MY SECOND TERM PROJECTS ‘LL BOOST COMMERCE, PRODUCTIVITY, SAYS OYEBANJI AT TOWN HALL MEETING ON 2027 BUDGET.

MY SECOND TERM PROJECTS ‘LL BOOST COMMERCE, PRODUCTIVITY, SAYS OYEBANJI AT TOWN HALL MEETING ON 2027 BUDGET.

…Says Ekiti’ll take Tinubu’s re-election seriously.

…As monarchs, youths pledge more support for governor.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has assured that projects to be executed in his second term will be deliberately targeted at boosting commerce, enhancing productivity and stimulating sustainable business growth, with a view to deepening value addition and positioning the state’s economy on a higher trajectory.

The Governor also declared that Ekiti State would take the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential poll very seriously, pledging intensified mobilisation to increase the President’s vote tally in the state.

Governor Oyebanji spoke on Wednesday during a Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti North Senatorial District as part of preparations for the 2027 Budget, held in Ifaki-Ekiti.

At the engagement, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth representatives and other stakeholders across the district pledged stronger support for the Governor’s administration in his second term, which begins on October 16, 2026, to enable the delivery of his shared prosperity agenda.

Reiterating his commitment to inclusive governance, the Governor said the consultative approach adopted by his administration would be strengthened in the second term to deepen public participation and reinforce unity across the state.

He emphasized that government investments would be strategically channelled into critical sectors such as healthcare, electricity, road infrastructure and water supply, noting that such interventions would improve living standards and drive economic productivity.

“In our second term, whatever we are going to do must add value, because resources are limited. There must be value addition. We must catalyse productivity and ensure our people are productive. It is only when there is value that artisans like welders and auto mechanics can thrive and become prosperous,” the Governor said.

On local economic development, Oyebanji noted that his administration had made efforts to expand electricity access to some communities, adding that progress had been constrained by existing legal frameworks that limit states to power generation without distribution authority.

He reaffirmed his belief in participatory governance, stressing that community inputs would guide project prioritisation.

“Governance is about the people. We are what we are today because of you. You gave us your mandate, and we must continue to seek your counsel in delivering good governance,” he added.

The Governor also commended traditional rulers for their support, particularly in intelligence gathering, which he said had contributed significantly to improved security in the state. He, however, urged continued vigilance among residents.

Speaking on the 2027 presidential election, Oyebanji called on Ekiti voters to reciprocate President Tinubu’s support for the state by delivering higher votes.

He cited key federal appointments and infrastructure interventions benefiting Ekiti, including the emergence of top-ranking public office holders from the state, as evidence of the President’s commitment.

“We must show appreciation. It will not be enough to repeat previous figures. We must do more in the next election,” he said.

On infrastructure, the Governor disclosed that ongoing collaboration with the Federal Government had facilitated the award of major road projects, including the Ado-Ijan-Ilumoba-Ikole and Ado-Aramoko-Ita-Ore roads, adding that other critical roads would be addressed subsequently.

Providing sectoral updates, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani, revealed that over 300 nurses and 1,500 health assistants had been recruited in the last four years, alongside significant upgrades of primary and secondary healthcare facilities. He added that three new general hospitals had been approved for Ipao, Ikogosi and Awo-Ekiti.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof Bolaji Aluko, disclosed that over 500 boreholes had been constructed across the state, with an additional 110 proposed to ensure equitable water distribution.

In their remarks, traditional rulers and community representatives from across Ekiti North Senatorial District commended the Governor for ongoing development efforts and outlined priority needs for the 2027 Budget, including roads, electricity, water supply, healthcare and security.

They particularly praised the completion of key road projects and recent security interventions, while appealing for accelerated attention to infrastructure deficits in their respective communities.

Speaking for Ikole Local Government, the Alaaye of Oke Ayedun, Oba Femi Aribisala, appealed to government to speedily intervene in the council in the area of road,  water and electricity sectors, lamenting that lack of good road access and poor electricity supply were constituting impediments to the growth of local economy. 

Representatives of Moba Local Government  and Obaleo of Erinmope, Oba Sunday Aniyi, that of  Ido/Osi and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro and that of Oye Local Government and Onisan of Isan Ekiti, Oba Gabriel Adejuwon, called for more attention on roads, electricity, security and water supply to enhance the welfare and well-being of the populace in the 2027 budget.

Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders; and representatives of various community groups.

Ojuawo Commends Governor Oyebanji for Strengthening Ekiti Security with 100 Operational Vehicles.

Ojuawo Commends Governor Oyebanji for Strengthening Ekiti Security with 100 Operational Vehicles.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, has commended the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji, for providing 100 operational vehicles to security agencies across the state to enhance their effectiveness, mobility and capacity to discharge their constitutional responsibilities. Hon. Ojuawo described the gesture as a significant investment in the security architecture of the state and an indication of the Governor’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of Ekiti residents.

In a statement issued by his media office, Hon. Ojuawo praised Governor Oyebanji for what he described as purposeful and people-oriented leadership, noting that the safety and security of citizens remain fundamental responsibilities of government. He said the provision of operational vehicles would enable security personnel to respond more promptly to distress calls, patrol communities more effectively and improve coordination in the fight against crime and other security challenges. According to him, security agencies require adequate logistics and operational support to perform optimally.

Hon. Ojuawo further noted that mobility is a critical component of modern security operations, particularly in responding to emergencies and maintaining a visible security presence across urban and rural communities. He therefore expressed confidence that the new vehicles would contribute significantly to improving response time and strengthening collaboration among the various security agencies operating in Ekiti State. He commended Governor Oyebanji for making such an investment in security at a time when proactive measures are increasingly important to sustaining peace and stability in the state.

The federal lawmaker also observed that the initiative demonstrates Ekiti State’s preparedness for future developments in the nation’s security architecture, including ongoing conversations around state policing. He urged the security agencies to ensure that the vehicles are properly maintained and deployed strictly for operational purposes so that the people can derive maximum benefit from the investment. Hon. Ojuawo congratulated Governor Oyebanji on the initiative and reaffirmed his support for programmes and policies aimed at promoting peace, security, development and the overall wellbeing of the people of Ekiti State.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Securing Lives, Protecting Property: How Oyebanji Is Strengthening Ekiti’s Security Architecture.

Securing Lives, Protecting Property: How Oyebanji Is Strengthening Ekiti’s Security Architecture.                                                              By Akinwumi Olamide

For any society to achieve sustainable development, the protection of lives and property remains a fundamental responsibility of government. Beyond preventing crime and responding to emergencies, a secure environment provides the foundation upon which economic activities, investment, tourism and social development can thrive.

In Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration has continued to place security at the centre of its development agenda, with sustained interventions aimed at strengthening the capacity of security agencies and improving their operational effectiveness.

The latest demonstration of this commitment came on Monday, September 21, 2026, when Governor Oyebanji handed over 100 newly purchased operational vehicles to security agencies in the state at the Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House Grounds, Ado-Ekiti.

The vehicles are expected to improve mobility, strengthen patrol operations, enhance rapid response and support the eventual take-off of the proposed Ekiti State Police Outfit.

Speaking during the presentation, Governor Oyebanji described the intervention as another significant step in his administration’s sustained investment in the security architecture of the state.

The Governor said security had remained a major priority of his administration since assuming office, noting that the latest intervention was designed to address the recurring need for operational vehicles among security agencies.

He explained that the provision of the vehicles was part of a broader effort to confront logistical challenges and equip security personnel with the necessary tools to discharge their responsibilities effectively.

The intervention, therefore, goes beyond the presentation of vehicles. It represents a continued effort to strengthen Ekiti’s security architecture and provide security agencies with the mobility and logistics required to protect residents and respond effectively to emerging challenges.

Over the years, the Oyebanji administration has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving security operations across Ekiti.

The state government had previously supported the Nigeria Police Force with tactical patrol vehicles and two Proforce Armoured Personnel Carriers. In addition, 30 Toyota Tacoma vehicles were provided for the Ekiti State Amotekun Corps.

The Amotekun vehicles were sourced from local automobile dealers, linking the government’s security investment with opportunities for businesses within the state.

The latest distribution further extends government support to several security institutions, including the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services and other relevant security agencies.

With improved mobility, security personnel are expected to expand patrol coverage, enhance visibility and respond more rapidly to security incidents across communities, highways, farming areas and other strategic locations.

The importance of security extends beyond crime prevention. A secure environment provides the confidence necessary for people to engage in productive economic and social activities.

For farmers, improved security can strengthen confidence in accessing their farms and protecting their livelihoods. For traders and business owners, it can create a more conducive environment for commerce, investment and expansion.

The same applies to tourism. Ekiti is home to notable tourist destinations, including the Ikogosi Warm Springs and Arinta Waterfalls. A secure environment can enhance visitors’ confidence and encourage greater exploration of the state’s tourism potential.

Security investment is, therefore, not only a matter of public safety but also an important component of economic development.

When residents feel secure, they are better positioned to pursue their livelihoods, businesses can operate with greater confidence, investors can explore opportunities and communities can participate more actively in development.

For security personnel operating across a state comprising both urban and rural communities, mobility is critical.

Even when personnel are properly trained and prepared to respond to emergencies, inadequate transportation can affect the speed with which they reach locations where their services are required.

The provision of operational vehicles is therefore expected to strengthen patrols, improve emergency response and enhance the visibility of security agencies across the state.

It can also promote greater coordination among security agencies, particularly during joint operations and situations requiring intelligence sharing and rapid intervention.

In security operations, visibility can serve as an important deterrent, while the ability to move quickly can make a significant difference when emergencies occur.

Another important dimension of the administration’s security intervention is its potential impact on local businesses.

The sourcing of some security vehicles from automobile dealers within Ekiti demonstrates how public expenditure can also stimulate economic activity within the state.

When local businesses participate in government procurement and supply chains, the benefits of public spending can extend beyond the immediate purpose of a project.

In this case, investment in security simultaneously contributes to the protection of lives and property while creating opportunities for local enterprises.

This approach reflects the broader connection between public investment and local economic development, where government spending can support both immediate public needs and economic activity within the state.

While the provision of operational vehicles is significant, maintaining a strong security environment requires more than mobility.

Continued investment in personnel, intelligence gathering, communication systems, technology, training and community engagement will remain essential to sustaining security gains across the state.

Cooperation among conventional security agencies, Amotekun and community-based security structures will also remain crucial, particularly in farming communities and rural areas.

The ultimate objective is not simply to deploy more vehicles on the roads, but to build a security system that is adequately equipped, coordinated and capable of responding effectively to the needs of the people.

For Ekiti, security is closely connected to the future of its people. A safer environment gives farmers greater confidence to work, enables businesses to operate with reduced fear, encourages investment and creates a more welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

It also provides the government with a stronger foundation upon which other development initiatives can thrive.

The significance of the latest intervention therefore lies not only in the number of vehicles presented, but also in the broader objective of strengthening the operational capacity of the institutions entrusted with protecting the people.

As the newly presented vehicles are deployed for operational duties, the intervention represents another step in the state government’s continuing efforts to strengthen security and protect lives and property.

The broader message from the initiative is that security remains an important component of the administration’s development strategy, with the objective of creating an environment where residents can live, work, invest and pursue their aspirations with greater confidence.

EKSU Staff School Records 100% Pass Rate in 2026 Common Entrance Examination.

EKSU Staff School Records 100% Pass Rate in 2026 Common Entrance Examination.

...As VC Commends Governor Oyebanji, Management, Teachers, Parents and Pupils.

The Ekiti State University Staff School has recorded an outstanding 100 per cent pass rate in the 2026 Ekiti State Ministry of Education Common Entrance Examination, with all 21 pupils who participated in the examination successfully.

According to a performance report submitted by the Head Teacher of the School, Mrs O.F. Ogunsina, the 21 candidates, comprising 13 males and eight females, recorded scores ranging from 338 to 448 out of 500, with an overall mean score of approximately 402 marks (80.8 per cent).

The report showed that 13 pupils (61.9 per cent) scored 400 marks and above, while eight pupils (38.1 per cent) scored 420 marks and above. Three pupils also attained scores of 440 marks and above, while the school recorded 19 distinctions and two credit passes.

The impressive performance was attributed to the dedication of the teachers, effective preparation, continuous assessment and revision, parental support, a conducive learning environment and the hard work of the pupils.

Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele, commended the Head Teacher, teachers, parents and pupils of the Staff School for the impressive performance, describing the result as a reflection of the commitment to academic excellence within the University community.

Professor Ayodele commended the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his administration's continued commitment to strengthening education and creating an enabling environment for quality learning across the State.

He said the achievement was particularly encouraging because it demonstrated that the Staff School was providing pupils with a solid academic foundation and preparing them adequately for future educational challenges.

The Vice-Chancellor also encouraged members of staff who have children within the primary/first-school education age bracket to consider patronising the EKSU Staff School, stressing that the institution's commitment to excellence should extend to every aspect of the University community.

He said, “This result is a source of pride to the University. I commend the teachers for their dedication, the parents for their support and, most importantly, the pupils for their hard work. A 100 per cent pass rate, with such a remarkable number of distinctions, is an indication of the quality of teaching and learning taking place in our Staff School.”

The Vice-Chancellor further urged the School's management and teachers to sustain the standard and continuously seek ways to improve upon the achievement.

He reiterated the management's commitment to creating an enabling environment for academic excellence at all levels, noting that the foundation of quality education must be strengthened from the earliest stages of a child's educational journey.

Oyebanji Engages Ekiti Welders for NYSC Camp Project, Boosts Local Economy.

Oyebanji Engages Ekiti Welders for NYSC Camp Project, Boosts Local Economy.

By Akinwumi Olamide

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has taken another step towards strengthening the state’s local economy by directing that welding works for bunk beds at the ongoing construction of the National Youth Service Corps Orientation Camp in Emure-Ekiti be handled by the Ekiti Welders Association.

Following the governor’s directive, members of the association have moved to the project site to commence the welding works.

The development is in line with the administration’s commitment to promoting local content and ensuring that Ekiti-based artisans and businesses benefit directly from government projects executed within the state.

The governor’s decision is also expected to create employment opportunities for local welders, improve their livelihoods and ensure that part of the funds committed to public projects circulates within the state’s economy.

Oyebanji has consistently emphasised the importance of patronising local businesses as part of efforts to stimulate economic growth and empower residents.

Under the administration’s local content approach, Ekiti vendors, artisans, manufacturers, contractors, musicians and other local business owners are being encouraged to participate in economic activities generated by government programmes and projects.

The engagement of the Ekiti Welders Association in the NYSC camp project therefore represents more than the execution of welding works, as it provides an opportunity for local artisans to contribute their skills to public infrastructure while earning income from the project.

The ongoing development at the NYSC camp in Emure is expected to improve facilities at the orientation camp and enhance the experience of corps members deployed to the state.

By prioritising local participation in government projects, the Oyebanji administration is seeking to ensure that public spending also supports local enterprise, job creation and economic activities across Ekiti State.

ADARAMODU FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF PALACE HALL IN KOTA EKITI.

ADARAMODU FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF PALACE HALL IN KOTA EKITI.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu has flagged off the construction of a new Palace Hall in Kota Ekiti, Ekiti East Local Government Area. The foundation-laying ceremony was performed by the Elekota of Kota, Oba Emmanuel Ojo Fagbemi, alongside members of the Elekota-in-Council, the Olori and women chiefs. Also present were the APC Chairman in Ekiti East LGA, Chief Clement Ojo, and the Chairman of the APC Elders’ Forum, Alhaji Shitu Bello.

Speaking at the ceremony, community and political leaders described the project as a timely intervention that reflects Senator Adaramodu’s engagement with communities across the constituency. They expressed appreciation for his support and urged residents to sustain their engagement with the senator and other stakeholders.

Representing Senator Adaramodu, his Legislative Assistant, Comrade Famisa Ayodeji Adesina, assured the community of quality execution and timely completion. He appreciated the people of Kota for their continued support and recalled previous interventions by the senator, including his contribution to the last Kota Ekiti Day celebration.

#AdaramoduAtWork
#ARA

OYEBANJI HANDS OVER 100 NEWLY PURCHASED OPERATION VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES.

OYEBANJI HANDS OVER 100 NEWLY PURCHASED OPERATION VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES.

 ….Vows to sustain Ekiti State’s status as Safest state in Nigeria.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the state’s status as the safest state in Nigeria, assuring residents that his government would continue to strengthen the security architecture of the state to ensure security of lives and property across the state

The Governor gave the assurance on Monday in Ado Ekiti while presenting  100 newly purchased operational vehicles to security agencies in the state to further enhance their capacity to combat crime and respond effectively to security challenges. 

The beneficiary security agencies include the Nigerian Police, Department of State Service (DSS), Nigeria Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency , Nigeria Prison Service,  and the Amotekun Corps. 

Speaking during  presentation ceremony held at Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Aso Ekiti on Monday, Governor Oyebanji said the initiative is part of his administration’s sustained commitment to protecting lives and property as well as ensuring that Ekiti maintains the accolade of the safest and most secure state in Nigeria.

The Governor maintained that security had remained a top priority of his administration since assumption of office, noting that his government had, over the years, provided various forms of support to security agencies, including patrol vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, military vests, helmets and other protective equipment.

According to him, the latest provision of 100 security vehicles would further enhance the operational capacity of security personnel, particularly in patrol and field operations.

He added that the intervention is in addition to other investments and monthly financial support provided by his administration to security agencies operating in the state.

The Governor also used the opportunity to commend all security agencies operating in the state for their professionalism, skills and dexterity at combating crime as he urged them to intensify their activities ahead of the forthcoming inauguration slated for October and the presidential election in January. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stressed the need for increased visibility, faster response and greater operational agility added, “To our security chiefs, I say to whom much is given, much is expected. With the introduction of these vehicles, I expect to see increased action, strategic visibility, faster response and greater operational agility on the part of our men and women.”

He further urged security chiefs to ensure that the vehicles and other resources provided by the government were deployed effectively to protect residents and maintain security across Ekiti State.

“Today’s occasion is testament to the resolve of our administration to ensure the security of lives and property in Ekiti State remains the number one priority of our government. Since our assumption in office, we have shown serious commitment to the security of the citizens and this has led to the selection of Ekiti State as one of the most secured States in the country. 

“Two years ago, we also distributed patrol vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, military vests, helmets and other protective equipment to security agencies. Today, we are providing 100 units of security vehicles, primarily for the operations and monitoring of personnel and the implementation of the state’s security initiatives.

“Apart from the vehicles we are providing today, our administration will continue to support security agencies with all necessary resources allocated to their work. We remain committed to our regular monthly financial support to all the agencies, while also enhancing the capacity of our state-owned security institutions. He stated.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Special Adviser Security Matters. Brig. General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd), who said Governor Oyebanji’s administration has continued to demonstrate in practical terms strong commitment to the safety of lives and property in the state as evident in peace the state had continue to enjoy, maintained that the peaceful atmosphere  had attracted positive developments to the state.  

While explaining that the sustained peace has also contributed to Ekiti being ranked among the most peaceful and safest state in the country, Gen. Ogundana added that the new operational vehicles would enable security agencies to respond promptly to security challenges and further improve their mobility and effectiveness in protecting lives and property across the state.

In their separate goodwill messages, the representatives of the Commissioner of Police, DCP Mohammed Musa and the Commanding Officer, 148 Battalion, Ikere, Lt. Col. Dimka expressed their appreciation to the Governor for his continued support and cooperation with the security agencies in the state. They said the Governor’s commitment to strengthen the security architecture has contributed immensely to the relative peace and security being enjoyed across the state.

They assured the Governor that the vehicles would be deployed appropriately to further enhance their mobility, responsiveness and operational effectiveness of security personnel particularly in situations where prompt response is critical.

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo and Service Chiefs, among others.