OYEBANJI URGES PRAYERS, CHARITY AS MUSLIMS, CHRISTIANS BEGIN FASTING.

OYEBANJI URGES PRAYERS, CHARITY AS MUSLIMS, CHRISTIANS BEGIN FASTING.

As Muslims and Christians worldwide commence the Ramadan and Lenten season on Wednesday, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has stressed the need for adherents of the two religions to use the period to seek the face of God on behalf of the State and Nigeria in general.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, enjoined every true believer to use the period for sober reflection, intercession and to show kindness to their neigbours and others in need.

The Governor also urged the people of the State, irrespective of their political and religious affiliations, to continue to live together in unity and harmony, which, he said, is needed at this particular period in order to stimulate the overall development of the state.

Governor Oyebanji noted the uniqueness of this year’s Ramadan month and Lenten season starting thesame day. This, he said, should not be seen as a sheer coincidence, but a uniqueness designed by God to teach us a lesson in unity, love, and the supremacy of God.

He urged both Muslims and Christians to utilize the period to fast and pray with all sincerity for the greatness of Nigeria and for peace to reign in all troubled spots in the country and at the global stage.

Specifically, the Governor urged Muslims and Christians in Ekiti to pray for peace to reign in the State, especially as electioneering for the June 20 governorship election has commenced.

Governor Oyebanji also restated the commitment of his administration to ensuring peace, safety and security of lives and property in the State before, during and after the election in order to make the state retain its position as the most peaceful state in the country and to further position it as the most attractive state to local and foreign investors.

“We wish all our brothers and sisters in the Christian and Islamic faith worldwide and in Ekiti in particular a successful completion of the lenten and Ramadan season. We covet your continued prayer support for the administration and our dear State, more especially this fasting season.May God accept our supplication and grant our heart desires for our families, our dear state and country.”, the statement added.

Oyebanji felicitates Muslims As Ramadan Commences.

Oyebanji felicitates Muslims As Ramadan Commences.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has felicitated the Muslim Ummah as the holy month of Ramadan commences with the siting of the moon.

Governor Oyebanji said being alive to witness and participate in the Ramadan fast is a special grace bestowed upon the faithful by the Almighty Allah, which should not be taken for granted.

The Governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, urged the Muslim Ummah to utilize the Ramadan fasting period for prayers, worship, alms giving, deep reflection and support for the poor and the vulnerable in the society, which according to him, attracts blessings from Allah.

He described the 30-day fast as an important pillar in Islam, adding that observing the spiritual obligation deepens piety and draws the faithful to the Creator.

While noting that the Ramadan month offers an opportunity for spiritual rebirth, renewal and rejuvenation which creates a strong bond between the Almighty Allah and the faithful, Governor Oyebanji urged the Muslim faithful to be more steadfast in their prayers for Ekiti State and Nigeria so that greater level of peace, progress and prosperity can be achieved.

The Governor urged the faithful to ensure that the fasting bear positive fruit in their relationship with Allah as well as fellow human beings.

“Ramadan Kareem to all our Muslim brothers and sisters. This sacred month of Ramadan is a sacred month is a time for deep reflection, renewed faith, generosity and act of kindness one to another. May the fasting and prayers that characterize the month bring us greater level of peace, progress and abundant blessings,” the Governor added.

Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga Measurable Developmental Strides in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga Measurable Developmental Strides in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

By Asubiojo G.O

The administration of Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State, has recorded measurable strides across key sectors, with interventions reflecting a deliberate focus on grassroots development and service delivery.

Since assuming office, the chairman has prioritised infrastructure renewal, agricultural revitalisation, healthcare improvement, educational support and social welfare initiatives, all aimed at delivering tangible benefits to residents.

In the area of infrastructure and environmental management, solar-powered boreholes have been installed in several communities, expanding access to potable water and improving public health standards. The council has also embarked on the clearance of slums, erosion-prone areas and blocked road passages to enhance environmental sanitation, ease internal road movement and strengthen community safety.

A notable institutional upgrade under the administration is the reconstruction and modernisation of the Local Government Traditional Council Royal Assemblage. The facility, now ICT-compliant, tiled and properly furnished, is designed to improve administrative efficiency while preserving the dignity of traditional authority structures within the council area.

Agricultural development has also received significant attention, in alignment with the food security drive of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. The council raised and distributed improved cocoa and oil palm seedlings to farmers to enhance long-term productivity and boost export-oriented output. The promotion of yam and cassava cultivation has further strengthened staple food production within the local government.

In addition, the establishment of piggery pens has created alternative income streams for residents, improved access to animal protein and encouraged local agribusiness development. These interventions, stakeholders say, are contributing to rural wealth creation and improved livelihoods.

Healthcare delivery has equally witnessed improvement. The construction of an Antenatal and Delivery Centre at Aaye Street, Igede Ekiti, has expanded maternal and child healthcare services, improving access to safe delivery and prenatal care. The provision of essential equipment, including deep freezers for storing temperature-sensitive drugs and vaccines, has strengthened immunisation efforts and enhanced the functionality of primary healthcare centres in the area.

Educational and social welfare programmes have complemented these physical projects. Primary and secondary school pupils have benefited from the distribution of school bags and financial support to ease academic burdens and promote school retention.

The wife of the chairman, Mrs. Oluwatuyi Hellen, has also led humanitarian initiatives targeted at vulnerable groups. Less privileged children have received assistance with school fees and educational materials, while widows across the local government have been supported with food items, financial tokens and advisory engagements aimed at fostering economic resilience and social inclusion.

Community leaders, civil servants and beneficiaries have commended the administration’s efforts, describing the projects as impactful and people-oriented.

Through structured planning and coordinated implementation, the Oluwatuyi-led administration has continued to set developmental benchmarks within Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, reinforcing the principle that effective grassroots governance is measured by visible and verifiable results.

Ekiti Women Affairs, Trade Ministries Deepen Partnership to Boost Women’s Economic Growth.

Ekiti Women Affairs, Trade Ministries Deepen Partnership to Boost Women’s Economic Growth. 

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‎The Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, along with the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investments, and Cooperatives, has strengthened its collaboration to advance women’s economic empowerment across the state through the World Bank-assisted Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU).

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‎At a high-level strategic meeting, the Commissioners for the two ministries, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi and Mrs Tayo Adeola, reaffirmed Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's commitment to improving the economic well-being of women, particularly at the grassroots level.

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‎Mrs Babafemi noted that women play a vital role in driving local commerce, contributing significantly to agriculture, trade and small-scale enterprises. 

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‎She commended the sustained efforts of the wife of the Governor in championing women-focused empowerment initiatives across communities in the state.

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‎The Commissioner explained that the multi-sectoral coordinating structure of the NFWP-SU, which includes cabinet members from relevant ministries, reflects the programme’s broad and multi-dimensional impact. 

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‎According to her, the initiative provides a strong platform for women through Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), enabling them to access mentorship, funding, market linkages and other economic opportunities.

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‎In her remarks, Mrs Adeola expressed her ministry’s readiness to work closely with the Ministry of Women Affairs to effectively implement the policies and programmes of the NFWP-SU aimed at strengthening women’s economic capabilities.

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‎Discussions at the meeting also centred on enhancing financial literacy and improving business management skills among women entrepreneurs in line with the programme’s guidelines.

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‎The strategic session was attended by the Ekiti State Project Coordinator of the NFWP-SU, Mrs Toyin Familoni; the Permanent Secretaries of the two ministries, Mrs Olusola Adeluyi-Femi and Mr Bunmi Ejimokun; as well as directors from both ministries.

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‎The meeting concluded with the development of a joint action plan to ensure effective implementation of the programme and sustainable economic growth for women in Ekiti State.

Oyebanji’s Agricultural Revolution: Ekiti Eyes Forex Boom Through Palm Oil, Agro-Exports.

Oyebanji’s Agricultural Revolution: Ekiti Eyes Forex Boom Through Palm Oil, Agro-Exports.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Ekiti State is steadily positioning itself as a frontline player in Nigeria’s agricultural renaissance under the purposeful leadership of Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, with deliberate investments targeted at boosting production, enhancing value chains and unlocking export opportunities.

In a strong validation of the state’s strategic direction, the Agricultural Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (AMEAL) team recently visited Ekiti to understudy how the government is redefining the future of agriculture through evidence based policies and prudent public spending.

A major highlight of the visit was the inspection of the 200 acre Alayna Joel Memorial Farm in Ipoti Ekiti, established by former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Dr Segun Ajibola. The integrated farm stands as a model of modern agribusiness, combining oil palm, cassava, banana and yam cultivation with a fully operational palm oil processing mill.

The initiative aligns with Governor Oyebanji’s vision to deepen partnerships with private investors to scale agricultural productivity. With oil palm as a focal point, Ekiti is charting a bold course toward reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports and positioning the state as a major contributor to foreign exchange earnings.

For decades, Nigeria has lagged behind global competitors in palm oil production, relying heavily on imports from countries such as Malaysia. Ekiti’s renewed drive in the oil palm sector signals a strategic shift that seeks to restore Nigeria’s pride of place in global palm oil markets while cutting import expenditure.

In a major institutional call, key federal financing bodies such as the National Agricultural Development Fund and the Bank of Agriculture must strongly provide financial and technical support, the beauty of their backing will further enhance Ekiti’s agricultural transformation agenda.

Beyond the Alayna Joel Memorial Farm, Ekiti is also home to Agbeyewa Farms, further reinforcing the state’s emergence as an agricultural investment hub. With the operationalisation of the Ekiti Cargo Airport, the stage is set for seamless agro export, opening new windows for revenue generation and global market access.

The Oyebanji administration’s approach reflects accountability, sustainability and long term economic thinking, hallmarks of responsible governance.

As Ekiti harvests the gains of deliberate agricultural reforms, one message rings clear, continuity will consolidate these gains, expand export frontiers and secure prosperity for generations to come.

BAO till 2030. Sustaining the Agricultural Revolution. Securing Ekiti’s Prosperity.

Unity in Action: Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji’s Strategic Role in Solidifying the Oyebanji Administration’s Legacy.

Unity in Action: Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji’s Strategic Role in Solidifying the Oyebanji Administration’s Legacy.

​In Ekiti State, a dynamic and purposeful partnership is doing more than just driving progress; it is laying a sophisticated foundation for sustainable governance. Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his visionary spouse, First Lady Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, have emerged as a formidable team. Their synchronized efforts are yielding transformative results that resonate across every local government area, painting a compelling picture of an administration that has earned the right to continuity.

​Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has distinguished herself as a pivotal strategist, successfully mobilizing Ekiti women—a critical electoral demographic—behind the Governor’s vision. Through meticulously curated initiatives, she has unified women across all social strata, creating a grassroots movement that champions the Governor’s second-term bid. Her outreach is a masterclass in inclusive leadership, ensuring that the voices of the people are not just heard, but woven into the fabric of policy.

​A Foundation of Faith and Ethical Governance:

​At the heart of the Oyebanji partnership lies a deep-seated commitment to spiritual and ethical integrity. The First Lady has ensured that state activities are underpinned by a sense of divine purpose, integrating moral considerations into the daily business of governance.

​The now-celebrated monthly praise and worship sessions have become a cornerstone of the state’s cultural calendar. These gatherings serve as a powerful testament to an administration grounded in hope and transparency. This spiritual alignment fosters a sense of moral accountability that mirrors Governor Oyebanji’s promise of "leadership with a conscience," earning the profound trust of the Ekiti populace.

​Empowering the Vulnerable, Elevating the Economy:

​Through her acclaimed Widows and Orphans Hope (WAOH) Project, the First Lady has moved beyond traditional charity toward holistic empowerment. By providing over 400 vulnerable individuals with modern working equipment and financial grants, she is directly advancing the Governor’s poverty alleviation agenda.

​Furthermore, her strategic initiative to train hundreds of citizens in Adire fabric production is a brilliant dual-purpose masterstroke:

●​Economic Self-Reliance: It creates sustainable livelihoods and fosters local entrepreneurship.

​●Cultural Preservation: It positions Ekiti as a hub for indigenous textile arts, showcasing the administration's commitment to industrial growth.

​Her advocacy has also led to a historic milestone: Ekiti State now boasts the highest number of elected and appointed female officials in Nigeria. This achievement is no accident; it is the result of an enabling environment fostered by the Governor, proving that under this administration, gender equity is a reality, not just a campaign slogan.

A United Front for Continued Progress:

​The seamless synergy between the Governor and the First Lady is a rare example of administrative stability. As Ekiti State approaches the next election cycle, Dr. Oyebanji’s influence remains a key driver in maintaining the enthusiastic support of the electorate. With women constituting a substantial portion of the voting bloc, this united front is more than a political advantage—it is a promise of stability and accelerated development.

A Legacy of Visionary Leadership:

​The story of the Oyebanjis is one of dedication and undeniable impact. It demonstrates that when faith, unity, and a commitment to selfless service converge, transformative leadership is the result. As Ekiti State looks toward the future, this duo—fortified by a proven track record—stands ready to steer the "Land of Honour" toward even greater heights of prosperity.

Indeed, the best is yet to come.

Otunba Kayode Fasae

Honourable commissioner

Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment

Ado-Ekiti

Cavista Holdings Appoints Mr. Seyi “OSKA” Aiyeleso as MD/CEO of Matna Foods.

Cavista Holdings Appoints Mr. Seyi “OSKA” Aiyeleso as MD/CEO of Matna Foods.

Following its recent acquisition of Matna Foods Company Limited, Cavista Holdings is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Seyi “Oska” Aiyeleso as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Matna Foods, effective immediately. He will continue in his role as MD/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, a Cavista Holdings subsidiary.

A seasoned executive with over 30 years’ experience in sales, marketing, and operational leadership, Oska Aiyeleso has a proven track record of driving growth and innovation across multinational organisations in FMCG, oil and gas, and the public sector.

Most recently, he has led Agbeyewa Farms, the largest cassava farm in Africa, where he is implementing a 12-point transformation agenda aimed at modernising cassava farming and addressing food insecurity in Nigeria.

Under his leadership, Matna Foods is expected to unlock its full potential, building on more than two decades of expertise in producing international-standard, multi-purpose cassava starch. His dual role across Agbeyewa Farms and Matna Foods is designed to ensure stronger coordination, operational efficiency, and value creation across the cassava ecosystem.

Oska holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Studies from the University of Jos, an MBA from Bayero University, Kano, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate at Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.

Commenting on the appointment, Chairman of Cavista Holdings and Agbeyewa, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, said:

“OSKA brings energy, clarity of purpose, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build strong, sustainable businesses. Having worked closely with him, I am confident that he will lead Matna Foods with the same discipline and passion he has brought to Agbeyewa. This is about growing capacity, supporting our farmers, and creating jobs, while building a cassava value chain that truly works for Nigeria.”

This strategic appointment reflects Cavista Holdings’ commitment to scaling operations, modernising processes where needed, and deepening engagement with farmers, suppliers, and customers across the Matna Foods ecosystem. It also strengthens alignment across the cassava value chain by linking large-scale cultivation with established processing capacity.