Ekiti Govt Spreads Christmas Cheer to Children with Disabilities.

Ekiti Govt Spreads Christmas Cheer to Children with Disabilities.

The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive care and social protection by celebrating Christmas with children living with disabilities at the Therapy Centre for Children with Disability, Oke-Oriomi, Ado-Ekiti.

The event, sponsored by the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, brought together children, parents and caregivers for a colourful, fun-filled celebration marked by singing, dancing and the presentation of gifts. 

The highlight of the day was the appearance of Santa-Claus, who personally handed out gifts to the children because they are loved, valued and fully included like their peers in regular schools.

Speaking at the programme, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, urged parents to always appreciate and cherish their children, regardless of physical or intellectual challenges, describing every child as a special gift from God.

Princess Agboola praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his consistent love and support for persons with disabilities, noting that his concern for special needs children predates his assumption of office. 

She said the Governor’s regular visits to special schools and therapy centres across the state demonstrate that disability issues are not political to him but a lifelong passion.

“For Governor Oyebanji, caring for persons with disabilities is beyond politics. He genuinely worries about how these children are coping and managing. This is something he has been doing even before becoming Governor. To him, it is a way of life,” she said.

The Special Adviser also commended parents for their support and perseverance, cautioning against discrimination, while appreciating staff of the therapy centre for their dedication and commitment to service, praying that their efforts would be divinely rewarded.

In his remarks, one of the beneficiaries, Toluwalase Adeyeye, expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his continuous support for persons with disabilities, particularly in the provision of food items and operational vehicles, and prayed for God’s continued blessings on the Governor and other supporters of the disability community.

Similarly, Mrs. Olubunmi Ibiteye, speaking on behalf of parents, thanked the Governor for establishing the therapy centre and prioritising special schools across Ekiti State. 

She also commended the caregivers for the genuine love and care shown to the children.

The event was attended by key government officials, including Hon. Stephen Abimbola Senior Special Governor’s Office, Mrs. Funmilayo Fatoba, Senior Special Assistant on Rehabilitation and Mental Health, and the Senior Special Assistant on Social Inclusion, Alhaji Fatai Sulaiman among others.

Oluremi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative Empowers 250 Elderly in Ekiti with ₦50 million.

Oluremi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative Empowers 250 Elderly in Ekiti with ₦50 million.

 

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has extended financial support totaling N50 million to  250 elderly citizens in Ekiti State, with each beneficiary receiving the sum of ₦200,000 under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme.

The presentation, which took place at Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti, formed part of the third edition of the Elderly Support Scheme tagged “Finding Joy in Old Age".

Speaking at the event, Senator Tinubu who was represented by the Wife of Ekiti State Governor who is also the state coordinator of RHI, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, disclosed that the programme is being implemented simultaneously across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including beneficiaries drawn from veterans of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).

Senator Tinubu noted that a total of 9,500 elderly citizens have been selected nationwide to benefit from the scheme, a move that underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of senior citizens.

She explained that the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative approved the disbursement of a total sum of ₦1.9 billion for the exercise, with each state of the federation, the FCT and DEPOWA receiving ₦50 million.

According to her, the initiative goes beyond financial assistance, as it also promotes healthy and active ageing. She encouraged beneficiaries to prioritise their wellbeing by engaging in regular physical exercise and meaningful activities that would keep both their bodies and minds active.

 “The Renewed Hope Initiative is about restoring dignity and ensuring that our elderly citizens find joy and fulfilment in their later years. This support is designed to help them live healthier and happier lives". She said.

The National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative further noted that since the inception of the current administration in 2023, the initiative has consistently celebrated senior citizens every December in recognition of their invaluable contributions to national development.

In her welcome address, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji expressed profound appreciation to the Convener of the Renewed Hope Initiative and First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for sustaining the Elderly Support Scheme.

She described the programme as a reflection of the First Lady’s tireless commitment to improving the wellbeing of senior citizens and veterans across the country.

Dr. Oyebanji urged beneficiaries in Ekiti State to utilise the financial support judiciously, especially during the festive season, emphasising the importance of meeting essential needs such as food, healthcare and medication where necessary.

In their separate messages of appreciation, Elder Gabriel Oni and Chief Mrs. Musili Eyemugbayeho expressed gratitude to the Wife of the President and the Ekiti State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for their care and concern for senior citizens in Nigeria.

They pledged their continued support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ekiti State Government, while also offering prayers for the success of the governments.

The event attracted government officials, community leaders and other stakeholders, who commended the Renewed Hope Initiative for its impactful intervention, describing it as a timely gesture that reinforces the government’s resolve to ensure that elderly Nigerians live with dignity, comfort and joy.

Earlier,the state Governor, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji through the state medical team also provided free medical consultation for the senior citizens who benefited from the gesture of the nation's first lady.

EKSU lauds Oyebanji over release of outstanding subvention.

EKSU lauds Oyebanji over release of outstanding subvention.                                      By Olamide Akinwumi 

The management of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, has commended the Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for approving the release of the outstanding December 2023 subvention to the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Babatola Ayodele, who spoke on behalf of the management and the entire university community, described the gesture as timely and laudable, noting that it would significantly ease the financial burden on the institution.

Ayodele said the release of the funds would enable the university to meet its financial obligations to staff, particularly at the festive period, thereby allowing them to cater for their needs and enjoy the yuletide season.

He further noted that since the inception of the Oyebanji administration, monthly subventions to the university had been released promptly, a development he said had enhanced stability and effective planning within the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor assured the governor of the continued support and cooperation of the EKSU community towards the success of his administration.

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

AVM Ojuawo knocks Kayode Ojo over False claims on Ekiti Airport.

AVM Ojuawo knocks Kayode Ojo over False claims on Ekiti Airport.

…. Sets the record straight.

AVM Niyi Ojuawo(rtd), a member of the House of Representatives and formerly Special Adviser on Ekiti AirPort Project has debunked claims made by a former governorship aspirant of APC on Ekiti State, Wngr Kayode Ojo that he contributed to the construction of the Ekiti Agro- Allied International Cargo Airport that which commenced commercial operations earlier in the month.

Kayode Oko had lamented in a statement earlier in he week that his contribution ought to have been mentioned by the Governor during the event marking the. Commencement of commercial flights at the airport just like the contribution of former Governors and chief Afe Babalola (SAN) were mentioned. 

AVM Ojuawo in a statement yesterday said Engr Ojo did not make any contribution to the airport that warranted his name being mentioned. 

The member of House of Representatives said in the statement titled : 

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

“I have carefully read the various media reports referenced above, and it has become necessary to set the record straight, particularly as my name was mentioned in my former capacity as Technical Adviser to the Governor on the Ekiti Airport Project at the material time.

“This clarification has become imperative in view of claims attributed to Engr. Kayode Ojo, suggesting that I endorsed or validated his alleged contributions to the Ekiti Cargo International Airport project. While Engr. Kayode Ojo at some point indicated an intention to construct a fire station at the airport and was shown a location for that purpose, it is important, in the interest of truth and public accountability, to clearly state the facts as follows:

1. Prior to the governorship primary election 2022, Engr. Kayode Ojo conveyed some blocks to the airport premises through his contractor, purportedly in anticipation of constructing a fire station.

2. Immediately after the primary election, his representatives returned to the site and removed all the blocks that had earlier been brought in. At no time were these materials deployed for the construction of the fire station, nor was any material—not even a bag of cement—left behind for that purpose.

3. Throughout my tenure as Technical Adviser on the Airport Project, I did not receive any form of support—financial, material, or technical—from Engr. Kayode Ojo toward the construction of the fire station or any other component of the airport project. It is also on record that the airport fire station was eventually completed by the Ekiti State Government in mid-2024.

Consequently, the claim by Engr. Kayode Ojo that I was referenced or relied upon to validate such assertions is entirely false, misleading, and reckless. I state unequivocally, and on good authority, that these claims are untrue and should be disregarded in their entirety.

This statement is issued solely to correct the public record and to prevent any distortion of facts surrounding the Ekiti Cargo International Airport project.

Signed:

Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi

Member, House of Representatives

Ekiti South Federal Constituency I

JOINT REVENUE BOARD COMMENDS EKITI STATE ON THE PASSAGE OF THE HARMONISED TAXES AND LEVIES LAW.

JOINT REVENUE BOARD COMMENDS EKITI STATE ON THE PASSAGE OF THE HARMONISED TAXES AND LEVIES LAW.

The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) heartily commends His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, and the distinguished members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly on the historic passage of the Ekiti State Harmonised Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Bill 2025 into Law.

By this feat, Ekiti State has once again demonstrated exemplary leadership in becoming the first State in the Federation to pass the Harmonised Taxes and Levies legislation, well ahead of the 2026 fiscal year when the revised approved list of collections is scheduled to take effect.

On behalf of the Chairman and Members of the JRB, we wish to commend the Ekiti State Government for the expeditious and coordinated approach adopted in ensuring the passage of this landmark legislation. The collaborative efforts of the Executive Arm, the Ekiti State House of Assembly, and the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service are worthy of special recognition.

The Board particularly appreciates His Excellency, Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, for honouring the commitment he made in October 2025, during the commissioning of the Ekiti State Revenue House in Ado-Ekiti, that Ekiti State would be the first state to pass the Harmonized Taxes and Levies Bill into Law. The fulfilment of this promise underscores His Excellency’s commitment to fiscal discipline, tax transparency, and institutional reforms. 

The passage of the Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law provides a coherent and uniform framework for tax administration in Ekiti State. It is designed to eliminate multiple taxation, curb unauthorised collections by state and non-state actors, plug revenue leakages, and enhance the ease of doing business at the sub-national level. 

This outcome aligns with the national objectives of the ongoing Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms championed by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to build a fair, efficient, and growth-oriented tax system that supports economic development and citizens welfare.

Ekiti State’s pioneering role in enacting this law reinforces its reputation as a reform-driven and business-friendly State and sets a commendable benchmark for other States of the Federation to emulate. This achievement represents a significant step towards institutionalising harmony, fairness, certainty, and accountability in sub-national revenue administration across Nigeria.

The JRB respectfully looks forward to the swift assent of the Bill by His Excellency, Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, to enable its full implementation and the realisation of its far-reaching benefits for government, businesses, and citizens alike.

Once again, the Board congratulates the Government and people of Ekiti State on this remarkable achievement and commends the vision, leadership, and commitment that made it possible.

Signed:

Olusegun Adesokan

Executive Secretary

Joint Revenue Board

17 December 2025

Season Of Joy And Hope: Honourable Mrs Hellen Oluwatuyi Sends Christmas And New Year Goodwill Message To Irepodun/ Ifelodun Residents.

Season Of Joy And Hope: Honourable Mrs Hellen Oluwatuyi Sends Christmas And New Year Goodwill Message To Irepodun/ Ifelodun Residents.

By Asubiojo G. O

With hearts full of gratitude to Almighty God—the Giver of life, peace and seasons—the humble, loyal and obedient daughter of the land, Honourable Mrs. Hellen Oluwatuyi, warmly extends her Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year wishes (in advance) to the good people of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area.

She respectfully conveys her heartfelt felicitations to:

His Royal Majesty, Oba Aladesuru James Adelusi (JP), the Alawo of Awo Kingdom;

the revered Olori; all Eminent Chiefs; the Iya-Laje, Iya-Loja; our noble mothers of mothers; devoted heads of households; and our respectful, obedient children of Igede-Ekiti and Awo-Ekiti.

“May the joy of the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, usher in divine peace, enduring unity, sound health, wisdom and uncommon blessings into every home, family and institution across our land. May the light of Christmas illuminate our paths, strengthen our rich cultural heritage, and bind us together in love, mutual respect and shared prosperity.”

Honourable Mrs. Hellen Oluwatuyi also extends her warm Christmas felicitations to the entire staff of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, " I sincerely appreciate your diligence, commitment and selfless service to the people. May this festive season refresh your strength, reward your labour and renew your passion for excellence and dedicated public service".

With humility and deep respect, she earnestly seeks the continued support, guidance and prayers of our Royal Fathers, Chiefs, community leaders and all constituents for the success of her husband, Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, and his pragmatic, game-changing team in office. May God grant them wisdom, courage, integrity and divine direction to serve with compassion and deliver measurable, people-oriented impact.

She further calls on all constituents of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government to remain steadfast in their unalloyed and unwavering support and prayers for the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Pragmatic Excellency, Governor Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO). May the Lord strengthen his hands, crown his efforts with outstanding achievements, and lead Ekiti State into greater peace, development and prosperity.

Honourable Mrs Oluwatuyi Hellen, prayerfully declared::::

"As we celebrate this season of love and hope, may our land witness renewed harmony, accelerated progress and divine favour. May love reign, peace endure, and God’s blessings rest abundantly upon Ekiti State and Nigeria at large".

Merry Christmas and a Glorious, Fruitful New Year to us all. 🎄✨

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, IREPODUN/IFELODUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, IREPODUN/IFELODUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

By Asubiojo G.O.

The Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (CHENCO), extends warm, heartfelt and season-filled felicitations to the good people of Igede-Ekiti and Awo-Ekiti, as well as the entire staff of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, on the occasion of Christmas and the forthcoming New Year.

Honourable CHENCO prays that this festive season ushers everyone into a glorious, fulfilling and divinely orchestrated Christmas, followed by a New Year of divine connections, unexpected repositioning, remarkable breakthroughs and uncommon favour.

He invokes God’s grace for sound health, excellent longevity, landmark achievements and tangible results, alongside astonishing growth and development in all areas of life for the people. He further encourages all to remain steadfast in gratitude to Almighty God for His unfailing love, protection and mercy from the beginning of the year to its end and beyond into 2025.

The Chairman calls for the continued cooperation, support and prayers of the people for his administration and his pragmatic, game-changing leadership team, as they work tirelessly to deliver optimal governance and people-oriented dividends of democracy.

He also enjoins staff of the Local Government to remain diligent, proactive and committed in their respective official duties, carrying out assignments with honesty, sincerity, integrity and quiet excellence, assuring them that the coming year will be far more glorious and rewarding than the outgoing year.

Honourable CHENCO further appeals for sustained prayers and unwavering support for the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) – “The Jinx Breaker”, asking God to continually grant him spiritual wisdom, physical strength and resounding success as the year winds down and a new one unfolds.

He highlighted two visible and gracious achievements of Governor Oyebanji’s administration, notably:

1. The consistent payment of salaries, pensions and welfare entitlements, restoring hope, dignity and economic stability to workers and retirees across Ekiti State.

2. Strategic infrastructural development and urban renewal projects, including road rehabilitation and community-focused interventions that are repositioning Ekiti State for sustainable growth.

The Chairman reassures the people that with unity, prayers and collective responsibility, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government will continue to experience peace, progress and purposeful development.

Merry Christmas and a Prosperous, Purpose-Driven New Year!