Ekiti Govt Expands Economic Inclusion, Trains 100 Persons With Disabilities. ‎

‎Ekiti Govt Expands Economic Inclusion, Trains 100 Persons With Disabilities.

‎

‎

‎In its continuous drive to promote economic inclusion and self-reliance among vulnerable groups, the Ekiti State Government has flagged off an eight-month skill acquisition and vocational training programme for more than 100 persons with disabilities across the state.

‎

‎The programme, which is part of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s Shared Prosperity Agenda, is designed to equip beneficiaries with market-relevant skills that will enhance their employability and entrepreneurial capacity.

‎Speaking at the flag-off ceremony at the Ekiti State Skills Acquisition Centre, Ilokun, Ado-Ekiti, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring that no segment of society is left behind.

‎Princess Agboola explained that the training was deliberately structured to match each beneficiary with a vocation suited to their ability, assuring that the government would also provide working tools after the completion of the programme to ensure sustainability.

‎

‎She disclosed that persons with disabilities in Ekiti State currently enjoy free healthcare services at primary health centres across the state, a policy that has been in place since January 2024.

‎

‎According to her, seven persons with disabilities have also been appointed to leadership positions, while 38 have gained employment in the state civil service in the last three years.

‎

‎The Special Adviser described the programme as a testament to the government’s dedication to inclusivity, adding that life impacting interventions are ongoing across special schools in the state.

‎She used the occasion to appeal to parents and guardians not to hide children with disabilities due to stigma or shame, stressing that such children possess immense talents and potential to excel in life if given the right support.

‎

‎Earlier in his welcome address, the Executive Secretary of the Office of Disability Affairs, Mr Bayo Odewale, said the vocational training programme aligns with the core mandate of the Skills Acquisition Centre to promote education, empowerment and self-reliance among persons with disabilities.

‎

‎Mr Odewale revealed that over 130 persons with disabilities have been trained at the centre since its establishment, with more than 95 beneficiaries empowered under the current administration. 

‎

‎He added that the 2026 batch of trainees will receive instruction in ICT, catering and hotel management, shoe making, tailoring and fashion design, hairdressing and cosmetology, as well as soap making.

‎

‎He noted that the beneficiaries were carefully selected from all local government areas and LCDAs to ensure fairness and inclusivity, urging the trainees to demonstrate discipline, punctuality and commitment throughout the training period.

‎

‎Also speaking, the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Mrs Tayo Adeola, congratulated the beneficiaries, describing Governor Oyebanji as a compassionate leader who has consistently prioritised the welfare of persons with disabilities. 

‎

‎She encouraged the trainees to pay close attention to their instructors and maximise the opportunity to improve their lives.

‎

‎Also speaking, the Special Adviser and Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Pastor J.B. Folorunsho, commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his people-centred initiatives, particularly in the area of social inclusion. 

‎

‎He applauded the appointment of Princess Adetoun Agboola as Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, describing it as a round peg in a round hole, given her passion and commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities. 

‎

‎On his part, the Director-General of the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Engr. John Ekundayo, described the programme as life-changing, urging participants to give the training their full concentration to achieve meaningful transformation.

‎

‎In his remarks, the Commissioner for Regional Development and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr M.A. Kareem, commended Princess Agboola for her dedication to improving the lives of persons with disabilities, describing the initiative as a programme of hope that would open new opportunities for the beneficiaries.

‎

‎Speaking on behalf of the trainees, one of the beneficiaries, Ms Bunmi Afeniforo expressed gratitude to the state government and the Special Adviser for their sustained support, pledging that beneficiaries would fully utilise the training to build better and more independent lives for themselves. 

‎

‎In attendance at the programme were the Commissioner for Women affairs, represented by P.S in the ministry, Olusola Femi Adeluyi, Commissioner for Information, represented by Mrs Sola Fadiran, Chairman EKIRS, Pastor Olaniran Olatona and Chairman Board of Disability Affairs: Dr Ebenezer Ogunlade, among others. 

‎

‎

‎

Bring Back Youths to Agriculture' Has Transformed Our Lives-Ekiti Youths.

Bring Back Youths to Agriculture' Has Transformed Our Lives-Ekiti Youths.

A cross-section of youths who participated in the 'Bring Back Youths to Agriculture' program in Ekiti State have confirmed that the programme has added immeasurable value to their lives and lifted them out of poverty. 

The Bring Back  Youths to Agriculture (BBYA) initiative, focuses, training young entrepreneurs in agribusiness and generating profits from crop, with the aim of boosting youth employment and food security in the state. 

The youths, who spoke separately with journalists in Ado Ekiti, including Temitope Fakolade, Funmilayo Akomolafe and Johnson Oladimeji confirmed that since the introduction of the initiative by YSJ in partnership with the Ekiti State Government, their lives have not remained the same.

According to the youths who came from across the councils of the state, the programme not only changed their financial stories but also opened their eyes to the great opportunities in agribusiness.

Reacting to a recent agitation by some youths who claimed they did not get commensurate benefits, the participants confirmed that those set of beneficiaries were those who showed truancy and less commitment to the programme because they believed it was free money. 

They confirmed that all their benefits were given to them in accordance with the profit made as contained in the terms and conditions for the programme, saying they got between four hundred thousand Naira to one point five million Naira per participant after the 2025 farming season.

Also, the General Manager, of YSJ Farms Limited,  Rotimi Omole  denied the allegation that some youths who registered for the scheme did not get their benefits.

Omole  described the allegation as misleading, false and distortion of the programme’s structure and operations.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Omole said that the programme was established to address spiralling youths unemployment, and encourage sustainable participation in agribusiness and not for exploitation.

The manager clarified that the sum of N100,000 paid last year by the participants who pioneered the scheme during its take-off phase in 2024 was a commitment fee approved by the management of the YSJ Farms to ensure seriousness, and long-term commitment from pioneer participants who voluntarily enrolled at the formative stage of the Bring Back the Youths in Agriculture initiative.

He stressed that new participants were never required to pay any commitment fee, maintaining that participation in the programme is free of charge for the new intakes.

Omole noted that the commitment fee was limited to the pioneer participants alone and should not be misconstrued as a recurring charge or a means of exploitation.

The manager explained that every money disbursed were sent to group leaders of each cluster and were shared among themselves based on commitment adding that the few youths who did not get the expected payment like their counterparts were those who failed to show commitment to the scheme.

BOLUWADE REAFFIRMS GREATER SUPPORT FOR FARMERS.

BOLUWADE REAFFIRMS GREATER SUPPORT FOR FARMERS.

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, has reiterated the commitment of the State Government to providing increased support for farmers and agricultural stakeholders in 2026, with the aim of strengthening food security and crashing the prices of food commodities.

Mr. Boluwade made this known at the first management meeting of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for the year, where he referenced the notable achievements already recorded by the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji–led administration in the agricultural sector.

He recalled that in recent years, the State Government has implemented several impactful programmes, including enhanced support for crop and livestock farmers, youth-focused agricultural empowerment initiatives, improved access to inputs, training and extension services, as well as strategic interventions aimed at boosting local food production and value chains. According to him, these efforts have contributed significantly to increased productivity, job creation and improved livelihoods across the state.

The Commissioner, however, charged management staff of the ministry and agricultural stakeholders not to dwell on past glory but to build on the existing successes and surpass previous achievements, stressing that the reward for performance is greater responsibility and more work.

He urged Directors and Heads of Departments to effectively communicate their visions to their subordinates and deliberately replicate themselves through mentoring and leadership development, noting that sustainable progress depends on continuity and teamwork.

Expressing optimism about the year ahead, Mr. Boluwade said 2026 would witness a drastic improvement in the economy, driven largely by increased agricultural output. He projected a future of food surplus and affordability that would ease the burden on the populace and give them a much-needed lease of life.

The Commissioner also called for a robust and harmonious working relationship among staff, urging high levels of commitment, dedication and team spirit, while describing 2026 as a year that would bring unprecedented blessings to the ministry and the state.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Babatope Ojo, expressed the readiness of the management and staff to continue supporting the Commissioner and the State Governor in consolidating on the gains already recorded in the agricultural sector.

Mr. Ojo reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to the vision of the current administration to further boost food security and strengthen support for farmers across Ekiti State.

*Rotimi Feyisina,*

*Information Officer,*

*NEWMAP/Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Ekiti State.*

Ojuawo Decorated with Prestigious Defence Phoenix Award.

Ojuawo Decorated with Prestigious Defence Phoenix Award.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, has been decorated with the Phoenix Award, the highest military honour in the Ministry of Defence, Nigeria.

The Phoenix Award symbolizes rising from adversity or obscurity to attain prominence. It is closely associated with recovery, innovation, excellence, and the maintenance of unity within military formations. 

The award is traditionally reserved for distinguished military veterans and serving officers, and is usually bestowed by the Military in recognition of exceptional service to the nation.

Hon. Ojuawo, who retired from the Nigerian Air Force as an Air Vice Marshal (Two-Star General) after an illustrious 37-year career, is a seasoned fighter pilot with extensive experience in war operations, combat missions, surveillance, and advanced military training both within and outside Nigeria.

Prior to his retirement, he served meritoriously as Director of Operations and Tactical Air Commanding Officer, Tactical air officer Command of the Nigerian Air Force, among several other strategic command positions, recording outstanding achievements throughout his service years.

The award ceremony was organised by the Nigerian Military as part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. The event was chaired by the  Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), OFR, and aimed at recognising and rewarding veterans and serving officers who demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism, and dedication in the discharge of their duties to the nation.

In his address, General Musa acknowledged Hon. Ojuawo’s exemplary performance and resilience from his early days as a commissioned officer until his retirement. He described him as a brave, diligent, honest, and meticulous officer whose records remain outstanding within the Nigerian military.

“With AVM Ojuawo on any assignment -be it rescue missions, combat operations, aerial surveillance, or even outright war—his records are remarkable and a source of pride to the Nigerian Military. He served in various formations with distinction, and by all our records, this award is well deserved,” the Defence Chief emphasised.

In his appreciation remarks, Hon. Ojuawo expressed profound gratitude to the military hierarchy for the honour, describing the award as a testament to his lifelong commitment and service to the nation.

“I am sincerely honoured to receive this award tonight in the presence of my wife. The Phoenix Award reflects my years of service to Nigeria. I say thank you for this great honour. It is also a renewed call to duty as I currently represent my people at the Green Chamber. I assure you that I will exceed this record of service in my constituency,” Hon. Ojuawo stated.

The Phoenix Award further reinforces Hon. Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi’s legacy of discipline, patriotism, and excellence qualities he continues to demonstrate in his legislative service to the people of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I. 

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

EKITI SET FOR INDOOR SPORTS REVOLUTION AS OYEBANJI FLOATS ULTRA MODERN COMPLEX IN ADO EKITI.

EKITI SET FOR INDOOR SPORTS REVOLUTION AS OYEBANJI FLOATS ULTRA MODERN COMPLEX IN ADO EKITI.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Ekiti State is stepping up the tempo in its sports renaissance with the ongoing construction of a state of the art Indoor Sports Complex in Ado Ekiti, a landmark project that further reinforces Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s BAO deliberate drive to deepen sports development and youth empowerment.

The ultra modern complex is designed as a multi purpose arena that will host a wide range of sporting activities including basketball, volleyball, handball, badminton, table tennis, gymnastics and chess, alongside combat and strength sports such as weightlifting, para weightlifting, boxing, judo, karate, kickboxing and kung fu. When completed, the facility is expected to serve as a breeding ground for grassroots talents, a high performance training centre and a venue fit for elite competitions.

Sports in Ekiti State have witnessed a massive transformation under BAO’s administration, a clear testament to the governor’s vision and game changing approach to development. A standout example is the wide improvement, rehabilitation and re equipping of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, which now stands tall as the home of Ekiti United FC and Ekiti Queens FC, both flying the state’s flag in the Nigeria Professional Football League and the women’s league. The revamped stadium has restored pride, improved match day experience and provided a solid pitch for talent showcase and competitive football.

Beyond sports, the Oyebanji administration has continued to record wide ranging infrastructural development across critical sectors, reflecting a holistic governance strategy. In the health sector, construction work on the 80 bed multipurpose facility at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital EKSUTH is progressing steadily. The project underscores the Ekiti State Government’s strong commitment to upgrading healthcare infrastructure and expanding access to quality medical services for residents.

Governor Oyebanji has remained consistent in making deliberate investments in people centred infrastructure, ensuring that no sector is left behind. From sports to health and other key areas of development, the administration’s footprint is visible, measurable and impactful, aligning seamlessly with its Shared Prosperity Agenda.

This is a clear call to Ekiti Kete to gear up with massive support and love, to keep believing in purposeful leadership and to continue standing solidly with Governor Oyebanji. As the gains of continuity become more evident, the people of Ekiti State must embrace the shared prosperity vision, sustain the momentum and support, mobilise and vote BAO once again to consolidate these achievements and secure a stronger future for the Land of Honour.

With the whistle blown and development in full flow, Ekiti is winning on all fronts on the pitch, in the hospital wards and across the state’s development scoreboard.

©️Olamide Akinwumi writes from Ado Ekiti.

Celebration and Hope Take Centre Stage as Information and Civic Orientation Department Ushers in a Promising New Year.

Celebration and Hope Take Centre Stage as Information and Civic Orientation Department Ushers in a Promising New Year.

By: Asubiojo G. O.

The Information and Civic Orientation Department of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government on Monday ushered in the new administrative year in an atmosphere of joy, thanksgiving, and renewed hope, as management and staff converged for a colourful celebration marked by spirited praises, vibrant dancing, and heartfelt fellowship.

The occasion radiated unity and cultural elegance, with staff appearing in outstanding modern and traditional attire, beautifully complemented by distinctive headgears and caps. Under the leadership of the Director, Mr. Asubiojo, voices were lifted in praise and thanksgiving to God Almighty, acknowledging His grace, mercy, and divine protection throughout 2025, and for ushering the department into a promising new year in sound health and renewed opportunities.

Speaking at the event, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, commended the department for its strong spirit of unity, cooperation, and mutual understanding. She described the gathering as a clear reflection of internal harmony, applauding the collective gratitude to God and the warm fellowship shared during the celebration.

Mrs. Akinbobola further charged staff to enhance their official efficiency and productivity by upgrading their professional qualifications. Drawing from her humble beginnings, she encouraged staff to remain steadfast in faith, emphasizing the power of absolute trust in God. She also assured the department that, given its exceptional performance—being one of the best in the Local Government—the provision of a more conducive, expansive, and aesthetically pleasing office space would be accorded top priority.

Delivering a pragmatic address on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, the Surveyor-General, Mrs. Adelola, expressed deep satisfaction with the unity and love displayed among members of the department. She described the atmosphere as impressive and motivating, urging staff to remain committed and responsive to their duties, just as they had demonstrated in previous years. She further assured that the request for a larger office space to accommodate the hardworking staff of the department would be presented to the proactive and kind-hearted Chairman for objective consideration.

In a collective response, staff members demonstrated remarkable camaraderie through cheerful interactions, humour, and positive engagement. The opportunity was also used to respectfully appeal for a more spacious and comfortable office environment to further enhance productivity in the new year.

Mr. Adedipe Olakitan, a benevolent staff member, rendered gratitude to the Holy Trinity for the success of the gathering, expressing confidence that the department would attain greater heights in the year ahead. He attributed this optimism to the efficiency, effectiveness, and brilliance of the Director.

Also speaking, Barrister Wale Fajuyigbe, a highly professional and articulate moderator, expressed delight at the occasion and appreciated Mr. Asubiojo for his inclusive leadership style and consistent encouragement of staff, both in official duties and personal development. He described the Director as morally supportive, accessible, and people-centred.

Mrs. Omolayo Okeowo expressed profound gratitude for her posting to the department, noting that her administrative focus and social life had gained renewed purpose and direction since joining the team.

In his characteristic manner, Mr. Augustine Tope offered prayers for increased love, divine grace, sound health, and excellent vision for all members of the department, expressing hope for even greater performance than the previous year.

Reflecting on his professional journey, Mr. Afolabi Sunday spoke of his long-standing relationship with the Director, stating that he had no regrets working in the department, having witnessed tangible achievements rooted in love, teamwork, and dedication over the years.

The NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole, praised the establishment of the department and its notable achievements since inception. He commended the Director and the HLA for their unwavering support and commitment, describing the department—despite being one of the newest—as outstanding and officially impressive. He offered prayers for the Director’s elevation and for continued growth and upliftment of the department.

Similarly, Prince Adekunle expressed excitement and delight at the occasion, offering prayers for sustained excellence and greater achievements for the department.

The Deputy Director, Mrs. Salawu Esther, described the day as one that would remain eternally memorable in her life. She appreciated her colleagues for their love, dedication, and commitment to duty, while giving special commendation to the Director, whom she described as selfless, humane, altruistic, and exemplary in leadership.

In his closing remarks, the Director of the Department, Mr. Asubiojo, offered profound thanksgiving and adoration to God for His unwavering support over the years. He appreciated staff for their diligence, unity, and collective effort in turning vision into reality, expressing strong confidence that the new year would usher in greater excellence and glory.

The celebration concluded in a relaxed and refreshing atmosphere, featuring assorted fruit-flavoured wines, soft drinks, palm wine, sumptuous meals, snacks, and beverages. Music, singing, dancing, laughter, and warm conversations filled the air, making the event a memorable landmark in the history of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

As the echoes of praise gradually gave way to quiet reflections, the gathering stood as more than a celebration—it became a declaration of unity, faith, and renewed purpose. Anchored by gratitude for the past and strengthened by hope for the future, the Information and Civic Orientation Department steps confidently into the new year, poised to deepen its impact, elevate service delivery, and write yet another inspiring chapter in the progressive journey of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

Court Halts Installation of Yusuf Musa Opeyemi as Aro of Igbemo Ekiti.

Court Halts Installation of Yusuf Musa Opeyemi as Aro of Igbemo Ekiti.

...Ijomu Development Council Urges Ekiti Govt to Caution Onigbemo-in-Council.

The Ekiti State High Court sitting in Ado Ekiti has ordered the suspension of the proposed installation of Yusuf Musa Opeyemi Kalamu, a civil servant, as the High Chief Aro of Igbemo Ekiti, following a chieftaincy dispute over alleged violations of custom and tradition.

The order followed an application for an interlocutory injunction filed by members of the Aro Chieftaincy Ruling House, seeking to restrain traditional authorities and other parties from proceeding with the installation pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The claimants, Engr. Adeniyi Ige Kehinde and Mr. Adeniyi Pius Ojo, instituted the suit for themselves and on behalf of the Agbo Ule Aro Lagbaye Ruling House of Igbemo Ekiti. They maintained that their family is the rightful ruling house entitled to produce the Aro of Igbemo Ekiti in line with long-established customs.

Those listed as defendants include Alhaji Ogunmilade Yusuf, Mr. Yusuf Musa Opeyemi, and the Onigbemo of Igbemo Ekiti, Oba Daramola Adewumi, sued for himself and on behalf of the Onigbemo-in-Council.

The dispute arose from the alleged attempt to install the second defendant, a son of the first defendant, as High Chief Aro by the Onigbemo, a move the claimants said was carried out without due regard to customary procedures and the Ekiti State Ministry of Chieftaincy and Home Affairs Law. They insisted that the Aro chieftaincy title is exclusive to the Aro family and not the Ogunmilade Okunola Bada family.

In granting the interim relief, the court restrained the Onigbemo from taking any step to install the proposed Aro until the substantive issues before it are fully determined. The court also directed all parties to maintain the status quo to preserve peace and prevent actions that could complicate the resolution of the dispute.

Meanwhile, the Ijomu Development Council has called on the Ekiti State Government to caution the Onigbemo-in-Council over actions capable of escalating tension in the community. The council urged the state authorities, particularly the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, to ensure strict compliance with court orders and established customs.

The Secretary-General of the Ijomu Development Council, Amb. Ezekiel Ibikunle Jasper, said the court order had helped to ease tension in Ijomu Quarter. He appealed to residents to remain calm and warned them to stay away from the Onigbemo’s palace and the Ogunmilade compound to maintain peace and order.

Counsel to the claimants, Christopher Omokhodion Omokhafe, expressed confidence that the court would give full consideration to the historical and customary issues raised in the suit, urging the people of Ijomu to remain calm as the court remains the final arbiter.

The court has directed the defendants to enter appearance within the stipulated time, warning that failure to do so could result in proceedings continuing in their absence. The matter is expected to come up for further hearing as the court undertakes a detailed examination of the competing claims, a development observers say could shape the future handling of Aro chieftaincy succession disputes in Igbemo Ekiti.