We’ll not relent in securing Ekiti, Oyebanji assures.

We’ll not relent in securing Ekiti, Oyebanji assures.

…..As Gov visits former CDS, Gen Olonisakin.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has said his government would continue to make strategic moves in ensuring adequate security of lives and property in the State.

The Governor gave the assurance during a visit to the residence of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin (rtd) in Abuja on Wednesday.

Governor Oyebanji who noted that development thrives in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, said his private visit to the former CDS was not unconnected with efforts to further secure Ekiti state.

He described the retired military general as a proud citizen of the State who has been involved in Ekiti development agenda even while in office as Chief of Defence Staff.

 “The General is one of our distinguished citizens in Ekiti State and someone that has been concerned and involved in the development of the state even when he was in office. He really assisted Ekiti State and we have been collaborating since then. 

Oyebanji stated further, "I came today to further discuss Ekiti with him and like he mentioned, his expertise is in Security and his concern is on how our dear state will be secured. This speaks to his commitment to peace in Ekiti State. He shared his perspectives with me.

 “What I have come to discuss with him today is how to secure Ekiti better. The details will unfold with time", he added.

He noted that the visit was mainly to ruminate with the Security expertise on how to further sustain the existing peace and as well fortify the various communities of the state against marauders. 

Commenting, The Ekiti born former Chief Of Defence Staff, General Olonisakin said he would continue to use his military influence to strengthen the security architecture of Ekiti state.

General Olonisakin commended Governor Oyebanji for evolving all necessary measures at securing the state, promising to support the moves at all times.

The retired General and former Ambassador to Cameroon who spoke on various policies and programmes of the Governor, said Ekiti people need to appreciate the lofty ideas of the Oyebanji administration.

 “If you look at my background, it is more of security, and I believe that it is when you have a secured environment that gives room for great development. So, that is where I'm really looking at and see how we can make our contributions to ensure Ekiti is well secured so that the Governor can continue with his development work in the State."

 “I want to use this medium to appreciate Governor Oyebanji for his efforts and all he's doing for our state and people need to appreciate and commend him too for all he is doing. I wish him well in the governance and development of the state as a whole.” Gen Olonisakin said.

Happy birthday to Hon. Tayo Abdul-Rauf Adegoke: A Grassroots Politician and Fantastic Mobilizer.

Happy birthday to Hon. Tayo Abdul-Rauf Adegoke: A Grassroots Politician and Fantastic Mobilizer.

By Adebayo Temitope Balogun

In Pic: Hon. Tayo Abdul-Rauf Adegoke

Today marks a special day as we celebrate the birthday of Hon. Tayo Abdul-Rauf Adegoke, a distinguished grassroots politician and mobilizer. His commitment to the progress of his followers has distinguished him as a leader, regardless of age or wealth.

Hon. Tayo's journey in progressive politics dates back to 1999 when he contested for the councillorship of ward 7 in Odo-Otin local government and my good brother and leader Hon. Maruff was also contesting in ward 15, both of them emerged victorious in both the primary and general elections under the platform of the progressive party, AD. Since then, Hon Tayo Adegoke has remained a staunch grassroots mobilizer and seasoned politician, known for his dedication to the progress of others.

Hon Binuyo Abdullah, former Deputy Chief of Staff to Gov Oyetola abs and Tayo Ade

His influence extends beyond Odo-Otin Local Government to the state and federal levels, earning him recognition as a prominent leader in Osun State. His unwavering support and loyalty to all aspirants, demonstrated through his inclusive leadership style, have endeared him to many across the state.

H

In Pic: His Excellency Alhaji Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola and present minister of Marine and Hon Tayo Adegoke

My encounter with him during my two attempts to contest for the Chairmanship of my LCDA has left a lasting impression on me. Your role in convening a meeting for all contestants and party leaders in Odo-Otin North at your residence in Ijabe, prior to the primary election, stands out as a testament to your commitment to the party and its ideals. At that gathering, you candidly shared insights from the party and government, pledging your support and loyalty to all aspirants present. Your call for adherence to party supremacy resonated with us all despite the challenges we faced with the selection process.

Despite the disappointment caused by the leaders' failure to follow due process and adhere to party regulations in candidate selection, your guidance and counsel remained invaluable. Your timely call in the early hours before the chairmanship primary election, outlining the unfolding events, demonstrated your dedication to ensuring transparency and fairness within the party. Despite the setbacks and financial losses incurred, your insistence on upholding party unity and peace prevailed, influencing my decision to abide by party directives.

Since that pivotal moment, my admiration for your leadership style has only grown. Your unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy and inclusivity has earned my trust and respect. As I reflect on our journey together, I am grateful for your mentorship and guidance, which have shaped my understanding of effective leadership.

In Pic: Hon. Tayo Abdul-Rauf Adegoke

As you add another year to your years today, I pray it will be the beginning of a great era in your life and in your political journey, sir. On behalf of my ward, 15A members, my Chairman Hon Suleiman popularly know as Baba Mariam, my LCDA Chairman Hon Kunle Orisagbemi, a young, spirited, energetic and vibrant chairman, and the entire members of our great party in Odo-Otin North. I wish you a wonderful birthday and for a long life to serve people more. Congratulations. 

Thank you for your exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to our party and its members.

Pastor Adebayo Temitope Balogun, former Executive Assistant to Gov. Kayode Fayemi, Personal Assistant former National Leader Afenifere. Late Sen. Ayo Fasanmi.

Oyebanji Appoints Supervisors, Advisers for 16 LGAs in Ekiti State

Oyebanji Appoints Supervisors, Advisers for 16 LGAs in Ekiti State.                                                       By Olamide Akinwumi 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of supervisors and advisers for the 16 local government councils in the state.

This is contained in a statement by Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State, Mr. Yinka Oyebode.

According to him, the appointment is in a bid to further strengthen local government administration in the state for enhanced service delivery. 

The appointments take effect from May 2, 2024.

See the full list below:

NERC Cedes Electricity Oversight Authorities to Ekiti Bureau to Boost State's Power Supply Industry.

NERC Cedes Electricity Oversight Authorities to Ekiti Bureau to Boost State's Power Supply Industry.

To guarantee effective power supply in Ekiti State, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has ceded its regulatory oversight of the electricity market in the state to the Ekiti State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (EERB). 

NERC said that while it exercises regulatory oversight of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) as the major regulatory agent, however in accordance with powers conferred by the Electricity Act 2023, its current ceding was is part of the legal requirement to decentralise the operations of Gencos and DisCos in Nigeria, as well as even the single Transco.

The new arrangement has been announced so far for Ekiti and Enugu and Ondo States, which have existing Electricity regulatory Bureau established through laws enacted by their respective Houses of Assembly, and who have met other constitutional provisions.

Under this lofty power distribution decentralisation policy, the electricity tariffs that will be payable in Ekiti shall be subject to ratification by EERB and all relating protective policy for customers shall be the responsibility of the Ekiti State Government.

The NERC revealed that the decentralisation policy was achieved when presidential assent was granted to the amendment of relevant portions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) on 17 March, 2023.

With this power concessioning move, which shall be effective from May 1, 2024, the EERB will now regulate electricity market in the state, while also working in synergy with NERC being the statutory national body to oversee power distribution across the nation.

The directive, contained in a statement dated April 22,2024, signed by the NERC Chairman, Sanusi Garba and Commissioner in charge of Legal, Licencing and Compliance, Dafe Akpeneye, said all transfers between the Benin Electricity Distribution Companies(BEDC) , Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) and EERB envisaged by this order shall be completed by 22 October, 2024.

To ensure that the new innovation succeeds as envisaged, the Commission directed BEDC and IBEDC to immediately incorporate subsidiary Companies along state lines under the Companies and Allied Matters Act for the assumption of responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in the State.

The Commission added further that each Disco "shall complete the incorporation of the Company within 60 days from the effective date of this order and, shall apply for and obtain a licence for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity from EERB.

"BEDC shall identify the actual geographic boundaries of Ekiti State and carve out its network in Ekiti State as a standalone network with the installation of boundary meters at all border points where the network crosses from Ekiti

State into another state.

"Shall create an Asset Register of all its power infrastructure located within Ekiti State; evaluate and apportion contractual obligations and liabilities, attributable to BEDC’s operations of its subsidiary in Ekiti State; identify all the applicable trading points for energy offtake for the operations of BEDC SubCo in Ekiti State

"Shall confirm the number of employees that are required to provide service to Ekiti State as a standalone public utility; and transfer the identified assets for operations in Ekiti State, contractual obligations, liabilities and employees to BEDC SubCo".

The Commission clarified that all cross-border transactions involving the national grid shall be subject to the approval of the NERC in accordance with the CFRN and EA.

According to the statement, "The amendment granted legislative autonomy to federating states in the Federal Republic of Nigeria by empowering the sub-national governments to legislate on the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity within

each respective state.

"Paragraph 14(b) Part II of the Second Schedule to the 1999 CFRN, which provides that “a House of Assembly may make laws for the State with respect to generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity to areas not covered by a national grid system within that State".

Oyebanji inaugurates Ekiti Polytechnic Governing Council.

Oyebanji inaugurates Ekiti Polytechnic Governing Council.

.…Calls for self-sustainability, efficient personnel management.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has inaugurated the Governing Council of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, calling for the development of a sound culture and practice that guarantee self-sustainability, self-sufficiency and efficient personnel management in the running of the institution.

Inaugurating the 5-member Governing Council at the Exco Chamber of the Governor’s office, Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, Governor Oyebanji noted that members of the council were constituted based on their competence, adding that such appointments are devoid of any political considerations. He expressed confidence that the institution and government would benefit from the wealth of experience of members based on their track records and pedigree in their various areas of endevours. 

While stressing that education remained the strongest weapon to fight poverty and under-development world over, the Governor charged the council members to shy away from the temptation to overload the Polytechnic with personnel cost which may reduce the developmental strides of the institution. He added that requirements for recruitment must be based mainly on need, capacity, competitiveness, excellence, merit and innovation which can drive the development of the institution. 

The Governor called for synergy and cultivation of harmonious relationship between members of the council and management of the institution to ensure operational effectiveness and realize the vision for which the institution was founded.

He said in the drive to reposition the Polytechnic for effectiveness and efficiency, his administration had increased the monthly subvention to the institution from N45million to N95million monthly, which laid credence to the importance his administration attached to higher education in the state.

He also urged the council members to accept the reality that the task of running a higher institution must not be solely rested on government, hence, the Polytechnic must look inward in the drive to generate resources that would cater for the basic needs of the institution.

“I want to particularly express my profound appreciation to Professor Emmanuel Adebayo Fasakin and other members for accepting to serve in the Polytechnic Council, despite the inconveniences. I deeply appreciate your patriotic commitment to the overall development of our dear State at all times.

“I will like to make this clarification, there are some boards that you cannot politicize, it took a while to constitute the board of this polytechnic, because of the critical nature and vision of the founding fathers of this institution and I told myself I will not constitute the council until I get fit and proper persons. And I thank God we have gotten to that stage. 

“This goes for the College of Health Sciences, Ijero Ekiti too. I will not succumb to unnecessary pressure to constitute its Governing Council until I get people that have the capacity and the ability to run efficiently the institution. Once I get the right people to agree to serve, we will constitute. These are not agencies that you just put politicians In charge, I don’t want us to make the mistake of the past.

“We must however accept the reality that the task of running a 21st century school cannot be solely rested on government’s subvention. The Council must therefore look at other sources through which the school can meet its basic needs. The Governor stated.”, the Governor added. 

Responding on behalf of other council members, Chairman of Council, Prof. Adedayo Fashakin expressed appreciation to the Governor for giving them an opportunity to serve and use their wealth of experience to develop and reposition the institution.

Other members of the council include Mr John Kehinde Omodara, Mr Kayode Bamigboye, Dr Olushina Ajayi and Prof. Simisola Olayinka.

In attendance at the brief ceremony were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe; members of the State Executive Council, Onisan of Isan Ekiti, Oba Ayodele Adejuwon and the Rector of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti, Dr Bayode Adesodun, among others.

Ekiti First Lady Records First Harvest Of Vegetables From Her Govt House Garden.

Ekiti First Lady Records First Harvest Of Vegetables From Her Govt House Garden.

....Owner of best garden in Ekiti to get handsome reward.

Barely one month after planting vegetables in her garden in the Government House to encourage domestic production of edible items, Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has harvested the first set of vegetables she cultivated herself.

Dr. Oyebanji used the opportunity of the harvest to call on Ekiti women to embrace the agricultural practice of cultivating a vegetable garden at their different homes to cushion the effect of economic hardship.

Speaking while harvesting her vegetables, the Governor's wife urged women in the state to emulate her example by planting simple food items within the vicinity of their homes to complement their husbands and help reduce their costs in the market.

Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji expressed her gratitude for the rapid germination of the vegetables noting that she has laid an example for other women in Ekiti to emulate.

"I am overwhelmed to see my garden I planted about one month ago growing so fast and rapidly, I'm sure this would serve as example for other Ekiti women to emulate. Let us plant vegetables, okro, pepper and other petty crops we need as women so that we can give our husbands and children fresh food," she said.

Dr. Oyebanji noted that the idea of "One Home One Garden" was an initiative of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who has mandated all state first ladies in Nigeria to begin the initiative in their respective states.

"The primary aim of the initiative was to reduce hunger in our state and this initiative didn't exempt our men too. When we have food and vegetables in abundance, the prices of these commodities will naturally be reduced in the market," Dr. Oyebanji echoed.

Dr. Oyebanji assured Ekiti women in particular that vegetable seedlings would be made available for interested women who might want to have gardens at their different homes.

She said Nigeria first lady has promised to reward the best vegetable garden cultivated in Nigeria and same thing will be domesticated in Ekiti after the assessment of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Ekiti State, saying this will encourage women in no small measure.

The First Lady, who was accompanied by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo and other top government functionaries, appreciated the ministry and the team that has supported her in achieving the growth of her organic vegetable and promised to harvest other farm produce in the garden in no distant time.

Oyebanji Hails Alebiosu's Appointment As Acting MD/CEO First Bank.

Oyebanji Hails Alebiosu's Appointment As Acting MD/CEO First Bank. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated Mr Olusegun Alebiosu on his elevation as the Acting Managing Director/ CEO of First Bank plc by the bank’s board.

Alebiosu who was until the appointment, the Executive Director, Chief Risk Officer and Executive Compliance Officer of the Bank takes over from Dr Adesola Adeduntan.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, congratulated Mr Alebiosu, describing the new position as a befitting cap to his illustrious career and meritorious service to the financial institution.

The Governor described the Omuo-Ekiti born Banker as a thoroughbred professional who rose to the peak of his career through hard work and commitment to excellence and innovation.

Governor Oyebanji said he is convinced that the new Acting Managing Director possesses the track record, experience and expertise to successfully drive the Bank’s development agenda.

In wishing Alebiosu a successful tenure, Governor Oyebanji prayed that God would grant him wisdom and speed needed to take the bank to a new level of greatness.

“ I convey the best wishes of the Government and good people of Ekiti State to one of our stars, Mr Olusegun Alebiosu on his appointment as the Acting managing Director of First Bank plc. This, no doubt, is a recognition of his capacity and competence. We wish him a successful tenure that would be characterised by irreversible progress for the Bank.”, the Governor added.