Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has articulated his administration’s strategic and deliberate approach to governance, particularly in its financial management, aimed at fostering comprehensive development across all facets of the state. In a recent statewide broadcast, which coincided with the 28th anniversary of Ekiti’s creation and Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, Oyebanji reiterated his commitment to inclusivity and sustainable growth aligned with the six pillars of his administration. These pillars are explicitly designed to ensure shared prosperity for all Ekiti citizens, reflecting a move towards a more equitable society. The governor declared that the initiatives undertaken by his administration have begun to yield results, with several targets not only met but exceeded.
Oyebanji expressed gratitude towards President Bola Tinubu for his support, which has significantly contributed to creating a favorable environment for Ekiti’s advancement since taking office. He emphasized the importance of federal interventions and infrastructure approvals that have addressed early-year security challenges in the state, acknowledging the collective effort of government entities and leaders in this achievement. He also took the opportunity to honor the founding fathers of Ekiti, such as Chief Deji Fasuan and Aare Afe Babalola, as well as previous governors, by recognizing their roles in the state’s progress. Their legacy, according to Oyebanji, has laid crucial groundwork for the development endeavors currently observed.
The governor underscored that his administration’s development initiatives are meticulously tied to the Ekiti Development Master Plan, ensuring every policy and program contributes to the overarching goal of prosperity for all citizens. He highlighted that any government spending undertaken is intentional, aimed at stimulating job creation, fostering inclusive growth, and promoting sustainable development. In the past two years, several significant strides have been made across different administrative sectors, reflecting a commitment to fulfilling a social contract with the population. Oyebanji particularly noted the advancements in infrastructure projects, including the Ado-Ekiti flyover, phases of the Ring Road, and improvements in rural connectivity.
Further, Oyebanji stated that electricity supply had been restored to numerous communities that had been in darkness for decades, alongside ongoing efforts to enhance access to clean water within the state. The administration is actively implementing the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, with numerous rural road contracts already awarded and more on the way. Agriculture and food security remain high priorities, with numerous programs in place designed to bolster production and ensure food availability while simultaneously addressing the security challenges that have affected life and property in Ekiti.
The governor took pride in his administration’s accomplishments within the education and health sectors, reiterating a commitment to prioritize worker welfare. This commitment is evidenced by the administration’s track record of timely salary payments, clearance of outstanding salaries and benefits, as well as ongoing efforts to resolve outstanding gratuities owed to pensioners. Additionally, Oyebanji’s government is proactively supporting local businesses by facilitating access to affordable financing through partnerships with the Bank of Industry, reinforcing the goal of wealth creation and economic improvement in the state. Through these multifaceted strategies, Oyebanji aims to create a robust economy that benefits all Ekiti residents, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth and development.
In summary, Governor Oyebanji’s leadership is characterized by a structured approach to governance, focusing on strategic spending and inclusive development. His administration’s successes can be attributed to collaborative efforts with federal and local entities, consistent fulfillment of commitments to public welfare, and a comprehensive commitment to improving basic infrastructure and economic opportunities. As the governor celebrates the milestones achieved during his term, he emphasizes that the journey towards Ekiti’s prosperity is ongoing and will require sustained efforts from all stakeholders to continue the momentum established in these formative years.
