Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter Disowns Fake Group, Denounces Fraudulent Activities.

Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter Disowns Fake Group, Denounces Fraudulent Activities.

The attention of the Ekiti State Chapter of Afenifere, led by Elder Jonathan Yemi Alade and Secretary, Chief Mrs. Ronke Okusanya, has been drawn to a malicious and fraudulent claim by a group purporting to be members and leaders of Afenifere. This group, led by one Olayemi Olajuyinmi, a jobless and fake doctor parading himself as a pastor with no fixed address, has been claiming membership and leadership of Afenifere.

Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter Wishes to State the Following:

We categorically disassociate ourselves from this group of political opportunists and charlatans. They are not members of Afenifere, nor do they have any authority to speak on our behalf. Their claims are baseless, and their actions are a clear attempt to hijack the good name of Afenifere for their selfish and pecuniary interests.

The Facts:

- The group in question is not recognized by Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter.

- They are not listed in our register, and their claims of membership and leadership are false.

- Their actions are a blatant attempt to ride on the coat-tails of Afenifere's reputation and goodwill.

Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter's Position:

We wish to reiterate that Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter is firmly rooted in its philosophy and principles. We are affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC), and we unequivocally support the candidacy of Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. We do not have any relationship with any other political party, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which appears to be the platform these impostors are using to perpetuate their deceit.

Conclusion:

We urge the public to disregard the claims of this fake group and to note that Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter will not be swayed by the antics of these political opportunists. We will continue to uphold our principles and values, and we will not compromise our integrity for any reason.

Signed:

Biodun Akin-Fasae

Publicity Secretary

Afenifere Ekiti State Chapter

January 20th, 2026.

Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji, Democracy’s Omoluabi Choice for Continuity and Shared Prosperity.

Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji, Democracy’s Omoluabi Choice for Continuity and Shared Prosperity.

By Olamide Akinwumi.

With the Independent National Electoral Commission opening the space for campaign activities ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State, the political atmosphere is gradually warming up, as expected in a thriving democracy where ideas, records and visions are subjected to public scrutiny.

As parties roll out their plans and aspirants seek the people’s mandate, one fact stands tall and clear to many Ekiti citizens. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) remains the most qualified, tested and trusted leader to continue steering the state on the path of progressive governance, shared prosperity and sustainable development.

Since assuming office in 2022, Governor Oyebanji has governed with calmness, humility and deep respect for democratic values. His leadership style, widely described as consultative and inclusive, reflects the true Omoluabi spirit for which Ekiti people are known, leadership anchored on integrity, empathy, diligence and service to the people.

The administration has recorded steady interventions across key sectors. In the health sector, the Oyebanji administration has strengthened healthcare delivery through the rehabilitation and equipping of primary health centres across the state, ensuring improved access to quality medical services, particularly at the grassroots. These interventions have brought relief to rural dwellers and reinforced government’s commitment to the wellbeing of the people.

Agriculture has also received renewed attention under the current administration. Through strategic support for farmers, provision of inputs and encouragement of agribusiness, the government has boosted food production, enhanced rural livelihoods and created opportunities for employment, especially among youths.

Education, a sector central to Ekiti’s identity, has witnessed steady interventions. From school rehabilitation to teacher recruitment and improved learning environments, the administration has continued to invest in human capital development, reaffirming its belief that education remains the backbone of sustainable development.

Infrastructure development under Governor Oyebanji has followed a people focused and balanced approach. Road construction and rehabilitation projects across urban and rural communities have improved connectivity, eased movement and stimulated economic activities. These projects, spread across different parts of the state, underscore a commitment to equitable development rather than selective progress.

Beyond physical projects, the administration has earned commendation for promoting good governance. Transparency, fiscal responsibility and respect for institutions have strengthened public trust, while the prevailing atmosphere of peace and stability in the state is often attributed to the governor’s inclusive and mature leadership.

Workers’ welfare remains a major pillar of the Oyebanji government. Regular payment of salaries, promotions and constructive engagement with labour unions have boosted morale within the civil service. Pensioners and senior citizens have also benefited from deliberate efforts to address pension and gratuity obligations, restoring dignity to those who devoted their productive years to the service of the state.

In line with democratic ideals of inclusiveness, the government has ensured that persons living with disabilities are not left behind, providing support and opportunities for participation in governance. Youth empowerment has equally received attention through skills acquisition programmes, employment initiatives and support for entrepreneurship.

In sports, Ekiti has witnessed renewed investment in talent development, competitions and facilities, using sports as a tool for unity, empowerment and positive engagement. This renewed focus has provided young people with platforms to discover and showcase their talents while fostering social cohesion across the state.

As Ekiti approaches another defining electoral moment, democracy once again places power in the hands of the people. Stakeholders and the great peoples of Ekiti State believe Governor Oyebanji embodies the Omoluabi values Ekiti cherishes and has translated those values into tangible development rather than empty rhetoric.

With ongoing projects and reforms across key sectors, calls for continuity have grown louder. Supporters argue that sustaining the current pace of development requires stability and consistency in leadership.

As campaigns commence, Ekiti people needs to peacefully and massively exercise their democratic right once again, as they did in 2022, by renewing the mandate of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, a leader many regard as steady, sincere and dependable.

In a democracy where leadership is a trust bestowed by the people, Oyebanji’s record continues to position him as an Omoluabi governor and a compelling choice for continuity, stability and shared prosperity in Ekiti State.

Writes by Olamide Akinwumi from Ise-Ekiti. 

Director of Sky Media Consult 

Stakeholders Engagement on Nigeria for Women Programme - Scale-Up (NFWP-SU) held in Efon Alaaye.

‎Stakeholders Engagement on Nigeria for Women Programme  - Scale-Up (NFWP-SU) held in Efon Alaaye.

...Targets Grassroots Economic Empowerment.

‎Ekiti State has taken a step toward strengthening women’s economic participation by commencing the implementation of the Nigeria for Women Programme (NFWP- Scale Up) in Efon Alaaye, a World Bank–supported initiative designed to boost entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and sustainable livelihoods of grassroots women.

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‎Speaking at the Stakeholders Engagement, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, said the project aims at institutionalising Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) and other platforms for women's economic empowerment as well as enhance the economic opportunities of unbanked women.

She remarked that the programme which will be implemented in 3 LGAs - Efon, Gbonyin/Ayekire and Moba is strictly non-partisan, noting that it belongs to women across all political parties.

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‎According to her, the initiative is jointly funded by the Ekiti State Government and the World Bank, describing women’s empowerment as a direct investment in nation-building.

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‎“Empowering women is as good as empowering the entire nation. This programme is not about politics; it is about improving lives and strengthening our economy from the grassroots,” Babafemi said.

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‎She explained that beneficiaries would be organised into Women Affinity Groups (WAGs); small clusters of like minded entrepreneurial or business women aged 18 years and above, with members of each group  meeting weekly and contributing savings at an affordable level . The WAGs' members will then be supported with training  and  Community Investment Fund (CIF) for their businesses.

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‎The commissioner added that the programme is aimed at improving economic opportunities of grassroots women.

She said the success of the initiative in the implementing LGAs would facilitate its replication in other LGAs of the state.

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‎Speaking on behalf of the Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, the Senior Special Assistant on Advocacy to the Wife of the Governor, Dr Eunice Fasanmi, reteirated the First Lady’s passion for women's development and her commitment to the success of Nigeria for Women Programme in Ekiti State.

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‎Adding that  Dr Oyebanji is deeply committed to the programme, given its numerous socio-economic benefits, urging women leaders at all levels to mobilise women of like minds to take full advantage of the initiative. 

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‎Dr Fasanmi assured participants of the First Lady’s continuous support toward the success of the initiative.

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‎In her remarks, the Ekiti State Project Coordinator, Mrs Oluwatoyin Familoni, noted that the Nigeria for Women Programme had already been implemented across the six geo-political zones of the country, with Ogun State representing the South-West during the maiden phase.

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‎She described Ekiti’s inclusion in the scale-up phase as a major opportunity, urging beneficiaries to demonstrate full commitment so that the combined efforts of the state government and the World Bank would yield lasting results.

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‎Mrs Familoni disclosed that about 34 states have keyed into the programme nationwide, adding that extensive sensitisation had already been carried out with strategic meetings with traditional Leaders and Key stakeholders in Efon Alaye. 

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‎She said each local government was given a target of 1,200 WAGs, with a minimum of 20 women per group.

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‎“The level of commitment shown by participants will determine how much they benefit from the programme,” she said.

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‎Providing further insights into the project, Mrs Opeoluwa Asoro, representing the Ogun State Project Coordinator, reiterated that the initiative has no political undertone and is open to all businesswomen in Efon Alaaye who meet the age requirement.

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‎She said the programme offers women access to low-interest loans, shielding them from exploitative, high-interest credit facilities, noting that the transparent and accountable scheme would also provide business management training, alongside financial and equipment support.

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‎Mrs Asoro explained that the intervention would be implemented in three phases, during which beneficiaries would be trained on effective financial management and business growth strategies, stressing the importance of discipline, sincerity and collective responsibility among group members.

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‎Also speaking, the Director-General/Senior Special Assistant, Office of Transformation Service Delivery, Dr John Ekundayo, alongside the Obanla of Efon Alaaye and High Chief Olawole Oni, admonished women in the local government to ensure that the required number of participants is met.

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‎They stressed that full participation would position Efon Alaaye as a model for other local governments in the state.

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‎On her part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olusola Adeluyi, congratulated Efon Local Government on being selected as a beneficiary of the project. 

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‎Speaking on behalf of women in Efon Alaaye, Chief Mrs Ronke Okusanya highlighted the importance of economic empowerment but emphasised that its success depends largely on strong commitment from all stakeholders.

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‎She called on women across the local government to fully embrace the programme, assuring facilitators that Efon Alaaye would record a successful outing.

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‎“We are determined to take full advantage of this opportunity. Women in Efon Local Government are ready and committed,” she said.

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‎Chief Mrs Okusanya added that the expected number of participants in the local government would be completed before the 2nd of next month, in line with the programme’s target timeline.

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‎The event attracted several community leaders including representatives of non-governmental organisations, New Generation for Girls and Women Development Initiatives (NIGWAD), represented by Mrs Bimbo Aladejare and Balm of Gilead Foundation (BIGIF), represented by Mr Nelson Akelere.

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‎Others in attendance were the Chief Whip, Ekiti State House of Assembly, representing Efon Alaaye, Hon. Bose Olowokere; Director-General, Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs Olawunmi Famuyiwa; Chairman, Efon Local Government, Hon. Segun Afolabi; Director, WAOH Project, Dr (Mrs) Dairo; and the Alaaye of Efon Kingdom, represented by Olori Roseline Aladejare among others.

APC RARING TO GO!

APC RARING TO GO!

...as INEC releases timeline for 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election Campaign.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), has assured that it is raring to go, as the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC announces the commencement of campaign timeline in Ekiti State. 

In accordance with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, the campaign period will begin on January 21, 2026, which marks 150 days before the polling day, and will conclude 24 hours before election day.

State Publicity Secretary of the ruling Party, Segun Dipe said being highly disciplined and focused, APC is committed to conducting a peaceful, issue-driven, and inclusive campaign "that will further showcase our vision and agenda for the development of Ekiti State."

As for the chances of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji who is the candidate of the party, Dipe expressed confidence in his re-election bid, citing his achievements and the support of Ekiti stakeholders. 

"Governor Oyebanji, who is known by all as BAO, is the most qualified, the most competent and the candidate to beat by all other the contestants, having been praised for his transparency, inclusivity, and commitment to development. 

The governor has retained his position in budget transparency for six consecutive quarters and has engaged with various stakeholders to address community needs.

"We urge all Oyebanji's supporters, APC stakeholders, and the people of Ekiti State to take note of the INEC announcement and participate duly in the democratic process by receiving the APC campaign train well, when it gets to them, Dipe said. 

‎Hon. Bimpe Adeleke Empowers Ward B Residents with Tools, Cash in Ijero-Ekiti.

‎Hon. Bimpe Adeleke Empowers Ward B Residents with Tools, Cash in Ijero-Ekiti.

‎...Empowerment Programme Aligns with Oyebanji’s People-Centred Agenda — Princess Agboola.

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‎Buoyed up with motivation towards improving livelihoods and promoting self-reliance, the SA on Women's Affairs, Ijero Local Government, Hon. Adebimpe Adeleke has rolled out an empowerment programme for residents of Ijero Ekiti Ward B, distributing work tools and cash to support small-scale businesses.

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‎Items given to beneficiaries at the programme included sewing machines, gas cylinders, grinding machines, frying pots, as well as cash gifts to help recipients start or expand their means of livelihood.

Addressing beneficiaries and party members at the event, Hon. Bimpe Adeleke, said empowering her people had always been a lifelong dream. 

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‎She explained that her motivation was to uplift the status of residents and bring positive change to their lives through practical support.

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‎According to her, the opportunity to serve was made possible through the leadership of Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji and the support of the First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, which inspired her to give back to her immediate community.

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‎Hon. Adeleke noted that Governor Oyebanji had consistently encouraged those working with his administration to positively impact their communities, adding that the empowerment programme was in line with that vision.

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‎“Though I have done small empowerment programmes before, I decided to make this one bigger by providing tools that can genuinely help families meet their financial and economic needs,” she said. 

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‎ She assured that more beneficiaries would be captured in the next phase of the empowerment initiative.

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‎Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, commended Hon. Bimpe Adeleke for what she described as a laudable and people-oriented gesture.

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‎Princess Agboola said Hon. Bimpe had long nursed the ambition of putting smiles on the faces of the needy in her ward through empowerment initiatives, expressing gratitude that the vision had now become a reality. 

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‎She described the programme as a call to service for other political aides, urging them to emulate the gesture in line with the development agenda of Governor Oyebanji.

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‎She also advised beneficiaries to make judicious use of the items given to them to improve their standard of living.

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‎Also speaking, the SSA Governor's Office, Hon. Ebenezer Ajayi, described the empowerment as commendable, expressing confidence that Hon. Bimpe would do even more if entrusted with higher responsibilities. 

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‎He stressed that positive impact should not be delayed until one attains a higher office, but should begin wherever one finds oneself.

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‎Dignitaries at the programme included the Ijero Local Government Party Chairman, the Ward Party Chairman, party members and other stakeholders.

Agbeyewa Acquires Matna Foods Company Limited.

Agbeyewa Acquires Matna Foods Company Limited.                                                 ....Acquisition To Strengthen Cassava Value Chain, Food Security and Job Creation.

Agbeyewa Industries Limited, a leading agribusiness company and subsidiary of
Cavista Holdings, is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of Matna Foods
Company Limited, one of the oldest cassava starch processing companies in Nigeria.

The acquisition marks a significant strategic milestone for Agbeyewa as part of its
broader vision to integrate agricultural production, processing, and industrial utilization within Nigeria’s cassava value chain, linking large-scale cassava cultivation in Ekiti
State with industrial processing capacity in Ondo State.

This regional synergy is expected to unlock new efficiencies, expand local sourcing, and
stimulate economic activity for all players in the cassava value chain. The acquisition
also aligns strongly with the Federal Government’s drive to strengthen food security, reduce imports, and deepen agro-industrial value chains, particularly within the cassava ecosystem—one of Nigeria’s most strategic crops.

Agbeyewa, located in Ekiti State, has rapidly grown into a transformational agriculture
business, and operates the largest cassava farm in Nigeria. Guided by its four pillars of large-scale cultivation, aggregation, processing and agro-allied investment, the company has implemented an innovative in-grower/out-grower model and forged highimpact partnerships, including a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Ekiti State to cultivate 100,000 hectares of farmland over the next decade.

Chairman of Agbeyewa and Cavista Holdings, Niyi John Olajide, described the

acquisition as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s economic future:

“This is about building a resilient agricultural value chain that creates real impact. From
increased cassava offtake to expanded processing and industrial supply, this acquisition supports food security, import substitution, and—most importantly—creates jobs, jobs, and more jobs for Nigerians. We are investing to grow capacity, expand opportunities for farmers, and create sustainable employment across communities.”

Matna Foods, incorporated in 1998 and operational since 2002, has been at the
forefront of cassava processing in Nigeria for more than two decades. Located in Akure, Ondo State, the company is recognized for producing international-standard multi-use and food-grade cassava starch that meets rigorous regulatory and industrial specifications, earning a reputation for quality, resilience, and technical expertise.It was established by Chief (Dr) Joseph O. Sanusi (CON), a former Central Bank Governor, former CEO of one of Nigeria’s biggest banks and a well-respected leader in Nigeria’s financial sector.

Commenting on the transaction, Chief Sanusi said: “For some time, we have been deliberate about finding the right partners to take Matna Foods to its next phase of growth. We were not looking for just a buyer, but a partner with the scale, discipline, and long-term vision to grow the business sustainably. Agbeyewa stood out because of its
commitment to agriculture, its strong execution capacity, and its alignment with the original vision behind Matna. We are confident that this acquisition positions the company for renewed growth and greater impact.”

As part of the transition, Matna Foods remains fully operational and open for business, with plans underway to scale operations, modernize processes where required, and deepen engagement with farmers, suppliers, and corporate customers.

The acquisition is expected to boost demand for cassava from local farmers, particularly smallholder and out-grower farmers, by expanding processing capacity and guaranteeing more consistent offtake. This, in turn, will improve farmer incomes, reduce
post-harvest losses, and strengthen rural livelihoods.

Ajoni LCDA to Launch Digital Skills Programme for Youths.

Ajoni LCDA to Launch Digital Skills Programme for Youths.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Executive Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Ekiti State, Ambassador Prince Michael Ogungbemi, FCPA, has announced plans to flag off a Digital Skills Training Programme aimed at equipping youths with globally relevant competencies for the digital economy.

The programme, scheduled to commence on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, will be implemented in partnership with Skep Foundation, a United States–based non-governmental organisation known for its interventions in digital capacity building and youth empowerment.

Speaking on the initiative, Ogungbemi said the training was designed to prepare young people in the area for emerging opportunities in the fast-evolving global digital space, stressing that sustainable development could only be achieved when youths are empowered with knowledge and relevant skills.

According to him, beneficiaries of the programme will receive intensive training in key areas including Data Analytics, Project Management, Digital Marketing, E-commerce, IT Support, IT Automation with Python, UX Design, Cyber Security, Advanced Data Analytics and Business Intelligence. Participants will also earn Google Certification upon successful completion of the programme.

“This initiative is about investing in the future of our youths. The greatest empowerment is the empowerment of the mind, and we are committed to ensuring that our young people are equipped to compete favourably anywhere in the world,” the chairman said.

He added that the partnership with Skep Foundation underscored his administration’s commitment to forward-thinking and globally connected leadership, noting that the programme would enhance employability, encourage innovation and promote economic self-reliance among participants.

Residents and stakeholders in the council area have described the initiative as timely and impactful, commending the chairman for prioritising youth development and positioning Ajoni LCDA as a growing hub for innovation and digital transformation.

The Digital Skills Training Programme is the latest in a series of youth-focused interventions under Ogungbemi’s leadership, reinforcing his vision of securing a sustainable, inclusive and future-ready Ajoni LCDA.