Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Quality, World-Class Infrastructure.

Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Quality, World-Class Infrastructure.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to delivering world-class infrastructure that will transform the State and improve the quality of life for the residents, stressing that his government remains focused on sustainable development through strategic investment in critical sectors.

Governor Oyebanji stated this on Saturday during an inspection tour of some ongoing projects across Ado Ekiti, the State capital. He said the exercise was to assess the pace and quality of work of the contracting firms. 

In a chat with Journalists shortly after the inspection, Governor Oyebanji, who expressed satisfaction with the pace of work at various project sites, noted that his government remains focused on transforming the State capital through strategic investments in critical infrastructure.

White emphasizing that the projects were designed to meet global best standards and position Ado- Ekiti as a modern and competitive city, the Governor highlighted the broader economic impact of the projects which include  enhancing economic activities, and connectivity within the State as well as  jobs creation. 

The Governor assured residents that all the ongoing projects would be completed in line with specifications and value for money, maintaining that his government would not compromise on quality.

“There is no doubting the fact that these projects would be delivered in time and I am so excited at the pace and quality of work. This is really value for money and I must commend all the contractors and government officials that are in charge of the projects.

“What gladdens my heart the most is not even when the projects are going to be delivered but the impact they are going to have on the people of Ekiti State. You have joined me to inspect the 80-bed hospital complex which will improve health outcome in the State. I am so excited because we are bringing the best to our people”, the Governor asserted.

Aside the 80 - bedded multipurpose medical facility at the Ekiti State teaching hospital, other projects inspected were:  the court house building at the state judiciary complex, indoor sports complex, the 1.2 kilometre Okeyinmi flyover bridge and Ado Ekiti Central Business District (CBD), the Fajuyi Park among others.

Ekiti to Host National Agribusiness Policy Mechanism Seasonal Workshop.

Ekiti to Host National Agribusiness Policy Mechanism Seasonal Workshop.

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen inclusivity and promote state ownership in Nigeria’s food systems, the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU), in collaboration with the Ekiti State Government, is set to organize a three-day National Agribusiness Policy Mechanism (NAPM) seasonal workshop.

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, disclosed that the workshop, which will be held across participating states, will be first co-hosted in Ado-Ekiti from Monday, April 13 to Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

According to him, the workshop will take place at the Lady Jibowu Hall, beginning at 9:00 a.m. daily.

He explained that the workshop is designed to deliberate on the 2025/2026 minor season (Cycle 3) planning, as well as review and validate outcomes from Cycle 2, which has been successfully completed. The engagement will also provide a platform to align priorities and strategies for the upcoming agricultural cycle.

The Commissioner noted that the initiative underscores the commitment of both the Federal and State Governments to fostering a more coordinated, inclusive, and data-driven approach to agribusiness development and food systems transformation.

Participants are expected to attend from NAPM pilot states, relevant Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as development partners and key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

The workshop is anticipated to further strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and enhance policy implementation for improved agricultural productivity and food security across the country.

Hon. Olufemi Bamisile Bags Doctorate as EKSU Celebrates 30th Convocation.

Hon. Olufemi Bamisile Bags Doctorate as EKSU Celebrates 30th Convocation.

It was a landmark achievement for veteran lawmaker Hon. Olufemi Bamisile (BAFEM) as he was conferred with a Doctorate Degree during the 30th Convocation Ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU). Hon. Bamisile, who currently represents Ekiti South Federal Constituency II at the National Assembly, joined a distinguished class of graduands, proving that the pursuit of knowledge knows no age limit.

Hon. Bamisile earned his PhD in Public Sector Governance and Administration. His doctoral thesis, titled “Legislative-Executive Relations: Interrogating Activities of the 8th National Assembly and its Impact on Good Governance in Nigeria,” offers a scholarly critique of the intricate power dynamics within the Nigerian government. Drawing from his extensive experience as the former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly (2007) and a sitting federal lawmaker, his research provides a unique bridge between legislative theory and practical governance.

Reflecting on his milestone at the age of sixty (60), Dr. Bamisile dismissed the popular "education is a scam" narrative, describing such views as misguided and dangerous for the nation's future. "I feel deeply fulfilled. This achievement is not just for my personal records, but a message to my children and the younger generation: education remains the bedrock of progress. Do not be discouraged; remain committed to academic excellence."

Beyond his personal academic pursuits, the lawmaker revealed that he and his wife are doubling down on their investment in the education sector by expanding their Polytechnic in Ikere-Ekiti. This initiative is aimed at enhancing technical vocational training and providing affordable tertiary education for the youths of Ekiti State.

Turning to his political trajectory, Dr. Bamisile confirmed that his passion for public service remains undimmed. As the 2027 general elections approach, he signaled his intention to seek re-election to the House of Representatives, expressing confidence that his constituents will support him based on his proven track record of service. With this latest academic laurel, Dr. Olufemi Bamisile enters the next phase of his political career not just as an experienced politician, but as a refined scholar committed to the advancement of Nigerian democracy.

Ekiti Ready for Wet Planting Season, Boluwade Assures.

Ekiti Ready for Wet Planting Season, Boluwade Assures.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Ekiti State Government has expressed readiness for the upcoming wet planting season, unveiling strategic measures aimed at ensuring food security and stabilising prices across the state.

The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Boluwade Ebenezer, disclosed this during an appearance on NTA Ado-Ekiti’s Weekend Diary programme on Saturday.

Boluwade said the state was fully prepared for the planting season, noting that the government had adopted innovative approaches to boost agricultural productivity and guarantee year-round food supply.

He revealed that Ekiti State had strategically transitioned from seasonal farming to all-season food production through the deployment of modular, solar-powered irrigation systems.

According to him, the initiative is being implemented across key food production hubs in Ose, Aramoko, Ikere, and Ado-Ekiti.

He said, “Ekiti State is fully prepared for the wet planting season. Our strategic shift from seasonal to year-round food production is being driven by the deployment of modular, solar-powered irrigation systems across our food production hubs.”

The commissioner also highlighted the impact of the Ounje Ekiti Retail Outlets, describing them as a critical intervention in enhancing food availability, accessibility, and affordability for residents.

He noted that the programme had significantly eased the burden of rising food costs and improved access to essential commodities across the state.

Boluwade further disclosed that additional outlets would soon be established in major towns, beginning with Ikere-Ekiti, to complement existing locations at Oke Ori Omi and Agric Olope in Ado-Ekiti.

Speaking on the broader agricultural agenda, the commissioner credited the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji with implementing policies aimed at reducing food inflation and supporting local farmers.

“The administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji is actively bending the food inflation curve in Ekiti State. This progress will be sustained through continued support to farmers,” he said.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural value chains, ensuring food sufficiency, and promoting sustainable economic growth in the state.

GOV OYEBANJI TO DELIVER AFE BABALOLA DISTINGUISHED PERSONALITY LECTURE.

GOV OYEBANJI TO DELIVER AFE BABALOLA DISTINGUISHED PERSONALITY LECTURE.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, will on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, deliver the 2026 edition of the annual Afe Babalola Distinguished Personality Lecture at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).

The lecture, titled “Building Legacies: The Role of Governance in Ensuring Continuity and Seamless Succession,” is scheduled to hold at the 10,000-seater Alfa Belgore Multi-Purpose Hall on the university campus.

The Afe Babalola Distinguished Personality Lecture Series was instituted in 2021 by the Department of Conflict, Peace and Strategic Studies of the university in honour of ABUAD’s Founder and Chancellor, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN).

Organisers said the lecture series aims to provoke intellectual discourse on leadership and governance issues, with a focus on the future of leadership in Ekiti State and the country at large.

This was disclosed in a statement signed on Saturday by Olayinka Oyebode, Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor.

Oyebanji’s participation in the prestigious lecture is expected to draw significant attention from academics, political leaders, students and stakeholders across the state.

The event comes as part of ongoing efforts to promote thoughtful conversations on governance, legacy-building and smooth power transition in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Bayo Ajayi Declares Reps Bid for Ekiti South Federal Constituency II, Seeks Party Support.

Bayo Ajayi Declares Reps Bid for Ekiti South Federal Constituency II, Seeks Party Support. 

An All Progressives Congress chieftain, Engr. Bayo Ajayi, has formally declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency II.

Ajayi made the declaration earlier this week during a strategic meeting with APC leaders, executives, and party members from Emure Local Government Area at the party secretariat in Emure Ekiti.

The meeting provided a platform for engagement, alignment, and the reaffirmation of a unified political direction within the constituency ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Speaking at the gathering, Ajayi outlined his vision and mission, pledging to deliver responsible, effective, and people-oriented representation at the National Assembly if elected.

He expressed appreciation to party leaders, members, and stakeholders for their continued loyalty and steadfast support for the administration led by Ekiti State Governor, .

Ajayi commended the strides of the Oyebanji administration and urged party faithful to remain united and committed as preparations intensify for the forthcoming elections.

In his concluding remarks, the aspirant called on supporters and the general public to uphold peace, maintain decorum, and embrace the democratic process with maturity and respect for the rule of law.

EKITI: CHASING LEGACY UNDER BIODUN OYEBANJI.

EKITI: CHASING LEGACY UNDER BIODUN OYEBANJI.

By Segun Dipe

Far beyond rhetoric, Ekiti State is now on the front burner in the Nigerian project. Under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, popularly known as BAO, the State that makes Land of Honour its watchword, is witnessing a governance model anchored on performance, accountability, and people-centered development. The BAO administration, which set sailing in 2022, is building a legacy, brick by brick, across every sector.

Below is a scorecard of Oyebanji's impactful governance from Ado Ekiti to the remotest part of the State till date.

1. During this first term of BAO in the saddle, Ekiti has ranked severally as Number One in the BudgIT State Fiscal Transparency League for six consecutive quarters between Q2 2024 and Q1 2026.

2. This BAO administration disbursed N400m for agrochemicals, fertilisers and seeds at 50 per cent subsidised rate. It also distributed 20,000 bags of fertilisers to farmers free of charge. 

3. This BAO administration cleared 6,000 hectares of farmland free of charge for individual farmers and cooperatives between 2023 and 2025 under the free land clearing programme of the administration.

4. This BAO administration has paid N376,197,500 WAEC fees for 16,846 in 2023, N546,901,209 for 16,269 students in 2024, N562,798,300 for 17,869 students in 2025. Approved payment of N671,642, 400 for 17,784 students for the 2026 WAEC Examination. 

5. This BAO adminstration has distributed 12,400 JAMB forms free of charge to students between 2023 and 2026.

6. This BAO administration has disbursed N1.1 billion to 2,777 beneficiaries as credit and operational grants to 10 cooperatives in Agro Processing and production, and has facilitated free CAC registration for 5,432 MSMEs

7. This BAO Administration has constructed 25 inter-state and inter-city roads, covering 288 kilometers across the state, fitted with street lights. 

8. This BAO administration has completed renovation of 105 primary healthcare centres and all general hospitals in the state are fully equipped with state of the art facilities. 

9. This BAO administration has established nine ICT laboratories in select secondary schools and technical colleges across the state. 

10. This BAO administration has completed the airport project and commercial flight operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, approved by the NCAA. 

11. This BAO administration has mobilised 500 youths and contributed five farm domotories under the Bring Back the Youths into Agriculture initiatives. 

12. This BAO administration has made the young farmers not only to participate in the programme, but as well as the Broiler Production Scheme where they have realised N1.1bn as profit. 

13. This BAO administration has made Ekiti one of the three states and FCT that attracted foreign investments in Q1, Q2 of 2024 and Q3 2025.

14. In this BAO administration, Ekiti is ranked second lowest among the States with out-of-school children in Nigeria.

15. This BAO administration ensures reduction in neonatal mortality by 53 per cent from 42 per 1000 in 2019 to 18 per 1000 in 2024, reduction in infant mortality by 53 per cent from 57 per 1000 in 2010 to 27 per 1000 in 2024 and under-5 mortality by 54 per cent from 95 per 1000 in 2019 to 44 per 1000 in 2024.

16. In this BAO administration, Ekiti is rated by Enough is Enough (EiE) as the state with the lowest media reported for killing for 2025, thus ranking consistently as the safest state in Nigeria

17. This BAO administration established the first adapted classrooms in the public special schools for Children with Disabilities in Nigeria

18. This BAO administration has completed comprehensive renovation of 203 secondary schools (including three special schools) and 950 primary schools across the state. 

19. This BAO administration ensures free medical care for pregnant women, children under-5, People with Disabilities (PWDs) sickle cell warriors at Government's health facilities across the states. 

20. This BAO administration has restructured and strengthened the Amotekun, Agro Rangers and Peace Corps to ensure safety and security in the local areas

21. This BAO administration has made Ekiti the first state to employ therapists in public special schools and fist to establish multi-sensory and therapy rooms in public secondary schools. 

22. This BAO administration has constructed 135kms of rural roads in different parts of the state under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).

Governor Oyebanji is therefore not chasing headlines. He is chasing a legacy of measurable impact. From policy to projects, the focus remains on inclusion, continuity, and consolidation. Every unit, ward, and LGA feels the presence of government, and every citizen is being given a sense of belonging.

And, as Ekiti moves toward the next governorship election, the question is not about promises. It is about performance. And under BAO, performance is speaking. 

Segun Dipe is the Spokesperson of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ekiti State.