EKITI FIRST LADY ENGAGES WITH CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION.

EKITI FIRST LADY ENGAGES WITH CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION.

In a decisive move to enhance women's political participation,  the First Lady of Ekiti State, H.E (Dr) Olayemi Oyebanji convened a strategic meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), as she proposed strategies aimed at enhancing women's political participation. 

 Speaking on Wednesday at a high-level engagement with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Adunni Olayinka Women Centre, Dr Oyebanji asserted that while the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has broken records with an impressive number of female appointments, the work must now transition to measurable grassroots impact. "History will not remember how many meetings we held; it will remember what we changed," the First Lady declared. "Our women are ready. They need more support and,  encouragement for enhanced participation in politics."

To bridge the gap between participation and decision-making, Dr Oyebanji proposed a structured roadmap designed to produce tangible outcomes. These strategies include a massive drive to register new women voters across the state and the creation of a Mentorship Hub for young women to nurture the upcoming generation of female political leaders.

 Additionally, the strategic action includes the establishment of a formal Women’s Caucus in the State House of Assembly, the training of women as election monitors to safeguard democratic integrity, and vigorous advocacy for legislative reforms that institutionalise female representation at all levels of governance.

The event featured a powerful show of solidarity from Ekiti’s top female executives and political stakeholders, and representatives of CSOs demonstrating a unified front for the cause. 

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, delivered a stirring address highlighting the "level playing field deficit" caused by political violence, limited financing, and entrenched stereotypes. She praised the First Lady’s vision as a vibrant social worker and advocate who understands that policy must meet community welfare to be effective. Similarly, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, alongside the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, commended Dr Oyebanji for her strategic collaboration with CSOs, identifying them as the most effective "bridge" for carrying the message of inclusive governance to the grassroots.

Adding significant weight to the gathering were notable leaders and dignitaries, including Chief Mrs Ronke Okusanya; the Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju Egbeyemi; and the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola. Also in attendance were the Director General of the Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa; the Director General of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotosho; and the Spouses of House of Assembly Members led by the wife of the Speaker, Mrs Nike Aribasoye. The engagement further saw the participation of the wives of Chairmen, Female Local Government Chairpersons, and various key political stakeholders.

Responding to the call for action, representatives of various CSOs and NGOs expressed their enthusiastic support for the roadmap. In their feedback, the advocates commended Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for setting a high bar in women's involvement through significant political appointments, officially declaring the current administration a "women-friendly and CSO-friendly Government." They pledged their full cooperation with the Office of the First Lady to ensure the message of political participation reaches every corner of the state.

Furthering the call for action, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa delivered a lecture titled "Collaborating for Enhancing Women’s Political Participation." She noted that while Ekiti currently ranks high nationally with a 0.752 score on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index, the transition to elective offices remains the final frontier. The First Lady concluded the engagement by urging all stakeholders to choose "collaboration over competition," committing her office to champion enhanced female participation in politics and public administration.

Oyebanji hails President Tinubu on roads infrastructure in Ekiti.

Oyebanji hails President Tinubu on roads infrastructure in Ekiti.

… As Afenifere reaffirms endorsement of President, Oyebanji for re-election.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the construction and rehabilitation of some inter and intra-state federal road to boost the economy and general well-being of residents of the state.

Governor Oyebanji who stated this on Tuesday, when he received leaders of the Ekiti State chapter of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere led by its chairman, Elder Yemi Alade, in his to office, said Ekiti State in the last three and a half years has received more than what the President promised the State.

The Governor said the road projects, when completed, have the potentials to drive economic growth and development of the State and the Southwest region, as some of the road projects are linked to other states like Ondo and Osun.

The Governor spoke just as the Afenifere leaders re-affirmed their endorsement of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for re-election, citing the purposeful leadership provided by the President and the Governor for their support.

Oyebanji who hailed the group for their support for President Tinubu, said he remained tankful to the President for fulfilling all his promises to the state, leading to an unprecedented infrastructure development in Ekiti.

“I also want to appreciate the President for his support for Ekiti, and I want to thank you for endorsing his re-election. Mr. President has fulfilled more than he promised us.

“As I speak now, Akure to Ado-Ekiti is now 35 minutes. He did it, and with his support, we completed the airport. With his support, we have rehabilitated the Ado-Iworoko–Ifaki federal road. He has also approved the construction of the road from Osun State border to Aramoko, the value of that contract is N153 billion because it's going to be concrete pavement.

“Mr President has also directed and approved reconstruction of Aramoko-Ijero-Ido road, as well as Omuo – Ikole –Ifaki road, very soon, I know that work is ongoing in ensuring that we are linked to Osogbo rail line so, when you cumulate all these things, he has done well for us. But, unfortunately, we still have some of our children, maybe because of ignorance or what they will eat, their actions still portray Ekiti as ungrateful people. We need to caution such people. I am not against politics but they shouldn’t play politics with facts.”

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji described Afenifere as the custodian of Yoruba traditional values and culture, and thanked the Yoruba socio-cultural group for endorsing him and President Tinubu for second term. He promised to continue to deliver the best policies and programmes to further improvement the socio-economic lives of the people.

The Governor said: “On behalf of myself and Mr President, I thank you for the open endorsement, Because Afenifere is the custodian of our values, political values and our culture. So, for you to come out openly to say this is where they are, I do not take it for granted and I'm extremely grateful on behalf of myself and the President. The endorsement was based on facts you know, I'm aware that you went through all the projects and that is what separates Afenifere from other groups, you are meticulous, you are not partial and you say things the way it is.”

The Governor said further that he had been able to deliver on campaign promises to Ekiti people, adding that he would continue to champion the principle of party supremacy, which entails carrying the party along in some key decisions, especially on political appointments.

Earlier, the Chairman of the group, Elder Yemi Alad,  affirmed the endorsement of Governor Oyebanji saying the decision was premised on his unprecedented and monumental achievements aimed at repositioning the state for socio-economic development of the people through the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

Elder Alade highlighted the achievements to include the administration’s plausible economic policy, impactful infrastructural development, vibrant agricultural policy, regular payment of workers’ salaries and pension as well as enhancement of youth and women empowerment.

“Based on the above and convinced beyond all reasonable doubt that greater achievements will be recorded to renew your mandate during your second tenure, Egbe Afenifere resolved to organized the endorsement programme as pace-setting.

“Ekiti State chapter of Egbe Afenifere assures your excellency of our continued unflinching support, unfailing cooperation and unwavering loyalty during and after the forth-coming election. We remain with you to work devotedly for your election victory. We also prayerfully wish His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a resounding election victory in 2027 for second term tenure to move Nigeria forward.”

”we hereby reiterate our wish to dissociate ourselves from the fake, irresponsible group parading themselves as Afenifere Ekiti. It is not only a condemned group of impostors but a reflection of strange bed-fellows of doubtful characters. Ours is a genuine, purposeful and progressive group. We remain very solidly with your Excellency. Elder Alade asserted.

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.