Oyebanji makes history as first commercial flight lands at Ekiti Airport.

Oyebanji makes history as first commercial flight lands at Ekiti Airport.                                  …Says Over N49 Billion Expended on Airport Project.                                                                         ….Former Ekiti governors, Senate leader on board the maiden flight.

History was made in Ekiti on Wednesday as Governor, Biodun Oyebanji led other dignitaries to receive the first commercial flight at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, in Ado Ekiti, describing the project as a major milestone in the state’s quest for economic growth and enhanced connectivity.

The United Nigeria aircraft with registration number 5N-BWY and about 50 passengers on board, arrived the airport at about 11:09 am and departed at 12.00 noon for Lagos.

Dignitaries on board the first commercial flight include Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; three former Governors of the State- Dr Kayode Fayemi, Otunba Niyi Adebayo and Dr Ayodele Fayose. Also on board were members of the National Assembly from Ekiti State; Chairman of United Nigeria Airline, Prof Obiora Okonkwo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr Yakubu Adam, and a former minister of Aviation, Mr Babatola among others.

They were received by Governor Oyebanji; his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji; Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; former Governor Segun Oni; Technical Advisor on Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd) and other state officials.

Speaking during the historic event, Governor Oyebanji, who disclosed that over N49 billion was expended on the execution of the project, noted that the investment reflected the state government’s commitment to critical infrastructure that would stimulate development, attract investors and create jobs for the people of the state.

Governor Oyebanji said the airport was strategically designed to support the export of agro-produce, boost value chains and reduce post-harvest losses for farmers, the Governor said the airport would also open Ekiti to global opportunities, particularly in agriculture, commerce and tourism.

Commending his predecessors for their efforts at birthing the airport, particularly Governor Kayode Fayemi who laid the foundation, and took the project to a substantial level, Oyebanji said the completion of the project underscored the gains of continuity in governance.

 

The Governor, also commended members of the National Assembly from the State for their support towards the actualization of the project, assured that his government would put in place necessary institutional framework and partnership to ensure optimal utilization and sustainability of the project.

While expressing his deepest appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu whose economic reforms freed resources to sub-national and made such project possible for the development of the state, the Governor also thanked the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) for his selflessness, generosity and unflinching support to the airport project.

The Governor commended Chief Afe Babalola for the donation of navigational aids (CVOR/DME) and control tower equipment worth $1.6 million and the construction of 100-cars capacity car park, at the cost of N356 million

The Governor also appreciate the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN for his relentless support and encouragement in ensuring the completion of this Airport, as well as United Nigeria Airlines for accepting to partner the state.

The Governor charged Ekiti people, particularly the entrepreneurs, investors, farmers and young professionals to the airport to expand their business, access new markets and create wealth, stressing that improved air transport would accelerate trade, tourism and overall economic prosperity in the state.

 

“This moment is not just the official opening of the airport to commercial passenger operations; it is the launch of a new chapter in our transportation infrastructure development journey. Beyond infrastructural mileage however, this latest achievement is another quintessential testimony to our commitment to the shared vision of a modern, prosperous and forward looking State of our dream.

 

“The making of this airport is a collective legacy of at least, three Governors before me - Engineer Segun Oni who first conceived the idea, Governor Ayo Fayose who acquired and initially cleared the site and Dr Kayode Fayemi, who, despite all odds, braved the wind of challenges to commence the building of this airport six years ago. Today’s event is therefore an applause to our collective determination. I must however, specially thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his strong support that enables us to finance this project to completion, my immediate predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, for his relentless courage and determination and Aare Afe Babalola for his huge financial and moral support. Without this trio, this project would have remained a pipe dream.

 

 

“In all, a total sum of Forty-Nine Billion, Seven Hundred and Seventy-Four Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty Thousand, Nine Hundred and Seventy-Four Naira and Sixty-One Kobo (N49,774,980,974.61) has been expended directly by the Ekiti State Government. We have had to travel long distances facing high costs and risks before reaching the markets that could benefit us and benefit from us. Today, that challenge is turning into an opportunity with the commencement of commercial flight operations from Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport.

 

“With this airport, we are bringing the markets closer to our people and the world closer to Ekiti. I therefore urge our people to seize the opportunities that air connectivity brings and tap into the unimaginable economic potential that the aviation sector can bring about”. The Governor stated.

 

Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, described the event as historic, adding that the event was not just a takeoff of commercial flights at the airport but beginning of new possibilities, economic pathways and a new era in the development of Ekiti State and Nigeria.

 

 

The Aviation Minister commended Governor Oyebanji for his exceptional leadership, said the airport would bring about opportunities which include enhanced agricultural capability for farmers, create new market for entrepreneurs and investment opportunities for the citizens, among others.

 

In their separate goodwill messages, former Governors Segun Oni, Kayode Fayemi, Ayo Fayose and Niyi Adebayo as well as the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele went down memory lane to highlight their individual efforts towards the completion of the project as they expressed their appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for completing the project successfully.

Renowned Legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola(SAN)  commended Governor Oyebanji for his passion for the project which led to its completion.

The Chairman of United Nigeria Airline, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo expressed gratitude to the government and people of Ekiti state for believing and making United Nigeria airline of first choice as he assured residents of Ekiti that the airline will guarantee provision of excellent services adding that the airline is already working out plan to make sure that passengers can fly directly from Ekiti to other state capitals aside Lagos and Abuja.

Undertake Govt Business with Highest Level of Responsibility, Accountability, Oyebanji Charges Exco Members.

Undertake Govt Business with Highest Level of Responsibility, Accountability, Oyebanji Charges Exco Members.                                            .…Swears in Recalled Cabinet Members

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has called on all the newly re-appointed Commissioners and Special Advisers to be diligent, responsive, creative, innovative and transparent in the discharge of their duties, stressing that their action must at all times reflect the ideals of good governance.

The Governor also charged them to redouble their efforts to justify their relevance and continued stay in the State Executive Council and in the quest to move Ekiti to prosperity and economic growth.

Governor Oyebanji stated this on Tuesday while inaugurating 17 recalled Commissioners and 11 Special Advisers at a brief event held at the Lady Jibowu Hall of the Government House, Ado Ekiti.

The Governor had on August 10, 2025 dissolved the State Executive Council . 

Congratulating the recalled cabinet members shortly after performing their swearing in, the Governor expressed pride and satisfaction in his administration's achievements in the last three years particularly in infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, arts and culture, social and economic development.

The Governor, however noted that there are still much to be achieved, even as he reassigned the Commissioners and the Special Advisers to their former offices. He charged them to hit the ground running in order to accelerate the implementation of government policies and programmes.

Noting that the the election season is approaching, Governor Oyebanji urged the cabinet members to ensure utmost loyalty, hardwork and diligence in the discharge of their duties and make themselves available in their various localities and be punctual at party meetings.

“I am very delighted to note that the last three years of working with you as a team, have been exciting and enlightening. Together, we have achieved for our people life transforming developments that have placed Ekiti in a high pedestal among the comity of States. I am proud of our collective achievements in infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, arts and culture, social and economic development. 

"While it is true that some members of the team have been very exceptional in their delivery, I don’t need to say that some members need to double up to justify their continued relevance in the Council. So, the opportunity that has been extended to all of you to be back into the Executive Council must be justified through hard work, dedication, loyalty and cooperation.

“You have been part of this administration for the past three years. You are not strangers to the Six Pillars of Administration as well as the different policies and programmes of the Government. You therefore have to hit the ground running. There is no time for frivolities and infantile triumphalism. You must know that no matter the achievements we have collectively attained thus far, there are still much more to achieve. We still owe our employers, the Ekiti people a lot more”. The Governor asserted.

Speaking on behalf of newly inaugurated Executive Council members, Prof. Bolaji Aluko expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for calling them back to duty after four months to function in their previous offices.

Commending the magnanimity of the Governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their laudable decision to return them, Prof. Aluko promised that they will continue to work assiduously towards ensuring the realization of the shared prosperity agenda and the six pillars of the administration that will make the administration finish strong at the end of the administration on October 16, 2026.

While assuring the Governor that the reconstituted members of the state executive council will work tirelessly in the drive to re-elect him for a second term in the June 20, 2026 election, Prof. Aluko promised that they will be more visible and viable in their various communities to canvass for his re-election since they were all politically appointed. 

Also present at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo; members of the State House of Assembly; members of the State’s executive council; other commissioners, traditional rulers among others.

Year-End Security Alert: Oluwatuyi Urges IILG Residents to Avoid Harbouring Strangers.

Year-End Security Alert: Oluwatuyi Urges IILG Residents to Avoid Harbouring Strangers.

By: Asubiojo G.O

As the year draws beautifully to a close and the festive rhythm spreads across Igede and Awo Ekiti, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (CHENCO), has made a heartfelt appeal to all residents:

“Guard your peace. Be careful who you welcome.”

With a calm but firm tone, the chairman encouraged residents to support the security blueprint of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) by avoiding the practice of offering accommodation or refuge to unknown persons, doubtful characters or suspicious strangers—regardless of how much they are willing to pay.

He explained that many communities become vulnerable during the festive season because criminals disguise themselves as stranded travellers or desperate tenants, only to study the environment and pass information to their collaborators.

Hon. Oluwatuyi warned that housing an unfamiliar person without verifying their identity can unknowingly open the door to danger, compromise local security networks and endanger families and neighbours.

The chairman logically stressed that:

• Movement increases during festivities, attracting both genuine visitors and dangerous elements seeking to exploit the joyful atmosphere.

• Quick rental decisions can lead to risky accommodation, as some landlords may be tempted by money without proper verification.

• The peace and stability built through Governor BAO’s security initiatives must be protected, especially at a time when many communities face rising insecurity.

The chairman, therefore urged all landlords, landladies and youths to be discerning:

“Verify before you accept. Ask before you trust. Protect before you regret.”

With genuine love for his people, Hon. Oluwatuyi encouraged residents and staff of the local government to stay united, vigilant and committed to safeguarding the peace of Igede and Awo Ekiti.

 “This is our home. This is our heritage. This is our peace.

Let us defend it with courage and wisdom.

Stay alert, report suspicious movements, and do not accommodate unknown persons.

Together, we will end this year in peace and begin the next in greater glory.”

He reassured the public that the local government will keep working closely with security agencies and community leaders to maintain a secure, joyful and peaceful festive season for all.

Ekiti Intensifies Fight Against Cyberbullying as First Lady Leads Advocacy Walk for Women’s Digital Safety.

Ekiti Intensifies Fight Against Cyberbullying as First Lady Leads Advocacy Walk for Women’s Digital Safety.

As part of moves to tackle the rising wave of online harassment and technology-enabled violence, the Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady and several civil society organisations, has staged an advocacy walk across major streets and markets in Ado-Ekiti to mark the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

This year’s campaign focuses on the theme: “Unite! End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”

The walk, which took off from the Office of the First Lady, drew government officials, civil society actors, market leaders and concerned citizens who marched through the city to raise awareness about the fast-growing threat of cyberbullying, especially against young women and adolescent girls.

Addressing the crowd during the procession, the Wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, warned that violence against women had expanded beyond physical assault into a dangerous digital dimension. 

She said the prevalence of cyberbullying on platforms such as Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and Telegram had become alarming.

“Women are at the receiving end of the majority of abuses today. What brought us out is the disturbing rise in online violence. Many girls and young women in Ekiti are being harassed, threatened, shamed, and blackmailed on social media. Let me state clearly that such practices will not be tolerated,” she said.

Dr. Oyebanji reminded residents that Ekiti has a functional legal framework, including the Gender-Based Violence Prohibition Law 2019; which criminalises all forms of abuse, both offline and online, urging perpetrators to rethink their actions as violators risk severe penalties.

“Anyone caught posting damaging content to intimidate or harass women will face the full wrath of the law. Victims should not suffer in silence. Report to the Office of the First Lady, the Ministries of Justice and Women Affairs, or the nearest police station. Cyberbullying can push victims into depression, and we must not allow that,” she added.

On her part, The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, called for stronger collaboration among civil society organisations, market women, youth groups, and community leaders. She said government alone cannot eliminate digital violence without community support.

“We appreciate Governor Biodun Oyebanji for championing this cause. But this fight needs everyone. We must all stand against cyberbullying and protect our women and girls,” she said.

Also speaking, the Ekiti State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), said the state already has strong laws against gender violence, but awareness and enforcement must be intensified.

“The laws are in place, but people are not fully aware of them. That is why this rally is important. We are working closely with the police, NSCDC, NAPTIP and human rights groups to ensure effective implementation. Online harassment attracts stiff penalties; in some cases up to 10 years imprisonment,” Apata warned.

Also, the chairman of Ado North LCDA, Mrs. Adetokunbo Gbadamosi, emphasised the need for continuous sensitisation, warning that anyone caught harassing or blackmailing women online would be sanctioned.

“Our young girls must not allow themselves to be intimidated or manipulated on social media. We will continue to create awareness and enforce the law where necessary,” she said.

Top government officials who participated in the walk include the Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, among others, Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun; the Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; SA/DG Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr. John Moyo Ekundayo and Local Government Chairpersons.

IILG 2025 NULGE WEEK OPENS WITH SOUL-LIFTING PRAISES & A COLOURFUL JAMBOREE 🎉.

IILG 2025 NULGE WEEK OPENS WITH SOUL-LIFTING PRAISES & A COLOURFUL JAMBOREE 🎉.

By Asubiojo G.O.

The 2025 NULGE Week in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government erupted into life today with a praise session that shook the grounds and touched the heavens.

From the first sound of music, the atmosphere transformed into a field of joy, gratitude and unstoppable celebration.

The choristers set the tone with electrifying, high-pitched harmonies that ignited the entire crowd. Staff danced, clapped, and celebrated with hearts full of thanksgiving.

Leading the moment was the vibrant NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus (Lawii), joined by his executives, as workers in colourful, coordinated attires lit up the arena with unity and excitement.

The HLA, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, took the second Bible reading (Isaiah 9:6) and charged staff to live in gratitude, appreciate God for daily victories and maintain a heart of thanksgiving. She also commended the Chairman for his continuous support.

The Executive Chairman, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, alongside his elegant wife, Mrs. Helen Oluwatuyi, appreciated God for His protection since January and thanked staff for their loyalty and cooperation. He encouraged directors and deputies to work in harmony, embrace punctuality and avoid gossip or divisive behaviour.

A highlight of the day was the Chairman’s dancing session, where everyone picked a partner for an electrifying praise gala. Winners emerged:

🥇 Alhaja Olunlade Funmilayo – ₦50,000

🥈 Mrs. Olukorede – ₦30,000

🥉 Mr. Alasoluyi – ₦20,000

The Chaplain, Pastor Olowoloba Blessing, delivered the exhortation titled “Joy Unspeakable”, reminding all that only God gives true, unshakeable joy.

Thanksgiving was offered by political leaders led by the Chairman, the Vice Chairman Hon. Remi Alade, the Secretary Hon. Dr. Tunji Sule, and all departments.

In his reflection, Comrade Aina thanked God for preserving all staff through the year, sustaining unity, granting promotions and progress, and enabling everyone to end the year with joy. He appreciated the Chairman for releasing substantial support for the programme and appealed for continued backing to complete the NULGE building.

With all directors and staff fully present, Day One of the 2025 NULGE Week sets a powerful tone—joyful, united and unforgettable.

If the opening day came this powerful.

The days ahead will be extraordinary🔥🙌

Ekiti State Hoteliers Association Lauds Governor Oyebanji's Landmark Achievements.

Ekiti State Hoteliers Association Lauds Governor Oyebanji's Landmark Achievements.

 The Ekiti State Chapter of the Hoteliers Association of Nigeria (HAN) extends its warmest congratulations to His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on the historic milestone achievement of the Ekiti State Airport being fully operational and successfully accommodating aircraft landings. This remarkable feat marks a significant boost to the state's connectivity, trade, and tourism prospects.

The association also commends the governor's visionary leadership in activating the Cargo Airport, positioning Ekiti State as a key player in regional and international trade. "This achievement underscores Governor Oyebanji's commitment to transforming Ekiti State into a hub for commerce, tourism, and investment," said the Chairman of HAN, Ekiti State Chapter.

Other notable achievements of the administration include:

- Development of tourist attractions like the Ekiti State Museum and cultural centres

- Infrastructure upgrades enhancing accessibility to tourist sites

- Initiatives promoting local crafts, arts, and cuisine

- Improved security measures boosting investor confidence

The Ekiti State Hoteliers Association pledges continued support to Governor Oyebanji's administration, working together to:

*Promote Ekiti's unique cultural heritage

- Attract investments in hospitality & tourism

Enhance local economic growth & job creation

The association also salutes the professional activities of the Director General of Bureau of Tourism Development,  Barrister Wale Ojo Lanre, for fostering private partnership relationships towards positioning Ekiti tourism to higher places in the map of Nigeria tourism development

"We are proud partners in Ekiti's progress," said the association.

eSigned,

Pastor (Hon) Akin Stepen Abimbola

President, HAN Ekiti State Chapter

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI TO INAUGURATE COMMISSIONERS, SPECIAL ADVISERS.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI TO INAUGURATE COMMISSIONERS, SPECIAL ADVISERS.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, will inaugurate the reappointed commissioners and Special Advisers on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Ado-Ekiti, on Monday, by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Olayinka Oyebode, the ceremony will take place at Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti by 4.00pm.

The Governor had last week forwarded a list of 18 former commissioners to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation. 

The list include Prof Bolaji Aluko, Rt. Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, Mr Akintunde Oyebode, Mr Ajobiewe Kolawole, Chief Folorunso Olabode,  Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi, Rt. Hon Karounwi Oladapo, Mrs Peju Babafemi, Mr Atibioke Ojo Olaiya, Chief (Mrs) Tosin Aluko, Mr Awe Abimbola Olufemi.

Others are: Prof Patrick Tedela, Mr Seun Fakuade,  Mr Adedayo Gold Adesola, Dr Kareem Makanjuola Akande, Prof Rasaki Ojo Bakare, Hon Kayode Fasae. And Hon Femi Ajayi.

Meanwhile, Governor Oyebanji has appointed Mr Bunmi Talabi as a Special Adviser.

Until the new appointment, Talabi was the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Projects.

Also, the Special Advisers that were affected by the cabinet dissolution have also been recalled and would be inaugurated alongside the Commissioners on Tuesday.

They include: Chief Jide Awe, Arch Tope Ogunleye, Hon Gbenga Agbeyo, Hon Yemisi Ayokunle, Mr Gbenga Oloniyo, Mrs Oluremi Babington, Chief (Mrs) Kemi Olaleye, Hon Abiola Olowokere, Mr Akinleye Sunday, and Mr Ayeni Odunayo Adeola,

Recall that following the dissolution of the state executive council on August 10, 2025, some commissioners and Special Advisers were retained in the cabinet in view of the sensitive nature of the assignments they were undertaking at that time.

The decision to recall all the former members of the dissolved State Executive Council was jointly taken by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and stakeholders of the party, who impressed it on the Governor the need to re- present them to the Assembly for confirmation instead of appointing new set of commissioners.

The leaders and Stakeholders are of the opinion that appointing a new set of commissioners could be counter-productive in view of the coming governorship election in the State scheduled for June 20, 2026.