Ogungbemi Honors Fallen Heroes at 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

Ogungbemi Honors Fallen Heroes at 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, FCPA, Executive Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area, on Tuesday joined fellow council chairmen and other top government functionaries to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, paying glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes.

The solemn ceremony, held in honor of members of the Armed Forces who paid the supreme price in defense of the nation, featured the traditional wreath-laying in remembrance of officers and men who fought gallantly to preserve the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Nigerian state.

By laying the wreath, Amb. Prince Ogungbemi reaffirmed the commitment of the Ajoni LCDA administration to recognizing the courage, patriotism, and selfless sacrifices of the nation’s military personnel whose valor continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman emphasized the importance of sustained and inclusive welfare programs for the families of fallen heroes. He called on all tiers of government to prioritize long-term support systems for the dependants left behind by the nation’s defenders.

“We must go beyond ceremonial remembrance to practical responsibility. Honoring our fallen heroes also means ensuring that their families are adequately supported through sustainable welfare initiatives,” Amb. Prince Ogungbemi stated.

“It is a collective duty of government at all levels to protect the legacy of our heroes by caring for those they left behind.”

The Chairman further reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support for policies and programs that promote the welfare of veterans and the families of deceased service personnel.

The Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigeria’s military in the defense of peace and national unity. Amb. Prince Ogungbemi reiterated that the memories and legacies of the fallen heroes must be honored not only on Remembrance Day but continuously through meaningful actions and policies.

Signed:

Prince Adeola Alex Fafure

Director, Information & Civic Orientation

Ajoni Local Council Development Area

Ekiti State

OYEBANJI CELEBRATES EX-OSUN GOV BISI AKANDE ON 87TH BIRTHDAY.

OYEBANJI CELEBRATES EX-OSUN GOV BISI AKANDE ON 87TH BIRTHDAY.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande, on his 87th birthday describing him as a rare gift to Nigeria whose virtues should be emulated by all and sundry.

The Governor,  in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, eulogized Chief Akande for his selfless service to Osun State, the Yoruba race and the entire Nigeria.

He noted that Chief Akande is a true and eloquent definition of a patriot, a nationalist, a democrat and a worthy statesman that must be emulated by contemporary leaders.

The Ekiti Governor said Chief Akande remains a true disciple of the late political sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and learnt the rope of progressive politics and people - centred policies which are the hallmarks of his public service. 

According to Governor Oyebanji, Chief Akande brought altruism, selflessness and integrity to bear on his public service, adding that he excelled in old Oyo State where he served as Secretary to the State Government and later as Deputy Governor and in Osun State where he served  as Governor between 1999 and 2003, as well as other positions he has held in the party. 

Describing the octogenarian as a distinguished party man, the Governor noted that Chief Akande’s sterling qualities made the party faithful to entrust him with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the Interim National Chairman.

Governor Oyebanji credited the birthday celebrant with being one of the leading lights that supervised the merger of three major legacy parties that transformed into APC which marked the beginning of a historic transfer of power at the national level from a ruling party to an opposition party for the first time in Nigeria.

He stressed that Chief Akande's integrity and experience have made him a reference point and a relevant repository of knowledge whose counsel is needed at any critical in the nation's political trajectory.

Governor Oyebanji prayed God to grant Chief Akande more years on the surface of the earth, good health and sound mind for him to contribute more to the development of Nigeria and to continue to mentor the younger generation of leaders. 

“The Government and good people of Ekiti State salute this great leader - Baba Awon Omo Kekeke as Baba Akande is known - on his 87th birthday and pray the God grants him good health, strength and excellent to continue to make significant contributions to nation building”, the statement added.

Omo Aj’orosun Club Ibadan Holds Maiden Christmas Carol.

Omo Aj’orosun Club Ibadan Holds Maiden Christmas Carol.

...Members Urged to Sustain Unity, Faith and Spirit of Giving.

The Omo Aj’orosun Club, Ibadan, on Tuesday held its maiden Christmas carol, marking a historic milestone as members, families and friends converged to celebrate the yuletide in an atmosphere of worship, reflection and fellowship.

The Christmas carol, held on December 23, 2025, was themed “Whoever Sows to God Reaps It” and attracted an impressive turnout, creating a vibrant and spiritually uplifting ambience. The event featured captivating renditions by various choirs, whose soul-stirring performances resonated deeply with the audience.

Participants were further inspired by nine impactful lessons delivered by prominent members of the club, centring on faith, generosity, service and the core values of the Christmas season. Attendees described the sessions as thought-provoking and aligned with the spiritual significance of the celebration.

The programme was sponsored by a club member and immediate past president, Hon. Bimbo Akanbi, with the support of the club’s leadership. Speakers at the event commended the sponsor for his generosity and encouraged members to remain steadfast in unity and service to God and humanity.

The festive mood was heightened by the appearance of Father Christmas, distribution of gifts and the provision of assorted delicacies, which kept guests in high spirits throughout the celebration.

Members expressed appreciation to the sponsor and organisers for the successful hosting of the maiden carol, describing it as a memorable gathering that strengthened bonds and reinforced shared values.

They expressed optimism that the Christmas carol would be sustained as an annual tradition, serving as a platform for spiritual renewal, encouragement and togetherness within the club and the wider community.

Oyebanji Salutes Nigerian Soldiers, Commends Tinubu for siting army base in Ekiti.

Oyebanji Salutes Nigerian Soldiers, Commends Tinubu for siting army base in Ekiti.

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has saluted the men and officers of the Nigerian Army for posing as exemplars of patriotism and courage with the sacrificial way they defended the territorial integrity of nation at the expense of their lives.

The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for siting 148 Army Battalion Base in Ekiti to reinforce security, describing this as a gesture well acknowledged and respected by the citizens.

Oyebanji gave the praises on Thursday, during the grand finale of the 2026 edition of the Armed Forces Remembrance and Celebration Day, held at Ekitiparapo Pavilion, Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital.

The grandiose military ceremony featured  parade by officers and men of the Nigerian Army, inspection of the guard of honour by the governor and laying of wreaths by high ranking figures to venerate the memories of the departed  soldiers. 

Speaking at the occasion, Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, said this celebration shouldn't  be the end of Nigerians' respect and veneration for the war generals, veterans and the dead soldiers , who fought gallantly and paid the ultimate price to make the country an indissoluble entity. 

Going down memory lane, Oyebanji contextualized Nigerian Army's act of unmatched patriotism from the way they fought virulently  during the civil war that ended in 1970 and the multifaceted fights they are still  executing to foster peace and unity among Nigerians. 

Oyebanji added that the citizens owed those who paid the supreme price a debt of gratitude for laying down their lives for the country to maintain its  peace and rating at the global scene.

"Our fallen heroes committed their lives and paid the supreme price so that we may live in peace, pursue our aspirations and enjoy the blessings of fundamental freedom and stable democratic rule. 

"We owe them a debt of gratitude that may never be truly repaid, but which we must continually honour through our actions and collective responsibility. 

"As we remember our fallen heroes today, we are equally counting the losses and gains of the war. The loss could be viewed from the point of human lives and property, the gain is in the  unity and sovereignty, our oneness that affirms Nigeria as an indivisible entity.

"The courage, patriotism and unwavering commitment of these our past leaders remain a shining example of selfless service".

They Governor  said Nigerians recognized the agony and pains of the families of the fallen heroes, praising their enduring strength and courage in the face of these harrowing adversities.

The governor said his  government is incurably committed to providing  all necessary impetuses that will bolster the performances of security agencies in the discharge of their duties, particularly tackling any insecurity surge and nip it in the bud as promptly as possible. 

Oyebanji said the task of sustaining the tempo of relative peace being savoured remained the onerous responsibility of all citizens, by being vigilant and offer veracious information to the security architectures to operate without impediments. 

"I wish to charge the security agencies in Ekiti to continue to ensure the security of lives and property through their proactive measures and predictive threat detection. We are determined as a state to give you the needed support in attaining your target.

"Ekiti has been adjudged the most peaceful in the country and as such, we appeal that the peace should be sustained. Ekiti is our home State, we live and work here and we must therefore work assiduously to protect the state through collective security and vigilance. This is a service to all of us and the unborn generations".

Dignitaries at the occasion were: Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, Chief Judge of Ekiti State,Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, Commander, 148 Batallion, Col S. U Yunusa, Chairman of Legions, Col Abdurasaq Atoki (rtd),Chairman, Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, Ewi of Ado Ekiti,Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe,  Chairmen of Local Governments, security chiefs , commissioners, special Advisers, civil servants, legions, among others

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.