and Nigeria is entering a potentially fraught phase. Under Donald Trump’s administration, several hard-edged policy moves toward Nigeria have been announced—tariffs on Nigerian exports, designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over religious-freedom issues, threats of military intervention, and more restrictive visa policies. These constitute what might be called “Trump’s threats to Nigeria” (offers and threats alike). Understanding the implications globally, the opportunities this presents for Nigeria’s foreign policy, and what Nigeria’s federal government must do to stay ahead is critical.

What exactly is happening?

Here are key actions and statements affecting Nigeria:

In April 2025 the U.S. imposed a 14 % tariff on Nigerian exports, citing trade imbalance. 

In August 2025, the U.S. reportedly announced even higher tariffs (e.g., 15 %) on imports from Nigeria and other African countries as part of a “reciprocal trade adjustment”. 

In November 2025 Trump threatened to cut off all U.S. aid to Nigeria and directed the U.S. military (via the “Department of War/Defence”) to prepare for possible intervention, over alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria. 

Nigeria responded by rejecting the depiction of religious intolerance, while also signalling openness to U.S. assistance as long as Nigeria’s sovereignty is respected. 

Nigeria is attempting to engage diplomatically with the U.S. to deepen cooperation in trade, security, energy and other areas. 

These elements—tariffs, military threat, aid suspension risk, and trade/​security overtures—form a complex set of “threats” from the U.S. to Nigeria: on one hand sanctions and pressure; on the other offers of partnership and investment.

The global implications

1. For U.S.–Africa relations

The U.S. under Trump appears to be re-shaping how it deals with Africa: more transactional, more conditional (e.g., religious-freedom thresholds, security cooperation), less about long-term development assistance or cooperation for its own sake. This shift means African states like Nigeria must recalibrate expectations of U.S. partnership.

2. For trade and global supply chains

Tariffs on Nigerian exports reduce demand for Nigerian goods in the U.S. market, threatening Nigeria’s foreign-exchange inflows and thereby influencing global commodity flows and investment decisions. Analysts warned that the U.S. tariffs may weaken the naira and reduce oil-export earnings. 

3. For regional security

If U.S. military involvement in Nigeria or the region becomes credible, this has major implications for West African stability, sovereignty of states, regional organisations (e.g., African Union, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)), and precedent for extra-regional interventions in Africa.

4. For multilateral norms

The designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” for religious-freedom violations and threats of aid suspension raises questions about how human-rights norms, sovereignty, and bilateral relations will interact — signalling that “norms” may be more closely tied to geopolitics and conditionality than before.

5. For Nigeria’s role in Africa

Nigeria has for decades played a leadership role in West Africa and Africa broadly. If Nigeria is placed under pressure by the U.S., it may affect its leadership credibility, its relations with neighbours, and its capacity to act as a regional stabiliser.

*Foreign-policy opportunities in favour of Nigeria*

Despite the threats, there are openings for Nigeria’s foreign policy that can be leveraged:

a) Diversify partnerships

Given the U.S.’ tougher posture, Nigeria can strengthen ties with other major powers (e.g., China, India, EU) and deepen intra-African trade (under the African Continental Free Trade Area “AfCFTA”). Tariff pressure from the U.S. offers an impetus to reduce dependency on single export markets. 

b) Leverage security cooperation

Though there are threats, Nigeria can also use the rhetoric of shared threats (terrorism, extremism) to negotiate better security Partnerships with the U.S. While protecting its sovereignty, Nigeria can secure intelligence, training, equipment and joint operations from the U.S. and other allies. 

c) Export diversification

Tariff threats underline the need for Nigeria to shift away from oil dependence and build non-oil exports that meet global standards, so that it is less vulnerable to external shocks. Nigeria’s trade ministry has stated this is a priority. 

d) Soft-power and leadership

Nigeria can use diplomatic channels to shape African responses to extra-regional intervention and to promote African solutions to African problems. By positioning itself as a voice for African sovereignty and agency, Nigeria can enhance its soft power and leadership role on the continent.

*What the Federal Government must do to get ahead*

For Nigeria’s federal government to navigate these developments proactively, several specific actions are required:

1. Strengthen export competitiveness & diversify

Accelerate non-oil export development: improve quality, traceability, and meet U.S. and global standards so tariffs matter less.

Engage in trade diplomacy: negotiate with the U.S. to mitigate tariff impacts, while exploring new markets.

Invest in value-addition: rather than exporting crude, build refining, manufacturing, and agro-processing to reduce exposure.

2. Deepen strategic diplomacy

React quickly: Nigeria must engage the U.S. diplomatically to clarify positions (e.g., deny or contextualise the allegations regarding religious persecution) and to shape the narrative.

Multilateral channels: Use the African Union, ECOWAS, and other regional groupings to push for coordinated responses and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership role.

Strengthen bilateral ties with other major partners: avoid being over-reliant on U.S. goodwill.

3. Ensure security and respect for human rights

Address the root causes of unrest: terrorism, communal violence, farmers-herders conflict, and religious tensions. The more Nigeria demonstrates effective control and governance, the less leverage external actors have to threaten aid cuts or intervention.

Uphold transparency and accountability: demonstrate both internally and externally that Nigeria is protecting all citizens regardless of religion, to counter perceptions that fuel external threats.

4. Protect sovereignty while managing cooperation

Accept assistance only on terms that respect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and decision-making. Nigeria welcomed U.S. help but insisted sovereignty must be respected. 

Build capacity domestically so that cooperation isn’t one-sided and doesn’t produce dependency.

5. Communicate clearly & proactively

Public diplomacy: Nigeria must clearly communicate its perspective to both domestic and international audiences—explain what is happening on the ground, its efforts to address problems, and its commitment to broader values.

Alert domestic stakeholders: Business, civil society and state governments must be aware of the risks (tariffs, visa restrictions, aid cuts) so they can adjust strategies accordingly.

6. Build resilience to external shocks

Strengthen foreign-exchange reserves, deepen intra-African trade, and reduce dependence on any one export or trading partner.

Develop contingency plans for scenarios like aid reductions, sanctions, or trade disruptions.

*Conclusion*

What may appear at first as mere “treats”—or threats—from President Trump’s U.S. administration toward Nigeria actually carry serious implications. Globally, these moves shift U.S.–Africa dynamics, affect trade flows and security paradigms. For Nigeria, they pose risks but also open opportunities for recalibration of foreign policy, diversification of partnerships, and deeper internal reforms.

If Nigeria’s federal government acts strategically—strengthening exports, deepening diplomatic relations, ensuring internal security and human-rights protections, and building resilience to external shocks—it can not only navigate the current pressures but emerge in a stronger position internationally and domestically.

The game is changing for Nigeria; the question is whether Nigeria will be ahead of the change, or find itself reacting to change.

EKSU Celebrates Ekiti First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, on Birthday.

EKSU Celebrates Ekiti First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, on Birthday.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Prof. Babatola Ayodele, has congratulated the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr (Mrs) Olayemi Oyebanji, on the occasion of her birthday.

Ayodele, who conveyed the goodwill message on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, management, staff and students of the university, described the First Lady as a woman of substance and a pillar of support for education and community development in the state.

He commended Mrs Oyebanji for her remarkable contributions to the university, particularly her voluntary teaching of students in the Faculty of Education, which he said reflected her passion for learning and service.

According to him, the First Lady’s commitment to the peace, unity and stability of the Ekiti State Government remains exemplary and inspiring.

“Your exemplary leadership, humility and dedication to the development of the education sector have left an enduring impact on our university and Ekiti State in general,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

He prayed for her continued good health, wisdom and many more productive years of service to humanity.

The statement was made available to journalists in Ado Ekiti by the Deputy Registrar and Head, Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs, Dr Bode Olofinmuagun.

Ojuawo Medical Outreach Lands in Orun-Ekiti.

Ojuawo Medical Outreach Lands in Orun-Ekiti.

In fulfillment of his promise to make healthcare more accessible to his constituents, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, the Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, in partnership with the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Ekiti Chapter, on Friday organized a free medical outreach programme at Olowuro Palace, Orun-Ekiti.

During his address, Hon. Ojuawo emphasized the importance of prioritizing personal health and preventive care.

“As the saying goes, health is wealth. I want everyone to take their health as seriously as they take their daily bread — we cannot survive without it. Regular medical check-ups are essential because prevention is better than cure. Our amiable Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has ensured that our health centres are renovated and functioning optimally to serve our people. I urge everyone to take advantage of this opportunity. Please don’t wait until you break down; this exercise is meant to open our eyes,” he appealed.

Speaking on behalf of MWAN, Dr. Bolade Dele-Ojo, President of the association’s Ekiti Chapter and coordinator of the outreach, cautioned participants against neglecting their health.

 “Your blood pressure and blood sugar levels must be checked regularly to prevent sudden complications. Eat well, rest adequately, and live a balanced life. As professionals, our concern is more about prevention than cure. Let’s all use this opportunity to know our health status and follow up on any findings discovered here today,” she advised.

Hon. Ojuawo further urged the people of Orun-Ekiti to continue supporting the government of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, stressing that his re-election would allow him to consolidate on the laudable achievements recorded so far.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

President Tinubu's Aide Extols Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, on Her Birthday.

President Tinubu's Aide Extols Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, on Her Birthday.

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on National Assembly Matters, Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju, has extended heartfelt birthday felicitations to the First Lady of Ekiti State, Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, as she marks another year of impactful service and exemplary leadership.

In a statement released today, Hon. Olarewaju described Dr. Oyebanji as a profound pillar of strength to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, noting that she combines exceptional brilliance with deep-seated compassion to elevate the lives of the people of Ekiti State, particularly the most vulnerable populations.

“On behalf of my family and the entire team at the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, I wish a truly remarkable woman, Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, a joyous birthday,” Hon. Olarenwaju stated.

The statement specifically highlighted her outstanding contribution to the education sector, applauding her selfless willingness to give back to society by lecturing pro-bono at not one, but three different universities in the state.

“This singular act of selfless service is a powerful demonstration of her deep-seated belief in human capital development. It underscores her commitment to molding the next generation of leaders by directly transferring knowledge and mentoring students, embodying a rare blend of grace and intellectual brilliance.”

Furthermore, the SSA commended the transformative work of her pet project, the Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Initiative (WAOH). He noted that through this initiative, Her Excellency has provided life-changing support and numerous empowerment opportunities for countless Ekiti residents, bringing succour and dignity to families in need.

Hon. Olarewaju also lauded Dr. Oyebanji’s strong stance on the welfare and protection of women. “Her firm resolve to ensure that Gender-Based Violence (GBV) laws are followed through to the letter is a testament to her bold step towards enhancing the lives of women and ensuring justice prevails.”

He also celebrated her dedicated focus on children, particularly through the highly successful Back to School projects, which have provided essential learning tools including school bags, stationery, and instructional materials to at least 10,000 children. Her committed focus on the girl-child, ensuring they receive the necessary tools to excel in their academic pursuits, is highly commendable.

Concluding his statement, Hon. Olarewaju offered a final, heartfelt congratulatory message:

“We celebrate not just the passing of a year, but a year filled with immense impact, grace, and purposeful leadership. May God grant Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji many more years in sound health, prosperity, and continued inspiration to advance her remarkable service to Ekiti State and humanity.”

Ekiti Set for Cultural Contest to Tackle GBV, Promote Heritage.

Ekiti Set for Cultural Contest to Tackle GBV, Promote Heritage.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

All is set for the Ekiti State Cultural Contest Preliminaries, an event designed to celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage while raising awareness on the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

The initiative, organised by Gender Mobile Initiative in partnership with the Ekiti State Ministry of Local Government Affairs, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, and Ministry of Women Affairs, is part of the Social Norms Approach to GBV Policy Implementation and Enforcement Project.

According to the organisers, the contest will feature performances from various local government areas across the three senatorial districts of the state, with participants showcasing creativity through songs, drama, and other cultural displays addressing harmful social norms.

The preliminaries will kick off in the Ekiti Central Senatorial District on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Ado Local Government Marriage Registry Hall. LGAs participating include Ado, Efon, Ekiti West, Ijero, and Irepodun/Ifelodun.

Next in line is the Ekiti North Senatorial District, which will hold its event on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the Olowojurubu Hall, Moba Local Government. Competing LGAs include Ido Osi, Ikole, Ilejemeje, Moba, and Oye.

The preliminaries will wrap up with the Ekiti South Senatorial District on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Orun Ekiti Town Hall, beside Orun Police Station, New Emure Road, Orun Ekiti, featuring participants from Ekiti East, Ekiti South West, Emure, Ikere, Aiyekire, and Ise/Orun.

Speaking ahead of the event, the organisers said the contest seeks to foster positive cultural values, challenge harmful practices, and promote gender equality through creative expression.

“This initiative combines the beauty of Ekiti culture with the urgent need to shift mindsets and build safer communities for all,” the statement added.