Service, Sacrifice and Patriotism Take Centre Stage as Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Observes Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

Service, Sacrifice and Patriotism Take Centre Stage as Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Observes Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

By: Asubiojo G. O.

On Thursday, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government joined the heartbeat of the nation in a solemn yet stirring remembrance—honouring the fallen heroes whose lives became the price paid for Nigeria’s unity, oneness in diversity and enduring national vision.

The ceremony was more than a civic observance; it was a sacred moment of pause—a time when gratitude spoke louder than words. It honoured gallant officers and soldiers who laid down their lives during the three-year Nigerian Civil War, those who returned bearing permanent scars of service, and the surviving veterans who continue to live as moving testaments of courage, loyalty and patriotism.

The civic space came alive with dignified presence as Honourable Remi Alade, representing Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government; Honourable Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday, Chairman of Ifedara LCDA; Chief Alade Adewale of Araromi LCDA; and members of the Traditional Council, led by its Chairman, His Royal Majesty, Oba Jacob Boluwade Adebiyi, the Alare of Are Ekiti, gathered in unity of purpose and memory.

Speaking with emotion and conviction on behalf of his colleagues, Honourable Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday paid glowing tribute to the fallen heroes, describing their sacrifices as uncommon acts of selflessness, altruism and humane devotion to the survival and unity of Nigeria. He praised surviving veterans for keeping alive the flame of patriotism and national cohesion, noting that their continued existence reminds the nation that unity must be consciously preserved.

He further commended the pragmatic and proactive efforts of political leaders within the Local Government in responding to the needs of living heroes, drawing inspiration from the leadership example of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) in prioritising veterans’ welfare.

In a tangible expression of gratitude and responsibility, a sum of ₦200,000 was donated on behalf of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government and the two LCDAs, accompanied by assurances of sustained care and support for members of the Armed Forces.

Adding a royal voice to the remembrance, His Royal Majesty, Oba Jacob Boluwade Adebiyi (JP), The Alare of Are Ekiti,described the sacrifices of the civil war heroes as pivotal in preventing the disintegration of Nigeria and preserving the nation as a united entity. On behalf of the Traditional Council, the monarch donated ₦50,000 in honour and support of the veterans.

Earlier, the Local Government Legion Chairman, Major Jide Ologunde, expressed deep appreciation for the generosity shown, noting that continued financial support remains vital to the welfare and dignity of veterans, especially amid prevailing global economic challenges.

The emotional peak of the event was the laying of wreaths—a powerful moment marked by dignified military drills, silent salutes and heavy hearts. Each step and salute echoed remembrance, gratitude and an unbroken promise never to forget.

Heads of Local Government Administration for the Local Government and the two LCDAs, alongside Directors and staff, were also present, lending institutional presence to a day rich in meaning and national consciousness.

The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government was solemn yet uplifting—a gentle reminder that while heroes may fall, their sacrifices live on, inspiring generations to uphold service, sacrifice and patriotism.

Lest we forget.

Their courage endures.

Nigeria stands.

EKITI APC TO INAUGURATE CONSENSUS COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION.

EKITI APC TO INAUGURATE CONSENSUS COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State is set to inaugurate a Consensus Committee for the upcoming Local Government election.

The committee, comprising party stakeholders and leaders, aims to ensure a peaceful and inclusive selection of candidates for the election.

The APC's consensus approach seeks to promote unity and cooperation among party members, strengthening the party's chances of success at the polls.

Date: Friday 16 January 2026

Venue: Party State Secretariat at Ajilosun, Ado Ekiti

Time: 11.00am prompt. 

Details of the committee's composition are as follows:

STATE CONSENSUS MEMBERS:

1. Hon Samuel Abejide - Chairman

2. High Chief Olajide Awe - Co-Chairman

3. Mrs Caroline Eegunlusi - Member

4. High Chief Mrs. Ronke Okusanya - Member

5. Hon. Abimbola Femi Awe - Member

6. Hon. Mrs. Biodun Adewale - Member

7. Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye (Representing House of Assembly) - Member

8. Mr. Olusegun Ojo (Representing ALGON)

9. Barrister Akinwale Adeyeye - Secretary

CHAIRMEN OF CONSENSUS COMMITTEE AT THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND LCDA LEVEL:

1. Barr Tosin Oshundahunsi - Ijero LG

2. Dr. Femi Thomas - Eso-Obe LCDA

3. Hon. Ojo Atibioke - Irewolede LCDA

4. Mr. Seun Omole - Irene LCDA

5. Hon. Segun Adelugba - Ikole LG

6. Mrs. Fisayo Aborisade - Ikole West LCDA

7. Prince Oladele Adeniyi - Ajoni LCDA

8. Hon. Nelson Omotayo - Kajola LCDA

9. Mr. Onile Idowu Isaiah - Ise/Orun LCDA

10. Hon. Sikira Apolola - Ekiti South-West LG

11. Hon. Oluwole Ariyo - Igbara Odo/Ogotun LCDA

12. Prof. Femi Akinwumi - Ekiti West LG

13. Barr Wale Fapohunda SAN - Okemesi/Ido-Ile LCDA

14. Hon. Johnson Oyebola - Ekameta LCDA

15. Mr. Ojo Fidelis Olaniyi - Ado LG

16. Hon. Ademola Adetola - Ado Central LCDA

17. Hon. Sunday Ibitoye - Ado North LCDA

18. Hon. Dele Owoju - Ado West LCDA

19. Hon. Dele Ogunsakin - Ekiti East LG

20. Mr. Bayo Awodumila - Ekiti South East LCDA

21. Chief Akin Ogunyemi (Otiko) - Irepodun/Ifelodun LG

22. Prince Sunday Owolabi - Araromi LCDA

23. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun - Ifedara LCDA

24. Hon. Yomi Ayorinde - Ido/Osi LG

25. Hon. Moji Aregbesola - Isokan LCDA

26. Hon. Tope Longe - Oye LG

27. Hon. Reuben Awoyemi - Ifesowapo LCDA

28. Chief (Mrs) Kemisola Olaleye - Ifeloju LCDA

29. Mr. Maxwell Bamisile - Ayede LCDA

30. Hon. Bose Olowookere - Efon LG

31. Hon. Folorunso Olabode - Ilejemeje

32. Hon. Kayode Babade Ikere LG

33. Hon. Omoyeni Peter - Ikere West LCDA

34. Hon. Oladimeji Ayegboka Gbonyin LG

35. Mr. Deji Fadunmiye - Ayekire LCDA

36. Hon. Sunkanmi Onipede - Moba LG

37. Mr. Segun Kekereowo - Ero LCDA

38. Hon. Febisola Adewale - Emure LG 

All above persons are to be sworn in tomorrow. 

Signed:

Segun Dele Dipe 

Publicity Secretary,

All Progressives Congress, Ekiti State Chapter

Friday 15 January 2026

EKSG harps on inclusion, trains 100 PWDs in six vocational areas.

EKSG harps on  inclusion, trains 100 PWDs in six vocational areas.

In a bid to further promote inclusive empowerment and sustainable livelihoods for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Ekiti State governor , Mr Biodun Oyebanji has flagged off  an eight - month intensive training and empowerment programme for PWDs in six key vocations including Tailoring, Catering services, Shoe-making, Hairdressing, ICT and Soap-making that will give the beneficiaries sustainable sources of livelihood.

Disclosing this during the flag-off of Skills Acquisition/ Vocational Training for 100 PWDs at the Ekiti State Skills Acquisition Centre in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, said the training marks another significant milestone in the government’s on-going determinations to empower people with disabilities through innovation, skills acquisition, and economic opportunities in the drive to fully achieve the shared prosperity mantra of the administration.

The training programme was flagged off by the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs Tayo Adeola. 

Princess Agboola reiterated the commitment of Governor Oyebanji at ensuring that no one is left behind in the drive towards ensuring that everyone lives a good life, stressing that the training goes beyond conventional training but something that will add value to the lives of the beneficiaries.

While stressing that the training was a testament to the government’s belief that disability is not inability, the Special Adviser said the essence of imparting the necessary impetus required by the PWDs to achieve their dreams of living an economically viable lives devoid of reliance on anyone, is to position them to contribute to the economic development of Ekiti state.

Agboola, who also used the opportunity to thank Governor Oyebanji for his untiring commitment to the empowerment of PWDs, added that with the right support and access to opportunities, persons with disabilities can become key players in the state’s economy by creating jobs and building businesses aimed to transform lives and communities.

She also disclosed that the beneficiaries will receive stipends for the duration of the training while start-up kits will also be distributed to them after completion of the training.

“We are flagging off a new set of PWDs who will be participating in this year's training as we all know that his Excellency, Governor Oyebanji is passionate about shared prosperity, shared prosperity in terms of empowering Ekiti citizens such that citizens are economically balanced and stable and that is what's happening here particularly for persons with disabilities. So many times, people would see persons with disabilities as people who should be dependent on other people, His Excellency does not sees them that way, he sees them as people who can be empowered, who can contribute meaningfully to the economy of the states, so as a result, he mandated that we have to keep training them. 

“And, you know, we tried with 30 people in 2023. It's worked, 2024, worked, and 2025, we're able to do 60 and this year, we are doing one hundred.

“We can actually maximize the full potential of this place and ensure we have more people coming for the training. So this year, we are training 100 people for eight months, in the past we were doing six months, they will do three months here and three months for apprenticeship, but for this year there's a little switch here, they'll be doing five months then they will complete the remaining with somebody who is a master in their skill. She stated.

Speaking on behalf of other beneficiaries who were drawn from the 16 local government areas of the state, Miss Bunmi Afeniforo appreciated the governor for the programme which aimed to provide the platform for them to be self-employed reliant and sustainable.

At the event were the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs Tayo Adeola; Special Adviser, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr John Ekundayo, Special Adviser BPP, Mr J.B Folorunso; Permanent Secretary Ministry of Information and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

Also present at the event  were the State Chairperson of Ekiti Hairdressing Association,  Alhaji Mrs Bello; Chairman, Ekiti State Shoe Making Association, as well as Special Assistants and Senior Special Assistants in the office of SESI.

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

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

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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. 

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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. 

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

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‎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. 

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‎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. 

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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. 

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‎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. 

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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