Ekiti Distributes Laptops to Graduates of Digital Acceleration Programme.

Ekiti Distributes Laptops to Graduates of Digital Acceleration Programme.

The Ekiti State Government has distributed laptops to 16 graduates of the Ekiti Digital Acceleration Programme (EDAP) as part of efforts to equip young people with digital skills and improve their economic opportunities.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony in Ado-Ekiti, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Gold Adedayo, said the initiative reflected the government’s commitment to moving young people “from learning to earning, from dependence to productivity and from potential to performance.”

Adedayo said the programme demonstrated that youths in the state could compete, innovate and excel when given the right support and opportunities.

He described the laptops as more than ordinary tools, saying they symbolised trust, encouragement and a bridge between training and practical application in the digital economy.

“The digital economy rewards adaptability, professionalism and continuous improvement,” he said, urging beneficiaries to remain focused, upgrade their skills continuously and embrace collaboration and mentorship.

The commissioner also encouraged the graduates to serve as ambassadors of the programme in their communities by demonstrating responsibility, integrity and service.

“When you succeed, you inspire others to believe that youth empowerment is possible and that meaningful change can begin with one determined young person,” he said.

Adedayo commended Gov. Biodun Oyebanji for supporting the initiative and appreciated the contributions of development partners, particularly MOTIVAR, programme facilitators and other stakeholders involved in the success of the programme.

He also called on local government councils and community leaders to create enabling environments for young entrepreneurs through improved power supply, internet connectivity and market linkages.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Olawale Olaleye, lauded the governor for approving the provision and distribution of laptops to beneficiaries of the programme.

Olaleye said the intervention would improve employability, stimulate digital entrepreneurship and create opportunities for economic growth across the state.

He advised the graduates to remain accountable to their mentors and communities, utilise the networks formed during the training and regularly update programme coordinators on their progress.

“If you encounter challenges, seek support. Your success is the programme’s success,” he said.

In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs Adesola Fadiran, described the event as a significant milestone in the journey toward building a digitally empowered Ekiti State.

Olatunbosun said the ceremony not only marked the successful completion of the Digital Acceleration Programme by the first set of graduates, but also signalled the beginning of new opportunities, innovation and transformation for the beneficiaries.

He said the distribution of laptops symbolised more than the provision of devices, noting that it reflected the government’s commitment to human capital development, digital inclusion and the future of young people in the state.

“I congratulate the graduates for being pioneers and worthy ambassadors of a new digital era in Ekiti State. I encourage you to make productive use of the knowledge and resources you have received for the development of the state and the nation at large,” he said.

Olatunbosun also commended Gov. Oyebanji for the initiative and appreciated programme coordinators, trainers and stakeholders whose efforts contributed to its success.

SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU, OLUOMO OF ILAWE-EKITI, MOURNS THE PASSING OF ALAWE OF ILAWE-EKITI, OBA ADEBANJI AJIBADE ALABI AFUNTADE I.

SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU, OLUOMO OF ILAWE-EKITI, MOURNS THE PASSING OF ALAWE OF ILAWE-EKITI, OBA ADEBANJI AJIBADE ALABI AFUNTADE I.

The Senate Spokesperson, Chairman, Senate Committee on Youth Development and Oluomo of Ilawe-Ekiti, Distinguished Senator Yemi Adaramodu, has expressed profound grief over the passing of the revered Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I, describing the monarch’s transition as the fall of a mighty iroko and the end of a golden era of visionary traditional leadership.

Senator Adaramodu described the late royal father as not merely a custodian of tradition and culture, but also his blossoming childhood friend, confidant and father figure whose life radiated wisdom, dignity, peace, courage and uncommon devotion to the development of Ilawe-Ekiti, Ekiti State and Yorubaland at large.

Reflecting on the monarch’s impactful 14-year reign, Senator Adaramodu noted that Oba Afuntade I transformed Ilawe-Ekiti into a fast-growing and strategically recognised community through purposeful leadership, intellectual diplomacy and progressive engagement with government and stakeholders across all levels.

According to the Senator, the reign of the late monarch witnessed landmark developmental achievements, including the establishment of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti, the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Annex, Ilawe-Ekiti, alongside several infrastructural advancements and community-based developments that elevated the status and growth of the ancient town.

Senator Adaramodu further extolled the late monarch for attaining the historic honour of becoming the first Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti to have served as the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, describing the feat as a testament to his royal distinction, administrative competence, leadership depth and the prominent place of Ilawe-Ekiti among the foremost ancient towns in Ekiti State and Yorubaland.

The Senator also paid glowing tribute to the monarch’s calm intellectual disposition, articulate eloquence and statesmanlike conduct, noting that Oba Afuntade I carried the throne with rare grace, honour and scholarly brilliance which made him a respected voice among traditional rulers and public leaders.

“His Royal Majesty was a man of extraordinary wisdom and uncommon composure. He spoke with clarity, ruled with compassion and led with honour. Beyond being a revered monarch, Kabiyesi was my blossoming childhood friend whose guidance, encouragement and warm relationship I will forever cherish.

“His reign brought visibility, growth, peace and development to Ilawe-Ekiti. He was a bridge builder, a royal statesman and a symbol of dignity whose legacy will continue to inspire generations yet unborn,” Senator Adaramodu stated.

The lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the entire people of Ilawe-Ekiti, the Ekiti State Traditional Council and all sons and daughters of Ekiti State over the painful and monumental loss.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed monarch and for strength and comfort for all grieving hearts.

Signed:

Office of Distinguished Senator Yemi Adaramodu

Ekiti South Senatorial District

National Assembly, Abuja.

APC Chieftain, Pharm. Fagboyo Congratulates Ekiti North Primary Election Winners.

APC Chieftain, Pharm. Fagboyo Congratulates Ekiti North Primary Election Winners.

A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Ekiti State Pharm. (Mrs.) Rachael Funmilayo Fagboyo, has congratulated candidates who emerged victorious in the just concluded APC primary elections across Ido/Osi Local Government Area and Ekiti North.

In a congratulatory message made available to journalists on Saturday, Fagboyo described the victories recorded by the candidates as a reflection of the confidence reposed in them by party faithful and the people of the constituency.

She specifically congratulated Hon. (Dr.) Yomi Ayorinde, who emerged as candidate for Ido/Osi Constituency II in the Ekiti State House of Assembly, and Hon. Ojo Taiwo Adeolu, candidate for Ido/Osi Constituency I, expressing confidence in their capacity to deliver progressive representation and effective legislative oversight.

According to her, “Your victories reflect the confidence your individual constituencies have in your ability to represent them effectively at the state level. We look forward to progressive legislation and oversight that will positively impact development across our local government and Ekiti State as a whole.”

Fagboyo also congratulated Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju (IBO), winner of the Federal House of Representatives primary, as well as Distinguished Senator Cyril Fasuyi, who secured victory in the senatorial primary election.

She described their emergence as “not merely a personal triumph but a clear evidence of visionary leadership, unrelenting dedication, and the deep trust the people of Ekiti North have in your ability to continue the legacy of progressive representation at the national level.”

The APC stalwart assured the candidates of massive support from the people of Ekiti North ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing optimism that the party would record resounding victories at the polls.

“As you prepare for the general elections, know that Ekiti North stands firmly behind you. We are committed to mobilising massive support to ensure your emergence in 2027 by the grace of God,” she stated.

Fagboyo, a seasoned consultant pharmacist and Director of Pharmacy at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos, is widely known for her contributions to healthcare leadership, community service, grassroots mobilisation and women empowerment within Ekiti State and beyond.

With over three decades of professional experience in clinical pharmacy and institutional leadership, she has remained actively involved in community development initiatives, youth mentorship, healthcare outreach programmes and APC grassroots engagement across Ekiti North.

Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero Welcomes NBTE Accreditation Team for New Programmes, Consolidates Polytechnic status.

Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero Welcomes NBTE Accreditation Team for New Programmes, Consolidates Polytechnic status.

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‎The Management of Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, EKSCOTECH has expressed gratitude to the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for guiding technology-based tertiary institutions in the country towards upholding standards. The Rector, Dr Olufemi Olubamise, gave the commendation while receiving the Director, NBTE Southwest Zonal Office, Dr. John Onyebuchi, and a Resource Verification Team led by Prof. Sahidu Halidu who had visited the polytechnic for accreditation purposes.

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‎Dr. Olubamise described accreditation as the backbone of any institution and informed the team that the polytechnic had, for months, been gearing up for the introduction of new courses as part of moves to consolidate its polytechnic status.

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‎In his brief remarks, the Director, NBTE Southwest Zonal Office, Dr. John Onyebuchi congratulated the polytechnic management on the successes they had so far recorded since assuming office in October 2025, just as he hailed the institution for being ever-innovative.

‎On his part, the accreditation and resource verification team leader, Prof. Sahidu Halidu, appreciated the hospitality of the polytechnic management and hailed the institution for their high level of preparedness for the exercise, especially in the aspects of equipment, manpower, and physical structure, among others.

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‎While responding to comments by the NBTE accreditation team, a member of the EKSCOTECH Governing Council and former NBTE Southwest Zonal Director, Elder Ayo Aroge expressed optimism that the Institution would scale through the process of accreditation.

‎Aroge maintained that, a smooth sail through the process would afford Ekscotech the opportunity to gain recognition by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) as well as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, just as the same will enable them to access the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND).

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‎The team had visited to assess not fewer than 12 programmes, some of which are brand new, and others already due for re-accreditation, namely: Electrical Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, Procurement and Supply, Accountancy, Family Health, Community Health, Science Laboratory Technology, Dental Surgery, Dispensing Opticianry and Dental Therapy.

‎Notably, they were co-received by other EKSCOTECH Principal Officers, including the Deputy Rector, Mrs Folake Oladapo; the Registrar, Mr Sunday Ayodeji; the Bursar, Mr Olaniyi Dada; the Librarian, Mr Femi Folorunso; Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, and the Polytechnic Accreditation Committee Chairman, Mr Kayode Abolarin.

‎During the visit, the officials conducted a comprehensive review of the polytechnic academic resources and learning facilities. Their assessment covered e-library resources, staffing adequacy, student quality, laboratories, academic regulations, and other key infrastructures required for effective programme delivery.

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APC Presidential Primaries: Oyebaji Lauds party’s Internal Democracy.

APC Presidential Primaries: Oyebaji Lauds party’s Internal Democracy.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has commended the massive turnout of members of All Progressive Congress (APC) across 177 wards in the state to return the party’s presidential ticket to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a resounding vote of confidence in the President’s leadership and a strong affirmation of the party’s unity and internal democracy. 

The Governor, who arrived at his ward 6, Ikogosi-Ekiti at about 10:35am and participated in the presidential affirmation  exercise, described the process as peaceful, orderly and a true reflection of the party’s commitment to deepening internal democracy across all level.

Speaking with journalists after the exercise, Governor Oyebanji said the enthusiasm displayed by party members was a clear indication that party members were united in purpose and confident in the leadership direction of  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, added that the process was devoid of any rancour.

Describing the exercise as historic, the Governor maintained that it was the first time all members of the party were given the opportunity to directly and actively participate in the selection of the party’s presidential flag bearer.

While commending the APC for deepening internal democracy and providing platform for every member to participate in the decision-making process, the Governor described the exercise as transparent and inclusive.

Governor Oyebanji said: “You can see the enthusiasm here among our party members to exercise their democratic right. This speaks to internal democracy in the APC. Since we started the primaries some weeks ago, people have come out to vote for candidates of their choice. 

“Today is different and historic because this will be the first time that members of the party, will have a say in who becomes the presidential candidate of the party and here in our ward in ikogosi, we have 624 registered party members, 620 votes in favor of President Tinubu to continue as the flag bearer of the party and from the news I have received across the state, it has been a peaceful exercise. 

“I must commend APC for deepening internal democracy and offering platform for every member of the party to have a say in who becomes the presidential flag bearer of the party”

Expressing confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will record a landslide victory in the general elections, Governor Oyebanji said the overwhelming support demonstrated during the presidential primaries across the state and other parts of the country was a clear indication that the President enjoys wide acceptance and strong backing from party members and the electorates. 

“If lperformance is a yardstick in electoral success, then there is nothing to fear about the victory and the emergence of APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the Jan 2027 presidential election”, Oyebanji added.

OJUAWO MOURNS THE PASSING OF ALAWE OF ILAWE EKITI.

OJUAWO MOURNS THE PASSING OF ALAWE OF ILAWE EKITI.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I, the Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti. In a condolence message released through his media office, Hon. Ojuawo described the late monarch as one of the foremost traditional rulers in Ekiti State who used the revered traditional institution to promote peace, unity, harmony, and development within Ilawe Ekiti, Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, and the state at large.

Hon. Ojuawo stated that the late Alawe was a peaceful and highly respected monarch whose wise counsel, fatherly role, and commitment to community development distinguished him among his peers. He noted that the monarch’s reign brought stability and cohesion to Ilawe Kingdom, while his contributions to the growth and progress of the community would remain indelible in the hearts of the people. “I condole with the good Oloris, the royal family, and the entire people of Ilawe Ekiti on the passing of our royal father who has gone to be with his ancestors. We must appreciate God for his peaceful reign and remarkable contributions to the growth and development of Ilawe Kingdom. We shall greatly miss his wisdom, humility, and exemplary leadership,” he said.

The federal lawmaker also extended his heartfelt condolences to the Chairman of Ekiti South West Local Government, Hon. Apolola Richard, as well as the entire traditional council and people of the local government over the painful loss. He prayed that God grants the soul of the departed monarch eternal rest and gives the people of Ilawe Ekiti the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM.

SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU's WIFE MOURNS ALAWE OF ILAWE, DESCRIBES HIS PASSAGE AS SAD, TRAGIC AND LAMENTABLE.

SENATOR YEMI ADARAMODU's WIFE MOURNS ALAWE OF ILAWE, DESCRIBES HIS PASSAGE AS SAD, TRAGIC AND LAMENTABLE. 

The wife of the Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, Mrs Oluwatoyin Adaramodu, has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden passage of the royal father of Ilawe Kingdom, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I, the Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti.

In a condolence release made available to the media, Mrs Oluwatoyin Adaramodu described the death of the revered monarch as sad, tragic, painful and lamentable, noting that Kabiyesi was not only the traditional ruler of Ilawe-Ekiti, but also a father, a guide, a moral compass and a stabilising royal presence to the people of the ancient kingdom.

Mrs Oluwatoyin Adaramodu said the transition of the Alawe at this critical time was a heavy blow to the royal family, the chiefs, the entire Ilawe community, Ekiti State and all lovers of tradition, peace and development.

According to her, Oba Adebanji Alabi carried the crown with dignity, wisdom and uncommon grace, adding that his reign reflected the nobility of the throne, the sanctity of Yoruba traditional institution and the deep cultural pride of Ilawe-Ekiti.

“Kabiyesi was not just a king to us. He was a father. He was a source of counsel, peace, encouragement and royal warmth. His palace was not merely a seat of authority, but a home of wisdom, reconciliation and cultural strength. His death is a personal loss to us and a painful wound in the heart of Ilawe Kingdom,” she stated.

Mrs Oluwatoyin Adaramodu further noted that Ilawe-Ekiti, being their hometown made the passage of the monarch more touching and personal to the family.

She said the late Alawe remained a father to the Senator, to her, and to all sons and daughters of Ilawe-Ekiti, both at home and in the diaspora.

She added that Kabiyesi’s death had created a deep silence in the land, saying the royal drum had lowered its tone and the palace courtyard had been thrown into solemn reflection.

The Senator’s wife, however, urged the people of Ilawe-Ekiti to take solace in the fact that Oba Alabi lived a life of honour, service and dignity, and left behind a legacy that would continue to speak in the history of the kingdom.

She commiserated with the royal family, the Alawe-in-Council, the chiefs, sons and daughters of Ilawe-Ekiti, the government and people of Ekiti State, and all those affected by the passage of the royal father.

Mrs Oluwatoyin Adaramodu prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed monarch eternal rest and give the royal family and the entire Ilawe Kingdom the strength to bear the irreparable loss.

“May the ancestors receive Kabiyesi with honour. May the land he served remember him with gratitude. May Ilawe-Ekiti remain peaceful, united and progressive. Though Kabiyesi has joined his ancestors, his name, his reign and his fatherly footprints shall remain evergreen in the hearts of his people,” she said.

Signed:

Mrs Oluwatoyin Adaramodu.

Wife of the Senator Representing Ekiti South Senatorial District