BudgIT ranks Ekiti first for fiscal transparency.

BudgIT ranks Ekiti first for fiscal transparency.

The Ekiti State Government has applauded the ranking of the State as first in Nigeria, in the Q4 2024 States Fiscal Transparency League Table by BudgIT Foundation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that BudgIT reports had recently scored Ekiti 100 out of 100 in its ratings and placed the state at the top of the fiscal transparency index in the country.

According to the foundation, the rating is based on budget approval, quarterly BIR, 2023 audited financial statements, Accountant-General’s Reports, E-Procurement Portal, and State Website Data Accessibility, among others.

Reacting in a statement on Friday in Ado-Ekiti, the Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, described the rating as a reflection of Gov. Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to fiscal discipline and open governance.

He said the rating was a validation of transparency, accountability, and responsible governance under the current administration.

“This is not just a statistical victory. It’s an authentication of Governor Oyebanji’s upbringing, experience in governance, discipline, selflessness, and people-centred leadership, Ekiti people can be proud,” Olatunbosun said.

The Commissioner recalled that Ekiti was also ranked first in both Q2 and Q3 of 2024, and second in Q1, “thereby making it the only state with such consistent top-tier performance.

“In addition, Ekiti was listed as a ‘Progressive Performer’, a status awarded to only five states, and was one of just four states that attracted foreign direct investment in 2024.”

While assuring that the Oyebanji-led administration remained focused on institutional reforms and would not be distracted from its developmental mission, Olatunbosun reiterated that transparency is the cornerstone of the current administration’s governance philosophy.

”Community and stakeholder engagement constitute a major factor and strategy in formulating government policy and project implementation.

“The focus is to involve individuals, groups, and other stakeholders, actively seeking feedback, addressing concerns, and making decisions that reflect stakeholders’ interests.

“We will continue to keep citizens informed, empowered, and engaged. Trust in government starts with transparency, and this government will never lose sight of that.”

He, therefore, called for sustained support from all stakeholders and residents of Ekiti State.

The Commissioner also promised that residents would continue to experience the dividends of a compassionate, transparent, and transformational government.

EKITI TO OFFICIALLY FLAG OFF AGENCY BANKING PROGRAMME.

EKITI TO OFFICIALLY FLAG OFF AGENCY BANKING PROGRAMME.

….To Also Hold Public Private Dialogue platform engagement.

Ekiti State Government will officially flag of the Agency Banking programme on Tuesday 27th May, 2025 as part of efforts to create employment opportunities and empowerment of the people. 

The State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Mr. Kayode Fasae who made this known during an audience participatory simulcast in the State environs tagged “Ekiti Loni/Ekiti Today”, said the State Government would also on 20th May, 2025 hold a Public Private Dialogue platform engagement to discuss actionable strategies to implement and active and robust Labour Market Information System (LMIS) for the State. 

Mr. Fasae explained that 200 trained and licensed people would be engaged as “Super Sole Agents” with each of them superintending over five licensed commission agents under the Agency Banking arrangement across the State to operate the system.

Fasae added that the State Government has entered into an agreement with three banks to drive the scheme, expressing confidence that the arrangement would apart from providing job opportunities, help businesses scale to a larger level, gives people easier access to digital services, boost socio-economic activities of the people and improve the standard of living of the people.    

Noting that the scheme is in tandem with both Governor Biodun Oyebanji Shared Prosperity vision and President Bola Tinubu agenda of ensuring that there is at least one financial institution in every ward in the country, the Commissioner reiterated Government’s commitment to rapid development of the State and improving the lot of the people.

Mr. Fasae said the Public Private Dialogue platform engagement was organized to strengthen public and private collaboration for an effective LMIS, identify the gaps in Labour Market data collection and utilization, enhance the use of the LMIS for organizational workforce planning and decision making, as well as to develop roadmap for LMIS implementation and sustainability.

He lamented that collaboration between the public and private stakeholders had hitherto been very limited, resulting in weak synergies and challenges in assessing impact at a holistic level, emphasizing that the ongoing efforts to develop skills and promote sustainable growth for decent employment opportunities are therefore priorities for both public and private stakeholders.

Stressing the need to establish a system that not only fosters active collaboration and synergy among key players in both sectors but also provides accurate and reliable data on the employment landscape in Ekiti State to drive effective employment and job creation initiative, Fasae assured that no stone would be left unturned towards changing the fortunes of the people for the better.

He solicited the continued support all stakeholders towards achieving the desired result.

IILG Begins Sale of CRIN Hybrid Cocoa Seedlings at Subsidised Rate.

IILG Begins Sale of CRIN Hybrid Cocoa Seedlings at Subsidised Rate.

By Asubiojo G.O

In a bold move to boost agricultural development and support the vision of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) on agriculture, the Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government of Ekiti State has commenced the sale of CRIN hybrid TS Cocoa seedlings at a subsidised rate of ₦500.

The initiative, driven by the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, is part of ongoing efforts to actualise the agricultural transformation agenda of the local government chairman, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (aka Chenco), whose vision continues to yield tangible results across the council area.

According to the Director of Agriculture, Mr. Adesanya Cornelius, over the past 18 months, the department has nurtured thousands of hybrid cocoa seedlings through a cross-breeding programme. “It’s a beehive of activity here as buyers troop in large numbers to access the seedlings. We are proud to contribute significantly to the state’s agricultural value chain,” he said.

He praised the chairman’s unwavering support, describing Hon. Oluwagbenga as a pragmatic leader whose financial and moral backing has empowered the department to exceed expectations. Mr. Adesanya, alongside the Deputy Director, Mrs. Adeyinka Bukola, lauded the chairman for believing in their vision and enabling innovation through strategic investment in agriculture.

Highlighting the benefits of the hybrid cocoa variety, Adesanya noted that once processed into edibles, cocoa contributes to mood improvement, cholesterol control, weight management, and offers protection against diseases such as cancer and heart conditions, due to its rich antioxidant properties.

The Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. D.B. Akinbobola, also expressed delight at the development. “I am truly impressed with the chairman’s commitment to agriculture. With this level of investment and innovation, Irepodun/Ifelodun LG will soon become one of the leading producers of cocoa and other agricultural resources in Ekiti State,” she remarked.

Deputy Director of Agriculture, Mrs. Adeyinka Bukola, added that the health benefits of cocoa make it a strategic crop for both economic and public health impact. “Beyond income, cocoa holds medical relevance. When properly transformed, it plays a vital role in managing cholesterol and preventing life-threatening diseases.”

Also speaking, Mr. Cosmas Gbenga described the project as “awesomely marvelous and dynamic,” applauding the foresight and collaboration among key actors within the local government.

In a brief remark, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga reaffirmed his commitment to building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem. “This is just the beginning. Our goal is to empower our farmers, increase local production, and enhance internally generated revenue across all tiers of government,” he stated.

The project not only aligns with the agricultural agenda of Governor Oyebanji but also positions Irepodun/Ifelodun LG as a rising hub for cocoa cultivation and agribusiness innovation in Ekiti State.

No Pharaoh Can Stop the Journey – The Divine Mandate of BAO Till 2030.

No Pharaoh Can Stop the Journey – The Divine Mandate of BAO Till 2030.

Just as Pharaoh could not stop the children of Israel from reaching their Promised Land, no force—whether media propaganda, political detractors, or WhatsApp agents of confusion—can hinder the divine journey of His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), towards 2030.

This is beyond politics. It is purpose. It is prophecy in motion. It is destiny shaped by service, strengthened by performance, and sealed by the collective will of the Ekiti people.

As it was with Mordecai, whose destiny could not be thwarted by enemies, so it shall be with BAO. Every enemy of progress will fall away, while his path remains divinely guided and people-endorsed.

Isaiah 54:15–17 says:

"If anyone does attack you, it will not be my doing; whoever attacks you will surrender to you. See, it is I who created the blacksmith who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its work. And it is I who have created the destroyer to wreak havoc; no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord."

This scripture is the spiritual covering over BAO’s leadership. No lies, no weapons of misinformation, no coordinated attacks can stand. His legacy is not man-made — it is God-ordained and people-affirmed.

Let it be proclaimed from towns to villages, markets to motor parks, WhatsApp groups to newsrooms: BAO till 2030 is not just a political campaign. It is a covenant. A divine assignment sealed with results, humility, and unwavering loyalty to the people.

Governor BAO’s Administration Has Delivered on Key Promises. It Has Been Marked By:

●Commitment to Health Sector Improvement:

Through upgraded healthcare facilities, improved access to medical services, and enhanced welfare for health workers.

●Focus on Agricultural Development:

Empowering farmers with modern tools, training, funding, and support to boost food production and agribusiness.

●Dedication to Educational Advancement:

Renovation of schools, teacher development programs, and policies that ensure inclusive and quality education.

●Empowerment of Youth and Women:

Providing skills training, financial support, and leadership opportunities to strengthen their roles in society and the economy.

●Transparent and Inclusive Governance:

Promoting accountability, openness, and citizen engagement in all areas of government.

●Steady Economic Progress and Innovation:

Attracting investments, supporting small businesses, and encouraging innovation and digital growth for a stronger economy.

●Security and Peace Rooted in Justice:

Ensuring law and order through community-based security initiatives and fair justice systems.

●Consistency in Salary, Gratuity, and Pension Payments:

Regular and prompt payment to civil servants, pensioners, and retirees, upholding dignity and financial stability.

This is the kind of leadership Ekiti deserves — tested, trusted, and transformational.

Whom God has blessed, no man can curse.

Whom Ekiti supports, no enemy or opposition can defeat.

BAO till 2030 is a divine mandate — powered by the people, unstoppable in purpose. 

©️Olamide Akinwumi, writes from Ado-Ekiti.

Oyebanji Boosts Student Support with Higher Bursaries, Scholarships in Ekiti.

Oyebanji Boosts Student Support with Higher Bursaries, Scholarships in Ekiti.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has intensified efforts to support students of Ekiti origin through expanded bursary and scholarship awards, as part of his broader commitment to education development in the state.

Speaking during the “S’Etigbo” segment held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, the Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Scholarship Board, Mrs. Bukola Faluyi, and board member, Hon. Gabriel Ogundele, outlined major interventions introduced under Oyebanji’s leadership.

According to the board, the bursary award for undergraduate students has been increased from ₦10,000 to ₦20,000, while the regular scholarship amount has been raised from ₦60,000 to ₦80,000. In addition, new scholarship packages have been introduced for postgraduate students: ₦250,000 for Master’s and ₦750,000 for PhD candidates.

“These adjustments reflect the Governor’s clear focus on educational excellence and his resolve to ease the financial burden on Ekiti students,” Faluyi stated.

In a move that distinguishes Ekiti from many other states, bursary support begins from the 200-level of tertiary education, rather than being restricted to final-year students. The board also noted that brilliant secondary school leavers with exceptional WAEC or NECO results are offered full scholarships to support them through higher education.

“In 2023, we noticed that the manual bursary application process was limiting access, especially for students outside the state. With the Governor’s approval, we digitized the application process,” Ogundele explained. The digital overhaul resulted in a record-breaking 500,000 applications in the most recent cycle, indicating massive interest and accessibility.

Eligibility for the bursary is open to Ekiti indigenes in 200-level and above, with certification from their local government authorities. However, scholarships remain merit-based, requiring a minimum CGPA of 4.0 for university students and 3.0 for polytechnic or NCE students.

Additionally, each Ekiti indigene enrolled in the Nigerian Law School receives a ₦150,000 grant annually, with some beneficiaries reportedly receiving it more than once in a year. This, according to the board, highlights the administration’s special attention to professional education, particularly in the legal field.

Responding to criticisms and misinformation on social media, Faluyi described claims that the scholarship process is politicized or non-existent as “baseless and misleading.” She emphasized that the system is transparent, evidence-based, and built on fairness.

“Governor Oyebanji’s approach is results-driven. He is not just speaking about education — he is funding it, reforming it, and protecting the future of our youth,” she added.

Parents and students seeking further information are encouraged to visit the Ekiti State Government’s official website or contact the Scholarship Board directly.

EKITI STATE INVESTMENT AGENCY LAUDS AGBEYEWA FARMS FOR CONTRIBUTION TO THE STATE'S DEVELOPMENT.

EKITI STATE INVESTMENT AGENCY LAUDS AGBEYEWA FARMS FOR CONTRIBUTION TO THE STATE'S DEVELOPMENT.

 The Director General of Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (EKDIPA), Lolade Oke-Olutola, has commended Agbeyewa Farms for its significant impact on the development of Ekiti State. During a visit to the farm in Ipao, Ikole-Ekiti, Oke-Olutola praised the farm's contributions and urged host communities to support the state's investment initiatives.

The EKDIPA Director General emphasized that investors' success is crucial to the well-being of Ekiti State, stating, "The wellness of investors' business is the wellness of Ekiti State." Her visit aimed to witness firsthand the operations of Agbeyewa Farms, which has garnered attention across Ekiti State and Nigeria.

"We have heard a lot about Agbeyewa Farms through the news, but seeing the magnificent work being done on the farm is truly impressive," Oke-Olutola said. She encouraged communities to accommodate and support various investment drives, highlighting the importance of collaboration for the state's development.

This visit underscores EKDIPA's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for investments in Ekiti State and recognizes Agbeyewa Farms' role in driving economic growth and development.

She commended the Chairman, Niyi John Olajide, and the entire team of Agbeyewa for a job well done, noting that cultivating over a thousand hectares of cassava farm in such a short period shows an organization that is intentional in improving and developing.

Oke-Olutola highlighted that the Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration is committed to ensuring that all investments in Ekiti State thrive. She revealed that EKDIPA's visit was part of its Aftercare Advocacy Service, aimed at checking on existing investments, identifying areas for synergy, and providing support to improve the business environment.

"Money goes to where it is attracted; Investment goes to where it is attracted," she said, assuring Agbeyewa Farms that EKDIPA is available to support and facilitate ease of doing business in Ekiti State.

In his welcome remarks, the Managing Director/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, described Agbeyewa’s investment in Ekiti State as a revolution aimed at eliminating hunger and poverty through job creation and sustainable agricultural practices.

According to Aiyeleso, the company's chairman, Niyi John Olajide, has a singular focus on creating jobs, more jobs, and more jobs to liberate people from poverty and want. He further revealed that Agbeyewa Farms is working towards achieving its target of cultivating 5,000 hectares of cassava plantation by 2025, positioning itself as the No. 1 cassava farm in Africa. He said, “Agbeyewa is committed to becoming Africa's leading agro-allied enterprise, fostering sustainable agricultural investments, strengthening communities, and transforming lives.”

The MD/CEO highlighted Agbeyewa's vision for an integrated agro-processing plant, which will produce high-quality cassava derivatives such as flour, starch, and ethanol. He noted that the farm's cassava has a starch content of 27%, higher than the general 22% found in cassava elsewhere.

Aiyeleso cited the success of companies like Omnicane in Mauritius, which generates power from sugarcane, as inspiration for Agbeyewa's ambitions. He stated, "The potential is limitless, and Agbeyewa is committed to leading this transformation."

Agbeyewa Farms has received top ratings from stakeholders in the agriculture sector and has been selected by the federal government as one of the centers for the cassava revolution in Nigeria.

The company's business model revolves around cassava cultivation, aggregation, processing, and agro-trading, with a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and community development.

The visit by the Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (EKDIPA) to Agbeyewa Farms underscores the agency's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for investments in Ekiti State, while recognizing the farm's pivotal role in driving economic growth and development.

During the visit, the EKDIPA team, led by Director General Lolade Oke-Olutola, was given a comprehensive tour of the farm by Managing Director Oska Seyi Aiyeleso and other key management staff. The EKDIPA team was impressed by the farm's vast cassava fields and innovative mechanized systems, highlighting Agbeyewa Farms' dedication to agricultural excellence and sustainability.

Ekiti, Ondo Set Up Committees to Tackle Boundary Tussles in Flashpoint Communities.

Ekiti, Ondo Set Up Committees to Tackle Boundary Tussles in Flashpoint Communities.

In a bid to fortify the existing relationship that can withstand any threat, the Ekiti and Ondo States have set machinery in full throttle to resolve the boundary tussles in all the border towns between the two states.

This unanimous and far-reaching decision was taken during a brainstorming session held in Akure, Ondo State Capital, on Thursday, when Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, led a delegation to her counterpart in Ondo State, Dr. Olaide Adelami

The trouble-shooting parley stemmed from the existing strain relationships and protracted boundary impasse among some towns at the border posts of the two contiguous states, and to fashion how best to tame them.

Some of the flashpoints mentioned to be experiencing persistent and harrowing land crises include: Emure Ekiti and Supare, Ugbesi Ekiti and Igasi Akoko, Ahan Ayegunle Ekiti and Oke Agbe, Imesi Ekiti and Irun Akoko, among others.

Mrs Afuye, in a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, said in her message that the two states had built an enduring relationship since 1976, saying these crises won’t be allowed to fester and throw a spanner in the wheel of progress.

She emphasised the expediency of the two states mulling different peace initiatives to resolve these issues to avert violence and bloodshed at the grassroots level.

Mrs Afuye added that her principal, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, is an advocate of peace, good neighbourliness, and building of bridges with sister states to ward off insecurity and other transborder criminalities.

“Ondo and Ekiti States have come a long way. Let us imbibe the spirit of give and take in resolving some of these issues. We have been agitating for a long time that we should meet, so that we can resolve some of the crises at hand. We want to thank the people of Ondo State for embracing this peace mission.

There is nothing to gain in fighting or killing ourselves. We should talk to each other and resolve our differences rather than allowing bloodshed. Wherever there is a boundary dispute, there is always a loss of lives and property. We have to prevent this”, she stated.

Restating that the relationship between the two states remains invincible, the Ondo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Olaide Adelami, applauded the Ekiti State Government for the peace initiative and for believing in their abilities to resolve some of the boundary impasses.

Dr Adelami pledged full cooperation of Ondo State with Ekiti in resolving these challenges, saying the bond of unity between the two states remains unbroken.

“I want to appreciate the Ekiti State Deputy Governor for this initiative. With this meeting, our people will know that we are talking and ready to synergise to resolve whatever differences we have regarding boundary disputes.

“The technical committees of the two states will meet and look for ways to demarcate some of these areas where we have issues. Settling land disputes has been a continuous effort. In 2023, the NBC came to Ondo State to resolve some issues, and what we agreed on was that the tripartite points between states should be established.

We are brothers and sisters before the creation of Ekiti State, but I believe our demarcation was just a mere artificial demarcation. In culture and traditions, we are the same and inseparable.

“After this meeting, we know that peace is on the way. And our steps will send a signal to all the affected communities that peace is on the way. Talking to each other and forging collaboration is the best way to go, we have to collaborate for us to settle some of these issues amicably”.

At the parley, the technical committee of each state was mandated to speak with the affected towns on the need to embrace peace before the final meeting of the experts that will midwife the final peace process.

Experts and members of the Boundary Technical Committee that attended the parley are: Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State Deputy Governor’s Office, Mr Abayomi Opeyemi, his counterpart in Ondo State, Mr, Idowu Ojo, Ondo State Surveyor General, Surveyor Idowu Owolabi, Surveyor General of Ekiti State, Surveyor Adebayo Faleto, Deputy Chief of Staff to Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mr. Victor Adeniyi, Executive Secretary, Ekiti State Boundary Commission, Surveyor Olalekan Olajide, his colleague in Ondo State, Surveyor Francis Daramola, among others.