Oyebanji’s youths development agenda ignites hope for greater Ekiti.

Oyebanji’s youths development agenda ignites hope for greater Ekiti.                             By Rasaq Ibrahim

_Youth development has taken a centre stage in Ekiti with the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji implementing strategic and multifaceted strategies to empower young people and unlock their potentials to the fullest, writes Rasaq Ibrahim…._

Without any modicum of doubt, Youths are the solid foundation of both positive and negative picture of any society. The future of any society is inextricably link to the development and empowerment of its young people. Their energies, inventiveness, character and orientation define pace of development of a nation.

As the drivers of innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship, and social change, thr youth possess the potential to transform their communities and shape the course of history. Through their creative talents and innovative minds, a nation makes giant strides in economic development.

On the contrary, the countries which fail to realize the importance of the youth lag behind in every aspects of life.Any nation that denies its youth necessary enabling environment to participate in the process of nation- building merely does so at its own perils.

It is in the reality of this that Governor Biodun Oyebanji have made concerted efforts in galvanizing well synchronized and integrated approaches in putting  in place youth development structures with a very high propensity to be a catalyst for development in Ekiti state.

In a nation where only few public officials achieve a level of impact that resonates deeply with lives of citizens, particularly the youth, Oyebanji has emerged as an inspiring example of hope, innovation, and responsiveness in governance.

The governor doesn’t hide his glowing passion and unquenchable love for youth development.This propelled him to make youth development and job creation a critical pillar in his administration policy thrust.

His avowed commitment to excellence and dedication to the welfare of young people has earned Oyebanji a reputation as a champion of youth development and a beacon of hope for Ekiti State.

For many, Ekiti State is on the cusp of a youth development revolution. When he assumed office on October 2022 through the people’s mandate, the governor did something that was very enigmatic. He removed Sport section from the Ministry of Youth and made it an independent Commission. This lofty action makes the Ministry of Youth to be fully independent to superintend over the youth affairs.

The governor was circumspect of the Nigerian factors that are  capable of thwarting his vision. To make his actions fecund, Oyebanji appointed a competent  Commissioner for Youth Development, Gold Adesola Adedayo, to man the post and drive his vision in this thematic area of  focus.

Unarguably, the present government has succeeded in ramping up  democratic gains for youths, because Adedayo has strong networks across youth groups in  the country. This he had leveraged on to ignites a future of opportunities for the youths by introducing several initiatives aimed at empowering young people and unlocking their potential.

At the forefront of this agenda is the “Youth Let’s Talk With BAO” programme, a periodic engagement initiative that provides a platform for robust dialogue between the governor and Ekiti youths. This innovative approach has enabled Oyebanji to connect with young people, understand their challenges, and develop tailored solutions to address them. The program has been hailed as a game-changer, providing young people with a voice and a sense of belonging.

At the maiden edition of the programme in 2023, Governor Oyebanji promised to make youth fulcrum of his government in terms of job creation, empowerment, governance and political appointments. All these have started coming to manifestations by way of dividends and recognition being savoured by youth.

The second edition of this interactive engagement was held on July 3, 2024. The initiative will soon be replicated across all 16 local governments, in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) to really expand the scope to the grassroots.

Job creation is another critical area of focus for the Oyebanji administration. To date, over 20,000 jobs have been created for Ekiti youths,including 4,000 employed into the civil service and 1,000 engaged in commercial farming. The Adire Ekiti Hub, a  brainchild of the First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, had trained as well as empowered about 1,000 in the making of the Adire local fabrics.

The state government had also through  partnerships with banks secured soft loans for  thousands of  graduates to drive his vision in Medium and Small Scale Business Enterprises to stop dependence on white collar jobs, among other lofty initiatives being devised to halt redundancy within their ranks.

The government also created a data bank for all unemployed youth, so that the government can be adequately guided on how to get them fixed based on available opportunities and in line with their potentials.

The establishment of a Youth Resource/ Job Centre has also provided a one-stop-shop for the youths to access resources, and job opportunities. This initiative has not only provided job opportunities but also equipped young  people with the skills and training needed to succeed in the workforce.

In addition, the Oyebanji administration has expanded bursary and scholarship schemes, increasing the bursary award by 100% and disbursing scholarships to Ekiti indigenes at the Nigerian Law School. This commitment to education has ensured that young people from Ekiti State have access to quality education, regardless of their background or financial circumstances.

Strategic partnerships have also been forged with various organizations in the country to  empower youths in areas such as Adire making, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. These collaborations have not only provided young people with valuable skills and training but also enabled them to become self-sufficient and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.

For instance, the partnership with the Industrial Training Fund has enabled over 2,000 youths to benefit from the Supa Artisan Programme, gaining valuable skills and enhancing their employability.

The Oyebanji administration has also prioritized the welfare and well-being of young people. The establishment of a Youth Parliament has provided a platform for young people to engage in leadership training, education, and civic activities. This initiative has not only empowered young people but also ensured that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.

Governor Oyebanji’s administration has also made giant strides in enhancing social responsibilities, particularly among youth. One notable project is the construction of 90 units of toilet facilities at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Emure Ekiti, aimed at improving infrastructure and hygiene conditions for youth corps members ¹.

The government has also initiated a consultative engagement with higher institutions in Ekiti to address student needs and curb violent conduct. Furthermore, the government has provided financial empowerment to youth engaging in leather shoe making, promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Other initiatives include the Ekiti Broiler Production Scheme, empowering youth in bee-keeping, and a partnership with WEMA BANK to train 100,000 youth and students in MSMEs. The Ministry has also established a forum for security/youth engagement, fostering unity and promoting mutual understanding between security agencies and youth.

In addition, the Ekiti Youth Parliament has been strengthened through a training program, providing leadership knowledge, education, and enhanced public speaking skills for youth parliamentarians. Governor Oyebanji has promised adequate funding for youth-friendly policies, offering hope for a better future.

Governor Oyebanji’s youth development agenda is more than just a series of initiatives but rather  a vision for a better future, one that is built on the principles inclusivity, opportunity, and growth. His

commitment to youth development is a testament to his administration’s focus on creating a brighter future for Ekiti State.

Stakeholders Endorse Adaramodu, Ojuawo for Second Term.

Stakeholders Endorse Adaramodu, Ojuawo for Second Term.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti South Senatorial District have unanimously endorsed Senator Yemi Adaramodu and a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Adeniyi Rufus Ojuawo, for second terms in office. The endorsement was based on their consistent financial, moral, and political support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second-term bid.

The endorsement took place at a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held in Isinbode-Ekiti, the hometown of the APC Ekiti South Senatorial Chairman, High Chief Akindele Akinbobola. The meeting was attended by APC local government chairmen, party leaders, and key political stakeholders from all six local governments in the senatorial district.

Stakeholders described Senator Adaramodu and Hon. Ojuawo as the two major pillars of the BAO/MCA second-term project in Ekiti South, noting that both lawmakers have consistently led in mobilising resources and providing strategic support to ensure the success of the Governor’s re-election drive.

Speaking on behalf of the local government chairmen, the Chairman of Chairmen in Ekiti South, Hon Dare Idowu aka Tugere, said the endorsement was given with “boldness and joy,” stressing that the duo had demonstrated uncommon loyalty, commitment, and dedication to Governor Oyebanji’s second-term ambition and the overall development of the district.

According to him, the two lawmakers have never failed the region whenever support was required, whether politically or financially, adding that their contributions remain critical to sustaining the grassroots strength of the APC in Ekiti South.

He said, “Their moral and financial support for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term project has been overwhelming. From logistics, mobilisation, branding, and other campaign activities, they have remained steadfast and dependable partners of² the party and the Governor.”

Hon. AVM Rtd Adeniyi Ojuawo

On the ongoing APC e-registration exercise, the APC Ekiti South Senatorial Chairman, High Chief Akindele Akinbobola, urged officials handling the exercise to demonstrate greater commitment and dedication to ensure wider participation. He advised registration officials to be available early, no later than 9:00 a.m., and to move to strategic locations within communities while also extending registration into the evening to accommodate more people.

Also speaking, High Chief Akinbobola commended stakeholders for speaking with one voice in endorsing Senator Adaramodu and Hon. Ojuawo, noting that their loyalty to the party and consistent presence in the affairs of the district clearly distinguished them from others who had failed to support the party’s second-term project at unit level to local government and senatorial level .

Those present at the meeting included the six APC local government party chairmen; the Senatorial Woman Leader, Mrs. Adeshina, aka Iya Onigbaja; members of the Senatorial Executive Committee, including Hon. Adewale Febisola and Hon. Bolics; former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Surveyor Aluko; and other party stakeholders from across the six local governments.

DISSECTING OGUNGBEMI AS AN EXEMPLAR OF ROBUST TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

DISSECTING OGUNGBEMI AS AN EXEMPLAR OF ROBUST TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP.
...a grassroots champion of good governance in Ekiti State. 

*SERIES ONE:*

_Tenaciously Advancing the Ajoni Development Roadmap (The Blueprints)_

In unwavering alignment with the Ajoni Development Roadmap, popularly known as “The Blueprints,” the Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area, Ambassador Prince Michael Ogungbemi (PMO), continues to set a compelling standard for purposeful, people-centred, and impact-driven governance.

Prince Ogungbemi’s administration exemplifies robust transformational leadership, anchored on accountability, inclusiveness, and sustainable development. His governance philosophy places human capital, youth empowerment, and economic participation at the heart of local administration, positioning Ajoni as a model of progressive grassroots leadership in Ekiti State.

*HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT & JOB CREATION*

Under this strategic pillar of his administration, the Chairman has effectively domesticated the shared prosperity agenda of the Ekiti State Government at the grassroots level. Through deliberate policy choices and visionary leadership, the Ajoni LCDA has fostered productive partnerships with reputable international organizations, unlocking employment opportunities, strengthening capacity, and improving livelihoods for residents.
Strategic Partnerships & High-Impact Interventions.

🔹 African Oral Histories and Genealogical Project (USA)
Through this partnership, young school leavers and unemployed graduates are trained and engaged as Data Agents and Managers, assigned structured responsibilities with paid remuneration. This initiative significantly reduces unemployment while equipping participants with digital literacy, research competence, and global-standard data management skills.

🔹 Interweaves Solutions International (ISI), USA
This programme focuses on entrepreneurial transformation, where local business owners are trained, mentored, and empowered with practical enterprise skills and start-up grants. The goal is clear: lifting citizens from poverty to prosperity through sustainable, scalable businesses.

🔹 Fluid Management Services (FMS) drives youth-focused agricultural empowerment through hands-on training in commercial cassava production. Participants are actively engaged in plantation projects that promote food security, agribusiness participation, and steady income generation.

🔹 Cultivating New Frontiers for Agriculture (CNFA), USA
This intervention targets youths interested in agribusiness, providing training and empowerment in the establishment and management of polyclonal cashew plantations. It opens pathways into export-oriented agriculture, positioning Ajoni youths as players in the global cashew value chain.

🔹 SKEP Foundation, USA for Digital Skills & Global Certification Initiative
In a forward-looking move, the administration introduced and sponsored digital skills training programmes, complete with Google Certification upon completion.
At least 50 young school leavers and unemployed graduates will be exposed to in-country and remote job opportunities, enhancing self-reliance, global competitiveness, and economic independence.

A CLEAR GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

These well-coordinated initiatives reinforce the PMO administration’s unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic development. They reflect a leadership style that understands that true governance must deliver measurable value to the people.

Ajoni is moving forward — deliberately, sustainably, and inclusively.

Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi (PMO)
Chairman, Ajoni Local Council Development Area.

PMO — Building Capacity. Creating Opportunities. Securing the Future.

BOUESTI STUDENTS, DRIVERS, AND OKADA RIDERS SHOWER ENCOMIUMS ON SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU FOR THE SOLAR STREET LIGHT PROJECT IN IKERE-EKITI.

BOUESTI STUDENTS, DRIVERS, AND OKADA RIDERS SHOWER ENCOMIUMS ON SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU FOR THE SOLAR STREET LIGHT PROJECT IN IKERE-EKITI.

Students of the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), alongside motorists and commercial motorcyclists (okada riders), have poured out praises on the Distinguished Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, following the installation of solar-powered street lights along the BOUESTI–Ikere township axis.

The newly installed solar street lights, which stretch from the main campus gate of BOUESTI to Ikere township, have significantly improved nighttime visibility, eased students' nighttime movements, and enhanced safety for vehicles and okada riders plying the busy campus road.

Remarkably, the intervention came within 48 hours of a direct request made through one of the Ikere-Ekiti political platforms, highlighting the Senator’s responsiveness and people-centred leadership. The project was necessitated by the persistent power outage in Ikere Local Government Area, which has lingered since 2025 and posed serious challenges to residents, students, and road users.

Upon receiving the request, Senator Adaramodu swiftly mobilized resources and directed his aides to immediately commence and complete the installation of the solar lights. The development has since attracted widespread commendation from the university community and residents of Ikere-Ekiti, who described the gesture as timely, thoughtful, and impactful.

Speaking about the project initiated by residents, the initiative reflects Senator Adaramodu’s commitment to community welfare, education, and sustainable development. They added that the project aligns with the Senator’s broader vision of improving infrastructure and safety across Ekiti South.

While applauding the intervention, members of the community also used the opportunity to appeal for additional solar installations, citing the prolonged electricity challenges in Ikere-Ekiti.

This latest project further reinforces Senator Yemi Adaramodu’s reputation as “the people’s Senator”, consistently delivering practical solutions that directly touch the lives of his constituents.

~~ Adaramodu Media Team

Hon Bayo Ajayi Empowers Emure Youths with Free JAMB UTME 2026 Forms.

Hon Bayo Ajayi Empowers Emure Youths with Free JAMB UTME 2026 Forms.

In a strong demonstration of his commitment to education and youth development, Hon Bayo Ajayi has sponsored 50 Free JAMB UTME 2026 forms for eligible candidates across the 10 wards in Emure Local Government.

The programme reflects Hon Ajayi’s passion for human capital development and his continuous investment in the future of Emure youths.

BAYO AJAYI MEDIA TEAM ( BAMT )

Hon Ojuawo, HMB Officials Inspect Ise General Hospital.

Hon Ojuawo, HMB Officials Inspect Ise General Hospital.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I at the House of Representatives, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Adeniyi Rufus Ojuawo, has led officials of the Ekiti State Hospital Management Board (HMB) on an inspection tour of Ise General Hospital, Ise/Orun Local Government Area.

The inspection team included Dr. Tim Ikumapayi, a pharmacist and an indigene of Ise-Ekiti who is based and practising in the United States; the Permanent Secretary of the Hospital Management Board, Mrs. Alabi; Dr. Afuye; as well as other senior officials and staff of Ise General Hospital. The visit was aimed at assessing the available equipment and facilities at the hospital, with a view to enhancing effective healthcare delivery to the people of Ise/Orun and surrounding communities.

It will be recalled that about four weeks ago, during the Ojoaduase Festival in Ise-Ekiti, a 20-bed space building was commissioned at the hospital. The project, facilitated by Hon. Ojuawo, was officially inaugurated by a representative of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Ayokunle Isiaka, as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the constituency.

During the inspection, Hon. Ojuawo urged the Hospital Management Board to ensure the immediate utilisation of the newly commissioned facility for the benefit of the people. He emphasised the importance of putting the equipment and infrastructure to optimal use, noting that the intervention was aimed at improving access to quality healthcare services.

Addressing the HMB officials, Hon. Ojuawo said, “I appreciate your visit and inspection of the equipment and facilities as a whole. It is important to assess what is currently on ground, identify what needs to be improved or added, and recommend the appropriate manpower required to manage these facilities effectively. We need your support and professional recommendations to ensure proper management of the available equipment and consumables for the maximum benefit of our people.”

In her response, Mrs. Alabi commended Hon. Ojuawo for his compassion, commitment, and continued service to humanity, particularly in the area of healthcare development. She described the equipment and facilities as adequate and assured that the Hospital Management Board would ensure their optimal utilisation.

The inspection visit underscores Hon. Ojuawo’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system in Ekiti South Federal Constituency I and improving the well-being of his constituents.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Ekiti Strengthens Women-Focused Policies as Three-Day NFWP Scale-Up Stakeholders’ Engagement Concludes. ‎

‎Ekiti Strengthens Women-Focused Policies as Three-Day NFWP Scale-Up Stakeholders’ Engagement Concludes.

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‎Ekiti State has concluded a three-day strategic stakeholders’ engagement on the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), reaffirming the commitment of the Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration to deepening women’s economic empowerment at the grassroots. 

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‎The final leg of the engagement, which was held in Aiyekire Loca Government Area and Gbonyin Local Council Development Area brought together traditional leaders, government officials and key community stakeholders to mobilise women for participation in the World Bank–supported initiative.

The concluding meetings were held at Ode-Ekiti for Aiyekire Local Government Area and Aisegba-Ekiti for Gbonyin Local Council Development Area, marking the end of a series that earlier took place in Efon and Moba Local Government Areas.

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‎Addressing stakeholders, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, explained that Efon, Moba and Aiyekire/Gbonyin Local Government Areas were designated pilot locations for the programme in Ekiti State. 

‎She said the engagement was designed to ensure that women at the grassroots fully understand the initiative and key into it.

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‎According to her, Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration recognizes women’s empowerment as a key strategy for sustainable development .

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‎She urged the women residing in the Local Government Area that to take advantage of the NFWP and be members of Women Affinity Groups ( WAGs) to enhance their business and improve their economic conditions. 

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‎Taking participants through the operational framework of the programme, the Ekiti State Coordinator of NFWP-SU, Mrs Oluwatoyin Familoni, assured stakeholders that the initiative is real, transparent and impactful. 

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‎She called on traditional rulers, women leaders and community representatives to mobilise eligible women to participate in the programme. 

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‎Mrs Familoni explained that the programme is targeted at women aged 18 years and above who are engaged in businesses no matter how small. 

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‎Beneficiaries are expected to form Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) of 20 to 25 members well known to one another.

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‎She added that the women would engage in group savings, after which they will be supported with funds.

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‎Also speaking, Mrs Opeoluwa Asoro, representing the Ogun State Project Coordinator, described the NFWP-SU as a collaborative effort between the Federal Government, state governments and the World Bank aimed at strengthening women’s financial capacity and business sustainability.

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‎She noted that the programme also provides women with training for the required skills set for business success. 

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‎The Director-General, Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs Olawunmi Famuyiwa, said the NFWP-SU is one of several people-centred empowerment initiatives being implemented by the Oyebanji administration, urging stakeholders to ensure the programme achieves its intended impact.

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‎In a goodwill message, the First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, represented by her Senior Special Assistant, Dr Eunice Fasanmi, expressed a firm confidence in the NFWP that it would boost the economy of the grassroots and help the women in their businesses. 

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‎She emphasised that the initiative is non-political and inclusive.

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‎Traditional institutions also pledged their support. Speaking on behalf of the Olode of Ode-Ekiti, Olori Idowu Aderiye attested to the authenticity and economic potential of the programme, calling on stakeholders to enlighten and mobilise women in their respective domains to participate.

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‎Similarly, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, commended the State Government and the World Bank for the programme and urged the Ayekire/ Gbonyin women to key into the initiative.

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‎The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olusola Adeluyi, urged stakeholders representing various towns to also take the responsibility of sensitising the people on the benefits of the NFWP. 

‎Dignitaries present at the engagements included the Senior Technical Adviser to the Project in Ekiti, Dr Mrs. Oyefunke Koleowo; Director, Widows, Orphans and the Hopeless (WAOH) Project, Dr Mrs. Oluwakemi Dairo; representatives of traditional rulers’ wives in Aiyekire LG; Olori Onimesi of Imesi-Ekiti; community leaders and women stakeholders.

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‎The Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up is designed to institutionalise Women Affinity Groups(WAGs) and expand economic opportunities for unbanked women, with the goal of improving household income, reducing poverty and strengthening community-based economic development across Ekiti State.

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