Ekiti Government Boosts Inclusive Education with Capacity-Building Training for Special Education Personnel.

Ekiti Government Boosts Inclusive Education with Capacity-Building Training for Special Education Personnel.

The Ekiti State Government, in partnership with Premium Trust Bank, has commenced a three-day capacity-building training program for teachers, administrative staff, therapists, and other personnel from all special schools across the state.

The training, which began on December 16, 2024, is taking place at the Government School for the Physically Challenged and Intellectual Disabilities in Ido-Ekiti, and will run until December 18.

Speaking to journalists at the training venue, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, described the initiative as part of the government’s commitment to improving the quality of care and support for individuals with special needs in Ekiti.

Mrs. Agboola noted that the training aims to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance their teaching and caregiving roles. She acknowledged the dedication of educators in the state’s special schools, highlighting their consistent application of lessons from previous training programs in line with the government’s policy thrust.

However, she emphasized the challenging nature of working with children with disabilities, which necessitates regular capacity-building programs to ensure the best outcomes.

According to the Special Adviser, this round of training significantly expands participation, with approximately 90 teachers (following the employment of more teachers) and 20 administrative staff members in attendance, compared to the 45 teachers who participated in the last session held in April 2024.

Mrs. Agboola revealed that the training includes specialized sessions, such as a workshop led by a play therapist, aimed at teaching participants how to effectively use play-based techniques to engage children with disabilities.

Furthermore, she explained that, in addition to the centralized training, schools also conduct in-house sessions to continuously enhance staff capacity.

Mrs. Agboola expressed optimism that the current program would make participants more proficient in utilizing materials and equipment to effectively support students with disabilities.

The training was organized by the state government in collaboration with Premium Trust Bank, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering inclusive education in Ekiti State.

Irepodun/ Ifelodun LG Holds Glorious Christmas Carol Celebration.

Irepodun/ Ifelodun LG Holds Glorious Christmas Carol Celebration.

The staff of Irepodun Ifelodun Local Government (IILG) came together to celebrate the joy of the Christmas season at a grand carol service themed "Worship His Majesty," held at the NULGE Hall in Igede-Ekiti.

The event, graced by eminent personalities, was led by the heavenly-conscious chairman of the LG, Honorable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, fondly known as Chenco, alongside his amiable and fashionable wife, Mrs. Oluwatuyi Hellen. They were supported by other political dignitaries, including the LG Secretary, Honorable Sule Fatai; the Vice Chairman, Hon. Remi Alade; and the Leader of the House, Hon. Olagunju Yemisi.

A variety of Christmas songs and dramatic presentations by the staff added beauty and joy to the occasion. The invited pastor, who also serves as the LG Chaplain, Pastor Olowoloba Blessing, delivered an inspiring sermon on the relevance of Christmas. He reminded the audience of the profound message of Christ’s birth, emphasizing the need for love, humility, and giving as central themes of the season.

The NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole-Festus.

The NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole-Festus, in his pragmatic and formidable style, urged the staff to draw closer to God in ultimate service while encouraging them to remain upright, diligent, and altruistic in their official duties in the coming year.

Hon. Oluwatuyi Stephen Oluwagbenga Executive Chairman of Irepodun/ Ifelodun LG 

In his address, Honorable Oluwatuyi urged the staff to give God what belongs to Him spiritually while also being time-conscious and ensuring their religious commitments do not interfere with their official responsibilities. Drawing from biblical principles, he reiterated the importance of balancing faith and duty, reminding them to "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God."

Mrs. Oluwatuyi Hellen

The chairman further highlighted his administration’s commitment to workers' welfare. He announced plans to fully fund financial assistance programs, rather than through installments, and promised several other welfare packages for the coming year. He called on the staff to reciprocate these gestures with diligence and dedication at their respective duty posts.

The atmosphere was charged with positivity as staff members responded with social and emotional vibes, appreciating the chairman's speech and the program’s success.

The NULGE Chairman also expressed gratitude to the LG Chairman and the staff for their presence, promising positive changes in staff commitment to official duties as a result of the impactful celebration.

By: Asubiojo G.O.

Information and Civic Orientation Department, Igede Ekiti.

Ajoni LCDA Chairman Honoured With Transformational Leadership Award.

Ajoni LCDA Chairman Honoured With Transformational Leadership Award.

For his exceptional leadership qualities and acumen in grassroots administration, the Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, has been conferred with the prestigious Transformational Leadership Award.

Prince Ogungbemi was garlanded with the prestigious award, on Saturday, by Odo Ayedun Progressive International.

This honour recognizes his unwavering commitment to excellence, visionary leadership, and outstanding contributions to the socioeconomic and educational development of Ajoni LCDA.

Speaking about the honour, Ogungbemi, said: "I dedicate this award to the hardworking people of Ajoni LCDA. It is a call to do more, and I assure you that I remain steadfast in our collective journey toward a prosperous and developed council,” he stated.

Ogungbemi added that the Transformational Leadership Award, was a loud testimony to the his impactful leadership and dedication to improving lives and livelihoods in Ajoni LCDA. 

The Chairman's tenure has been a hallmark of dedication, diligence, and impact-driven governance. Under his leadership, economic activities in various communities have flourished, leading to a significant boost in the gross domestic products GDP of the Ajoni communities. His focus on creating an enabling environment for commerce and development has catalyzed growth and sustainability across the region.

In the education sector, the Chairman's policies and reforms have been nothing short of transformative. From the construction and delivery of modern classroom buildings in Ayebode and Esun Ekiti to the scholarship awards for indigent and outstanding pupils, his administration has consistently prioritized education as a pillar of development. Other notable initiatives include sponsoring about 50 students in vocational and technical education and the distribution of free exercise books to primary school pupils under the 'Back to School' program.

The Chairman's empowerment programs have reached every sector of the population, fostering inclusivity and progress for all. His developmental strides have continued to impact lives positively, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition from various quarters.

The award presentation ceremony was a momentous occasion, bringing together prominent indigenes of Odo Ayedun and stakeholders from across the region. In his acceptance speech, the Chairman expressed gratitude to the Odo Ayedun Progressive International for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to the sustainable development of Ajoni LCDA.

It reinforces his position as a leader who not only envisions change but actively drives it.

Ojuawo Congratulates Gov. Oyebanji on NCAA Approval.

Ojuawo Congratulates Gov. Oyebanji on NCAA Approval.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, has congratulated His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji, Governor of Ekiti State, on the approval of Non-scheduled flights to Ekiti State Cargo International Airport for the next six months.

In his congratulatory message, Hon. Ojuawo expressed his excitement and gratitude to former Governor Kayode Fayemi for conceptualizing the Ekiti State International Cargo Airport project, which will transform the state’s development and growth trajectory. He also commended Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment to completing the project, ensuring its benefits will be felt by generations to come.

“I’m thrilled to receive the news of the NCAA approval for Non-scheduled flights at Ekiti Cargo Airport,” Hon. Ojuawo said. “This achievement is a testament to former Governor Kayode Fayemi’s foresight and vision to position Ekiti in the global market, as well as Governor Oyebanji’s dedication to prioritizing Ekiti’s interests. The airport project, which commenced a few years ago, is a complex process that demands meticulous attention to detail, involving numerous professionals, safety measures, and standards. I applaud our diligent Governor for his steadfastness and commitment to bringing this project to fruition.”

Hon. Ojuawo commended Governor Oyebanji for embodying the spirit of continuity, which has yielded positive results in Ekiti, similar to the progress made in Lagos. The recent approval has enhanced the ease of doing business in Ekiti, providing a stronger foothold for expansion.

Additionally, with our agricultural produce set to hit the market early next year, we now have a viable means of accessing the international market. Hon. Ojuawo appealed to all Ekiti indigenes, both at home and abroad, to continue supporting Governor Oyebanji as he steers Ekiti towards greater heights.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

More Citizens hail Oyebanji on NCAA approval for flight operation.

More Citizens hail Oyebanji on NCAA approval for flight operation.

Accolades continued to pour in torrents for Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji over the recent approval for commencement of non- scheduled flights operation at the Ekiti International Cargo Airport. 

A former Director at the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Chief Tunde Aluko and a former Dep. Director at the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Otunba Rotimi Oluwatayo, in separate statements, congratulated the Ekiti State Governor and the people of the state over the approval. 

Aluko commended Governor Oyebanji for achieving the feat within two years of assuming office, stressing that the development has further re-ignited the confidence of stakeholders in the Biodun Oyebanji Administration.

Aluko, who is also the President, Aramoko Development Association (ADA), said when completed, the Airport stands a good chance of attracting foreign investment and opening up Ekiti State to varied Business opportunities. 

 

The ADA President said the airport will also boost the nation's Agriculture sector because of the priority it will give to farmers and other players in the Agriculture value chain to airlift their farm products to the global market.

He said, "Let me use this opportunity to commend  our State Governor as well as congratulate the people of Ekiti State over this milestone. All over the world, Airport is regarded as a hub of economic activity, generating employment, stimulating local businesses, and attracting investment. The Ekiti Cargo Airport will do beyond that as it would expose the players in the Agricultural sector to the international market,"

 

 Otunba Oluwatayo, who is also the President of Erijiyan Improvement Union, (EIU), described the approval by NCAA as a positive development that would further position Ekiti State for prosperity.

 

He said, “The import of the news of the approval of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is that our dear Governor is not leaving any stone unturned. To this end, I hereby congratulate Mr. Governor, and all Ekiti indigenes, within and in the Diaspora because this is a legacy project that would open Ekiti up to other opportunities. Besides, it will add value to the lives of the people and contribute to the rapid growth of the state and the nation’s economy.”

 

In a similar development, the Publisher of MarketingEdge, Nigeria’s foremost Marketing Journal and convener of the annual Marketing Summit and Awards, Mr. John Ajayi, has also congratulated Governor Oyebanji over the approval, describing it as another benefit of continuity in government and governance.

Ajayi, who is also the Asiwaju of Ijan Ekiti, while commending the Governor and congratulating the people of Ekiti State over the approval, stated that the Airport  investment is an everlasting dividend of democracy, not only for Ekiti people but for all the players in the Agriculture value chain of the globally economy.  

“The news of the approval by the NCAA as relayed by Governor Oyebanji’s spokesperson is more than Xmas gift to us in Ekiti because it will help Ekiti farmers and other investors in the Agricultural sector  and save their time and other constraints of going to other international airports to travel and transport their farm products,” Ajayi said

He commended Oyebanji for fulfilling his promises to Ekiti people to take it further from the stage it was when Governor Kayode Fayemi was leaving office and called on the people to support the governor in his drive to take Ekiti to the next level.

Also speaking on the approval, a Lecturer in the Department of Chemical Sciences,  Faculty of Computing and Applied Sciences,  Dominion University,  Ibadan, Dr. Folake O. Olojo, said Governor Oyebanji has written his name in gold and history will be kind to him for giving Ekiti responsible and responsive governance. 

 

She noted that the airport will open a very big revenue window for the state hence, more funds for the provision of democracy dividends to Ekiti people.

 

"I congratulate our Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji and the good people of Ekiti state over the approval to commence non-scheduled flight operation effective 15 December, by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The approval is timely because of the determination of the current administration at the center to diversify the nation's economy. With the Cargo Airport, Ekiti will be lifted and the Nigeria economy will be further boosted." Olojo stated.

EKITI AIRPORT APPROVAL GOOD FOR LOCAL ECONOMY, SAYS FASUAN.

EKITI AIRPORT APPROVAL GOOD FOR LOCAL ECONOMY, SAYS FASUAN.

…Lauds Oyebanji's tenacity in achieving the feat

An elder statesman, Chief Deji Fasuan, has expressed delight with the approval granted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for the commencement of non-scheduled flights at the Ekiti State International Cargo Airport.

Chief Fasuan, a retired Permanent Secretary and Chairman of the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State, who spoke on Friday in an interview at his residence in Ado Ekiti, described the approval as enormous for the economy of towns and villages around the airport who stand to benefit from its presence.

The nonagenarian who said it was thoughtful of the immediate past administration that came up with the airport project. He also commended the present administration for adopting the project and building on it to reach the present enviable status.

He particularly lauded the determination and tenacity of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in achieving the feat taking the project further from where his immediate predecessor, Dr Kayode Fayemi stopped.

Chief Fasuan explained that the breakthrough recorded in the airport project is another gain the people of Ekiti State have reaped from the continuity they voted at the last governorship election.

He said: "I congratulate Governor Oyebanji for the approval secured from the NCAA for the commencement of non-scheduled flights from December 15 at the Ekiti Airport.

"The advantages are enormous not only for flight users but for neighbouring towns and villages who have benefitted from roads and other modern facilities. We hope that in the next few months or so the system will incorporate scheduled and regular flights. 

"Today, some roads are springing up connecting villages that were hitherto unconnected. It is very thrilling that the present administration took it up immediately and continued to build on the ideas to the stage of receiving this approval.

"Congratulations to the present administration led by Governor Oyebanji and the previous administration, particularly Dr Kayode Fayemi, the originator.", Chief Fasua added.

No Arbitrary Taxes in Ekiti; All Collections Are Legal – EKIRS Chairman Olatona.

No Arbitrary Taxes in Ekiti; All Collections Are Legal – EKIRS Chairman Olatona.

The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) has reiterated its commitment to a transparent, equitable, and efficient taxation system while addressing misconceptions regarding its relationship with taxpayers. 

In a recent interview, the chairman of EKIRS, Mr. Olaniran Olatona, emphasized that the agency's operations are firmly anchored in law and are designed to promote mutual understanding and cooperation with the public.

Mr. Olatona highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the agency to enhance tax compliance, ease the burden on taxpayers, and address long-standing issues such as multiple taxation and enforcement actions.

In response to allegations of excessive or arbitrary taxation, Mr. Olatona asserted that all taxes collected by EKIRS are legally mandated. He explained that taxation adheres to three fundamental principles: legality, economic viability, and accounting fairness. 

“There is no tax we collect that lacks a legal foundation. We have always emphasized that any individual who believes they are being unfairly taxed is entitled to object within 30 days, as specified by law. Such individuals may present their cases with supporting evidence or seek redress in court. Since I took office in 2022, no one has successfully proven any wrongdoing in our operations,” he stated. 

Regarding concerns about the closure of shops and confiscation of goods, Mr. Olatona clarified that enforcement actions are implemented only as a last resort after multiple notices have been issued to defaulters.

“We provide sufficient time for taxpayers to address their obligations; however, some choose to disregard these notices, necessitating our legal intervention. Sealing shops in the early morning hours is a precautionary measure to prevent physical confrontations and ensure the safety of our staff as well as our taxpayers,” he explained.

He further noted that the agency’s autonomy enables it to operate with flexibility while ensuring efficient revenue collection. 

Mr. Olatona emphasized that EKIRS is cognizant of the economic difficulties faced by taxpayers and has instituted policies to lessen their burdens.

“We are considerate in our approach, particularly for individuals and businesses affected by the challenging economic landscape. For instance, we provide concessions to struggling business owners and exempt elderly citizens from certain charges when applicable, assessing each case individually to ensure fairness,” he added.

On the matter of multiple taxation, Mr. Olatona clarified that this situation arises from various revenue collectable by different tiers of government under the law. He expressed optimism about the ongoing tax reforms led by President Bola Tinubu, which aim to streamline tax collection and alleviate the burden on taxpayers.

“The proposed reforms at the federal level will address the issue of overlapping taxes. Once enacted, they will significantly benefit taxpayers, especially those with low incomes,” he asserted.

To strengthen relations with taxpayers, Mr. Olatona noted that the agency has embraced technology to simplify the tax payment process. Ekiti citizens can now make payments online from the comfort of their homes, and sensitization campaigns have been launched to educate the public on their tax obligations and the benefits of compliance.

“We are making tax payments as convenient as possible while educating people about the necessity of taxes for development. This has fostered a better understanding and improved compliance,” Mr. Olatona explained.

Responding to claims that taxpayers are not observing the impact of their contributions, he highlighted ongoing infrastructural projects and empowerment initiatives in the state as evidence of the government’s prudent utilization of tax revenue.

“It is disingenuous to claim that the government is not making use of taxpayers’ contributions. If former governors and opposition figures commend the current administration for its achievements, it is evident that the funds are being effectively utilized,” he argued.

The EKIRS chairman also urged taxpayers to meet their obligations, stressing that taxation is a constitutional duty and a shared responsibility.

“Anyone who benefits from government services has a role to play. Those who evade taxes have no moral ground to criticize the government,” he stated.

In conclusion, he disclosed that the agency has made significant progress in enhancing the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), achieving an impressive increase from 650 million Naira to 1.6 billion Naira recently.

Mr. Olatona reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to fairness and transparency, urging citizens to view the tax process as a partnership dedicated to fostering the growth and development of Ekiti State.