𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐖𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐄𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐎 𝐄𝐍𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐖𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍 𝐄𝐊𝐈𝐓𝐈 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄.

𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐖𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐄𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐎 𝐄𝐍𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐖𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍 𝐄𝐊𝐈𝐓𝐈 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄.

Since Governor Biodun Oyebanji assumed office, the story of waste management in Ekiti State has taken a remarkable turn for the better. 

Incidents of waste-induced flooding and environmental hazards previously common in several parts of the state have now been reduced to the barest minimum.

This progress is not accidental; it is the product of deliberate investment, meticulous planning, and a clear policy direction under Governor Oyebanji’s environmental reform agenda.

At the forefront of this transformation is the Ekiti State Waste Management Authority (EKSWAMA), which, backed by the Governor’s unwavering support, has intensified efforts to modernize and expand waste management infrastructure across the state.

So far, the agency has successfully fabricated and deployed 60 Dino bins, strategically positioned across the state capital to aid public waste disposal.

Building on this momentum, EKSWAMA recently received another major approval from Mr. Governor, this time, for the production of 2,000 wheeling and pedal waste bins to enhance house-to-house waste collection across communities.

This initiative not only deepens the ongoing door-to-door waste collection strategy but also strengthens the state's commitment to maintaining a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment.

Notably, this procurement cycle was completed within two to three months, a sharp contrast to previous periods when similar processes would take more than a year, another clear reflection of Governor Oyebanji’s governance efficiency and the elimination of unnecessary administrative bottlenecks.

Corporate organisations, banks, and private entities have already indicated interest as early off-takers.

In line with global best practices, every household in Ekiti State is now required to own at least one waste bin to support the state’s structured waste collection system.

The agency has expanded its operations beyond Ado-Ekiti to Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, with Oye LGA next in line.

Private waste management operators have also grown from just 2 to 10, actively complementing EKSWAMA’s efforts and creating new opportunities within the waste management value chain.

With these 2,000 new wheeling bins, Ekiti State is taking yet another significant step forward in its journey toward cleaner cities, safer communities, and a more environmentally responsible society.

#BAOatWork

#CleanEkiti

#EnvironmentalReform

Gov. Oyebanji Reiterates Commitment to Inclusivity as Ekiti Graduates 60 Persons With Disabilities, Empowers Beneficiaries.

Gov. Oyebanji Reiterates Commitment to Inclusivity as Ekiti Graduates 60 Persons With Disabilities, Empowers Beneficiaries.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has restated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and human capital development, especially for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), as the state graduated and empowered another batch of 60 trainees from the Ekiti State Skills Acquisition Centre.

The event, themed “Celebrating Courage, Craft and Capability,”   held on Tuesday at the centre in Ado Ekiti, marked the third phase of the state’s specialised training and empowerment programme designed to strengthen the economic independence of PWDs across the state.

Representing the Governor, the Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, said the initiative reflects Governor Oyebanji’s resolve to ensure that no citizen is left behind in the development agenda of the state. 

He noted that since assumption of office, the administration has made significant strides in addressing the needs of PWDs through deliberate policies and targeted programmes.

Adebayo listed key achievements to include, Successful employment of 28 PWDs into the state’s civil service; Free healthcare services for all PWDs at primary health care centres; Free education for children with disabilities from primary to secondary school levels; Compulsory free assessment for children with disabilities;

Free therapeutic services in special schools and designated centres; and Ongoing campaigns aimed at increasing public sensitivity to the rights and needs of PWDs.

“Human capital development remains a major pillar of this administration, and special attention is being given to the development of people living with disabilities. Every individual, regardless of circumstance, must have opportunities to thrive,” he said.

He congratulated the graduands and urged them to maximise the opportunity by investing in their skills and contributing meaningfully to their communities. 

He also appreciated the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, for her “relentless effort” in advancing the welfare of PWDs.

The state Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Folakemi Olomojobi, congratulated the trainees and their families, describing the programme as “unprecedented” in its structure and stakeholder involvement, thanking Governor Oyebanji for providing an enabling environment for such impactful initiatives.

On his part, the Chairman, Ekiti State Board for Disability Affairs, Dr. Ebenezer Ogunlade, also lauded the administration for renovating special schools across the state and equipping them with modern devices.

According to him, only a governor “with a big heart” could invest so heavily in the wellbeing of special persons, considering the financial demands associated with disability support services.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, described the event as a celebration of resilience and progress, applauding the graduands for their commitment throughout the training period.

She commended the Governor for implementing the 2020 Disability Act, which she said marked a major step in recognising and protecting the rights of PWDs in Ekiti State.

Princess Agboola announced that more than 100 businesses owned by PWDs had received grant support under the administration’s empowerment initiatives, while several others had received assistive devices and job placements.

She added that the state was prioritising women with disabilities this year through a mental health support programme. 

She also revealed that an empowerment scheme supported by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, would take place in two weeks.

Princess Agboola disclosed that out of the 120 PWDs approved for training this year, 60 had completed their training, while another 60 are still on sessions, each expected to graduate with both certification, start up kits and cash support.

The SA to the Governor urged the beneficiaries to use their skills productively and reminded them of the importance of obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to support continuity of inclusive governance.

In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary, Office of Disability Affairs, expressed delight over the successful completion of the vocational programme, noting that the trainees received free accommodation, meals, transport allowances, and practical attachment opportunities.

He added that each graduand would receive a start-up kit tailored to their chosen trade, alongside a proficiency certificate from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, which qualifies them for possible employment in the civil service.

The Executive Secretary said over 70 PWDs had benefited from similar training in the past two years, attributing the success to Governor Oyebanji’s visionary leadership and Princess Agboola’s commitment to the inclusivity agenda.

The 2025 cohort comprises 120 beneficiaries drawn from all 16 Local Government Areas and 38 LCDAs after they had completed nine months of vocational training and a three-month industrial attachment in ICT, tailoring, hairdressing, shoemaking, catering, and business management among others.

Oyebanji Reiterates Commitment to Inclusivity as Ekiti trains, supports 120 PWDs, with start- up kits, cash, certificates.

Oyebanji Reiterates Commitment to Inclusivity as Ekiti trains, supports 120 PWDs, with start- up kits, cash, certificates.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has restated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and human capital development, especially for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), as the state graduated and empowered another batch of 60 trainees from the Ekiti State Skills Acquisition Centre for Persons With Disabilities, Ado- Ekiti. 

Another set of 60 PWDs have also commenced the training and would be equipped with start- up kits, cash and Trade Test certificates from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, under the special programme which is costing the government a whopping N100 million naira. 

The event, themed “Celebrating Courage, Craft and Capability,” held on Tuesday at the Centre in Ado- Ekiti, marked the third phase of the State’s specialised training and empowerment programme designed to strengthen the economic independence of PWDs across the Ekiti State. 

Governor Oyebanji, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, said the initiative reflects his administration’s resolve to ensure that no citizen is left behind in its development agenda. 

The Governor noted that since assumption of office, the administration has made significant strides in addressing the needs of PWDs through deliberate policies and targeted programmes.

He listed key achievements of the government in this regard to include, Successful employment of 28 PWDs into the state’s civil service; free healthcare services for all PWDs at primary health care centres; free education for children with disabilities from primary to secondary school level; compulsory free assessment for children with disabilities;

free therapeutic services in the state’s special schools and designated centres; as well as the ongoing campaigns aimed at increasing public sensitivity to the rights and needs of PWDs.

According to him, “Human capital development remains a major pillar of the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration, and special attention is being given to the development of people living with disabilities. Every individual, regardless of circumstance, must have opportunities to thrive.”

The Governor congratulated the graduands and urged them to maximise the opportunity by investing in their skills and contributing meaningfully to their communities. 

He also appreciated the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, for her “relentless effort” in advancing the welfare of PWDs in the State. 

The state Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Folakemi Olomojobi, congratulated the trainees and their families, describing the programme as “unprecedented” in its structure and stakeholder involvement, thanking Governor Oyebanji for providing an enabling environment for such impactful initiatives.

On his part, the Chairman, Ekiti State Board for Disability Affairs, Dr. Ebenezer Ogunlade, also lauded the administration for renovating special schools across the state and equipping them with modern devices.

According to him, only a governor “with a big heart” could invest so heavily in the wellbeing of special persons, considering the financial demands associated with disability support services.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, described the event as a celebration of resilience and progress, applauding the graduands for their commitment throughout the training period of six and nine months. 

Princess Agboola commended the Governor for implementing the 2020 Disability Act, which she said marked a major step in recognising and protecting the rights of PWDs in Ekiti State.

She stated that more than 100 businesses owned by PWDs had received grants support under the administration’s empowerment initiatives, while several others had received assistive devices and job placements.

The Special Adviser added that the State is prioritising women with disabilities this year through a mental health support programme. 

She also disclosed that an empowerment scheme supported by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, would take place in two weeks.

Speaking further, Princess Agboola disclosed that out of the 120 PWDs approved for training this year, 60 had completed their training, while another 60 are still on sessions, each expected to graduate with both certification, start up kits and cash support.

She urged the beneficiaries to use their skills productively and reminded them of the importance of obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to support continuity of inclusive governance.

In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary, Office of Disability Affairs, expressed delight over the successful completion of the vocational programme, noting that the trainees received free accommodation, meals, transport allowances, and practical attachment opportunities.

The 2025 cohort comprises 120 beneficiaries drawn from all 16 Local Government Areas and 38 LCDAs after they had completed nine months of vocational training and a three-month industrial attachment in ICT, tailoring, hairdressing, shoemaking, catering, and business management among others.

Nigeria’s Democracy Has Lost the People’s Power — Ex-Commissioner Sajoh Warns.

Nigeria’s Democracy Has Lost the People’s Power — Ex-Commissioner Sajoh Warns.

Former Adamawa State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ahmad Sajoh, has raised alarm over what he described as the steady collapse of the pillars that should safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, warning that the nation is “conducting elections without real choices” and drifting further away from genuine democratic practice.

Dr. Sajoh made this assertion while delivering a keynote address at the 5th Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards, organised by Pacesetter Frontier Magazine held in Abuja. 

The former commissioner said democracy in the country has been reduced to a hollow ritual, where the electorate merely “pretend to choose” during elections, despite the fact that candidates are often imposed through manipulated nomination processes.

“You just conduct elections and pretend that you are making a choice, but how did that choice come about?” he asked.

“Right from the nomination stage, nothing is free and fair. Some individuals decide who becomes a candidate. So, the concept of choice has been eliminated from our democracy.”

Dr Sajoh likened democracy to a bridge that requires guiding rails to ensure safe passage, identifying the constitution, political parties, judiciary, electoral umpire and mutual toleration as the rails that keep the system functional.

According to him, all these pillars have collapsed in Nigeria.

He argued that the 1999 Constitution is neither reflective of the will of the people nor structured to make democracy thrive.

To illustrate his point, the former commissioner referenced the practice of elected officials defecting from the parties that sponsored their elections without relinquishing the mandate.

“In the Second Republic, when Governor Abubakar Barde of Gongola State defected, he first stepped down because the mandate belonged to another party,” he recalled.

“But today, people take the mandate of Party A to Party B and we celebrate it as normal.”

The former commissioner also dismissed claims that Nigeria operates party-based democracy, saying no political party in the country is owned by its members.

“The parties are the most pathetic,” he lamented.

“A few deep pockets control them. Recently, a political party conducted ward, local government and state congresses. After completing the process, the entire list was taken to the governor’s office, and he simply removed some names and inserted others. Is that the kind of political party that can safeguard democracy?”

He said the voters have lost confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary, arguing that laws and institutions are no longer strong enough to protect citizens’ rights or guarantee justice.

Dr. Sajoh condemned the ruling elite for deliberately deepening divisions, weaponising poverty, and glorifying greed and entitlement at the expense of collective progress.

According to him, leaders now promote natural differences; ethnicity, religion and regional identity; instead of the shared values that should unite Nigerians.

He warned that these actions, combined with what he called an “institutionalisation of transactional politics,” have weakened the moral fabric of society.

The speaker maintained that Nigerians’ shallow understanding of democracy contributes to the crisis, noting that democracy is not merely about voting, but about ensuring the welfare and dignity of citizens.

Despite Nigeria’s long stretch of uninterrupted civilian rule, he said the country has not attained true democratic dividends.

Recounting his community’s ordeal under insecurity, Dr Sajoh recalled how his hometown, Mubi, was once overrun by insurgents, forcing residents to flee into neighbouring countries.

He used the experience to emphasise how insecurity, worsened by political failures, continues to undermine national stability and development.

Dr Sajoh called for sincerity of purpose among leaders, particularly legislators, insisting that Nigeria must shift from a consumption-based to a production-driven economy to guarantee abundance.

He urged citizens to embrace moral rectitude and shun illegal means of acquiring wealth, arguing that the task of nation-building requires collective effort.

He also advised the older generation of leaders to mentor younger Nigerians and create opportunities for them to lead, warning that the country cannot progress without generational renewal.

Oluwatuyi Calls For Vigilance, Cautions Residents Against Bush Burning As Harmattan Beings.

Oluwatuyi Calls For Vigilance, Cautions Residents Against Bush Burning As Harmattan Beings.

By Asubiojo G.O

As the harmattan season gradually intensifies across Ekiti State, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, has called on residents to refrain from bush burning and other fire–related practices that could endanger lives, farms, and property.

In a statement issued from his office on Tuesday, Hon. Oluwatuyi described the harmattan period as “a time that requires heightened caution,” noting that the dry, windy conditions make the environment extremely susceptible to fire outbreaks.

He warned that indiscriminate bush burning—whether for farming, hunting or clearing pathways—poses serious risks, especially in rural communities where vegetation dries up quickly.

 “This season demands responsibility and vigilance. A single spark can lead to massive destruction. I am urging all residents, farmers, hunters and community leaders to completely avoid bush burning and embrace safer practices,” he said.

The chairman also directed community heads, local security groups and environmental officers to intensify monitoring across towns and villages to prevent avoidable fire incidents. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to community safety and environmental protection.

Hon. Oluwatuyi further appealed to parents, schools and youth groups to educate children and young people on the dangers associated with playing with matches, fireworks, or burning debris during the harmattan.

“Our collective safety is a shared responsibility. By taking simple precautions, we can protect our farmlands, preserve our environment and avoid tragedies,” he added.

Residents are encouraged to report any fire outbreak or risk, promptly to emergency responders, without hesitation.

The harmattan season typically spans several months, bringing dry winds, low humidity, dust, and increased fire vulnerability across the region.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji: The Unstoppable Force Behind Ekiti's Transformation.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji: The Unstoppable Force Behind Ekiti's Transformation.

In the heart of Ekiti State, a new era of leadership has emerged, and Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is at the helm. With his remarkable ability to bring people together, Oyebanji has become a beacon of hope for the people of Ekiti, earning him the title of a bridge builder, architect of modern Ekiti, and a champion of the people.

Oyebanji's leadership style is characterized by his unwavering commitment to unity. He has consistently demonstrated an ability to bridge the gaps between different communities, interest groups, and individuals, fostering an environment of peace and harmony in the state. His inclusive approach to governance has earned him the respect and admiration of Ekiti people, who see him as a unifying force in the state.

Oyebanji's vision for Ekiti State is one of modernity and progress. He has initiated numerous infrastructure projects, including the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals, aimed at transforming the state's economy and improving the quality of life for its citizens. His administration has also prioritized agriculture, recognizing its potential to drive economic growth and create jobs.

Oyebanji's rise to power is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His integrity and commitment to good governance have earned him the respect and admiration of Ekiti people.

Oyebanji is known for his willingness to listen to the concerns of Ekiti people. He has established channels for citizens to express their grievances and has taken concrete steps to address them. This approach has earned him the trust and confidence of the people.

Oyebanji's leadership has also been marked by his respect for traditional institutions and religious leaders, both Muslim and Christian. He has worked with notable elder statesmen, including Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) and Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), to promote peace and harmony in the state.

As Ekiti State moves forward, it is time for all stakeholders to rally around Governor Oyebanji and support his efforts to develop the state. With his commitment to unity, modernity, and good governance, Ekiti State is poised for greatness.

Otunba Kayode Fasae Jimlas.

Ojuawo Felicitates Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, on His Birthday.

Ojuawo Felicitates Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, on His Birthday.

Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, Member of the House of Representatives for Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the esteemed legal luminary, Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, on the occasion of his 74th birthday.

In a personally signed statement, Ojuawo described Chief Olanipekun as a towering figure whose exemplary leadership, integrity, and lifelong commitment to justice continue to inspire confidence within the legal profession and the nation at large. He noted that Chief Olanipekun’s immense contributions to national development—particularly in the areas of education, health, mentorship of young professionals, and service to humanity—remain indelible.

Ojuawo prayed for God’s continued guidance, good health, and renewed strength for the Senior Advocate of Nigeria, adding that his legacy of excellence will endure for generations.

He further wished Chief Olanipekun a joyful celebration and many more years of impactful service to Ekiti State and Nigeria.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM