ASONIS Endorses Babatee, Owolewa for NANS Leadership.

ASONIS Endorses Babatee, Owolewa for NANS Leadership.

The Association of Southern Nigerian Students (ASONIS), comprising stakeholders from the South-West, South-South and South-East, has endorsed Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, popularly known as Babatee, for the position of President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

The group also threw its weight behind Comrade Taiwo Sunday Owolewa for the position of Secretary General, describing both aspirants as credible and capable of repositioning the student body.

The endorsement was announced by the National President of ASONIS, Hon. Taiwo Temitope, under the platform of Team Excellence, where he noted that the decision followed wide consultations among stakeholders across the southern region.

According to him, the choice of Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (Babatee) and Owolewa was based on their track records, leadership capacity and commitment to the welfare of Nigerian students.

Speaking with journalists, Temitope described Babatee as a visionary leader with the competence to unify students across the country and drive meaningful reforms within NANS.

“Babatee represents a new wave of purposeful leadership. He has consistently demonstrated capacity, courage and a deep understanding of students’ needs. We are confident that his emergence as NANS President will bring about the desired transformation in the association,” he said.

He also commended Owolewa for his dedication to student activism and organisational strength, noting that he possesses the experience required to effectively manage the office of Secretary General.

“Comrade Owolewa is a tested and trusted unionist. His administrative strength, commitment to service and ability to mobilise students make him the right choice for the position of Secretary General. Together, they form a formidable team that can reposition NANS for greater impact,” Temitope added.

The ASONIS president further urged students and stakeholders across the country to rally support for the duo, stressing the need for unity and collective action in achieving a progressive student leadership.

“We call on all stakeholders, student leaders and delegates to vote massively for Babatee and Owolewa. This is a defining moment for Nigerian students to choose competence, vision and excellence,” he stated.

He also instructed state chairmen and all levels of leadership within ASONIS to align with the directive and ensure full compliance with the endorsement across their respective domains.

Olarewaju Resigns Presidential Appointment to Clinch Reps Ticket for Ekiti North II.

Olarewaju Resigns Presidential Appointment to Clinch Reps Ticket for Ekiti North II.

In a strategic move that has sent ripples through the political landscape of Ekiti State, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju, has officially tendered his resignation.

The resignation, effective March 31, 2026, marks the beginning of Olarewaju’s highly anticipated bid to secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Ekiti North II Federal Constituency (Moba, Ilejemeje, and Ido-Osi) in the upcoming House of Representatives elections.

Reliable sources close to the lawmaker indicate that the resignation is a proactive step to ensure full compliance with Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, which mandates that political appointees must vacate their offices before participating in party conventions or primaries. By stepping down now, Olarewaju clears the legal path to satisfy his growing grassroots base, which has been clamoring for his return to represent the constituency where he previously built a reputation for robust legislative engagement.

In his resignation letter addressed to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Hon. Olarewaju expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve at the highest level of governance. "It has been a profound honour and privilege to serve under Your Excellency’s leadership and contribute to the advancement of the administration's legislative goals and the strengthening of Executive-Legislative relations," the letter read.

Olarewaju further emphasized his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the experience gained while bridging the gap between the Presidency and the House of Representatives would be invaluable in his future service to the nation. He reaffirmed his "unwavering loyalty" to the President despite his departure from the executive arm.

With this development, Olarewaju enters the race backed by executive experience, legislative mastery, and significant momentum from constituents in Moba, Ilejemeje, and Ido-Osi who cite his track record as a benchmark for effective representation.

MICHEAL OPEYEMI BAMIDELE REASONS HE SHOULD BE REELECTED AS SENATO

MICHEAL OPEYEMI BAMIDELE 

REASONS HE SHOULD BE REELECTED AS SENATOR REPRESENTING EKITI CENTRAL AGAIN.

By Adesoji Fajuyi

 

1. LEGISLATIVE ACUMEN

Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the Majority Leader of the 10th Senate, has been instrumental in driving legislative activities. Under his leadership, the Senate has seen a significant increase in bill introductions, with 983 bills introduced in two years, representing a 6% rise ,

Some notable bills he's sponsored or supported include:

- Student Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024: aimed at improving access to higher education

- Tax Reform Bills, 2025: projected to boost investor confidence and economic growth

- Terrorism Death Penalty Bill: seeks capital punishment for terrorism, aiming to deter and effectively respond to terrorism

Bamidele has also emphasized the need for constitutional reform to correct structural imbalances in the federation and urged Nigerians to participate in nation-building efforts 

2. EMPOWERING HIS CONSTITUENTS

Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele has been making waves with his empowerment initiatives in Ekiti Central Senatorial District. His Mega Empowerment Programme has impacted over 5,000 beneficiaries, providing them with tools to boost their enterprises, including ¹ ²:

- Business Grants: ₦100,000 awarded to 1,900 individuals

- Mobility Support: 180 motorcycles, 165 tricycles, and 20 mini-buses

- Education: 1,000 mathematical sets, 10,000 school bags, 1,000 calculators, and 40,000 notebooks distributed to students

- Agricultural Support: Tractors, fertilizers, and corn seeders for local farmers

- Vocational Training: Sewing machines, chest freezers, hairdryers, and makeup kits for small businesses

Bamidele has also invested ₦10 million in vocational skills training for youths, emphasizing the importance of self-employment and entrepreneurship. He's advocated for more investment in education, citing its role in national development 

 3. EDUCATION INTERVENTION

Michael Opeyemi Bamidele has made significant strides in promoting education in Ekiti Central. As Senate Majority Leader, he's ensured increased budgetary funding for education and advocated for strategic investments in the sector. Some notable initiatives include: Attracting lobbying and getting full funding for the FUTES-IYIN 

- Textbook Distribution: Distributed 10,000 textbooks to 5,000 students across 50 secondary schools in Ekiti Central, focusing on English Language and Mathematics.

- Infrastructure Development: Pledged to construct 12 classrooms in Igede-Ekiti to improve learning environments.

- Support for Ekiti State University: Facilitated projects like male and female hostels for medical students, a mini stadium, and an FM radio station, with a notable increase in monthly subvention from ₦260 million to ₦410 million.

 4. HEALTHCARE DEVELOPMENT:

Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Majority Leader, has made significant strides in promoting healthcare in Ekiti Central. His initiatives include:

●Currently a diagnostic center and cathlab are und3 construction to provide world class health interventions right in his senatorial district.

●5 80 bedded ICU centres are nearing completion in the 5 local governments in his senatorial district.

- Free Medical Outreach: Conducted in partnership with the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ekiti State chapter, benefiting over 20,000 people, providing services like hypertension, hepatitis, and diabetes screenings, as well as free eyeglasses and ante-natal care.

- Chronic Disease Management: Partnering with hospitals to cover treatment costs for beneficiaries with chronic conditions.

- Therapy Centre Support: Donated two mini-buses, two motorcycles, and 25 wheelchairs to the Therapy Centre for Children with Disabilities in Ado Ekiti, and promised to build a bigger centre next year.

Bamidele has emphasized the need for improved primary healthcare systems to reduce mortality rates and urged governors to prioritize healthcare delivery at the grassroots level

 6. INFRASTRUCTURE INTERVENTIONS

Michael Opeyemi Bamidele has made significant strides in improving infrastructure in Ekiti Central. Some notable projects include:

- Road Construction: 14km Igede-Iworoko Road, Iyin-Ilawe Ekiti road, and inner roads in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti West , irepodun ifelodun and Ijero Ekiti, with a total of N4 billion earmarked for various road projects.

- Solar Street Lights: Installation in over 45  communities, including Igirigiri Road, Odo Ado, Ado Ekiti, and, Ijero, Iloro, Oke Oro, Ido Ile , Okemesi, Ikogosi, Erijiyam, Igbemo, Iworoko Efon Alaaye amongst others 

- Modern Markets: Construction of ultra-modern markets in  Iyin Ekiti Aramoko Ekiti and Igede Ekiti.while the ones for ado Ekiti and efon are scheduled to start any moment 

- Water Projects: Solar-powered boreholes in over 30  communities.

- Education Infrastructure: Construction of classrooms, including 12 classrooms in Igede Ekiti, and a Computer-Based Test and Innovation Center at Ekiti State University (EKSU).

- Sports Development: Construction of  9 mini stadiums in Iworoko Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe stadium Ado Ekiti, Erijiyan Ekiti, Okemesi, Efon, Ipoti Ekiti, Iyin Ekiti, Ijero Ekiti, and EKSU .

MICHEAL OPEYEMI BAMIDELE deserves our votes and support again for more developmental strides in Ekiti central

Ojuawo Celebrates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 74.

Ojuawo Celebrates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 74.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, has extended warm congratulations to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the occasion of his 74th birthday.

In a statement released today, Hon. Ojuawo described President Tinubu as a visionary leader, a seasoned democrat, and a relentless advocate for national development whose contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey remain indelible.

“President Tinubu’s life has been one of service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the progress and unity of our dear nation. His courage, resilience, and strategic leadership continue to inspire a new generation of leaders across the country,” Ojuawo stated.

He further commended the President’s ongoing efforts at repositioning Nigeria’s economy and strengthening democratic institutions, noting that the Renewed Hope agenda is gradually laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Hon. Ojuawo prayed for God’s continued guidance, strength, and good health for the President as he continues to steer the affairs of the nation.

“On behalf of the good people of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, I celebrate a statesman, a patriot, and a leader of uncommon vision. May your years ahead be filled with greater accomplishments in service to Nigeria,” he added.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

HON. IBRAHIM KUNLE OLAREWAJU CELEBRATES PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU: A TRIBUTE TO VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND THE RENEWED HOPE AGENDA.

HON. IBRAHIM KUNLE OLAREWAJU CELEBRATES PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU: A TRIBUTE TO VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND THE RENEWED HOPE AGENDA.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju, has issued a heartfelt message of celebration to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, praising his transformative leadership and the unwavering commitment to the "Renewed Hope" vision for Nigeria.

Reflecting on the President’s milestones, Hon. Olarewaju saluted the Renewed Hope Agenda, which has successfully transitioned from a phase of stabilization to a period of rapid economic acceleration. He noted that the President's vision, anchored by the ambitious N58.18 trillion 2026 "Budget of Acceleration" is already yielding tangible dividends across critical sectors, including the "Renewed Hope Cities and Estates" program, the Ward Development initiative, and the landmark Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund) that has empowered millions of students.

"Working under President Tinubu’s tutelage as a legislative aide has been a masterclass in governance and resilience," Hon. Olarewaju stated. "His ability to make tough, necessary decisions today to secure the prosperity of tomorrow is a testament to his status as a world-class statesman. My time serving in this administration has deeply impacted my approach to public service, teaching me that true leadership is about courage, consistency, and a relentless focus on the common man."

Hon. Olarewaju further appreciated the President’s stance on a United Nigeria, positioning the country as a leading voice in the Comity of Nations. He specifically lauded the President's continuous support for Ekiti State, a sentiment frequently testified to by the Executive Governor, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. From critical infrastructure projects to agricultural support, the synergy between the Federal Government and Ekiti has remained a cornerstone of progress for the "Fountain of Knowledge."

As the nation celebrates the President’s achievements, Hon. Olarewaju offered prayers for his continued health and vigor. "As Mr. President continues to march the nation forward, we stand resolutely behind him. The foundations being laid today are the bedrock of our future success. As we look ahead to the 2027 Presidential election, it is clear that the journey of renewal must continue to ensure these reforms reach their full, transformative potential."

Hon. Olarewaju concluded by urging all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support of the administration, noting that under President Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria is firmly on the path to becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy.

Fayemi Mourns Passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, Consoles Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Fayemi Mourns Passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, Consoles Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, mother of the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi described the matriarch's death as a profound loss, not only to the El-Rufai family but also to all who were touched by her life of humility, faith, and service.

He noted that the late Hajiya Umma lived a life defined by strong moral values, devotion to family, and commitment to community, which he said are evident in her son's life and public service.

Fayemi said, “I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai. Her departure is a painful loss, but we take solace in the exemplary life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind.”

The former NGF Chairman extended his heartfelt condolences to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the entire El-Rufai family, urging them to find strength and comfort in the memories of her impactful life.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul, asking Almighty Allah to grant her Aljannah Firdaus and to give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Gov Oyebanji Congratulates President Tinubu on 74th Birthday.

Gov Oyebanji Congratulates President Tinubu on 74th Birthday.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his 74th birthday, describing him as a genuine lover of the people, a pathfinder, and a selfless leader who is committed to sustainable development of the country. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, hailed the President for dedicating his life to the defence of democracy and service of his fatherland and fellow countrymen in various capacities which had exacted great sacrifice from him.

He noted that President Tinubu is a man of history with many golden chapters as a professional in the corporate world, a boardroom guru, astute politician, pro-democracy activist and the arrowhead of a movement that fought for the restoration of democratic rule in  the country. 

Oyebanji described  the President as an uncommon gift and a treasure to the nation, adding that  President Tinubu’s footprints remain bold at the subnational and national levels as a Senator in the Third Republic, two-term governor of Lagos State and currently the President and Commander - in- Chief of the Federal Republic, who continues to lead and inspire the citizens with courage and impactful policies and reforms. 

The Ekiti State Governor said his state and its citizens remain thankful to President Tinubu for his support and for the positive impact of his policies on the State and wish him many more years in good health and service to Nigeria and humanity. 

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I wish the President a happy 74th birthday and a lifetime of bliss. Ekiti people remain appreciative of the President’s development strides and are supportive of his various reforms which have brought better life to the people . Our prayer is that God Almighty continues to guide his decisions as he continues to lead the country on the path of greatness and shared prosperity.”, the statement added