Cavista Holdings in Ekiti: A Story of Investment, Jobs, and Shared Prosperity!.

Cavista Holdings in Ekiti: A Story of Investment, Jobs, and Shared Prosperity!.

By Adl

This is not an attempt to be overly profound about the investment opportunities that Cavista Holdings has created in Ekiti State. Rather, it is my humble contribution to an ongoing public conversation on various social media platforms, based on verifiable facts and as a leader in the business. 

Today, Cavista Holdings has two major portfolio businesses operating in Ekiti State: Glocient Hospitality, the concessionaire of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center, and Agbeyewa Farms.

Both businesses commenced operations about four years ago following the Ekiti State Government's deliberate policy to attract private-sector investment. By creating an enabling business environment and demonstrating a genuine commitment to public-private partnerships, the state government successfully attracted one of Ekiti's most accomplished global entrepreneurs, John Olajide.

John Olajide, a Texas-based business leader and proud son of Ekiti State, has built successful businesses across more than fifteen countries. Despite his global achievements, he chose to invest back home with a vision—to prove that world-class investments can thrive in Nigeria and in particular, Ekiti State.

Today, that vision is becoming a reality.

As we speak, Cavista Holdings has well invested billions of naira in its two businesses in Ekiti State. It is estimated that billions have gone into the transformation of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center into one of Nigeria's foremost tourism destinations, with investment still ongoing. Likewise, Agbeyewa Farms was built from the ground up, and over Tens of billion had already been committed to establishing what is now regarded as Africa's largest cassava farm.

Beyond the impressive financial commitment lies an even greater impact. Cavista Holdings has created employment opportunities for well over 1,000 people across its Ekiti operations, with Agbeyewa Farms accounting for the largest share of those jobs. As a responsible corporate citizen, the company continues to meet its obligations to the various government entities while contributing significantly to the state's economic growth.

The results speak for themselves. Today, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center has won for itself the prestigious award as Nigeria's Best Holiday Resort on three different occasions, reaffirming its place as one of the country's leading tourism destinations. Agbeyewa Farms, on the other hand, has grown into Africa's largest cassava farm, positioning Ekiti State as a strategic player in Nigeria's agricultural transformation and industrial future. The testimonials are out there to justify this piece. 

These are successes that every Ekiti son and daughter is be proud of. We sincerely appreciate the Ekiti State Government for providing the environment that made these investments possible. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the good people of Ekiti, especially our host communities, for their cooperation, patience, understanding, and unwavering support over the past four years.

Indeed, one of the most heartwarming sights today is seeing children in communities such as Ikole, Ipao-Ekiti, Iyemero, and neighbouring towns excitedly shouting "Agbeyewa to the world!" whenever they see any of our vehicles pass by. That simple gesture reflects something much deeper—it shows that the company has become part of the identity and aspirations of the communities it serves.

Beyond business operations, Cavista Holdings has consistently demonstrated that true investment also means investing in people and communities.

Through the annual Agbeyewa Cup, Agbeyewa has created one of the biggest grassroots football competitions in Ekiti State, providing opportunities for young football talents across all local government areas to showcase their abilities while promoting unity, healthy competition, and community engagement.

Similarly, the annual Agbeyewa Traditional Rulers' Retreat has become a respected platform for meaningful dialogue, leadership engagement, and collaboration with our revered traditional institutions. It reflects the company's recognition that sustainable development must be built on strong partnerships with community leaders and custodians of our culture.

Across education, community development, agriculture, youth empowerment, tourism, sports, and cultural preservation, Cavista Holdings continues to demonstrate that corporate success should go hand in hand with social responsibility.

At a time when some of Ekiti people in the diaspora are reluctant of investing back home, John Olajide has chosen to bring significant investment back home. His commitment goes beyond building businesses; it is about creating opportunities, restoring confidence, inspiring young entrepreneurs, and proving that Ekiti State can compete on the global investment map.

No investment journey is without challenges, but every meaningful transformation begins with someone willing to take the first step. John Olajide took that step, and today thousands of lives have been positively impacted because of that decision.

As Ekiti continues its journey towards industrialisation and economic prosperity, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: when visionary leadership in government meets visionary private investment, remarkable things happen.

John Olajide has demonstrated that success is measured not only by the businesses one builds across the world, but also by the legacy one leaves at home.

#Adl is the Director of Community Engagement at Agbeyewa Farms.

APC State Chairmen congratulate Oyebanji on re-election.

APC State Chairmen congratulate Oyebanji on re-election.

The Forum of State Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) comprising chairmen of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapters has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his re-election for a second term as Governor of Ekiti State.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 29, 2026 and signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, the chairmen described Oyebanji’s victory at the June 20, 2026 governorship poll as a clear endorsement of his first-term performance and quest for more of his developmental strides by the people of the state.

The Forum, which commended Ekiti people for choosing to remain in the progressives fold to enjoy more of Renewed Hope Initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, further described the victory as a well-deserved feat and a confirmation of the people’s trust and confidence in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership quality.

The statement reads, “We write to express our hearty congratulations to you on your re-election as Governor of Ekiti state for another four-year term. This is a well-deserved feat and a confirmation of the people’s trust and confidence in your leadership.

“The fact that Ekiti people stood by you to break the jinx of not having two consecutive terms shows that they love you and cherish your programmes. They gave you 85 percent of the votes and victory in all the 16 local governments to tell the world that they still want more of BAO’s developmental strides”, the statement added.

OYEBANJI COMMISERATES WITH APC NATIONAL SECRETARY, SEN BASIRU OVER MOTHER'S DEATH.

OYEBANJI COMMISERATES WITH APC NATIONAL SECRETARY, SEN BASIRU OVER MOTHER'S DEATH.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has commiserated with the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, on the passing of his mother, Alhaja Sidikat Basiru.

The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the death of Alhaja Basiru as a colossal loss which can only be assuaged by the Almighty Allah who giveth and taketh.

He noted that the demise of the matriarch has left a huge vacuum in the Basiru clan of Osogbo, Osun State and a big sense of loss in the hearts of her admirers whom she had a great impact on during her lifetime.

Governor Oyebanji noted that the deceased served her Creator in her lifetime, raised her children and instilled in them the fear of Allah, got involved in charity and community service to the best of her ability.

He prayed Allah to grant the deceased Aljanah firdaous, overlooked her shortcomings and grant her children and other members of the family the fortitude to bear the great loss.

The Governor said the thoughts and prayers of the government and people of Ekiti State are with the entire Basiru family as they mourn the loss of a jewel they so much cherished.

He urged the family of the late nonagenarian to be consoled by her food works and worthy legacies she left behind which would continue to speak positively for her long after her transition to the great beyond.

“On behalf of my family, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with my dear brother, the National Secretary of our great party, Senator Basiru Ajibola and the entire family on the demise of their mother. We pray that the Lord grant mama eternal rest and grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss”, the Governor added.

VOX POPULI: Perceptions, Reflections and Tributes to Senator Olusesan Aina.

VOX POPULI: Perceptions, Reflections and Tributes to Senator Olusesan Aina.

...The Testimony of a Remarkable Legacy.

By Ola Asubiojo

There comes a season in the life of every great institution when history pauses to honour one of its finest architects.

 Such is this defining moment as the curtain gradually falls on the illustrious 30-year public service career of Mr. Olusesan Aina, fondly known across the Local Government family as "Senator," the retiring Executive Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), Ekiti State.

Across the sixteen Local Government Areas, the thirty-eight Local Council Development Areas, the Commission, NULGE, retired administrators and serving officers, one message echoes with remarkable unanimity: Senator Olusesan Aina leaves not merely an office, but an enduring legacy.

In a series of emotional, heartfelt and deeply reflective tributes, distinguished personalities and members of the Local Government family shared their perceptions of a leader whose administrative brilliance, humility, courage, integrity and uncommon humanity have become reference points for generations.

Among those who paid glowing tributes were:

Mr Akomolade Gabriel,a Trailblazing, organic humane permanent secretary of ekiti state local government service commission, noted in his pragmatic and proactive assessment of human features, that Senator olusesan Aina's tenure will remain a golden chapter in the Administrative history of the commission, defined by transparency, discipline and institutional excellence.

Commissioner Aladesanmi Aladesuyi who extolled his Administrative competence, loyalty to government policies and immeasurable contributions to strengthening the Local Government system in Ekiti State

.

Commissioner Adedipe Olawole in his charismatic and objective mindset, described Senator olusesan Aina's uncommon accessibility and Unrivalled organic humane posture as special qualities or features that make people, either in the LGSC staff or non staff following him, because he's very very accessible.

Mrs Titilayo Toba-Ojo, Emeritus permanent secretary (Retired),in her humane and quintessential charismatic features, referred to him as a vibrant and dynamic administrator,whose professional structure and discipline, maturity and wisdom have become enduring lessons for younger officer, with vision for greater heights.

Comrade Olakitan Alatise, the Trailblazing HLA of Ado central LCDA, and a prominent dynamic NULGE Ekiti Union leader who affirmed that Senator olusesan Aina's uncommon accessibility, compassion and people - oriented leadership endeared him to officers throughout the Local Government system.

Mrs Akinbobola Deborah -Bosede, the HLA, Irepodun/ Ifelodun Local Government,in her enthusiastic and motivating features described him as an administrator whose humility gives hope,whose wisdom inspires confidence, and whose leadership transformed ordinary workers into extraordinary professional.

Mr. Osalade Festus (HLA, Ado West LCDA), who hailed him as a compassionate mentor, a dependable father and a fearless reformer whose decisions were always guided by fairness and justice.

Mr. Agbanigo Olawunmi, Coordinator of the Committee of Ekiti State Local Government Information Officers, who praised him as an exceptional communicator with an open-door policy, always willing to listen, encourage and inspire every cadre of staff.

Comrade Olatunde O.B., Ekiti State NULGE President, who celebrated him as a courageous defender of workers' welfare, an uncommon labour-friendly administrator and a bridge-builder whose partnership with organised labour strengthened industrial harmony.

Pastor Olatunji Oluwafemi (HLA, Ikole Local Government), who described him as a God-fearing leader whose integrity remained unwavering despite the enormous demands of public office.

Comrade Dele Ajayi, former Ekiti State NULGE President, who applauded his fearlessness, sincerity and unwavering commitment to protecting both the institution and its workforce.

Comrade Oluyemi Esan, former Ekiti State NULGE President, a political heavyweight,who described him as a rare public servant whose name will remain synonymous with integrity, accountability and selfless service.

Mr. Familoye Stanley Abiodun ,retired Executive Secretary, LGSC, who praised him as a worthy successor who not only sustained institutional values but elevated them beyond expectations.

Comrade Ayodele Aluko, former Ekiti State NLC President, former Ekiti State NULGE PRO and retired Permanent Secretary, who called him an embodiment of administrative excellence, labour diplomacy and uncommon humility.

Comrade Engineer Obaleye Soji, National NULGE PRO, who acknowledged his immense contributions to the growth of Local Government administration and his consistent support for organised labour across all levels.

Comrade Olawole Festus Aina, NULGE Chairman, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government (Igede-Ekiti), who described him as a dependable father figure, a source of inspiration and an exemplary servant-leader.

The People's Verdict

Beyond these eminent personalities, countless officers from all the sixteen Local Government Areas, thirty-eight LCDAs and departments of the Commission—too numerous to mention individually—echoed the same sentiments.

They spoke of a leader who:

Led with wisdom rather than intimidation.

Administered with justice rather than prejudice.

Built people rather than personal empires.

Protected institutional integrity above personal interest.

Combined professionalism with uncommon humility.

Inspired confidence through transparency and accountability.

Championed the dignity, welfare and advancement of Local Government workers.

Left behind stronger institutions and better-prepared future leaders.

As Senator Olusesan Aina prepares to take a deserved bow from active public service, the overwhelming consensus remains unmistakable: his retirement marks the end of an era but not the end of his influence.

His footprints are deeply engraved in the annals of the Local Government Service Commission. His ideals will continue to shape administrators. His mentorship will live in the lives of those he nurtured. 

His legacy will remain a guiding light for generations of public servants.

Indeed, some careers conclude with retirement; great legacies begin there.

Thank you, Senator Olusesan Aina, for thirty remarkable years of exemplary leadership, uncommon courage, unwavering integrity, selfless service and administrative excellence.

Your name has become a benchmark. 

Your legacy has become a reference point

. Your impact has become immortal.

Nigeria's Cassava Boom Needs an Industrial Leap ~ Oska Seyi Aiyeleso.

Nigeria's Cassava Boom Needs an Industrial Leap ~ Oska Seyi Aiyeleso.

Nigeria does not have a cassava production problem.

For decades, we have been the world's largest producer of cassava. Every year, millions of tonnes are harvested across the country. Yet despite this abundance, Nigeria continues to import many of the starches, sweeteners, flours and industrial derivatives that our manufacturers require.

That contradiction should concern all of us.

As we mark World Cassava Day 2026, the most important question is no longer whether Nigeria can grow cassava at scale. We already can. The real question is whether we can convert our production advantage into industrial advantage.

Around the world, countries that transformed agricultural abundance into economic prosperity followed a similar path. They moved beyond producing raw commodities and built industries around them.

Thailand is one of the most frequently cited examples in the cassava sector. Its success was not driven simply by growing more cassava. It was driven by investments in processing, product development, export markets and industrial applications. The lesson is straightforward: production creates supply, but industrialization creates value.

Nigeria has been standing at a similar crossroad for several decades now.

For many years, cassava has played a vital role in food security and rural livelihoods. Millions of farmers depend on it. Communities across the country depend on it. Yet only a small proportion of the crop is converted into the higher value industrial products that drive manufacturing growth and generate stronger economic returns.

I say this from experience leading both a large-scale cassava farming operation and a cassava processing business.

Our work is guided by a conviction championed by our Chairman, Niyi John Olajide, that agriculture can serve as a platform for industrial development when production, processing and market demand are connected within a single value chain.

That belief has shaped the investments Cavista Holdings has made through Agbeyewa Farms and Matna Foods. Together, we are working to strengthen the link between farms, factories and markets because sustainable growth occurs when all three operate as part of the same system.

Building those connections is not easy.

Industrialization requires reliable feedstock supply, modern processing infrastructure, efficient logistics, quality systems, access to finance and long-term investment. It requires coordination across stakeholders who often operate independently. Most importantly, it requires patience and disciplined execution.

The good news is that momentum is building. The challenge is that industrial demand is not expanding fast enough. In our daily operations, we receive requests from thousands of farmers seeking markets for their cassava. The interest is there. The production capacity is there. What remains insufficient is the industrial processing capacity needed to absorb that supply at scale.

That is the gap Nigeria must close.

Cassava is one of the most versatile crops in the world. Beyond traditional food applications, it serves as a feedstock for industrial starches, sweeteners, ethanol, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, paper products, animal feed and a growing range of manufacturing inputs.

The benefits extend far beyond agriculture. A stronger cassava industry creates demand for logistics, engineering, warehousing, packaging, financial services, technology and research. It strengthens local manufacturing, supports import substitution and creates jobs throughout the economy.

The opportunity extends even further. Increasingly, value creation is shifting beyond basic processing into ingredient systems, formulation science and product innovation. Competitive advantage today is determined not only by access to raw materials, but by the ability to transform those materials into products that manufacturers need and consumers value.

That shift should fundamentally change how we think about cassava.

However, no single company can drive this transformation alone. Success will require alignment between government, industry, researchers, investors and development partners. Policy must encourage investment. Infrastructure must support efficient operations. Markets must reward innovation and quality.

Nigeria's cassava story should no longer be measured only by how much we grow. It should be measured by how much value we create from what we grow.

For a country seeking sustainable pathways to economic diversification, few opportunities are as compelling. If we get this right, cassava will become more than a food security crop. It will become a strategic industrial resource capable of supporting manufacturing, creating jobs, attracting investment and strengthening economic resilience.

That is the opportunity before us. The raw material already exists. What remains is the collective commitment to build the industries that can unlock their full value.

 

Oska Seyi Aiyeleso is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Agbeyewa Farms and Matna Foods Limited.

TRIBUTE TO A LIVING LEGEND OF SELFLESS SERVICE.

TRIBUTE TO A  LIVING LEGEND OF SELFLESS SERVICE.

There are men whose footprints fade with time, and there are men whose footprints become permanent landmarks upon the sands of history. Mr. Olusesan Aina, fondly called "Senator," belongs to the latter.

By  August, we'll gather not to bid farewell to a career, but to celebrate a remarkable legacy spanning three decades of uncommon dedication, unwavering integrity, exceptional professionalism, and sacrificial service in the Local Government Service Commission.

Thirty years ago, you answered the call to public service. 

 You'll leave behind not just files and offices, but generations of lives transformed, institutions strengthened, and countless hearts inspired. Your career has become a reference point of excellence, discipline, diligence, accountability, and unwavering commitment to duty.

You have been far more than an Executive Secretary. You have been an organic humane leader, a quintessential administrator, a charismatic mentor, and a true moulder of future leaders. Your leadership has consistently reflected wisdom, humility, compassion, and justice. Through every assignment, you demonstrated that genuine leadership is measured not by power, but by service; not by titles, but by the positive impact made on humanity.

As one of the most courageous champions of the welfare and relevance of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Ekiti State, you stood firmly for justice, fairness, and the dignity of workers. Your voice gave hope to the discouraged, your courage strengthened the weak, and your unwavering loyalty to worthy causes earned you the admiration of colleagues and stakeholders alike..

Your life beautifully defines trustworthiness, selflessness, altruism, generosity, and compassion. Many have found encouragement through your fatherly counsel, assistance through your open hands, and direction through your exemplary leadership. You never sought applause, yet your noble deeds continue to speak louder than words.

Beyond your professional excellence, your graceful personality, admirable sense of style, and approachable nature made you a delight to work with. You combined competence with humility, authority with kindness, and discipline with genuine love for people.

Like the majestic eagle, you have completed one glorious flight and are now soaring into another season filled with greater possibilities. Retirement is not an end; it is Heaven's invitation to a higher dimension of fulfilment, greater influence, renewed purpose, and uncommon joy..

I am profoundly convinced that your retirement is not a departure from relevance but a divine promotion into greater heights beyond your imagination. The God whom you have served through faithful service to humanity will reward your labour abundantly.

 Your experience shall continue to illuminate paths, your wisdom shall remain a compass for emerging leaders, and your legacy shall continue to inspire generations yet unborn.

As the Holy Scriptures declare:

"The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day." — Proverbs 4:18

May your days ahead be crowned with divine health, overflowing peace, unending joy, supernatural favour, and immeasurable prosperity. May your children and generations after you rise to call you blessed.

 May your harvest always exceed your labour, and may the Lord continually establish the works of your hands.

Congratulations, Distinguished Mr. Olusesan Aina ("Senator").

Thank you for thirty remarkable years of excellence.

Thank you for proving that integrity still matters.

Thank you for mentoring future leaders.

Thank you for standing for justice.

Thank you for serving humanity with uncommon passion.

Your name is engraved not merely in the records of the Local Government Service Commission, but in the hearts of everyone privileged to have encountered your remarkable leadership.

May your sunset in public service become the sunrise of an even more glorious destiny.

Happy Retirement, our Organic Humane Leader, our Quintessential Administrator, our Courageous Mentor, our Distinguished "Senator."

Your legacy is secure.

 Your impact is immeasurable. Your best days are still ahead.

OJUAWO MOURNS THE PASSING OF SENATOR ANTHONY ADENIYI.

OJUAWO MOURNS THE PASSING OF SENATOR ANTHONY ADENIYI.

Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Ojuawo, Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Senator Anthony Adeniyi, describing his death as a painful loss to Ekiti State, the progressive family, and the nation at large.

In a statement released on behalf of his constituents, Hon. Ojuawo said the news of Senator Adeniyi's demise came as a rude shock, particularly at a time when the nation continues to require the wisdom, experience, and patriotic contributions of elder statesmen committed to national development.

The federal lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late legal luminary, praying that God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. He noted that Senator Adeniyi was not only a distinguished lawyer and accomplished politician but also a committed progressive whose contributions to the growth and stability of democratic governance in Ekiti State remain invaluable.

According to Hon. Ojuawo, the late senator played a significant role in the restoration and consolidation of progressive governance in the state. His exceptional legal expertise, courage, and dedication at critical moments in the political history of Ekiti contributed immensely to the victories and successes recorded by the progressive family. His service at the temple of justice and unwavering commitment to the rule of law earned him widespread respect across political and professional circles.

"Senator Anthony Adeniyi was a bold, fearless, and principled leader whose contributions to the development of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Nigeria as a whole cannot be overstated. As Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District from 2011 to 2015, he distinguished himself through quality representation, insightful contributions to legislative debates, and unwavering advocacy for the welfare of his constituents," Ojuawo stated.

He further remarked that the late senator's wise counsel, wealth of experience, and commitment to public service would be greatly missed by the people of Ekiti South, the APC family, and all those who had the privilege of working with him.

Hon. Ojuawo prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed statesman and asked God Almighty to comfort his family, friends, political associates, and the entire people of Ekiti State during this difficult period.

"May his noble legacy of service, integrity, courage, and commitment to justice continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in perfect peace."

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM