A New Era for Ekiti North Constituency 1 (Oye/Ikole): The Time is Now for Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu!

A New Era for Ekiti North Constituency 1 (Oye/Ikole): The Time is Now for Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu!

My good people of Oye and Ikole Local Governments, the moment has arrived to make a definitive choice for robust, world-class representation. The time for business-as-usual is over. We stand at a crucial juncture, and the choice we make today will determine the pace of development and the quality of life in Ekiti North Constituency (1) for years to come. That choice is clear: Engineer Olaoluwa Dawodu (EOD).

Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu is not just a young man seeking office; he is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer with a formidable academic foundation built right here in our soil. His journey began at the prestigious Ekiti State University (EKSU) Formerly University of Ado-Ekiti (UNAD), where he earned his Mechanical Engineering degree in 2013. This is an indisputable advantage: a son of the soil who understands our challenges because he was trained here. But EOD's ambition didn't stop at EKSU. He went on to attain a Master of Engineering from Western Sydney University, Australia, and now manages a successful Engineering company, Tite Knox Pty Ltd., consulting for global mining giants like Rio-Tinto and BHP. This is the World-Class Exposure we need, a mind that combines local knowledge with international best practices in infrastructure, technology, and economic development.

For too long, the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite being a party built on progressive ideals, has been criticized for not always giving deserving youth a chance to occupy key legislative roles. We have watched as established hands, often with diminishing returns, continue to recycle themselves in power. Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu is the Litmus Test our party needs to prove its commitment to the future. He is a committed, experienced, and globally exposed youth who possesses the technical skills and innovative mindset to transcend the current efforts of the occupiers of this office. Electing EOD is a powerful statement that our party and our constituency prioritize competence and capacity over mere seniority. The current representation, despite their efforts, has not delivered the transformative impact that a technologically-driven, development-focused individual like EOD can offer. It is time to replace stagnant efforts with strategic, result-oriented representation.

The name Dawodu is synonymous with unflinching loyalty and commitment to progressive politics in Ekiti State. Engr. Olaoluwa is the proud son of Hon. Tokunbo Dawodu, a foundational pillar whose sacrifices and contributions helped build our movement from the ground up. Hon. Tokunbo Dawodu was instrumental in the evolution of our progressive family: from the days of AD to AC, to ACN, and now the APC. His unwavering commitment was key in the emergence of the party in the 2007 election which was later delivered October 16, 2010 and in support of the incumbent, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. EOD doesn't just inherit a name; he carries a legacy of genuine, grassroots-trained political service and a deep understanding of the party's ethos.

To the good people of Oye/Ikole Constituency, the time for merely 'being represented' is over. We demand a robust representation that is proactive, innovative, and deeply committed to our development. Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu offers a unique blend: Youthful Energy and Innovation, World-Class Exposure, and Committed Grassroots Training. Let us unite to send a truly deserving representative to the Green Chamber one who will not only speak for us but will engineer our future. Support Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu for a new era of excellence and development in Oye/Ikole Constituency.

Babatunde Ayokunle Francis writes from Oye Ekiti.

Ekiti Spends N49.7bn on Airport Project — Oyebanji.

Ekiti Spends N49.7bn on Airport Project — Oyebanji.

• Lauds Afe Babalola’s $1.6m, N356m support.
• EAF hails commencement of commercial flights.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has disclosed that a total of N49.77bn has so far been invested in the construction and completion of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport.

Oyebanji made the revelation yesterday during the inaugural commercial flight into the airport by United Nigeria Airlines, describing the project as a multi-administration legacy that has now come to fruition.

According to him, between May 2019 and October 2022, when a test flight first landed under former Governor Kayode Fayemi, the state government had already spent about N14bn on the project. He added that upon assuming office on October 28, 2022, his administration committed an additional N34bn to complete outstanding works and make the airport fully operational.

The governor also praised the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Aare Afe Babalola, for his exceptional contributions, including the direct donation of navigational aids (CVOR/DME) and control tower equipment valued at $1.6m.

“In addition, Afe Babalola built a 100-car capacity car park opposite the terminal building at the cost of N356m,” Oyebanji noted, describing the elder statesman as a pillar of support whose generosity has continued to propel Ekiti’s development.

He further acknowledged the roles played by former governors Segun Oni, who conceived the airport idea; Ayodele Fayose, who acquired and cleared the site; and Kayode Fayemi, who commenced construction six years ago.

Represented by ABUAD Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, Babalola commended Oyebanji for “unwavering resilience” in ensuring the airport’s full operation. He reaffirmed his commitment to the state’s development and emphasised the need for a railway line from Osogbo to Ado-Ekiti and onward to Onitsha to further boost economic growth.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti Advancement Frontiers (EAF) has congratulated Oyebanji and residents of the state on the successful takeoff of scheduled commercial flights. In a statement signed by its Press Officer, Richard Akinpelumi, the group described the development as “a victory for continuity in governance and a major step towards shared prosperity.”

The group urged Ekiti indigenes and investors at home and abroad to take full advantage of the new gateway to drive economic activities across the state.

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Yuletide: EKSG Vows to Sustain Security, Interfaces with herders, farmers.

Yuletide: EKSG Vows to Sustain Security, Interfaces with herders, farmers.

As part of efforts to sustain peace and security during the yuletide season, Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring calm and safe environment across the state, assuring residents that necessary measures are being strengthened to forestall any breach of peace before, during and after the festive season.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters , Brig- General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd), gave the assurance during a stakeholders’ meeting of Farmers/Herders Peace Committee in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday. He said the meeting was part of the proactive measures of the state government to promote mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among communities.

         

General Ogundana explained that the meeting which serves as an interface between farmers and herders with the aim of preventing conflicts and enhancing collaboration in the interest of peace and security was particularly important at this time in view of the expected influx of cattle into the South-West during the yuletide season, compounded with the fact that the festive season coincided with harvest season, making farmlands more vulnerable. 

While stressing that such movement and activities, if not properly managed could heighten tensions in rural communities, Gen. Ogundana assured that the state government would continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure peaceful celebrations and protection of lives and livelihoods across the state.

The Special Adviser, also commended Governor Oyebanji for his proactive measures in addressing security challenges across the state, noting that the Governor’s inclusive approach and timely intervention have continued to promote peace and stability in the state.

“The essence of this meeting is to bring together stakeholders as far as security of Ekiti state is concern and as far as farming activities is concern and the herdsmen, this committee was set up by the Governor to interface with farmers and herders and looking at the situations around the state and we are also entering yuletide season signifying the movement of cattle from the North to the South and at the same time it is the harvesting period when we sometimes have crises between farmers and herders.

“So, we felt it is necessary to bring all stakeholders together so that we will discuss on how we can move forward and live together in peace and also identify people that are coming to do bad business in our midst”. He stated.

Adeboyejo Backs Ongoing Party E-Registration, Pledges Massive Youth Mobilisation in Ekiti South.

Adeboyejo Backs Ongoing Party E-Registration, Pledges Massive Youth Mobilisation in Ekiti South.

The Chairman of the Ekiti South Youth Campaign Committee, Hon. Oluwaseun Adeboyejo, has thrown his full support behind the ongoing party electronic registration exercise, urging young people across the zone to actively participate in the process.

Hon. Adeboyejo made this known while addressing youth leaders and party faithful in Ikere-Ekiti, where he emphasised that the success of the forthcoming elections largely depends on the level of youth engagement and mobilisation at the grassroots.

According to him, the youth committee is fully committed to ensuring massive turnout for the e-registration exercise across the six local government areas in Ekiti South, as part of strategic preparations for the next general election.

He promised to deploy the entire structure of the Ekiti South Youth Campaign Committee to mobilise young people at the ward and community levels to boost participation and ensure that the South records a significant number of registered members.

Adeboyejo noted that the exercise is crucial for strengthening the party’s structure ahead of the polls and repositioning Ekiti South for greater political relevance.

He urged youths to see the registration exercise not just as a civic duty, but as an opportunity to be part of the decision-making process that will shape the future of the state.

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.