GOVERNOR OYEBANJI URGES CHRISTIANS TO EMPHASIZE PEACE, LOVE, UNITY AT CHRISTMAS AND BEYOND.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI URGES CHRISTIANS TO EMPHASIZE PEACE, LOVE, UNITY AT CHRISTMAS AND BEYOND.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has urged the people of the State and other Nigerians to use the Christmas season to deepen love and harmonious relationship among one another  in order to have a peaceful and better society.

The Governor who congratulated the Christians and the people of the state generally for witnessing another Christmas, said the season offers another opportunity for sober reflection and prayers for the state in particular and Nigeria in general for sustained peace and development.

The Governor, in a Christmas message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Olayinka Oyebode, said the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ calls for celebration because it signaled God’s special love to mankind and His desire for a peaceful world by bringing the Prince of Peace to the world.

The Governor extended his best wishes to the people of Ekiti State,  urging them to key into the messages of love for one another, sacrifices, tolerance, humility, compassion and care for those in distress which were the hallmarks of Jesus Christ’s teachings during his earthly  ministry.

He stressed that Christmas is not meant for eating, drinking and merriment alone, but reassessing one’s relationship with God and exploring areas to show love and kindness to fellow human beings. 

“As we rejoice at this Yuletide season, the true essence of the season must not be lost on us. We should reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and its significance to mankind. This offers an opportunity to deepen love for ourselves and strengthen our harmonious relationships.

“Let us be our brothers’ keepers by showing love and compassion to one another as exemplified by our Lord Jesus Christ whose birth we are celebrating this season.

“I urge the Christian faithful to practise the teachings of Jesus Christ by living in peace and harmony with adherence of other faiths. 

The Governor called on the Christian community and indeed all the people of the state not to relent in their prayers for a peaceful election as the state prepares for the governorship poll  next year .

He also appealed Ekiti residents  and Nigerians in general  to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his quest to reset the country on the path of growth, development and shared prosperity through the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“It’s been a wonderful year and we remain thankful to God. I wish Ekitikete a merry Christmas as we look forward to a greater level of joy, peace and prosperity in the coming year”, the Governor added.

Olajuyin Donates N1.1m to Ekiti South West Wards for Christmas Celebrations.

Olajuyin Donates N1.1m to Ekiti South West Wards for Christmas Celebrations.

Engineer Olasunkanmi Olajuyin has donated a total sum of N1.1 million to the 11 wards in Ekiti South West Local Government Area of Ekiti State to support Christmas celebrations across the communities.

The donation, which was shared equally among the wards, was aimed at assisting residents, particularly the less privileged, to celebrate the festive season with joy and a sense of belonging.

Speaking during the presentation, Olajuyin, who hails from Ikere-Ekiti in Ikere Local Government Area, said the gesture was part of his commitment to giving back to society and supporting grassroots development.

He urged people of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I to use the festive period to promote love, unity and peaceful coexistence, while also extending kindness and support to the less privileged in their communities.

Olajuyin noted that Christmas remained a season of sacrifice and compassion, calling on well-meaning individuals to complement government efforts by reaching out to those in need.

The funds were formally handed over to the APC Local Government Party Chairman in Ekiti South West, who in turn distributed the money to the ward chairmen across the 11 wards in the local government area.

Fayemi Urges Hope and Sober Reflection in Christmas Message to Nigerians.

Fayemi Urges Hope and Sober Reflection in Christmas Message to Nigerians.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has extended warm greetings to Nigerians as they celebrate Christmas and prepare to usher in the New Year.

In a message issued by the head of the Fayemi Media Office, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Fayemi urges Nigerians to embrace the profound meaning of Christmas, which symbolises hope, love, peace, and sacrifice, calling these timeless values that resonate with everyone. 

While acknowledging the economic and social challenges facing the country today, he noted, however, that Nigeria has repeatedly demonstrated the capacity to endure and rise stronger through collective resolve.

‘’While we cannot deny the reality of the challenges before us, we must also not surrender our faith in the future of our country,” he stated. “Moments like Christmas remind us that even in times of uncertainty, hope can be renewed, and light can emerge from darkness.”

The former governor called on Nigerians to embrace sober and responsible celebrations, mindful of prevailing economic realities and the need to show solidarity with the less privileged.

Fayemi reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas, describing it as a celebration of love, sacrifice, humility, and compassion, values which resonate deeply with Nigeria’s cultural and communal traditions.

He further stated that, ‘’Christmas is not merely a season of merrymaking. It has profound spiritual significance, representing hope, the promise of salvation, and the ultimate sacrifice of love.

‘’As we celebrate, let us reflect on these values and how they can be applied to rebuild the social fabric of our dear nation.

"We may be in a difficult season, but we are not a hopeless people. As we transition into the New Year, let us carry with us a spirit of determination. I am confident that with collective effort and the enduring grace of God, Nigeria will emerge stronger and more prosperous."

He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a peaceful Christmas and a productive, secure, and flourishing New Year. 

Signed 

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, the Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

December 24th, 2025

Ekiti 2026: We’ll Run Election With All Decency, Oyebanji Assures Ekiti People.

Ekiti 2026: We’ll Run Election With All Decency, Oyebanji Assures Ekiti People.

….Thanks President Tinubu as Work Begins on Ado–Aramoko–Itawure Road.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has assured Ekiti people that his administration will ensure that the 2026 governorship election is conducted with the highest level of decency, transparency and fairness, stressing that democracy must reflect the will of the people without intimidation or manipulation.

Governor Oyebanji, who gave the assurance Tuesday evening during  the 2025 Ekiti State Government Carol Service at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre in Ado Ekiti, maintained that his government would not allow any form of violence or action capable of disrupting the peace of the state before, during and after the election.

Stressing that his government remains committed to upholding democratic values, Governor Oyebanji urged all contestants across the parties to focus on presenting their programmes and policies to the people of Ekiti, who are the ultimate decision-makers, while reminding them that only God gives power.

The Governor said: “As we go towards 2026, which is an election year, I made a pledge before you and God that as a candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), we will run the election with all decency. We will adhere strictly to the electoral acts, we will conduct ourselves responsibly because I have absolute faith in God that whatever God does not give, no man can have it, and my aspiration does not worth the blood of any Ekiti man.

“And I also appeal to all party aspirants that they should go to the people and sell themselves to them. Power belongs to God, and Ekiti people will choose who will lead them. We are not going to allow any form of violence in this state; we are going to ensure that our people are protected.”

Reflecting on the state’s achievements in 2025, Governor Oyebanji highlighted progress in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security. He maintained that both Ekiti State and Migeria as a whole have experienced notable economic growth, attributing much of the state’s development to the unwavering support and interventions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for his continuous support to Ekiti State , describing the President’s interventions as pivotal to the state’s infrastructural development and socio-economic progress. 

The Governor also disclosed that following the President's directive, contractors have now been mobilized to begin work on the Itawure -aramoko-Ado road.

The Governor further affirmed that the Ado-IKere-Iju-Itaogbolu-Akure road is expected to be completed and commissioned by the first quarter of next year.

While thanking the President for his unwavering commitment to Ekiti development, the Governor urged critics who have been using the condition of the roads in the state to attack the President to also show some decency by acknowledging and applauding the President on the feat.

Speaking on the importance of Christmas, Governor Oyebanji urged residents to use the festive season as an opportunity to remember the less privileged and spread love and kindness. He emphasized that beyond celebrations, Christmas is a time to show compassion, support those in need, and strengthen the bonds of community and fellowship across Ekiti State.

“When you carry a burden of close to four million people, is only God that can help you to carry such a burden but God has lighten the load for me by supporting me with the president, so after God my appreciation goes to the president of this country, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is a father in deed to me and to Ekiti people and kabiyesi Ewi can attest to the strong support of President Tinubu for Ekiti state , the president has gone beyond what is normal to support Ekiti state. 

Also in his remarks, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who joined Governor Oyebanji in expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said Ekiti people are the ultimate beneficiaries of the Governor’s excellent relationship with the President, noting that the collaboration between the state and federal government has translated into tangible projects and interventions that are improving the lives of residents across Ekiti.

The Senate Leader also urged the people to show love to one another and to continue to live in unity, stressing that social cohesion and mutual support are key to sustaining the state’s development and ensuring that all residents benefit from ongoing and future initiatives.

In his homily, the Reverend Father of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Ekiti, Rev Fr Assumpta Ajayi urged the people to give generously, emphasizing that the true essence of Christmas lies in selflessness, compassion, and sharing with others. He reminded the congregation that the spirit of the season is best reflected in acts of kindness, support for the less privileged, and spreading love within the community.

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretory to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, members of the National and State Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, Royal Fathers among others.

Festive Period: Engr Adakeja Celebrates Party Faithful in Ado-Ekiti.

Festive Period: Engr Adakeja Celebrates Party Faithful in Ado-Ekiti.

As part of activities marking the festive season, Engineer Olumide Adakeja has celebrated party faithful in Ado-Ekiti, appreciating them for their steadfast support for the administration of Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

Speaking during the gathering, Adakeja thanked party members for their unflinching loyalty to the All Progressives Congress and the Oyebanji-led administration, urging them to continue to promote peace and unity in their respective wards and communities.

The event was marked by fanfare as party leaders and supporters welcomed Adakeja with songs and dance, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.

In his remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, Hon. Wale Adakeja, described Engineer Olumide Adakeja as a true son of the soil who has consistently demonstrated commitment to the progress of Ado-Ekiti and the sustenance of good governance under Governor Oyebanji.

As part of the celebration, Engineer Adakeja distributed cash gifts to all the 13 ward chairmen in Ado-Ekiti, the 13 ward youth leaders, the 13 ward secretaries, as well as local government youth leaders and women leaders.

The gesture, party leaders said, further underscored Adakeja’s support for grassroots mobilisation and his commitment to strengthening the party structure at the ward and local government levels.

AJAYI CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS WITH CHRISTIAN IN EKITI, URGE THEM TO SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENTAL GOVERNMENT OF BAO.

AJAYI CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS WITH CHRISTIAN IN EKITI, URGE THEM TO SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENTAL GOVERNMENT OF BAO.

A member of the Ekiti State Environmental Protection Agency Board, Hon. Bayo Ajayi, has facilitated the celebration of Christmas for Christians across Ekiti State, urging them to embrace love, sacrifice and peaceful coexistence.

Speaking with journalists at his country home in Emure-Ekiti, Ajayi described Christmas as a season that symbolises selflessness and compassion, calling on Christians to reflect the virtues of Jesus Christ in their daily lives.

The politician, known for his people-oriented disposition, urged residents of the state to remain peaceful, cheerful and accommodating to one another, stressing that tolerance, unity and mutual love were critical to sustainable development.

Ajayi also appealed to the people to continue to support the administration of Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, noting that the state had recorded remarkable achievements under his leadership.

He described the governor’s style of governance as inclusive and development-driven, praying for the continued success of the administration.

According to him, “Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has demonstrated uncommon leadership and commitment to the welfare of the people. His achievements across critical sectors speak for themselves, and he deserves our total support.”

Ajayi pledged his unflinching loyalty to the governor and declared his support for the continuity of the Oyebanji administration beyond 2026.

“I am fully aligned with the vision of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and I openly endorse and support his leadership till 2030 in the overall interest of Ekiti State and its people,” he said.

He noted that the Christmas gesture was part of his commitment to grassroots engagement and the promotion of unity and shared values among the people of Ekiti during the festive season.

Oyebanji signs N415.57 billion 2026 Budget.

Oyebanji signs N415.57 billion 2026 Budget.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has signed the 2026 Appropriation Law of four hundred and fifteen billion, five hundred and seventy two million, seventy thousand, one hundred and thirty-nine Naira, forty-four kobo (N415, 572,070,139.44), tagged “Budget of Sustainable Governance.”

Assenting to the bill at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s office, Ado- Ekiti on Tuesday, Governor Oyebanji said the focus of the 2026 Budget is to complete all on-going projects while attention will also be given to food security, wealth creation and infrastructural development.

“As next year marks the end of our first term in office, the document will enable us consolidate on our achievements as Government since the inception of our administration on October 16, 2022”, he stressed,

Governor Oyebanji expressed his appreciation to the lawmakers for the prompt passage of the budget which was presented to the House of October 10th, 2025, stressing  that the budget would revive the economy of the State and further drive the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

The budget has N221.87bn (53%) for recurrent and N193.70bn (46%) for capital spending, representing an 11% increase over the 2025 budget and aiming for sustainable growth through fiscal discipline.

The Governor, who also signed the Ekiti State Revenue Administration Law, 2025 and Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero Ekiti Law 2025 affirmed that the budget represents a commitment to the transformative growth and development of Ekiti State saying the early presentation of the appropriation bill was in line with the 1999 Constitution, to ensure the state keep maintaining the January to December fiscal year cycle as well as ensuring alignment with the recommendation of the Fiscal Sustainability Plan which enables the Assembly ample opportunity and sufficient time to scrutinize the document and engage all relevant stakeholders.

While admitting that the fiscal document was a product of wide consultations with Ekiti people and prepared in line with global best practices, The Governor said the various programmes and projects contained in the budget were in line with the six pillars of the administration which stem from the State's thirty years Development Plan 2021 to 2050.

“In 2026 fiscal year, we shall strive to meet our revenue target to ensure the completion of all on-going projects and start few critical but strategic ones. We shall also further strengthen our relationship with our development partners to provide support for the implementation of specific projects, non-discretionary projects in the State.

“The breakdown of the 2026 Budget of Sustainable Governance will be presented to the members of the public and the Press by the Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning in the coming days. I appreciate everyone who has worked assiduously to produce the 2026 Budget Document.

“I want to once again deeply appreciate Mr. Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Stephen Adeoye Aribasoye, Principal Officers, and the entire members for your commitment and dedication to the good of our state. I want to seriously commend you for your support and loyalty to our collective development. I'm extremely, extremely grateful, I'm sure that history will be kind to you. The Governor stated.

Speaking earlier before presenting the bill to the Governor, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye described the budget as a powerful testament to the state’s unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of all Ekiti residents, adding that throughout the process, they placed high premium on transparency, accountability as well as ensuring that the conditions set for the fiscal frameworks were meticulously adhered to.

The Speaker stressed that their commitments was to ensure that the budgeting process was driven by fiscal discipline and sustainability which reflects their dedication to the needs of their constituents.

He revealed that the capital expenditures strategically spans the economic, law and justice, social, and administrative sectors reflecting a careful balance between sustaining government operations and investing in infrastructure, social development, economic growth, and institutional efficiency.

According to the Speaker, “These laws collectively address revenue integrity, educational advancement, and cultural resources allocation, the corpulence of sustainable governance which your government strongly believes in.

The brief ceremony was witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye; members of the State Executive Council and the House of Assembly, government officials and stakeholders.