Education

Saraki, Fayemi, Others Set for Ogundoyin Students’ Legislative Summit

By Web News 485

By Mosope Kehinde

The Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde will on April 24, 2024 at the International Conference Centre, ICC, University of Ibadan host former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and other dignitaries for the maiden edition of Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin Students’ Legislative Summit.

Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki is expected to give a keynote address while Dr. Kayode Fayemi will be the Guest Speaker at the summit.

The 3-day summit organised for about one thousand members of Students Representatives Council, SRC, Students Union Governments, SUG and other students drawn from tertiary institutions in the Southwest, Kwara State inclusive is tagged “Roles of quality legislation in Nation Building”.

Also invited as resource persons, panelists and moderators are accomplished political leaders, seasoned legislators, cerebral administrators as well as erudite academics and scholars.

The 3rd and final day of the summit (25th April, 2024) will feature panel discussions, interactive sessions and insightful presentations by the delegates on key components of national development.

The Honoree of the summit and speaker Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin said it is in line with his avowed belief in nurturing and grooming students and youths for leadership responsibilities and national development.

The speaker said the summit was designed to increase and advance students’ knowledge and understanding about legislation, highlight the vital importance and significance of good laws to national development, as well as discuss and expound legislative constraints and bottlenecks.

“Grooming next generation of leaders is tantamount to laying a solid foundation for the rapid transformation and development of any nation. This has been one of my focal points in the last few years. If the argument that leaders are made and not born is true, then we must constantly put together programs and activities that will impact our youths positively and prepare them for the task of nation building as future leaders of Nigeria.”  Mr Ogundoyin espoused.

“This summit is also another way of bridging the gap between the current leaders and the next generation of leaders. It is meant to connect the students with the cream in the society for tutoring, mentoring and learning”.

“The maiden edition of the summit will be used to harness the students’ perspectives on key issues of national development which will bring about inclusive engagement. Youths voices must not only be heard but must also reflect in government policies. They are stakeholders in the building of a strong and virile nation”, the Oyo Speaker said.

He added that beside the theme of the Summit, “Roles of Quality Legislations in Nation Building”, other key components of national development that will be appraised and discussed by the delegates are power, security, true federalism, health care, education, agriculture and food security, technology, employment and human capital development, environment, culture and tourism.

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Politics

Curtain Down on Fayemi’s Administration as Oyebanji Steps in

By Web News 619

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi says his administration in the last four years has fulfilled his electoral promise of reclaiming Ekiti land and restoring its values by making the state a place of pride among the committee of States in the country.

Governor Fayemi stated this during a pulling-out ceremony organized as part of activities marking his last day in office as Ekiti State Governor on Saturday. The event, which was an emotional moment for the people of the state, was the first of its kind in the State.

Dr Fayemi, who also inspected the last guard of honour mounted for him by men and officers of the Nigeria Police, said he had served the state conscientiously despite the effect of covid-19 on the economy and scanty resources available to the State.

The event, which brought a new look to the Governor’s office, had in attendance members of the State Executive Council, House of Assembly members, political appointees that served under his administration, permanent secretaries, state government officials, traditional rulers, family and friends of the Governor.

Governor Fayemi, in a carnival-like manner, was conveyed in a motorcade with his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi and the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, while members of the House of Assembly, Executive Council, political aides and permanent secretary accompanied him with songs and jamboree from the front of Governor’s office to the entrance of the governor’s office main gate.

Governor Fayemi, who performed his last official duty in the presence of the audience and also signed pardon warrants for some prisoners serving in the Nigeria Correctional Centre, Ado-Ekiti, disclosed that he has handed over the keys to Governor’s office and Government house to the Permanent Secretary Government House and Protocol, for onward transmission to the incoming Governor of the State, Abayomi Biodun Oyebanji.

Expressing gratitude to Ekiti forbears, the kabyesis, his predecessors and those who served with him, Dr Fayemi maintained that Ekiti had been well nurtured and had made significant progress under all the people that had served in the state, right from the first military administrator down to his tenure.

He further expressed gratitude to the Ekiti people for putting him on the pedestal of service which exposed him to other lofty heights as the Chairman of all the governors in the country and the president of all governors in Africa.

According to him, “Ours is a story of the determined people, right from our history, our forebears believed so much in this place and resisted all oppressions in order to keep us together in the federation of Ekiti State known as Ekiti Parapo.

“Our kabyesis are leading lights, struggled for us to have a state that can be called ours, eventually paid off and on October 1996 we got a state of our own and we have been nurturing that state with every progressive step forward right from the time of the first military administrator the Late Colonel Inua Bawa to his successor Navy Captain Atanda Yusuf; and then to our leader the first civilian Governor of the State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo who was later succeeded by Dr Peter Ayodele Fayose; and the baton has been passing from one governor to the next until it was my turn to pick the baton on October 16, 2018.

“But every beginning has an end, we have given ourselves to serve Ekiti unstintingly in the last four years, many rivers have crossed, many bridges have been scaled, we had to deal with COVID-19 pandemic in the space of those four years, we have had to struggle with a declining economy and reduced resources but we were never daunted in delivering the promised we made to our people to reclaim this land and restore its value and I believe we have to restore Ekiti to a pride of place in the committee of State in Nigeria.

“I am confident that my successor will keep the flag flying, he will do that which Ekiti people have been promised by him in the course of his campaign and as I am sure that he will also recount that on Sunday, October 16, 2022, at his inauguration.

“All we can do is support him and I beg all of us, good Ekiti people those of us who are here present and those who are listening to us at home, I plead with us to support Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji the way you supported me even more than the way you supported me so that we can even build a better state. A state that is responsive to the yearnings of our citizens, I thank you all for all that you have done to help us keep our state peaceful, prosperous, forward-looking and progressive and to keep building on it, rather than removing from it surely the sky is the limit.

Amos Ogunrinde

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Education

Fayemi Dissolves Governing Councils of Tertiary institutions

By Web News 592

Ekiti State’s outgoing Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has approved the dissolution of the Governing Councils of state-owned universities, state Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti and College of Health Technology, Ijero- Ekiti with effect from yesterday Monday, October 10.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode says the dissolution is in line with the extant transition policy of the State.

According to the statement, the Governor thanked the chairmen and members of the councils for the services rendered and wished them success in their future endeavours.

Amos Ogunrinde

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Politics

UPDATED: Confusion in Ekiti over Cabinet Dissolution

By Web News 682

With two weeks to the expiration of his tenure, Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has announced the dissolution of the State Executive Council.  

Dr. Fayemi made the announcement during the last valedictory executive session held at the Council Chamber, Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

He directed the political appointees to hand over to the most senior civil servants in their various ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

The governor expressed appreciation to the outgoing council members for their selfless service to the development of the state.

He equally thanked them for their utmost support and contributions towards the successes of his administration which he said had transformed the state and brought new lease of life to the people.

Dr Fayemi noted that the former members of his cabinet had written their names in gold and wished them success in their future endeavours.

In their brief remarks, the outgoing members of the cabinet took turns to share their experiences in governance in the last four years and thanked the governor for giving them the opportunity to serve Ekiti.

Meanwhile, Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has directed the commissioners and cabinet members to continue with government activities till the very last day of the administration on October 15.

The Governor gave the directive in Ado Ekiti during the valedictory session for members of the state executive council as well as members who served between 2010 and 2014 during his first term in office.

In a statement in Ado Ekiti, the chief Press Secretary to the Governor Mr Yinka Oyebode said Dr Fayemi had not dissolved his cabinet as reported by some media but only held last valedictory meeting with the cabinet members.

Governor Fayemi  thanked all the past and current members of the Council for their sacrifices, patriotism, diligence and committment to the development of the state.

He noted that Ekiti State made appreciable improvement in all aspects of development, through the collective contributions of members of the Council.

In their brief remarks,  members of the cabinet spoke about their experiences in the highest decision making body of the state, thanked the Governor for the opportunity given to them to contribute their quota to the development of the state.

The Governor later adjourned the council meeting sine die marking the end of the weekly meetings of the state til October 15 when his tenure will come to an end.

Amos Ogunrinde

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Politics

Public benefit should always override political interests – Gov. Fayemi

By Web News 521

The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, and Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi has called for a system of proportional representation that would allow both electoral losers and winners to collaborate and form government in the interest of the people.

He stated this while speaking as the special guest of honour at the inauguration ceremony of the 7.2km Idi-Ape-Bashorun-Akobo-Odogbo Barracks road dualization project and flyover at General Gas, Ibadan executed by the Oyo State government.

In a keynote, Dr Kayode Fayemi affirmed that beyond politics, concerns should be geared to social-economic development for the benefit of the public maintaining that the system of winner-takes-it-all would not advance the nation’s development. 

Governor Fayemi also advocated for a system of government that would tolerate proportional representation between electoral losers and winners in forming a government of unity with a particular focus on deepening the nation’s democracy.

  • From left, Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; wife of former governor of Oyo State, Mrs Mutiat Ladoja and deputy governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal during commissioning of 7.2km Idi-Ape-bashorun-Akobo Barracks junction road dualization project and General Gas Flyover bridge in Ibadan. PHOTO: Oyo Gov’s Media Unit.
  • Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde (second right); his Ekiti counterpart, Dr Kayode Fayemi (second left); wife of former governor of Oyo State, Mrs Mutiat Ladoja (right); Okere of Saki, Oba Kalid Olabisi (left) and others during commissioning of 7.2km Idi-Ape-bashorun-Akobo Barracks junction road dualization project and General Gas Flyover bridge in Ibadan. PHOTO: Oyo Gov’s Media Unit.

The chairman of NGF commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his purposeful leadership.

In his address, Governor Seyi Makinde acknowledged that the project was a promise kept and would improve economic activities within the axis.

Governor Makinde said attention would also be given to deplorable inner city roads at rehabilitating roads within the council areas. 

Earlier, the Oyo State Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Professor Daud Sangodoyin highlighted some major features of the road and noted that the project was completed through the Alternative Project Funding approach.

The contract for the road project was awarded by the past government but was terminated for failure to meet duration amongst other reasons and was re-awarded by Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.

Iyabo Adebisi

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News

Gov. Fayemi Hails Makinde Over Road Project

By Web News 571

The 7.2km Idi-Ape-Bashorun-Akobo-Odogbo Barracks junction road, Ibadan has been inaugurated by the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF, Dr Kayode Fayemi.

Dr Fayemi while inaugurating the project commended Governor Seyi Makinde for not abandoning the work, which was started by the administration of Late Abiola Ajimobi.

The road project would serve three local governments in the state connecting Ibadan North-East to Lagelu and Akinyele.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Politics

Fayemi Sacks Political Aides

By Web News 416

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has terminated the appointment of his political aides.

Those affected are, all Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, Technical Assistants and Executive Assistants.

The Secretary to the state Government, Mr. Foluso Daramola announced this in a statement in Ado Ekiti.

Mr. Daramola said the action, which was in consonant with the state’s transition law, was also to ensure payments of entitlements of political office holders and their terminal benefits.

He explained that Governor Fayemi approved the termination of their appointment with effect from 31st July 2022.

The SSG further stated that the action would pave the way for the state government to process all outstanding allowances ofthe affected officials, for a smooth transition from the incumbent administration to the new government.

The memo reads in part: “A Transition Committee was constituted to among others, evolve strategies for a smooth transition from the incumbent to the incoming government.

“One of the duties of the Committee, in line with Ekiti State Transition Law, is to ensure the payment of entitlements of political office holders including their terminal benefits.

“His Excellency Dr John Kayode Fayemi has approved that the services of all Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, Technical Assistants and Executive Assistants would end on 31st July 2022 to enable the State Government process all outstanding allowances of the affected officials more so that the Government is winding up.”

Amos Ogunrinde

Politics

Fayemi Charges New HOS on Sustaining Government’s Transformation Agenda

By Web News 556

The Ekiti State governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi on Monday sworn-in the state’s new Head of Service, Mr Bamidele Agbede, charging him to think outside the box in building a responsive 21st century public service.

Mr Agbede took over from Mrs ‘Peju Babafemi, who retired last week after 35 years of meritorious service to the state.

Dr Fayemi, in his address at the ceremony, admonished Mr Agbede to sustain the government’s transformation agenda in the civil service.

The governor implored the new Head of Service to justify the confidence reposed in him by aligning with government policies and programmes and also serving as a source of stability for the incoming administration.

He urged him to sustain the feat of his predecessors and use his wide experience in public service to demonstrate capacity in rally all civil servants behind the incoming administration.

As part of commitment to transparency in corporate governance, Governor Fayemi, disclosed that his administration has institutionalized a process-driven structure to ensure meritocracy in emergence of best officers into top civil service positions.

He maintained that the seamless and rancour-free transition between the former Head of Service and the new one, has further reinforced his administration’s stance on professionalism, due process and deliberate intention to restore values, dignity and honour into public service.

At the colourful event, Dr Fayemi also commended the meritorious service of the immediate past Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi for making appreciable progress in reforming the public service for effective service delivery.

He said, “I enjoin the newly appointed Head of Service to justify the confidence reposed in him, and align with the state government policies and programmes as boldly and expressly enunciated in our 5-pillar agenda. It is also expected that he would be a source of stability for the incoming administration”.

“You are inheriting a very active public service that has keyed into the vision of this administration. I expect you to hit the ground running and make your impact felt.

“The restoration agenda is a continuous task that must be done. You are expected to sustain the transformation agenda, especially as it relates to the civil service. I know you to possess the capacity to think outside the box and no time calls for that ability more than now when a lot is expected from you in building a 21st century Civil service.”

Responding, the new Head of Service, Mr Bamidele Agbede commended Governor Fayemi for developing passion towards the development of the public service through reforms and transformation strategies.

He promised to work with government in providing an enabling environment for Ekiti workforce and ensure prudent utilisation of the available resources to move the state civil service forward.

The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi; Speaker Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Funminiyi Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Folusho Daramola; two former Deputy Governors, Surveyor Abiodun Aluko and Chief Paul Alabi as well as two former Heads of Service, Sir Bunmi Famosaya; and  Mr Deji Ajayi; traditional rulers and other dignitaries.

Amos Ogunrinde

Politics

Fayemi inaugurates Transition Committee, Advisory Council

By Web News 560

A 20-member Transition Committee and a 4-member Advisory Council have been inaugurated in Ekiti State.

The two Committees were constituted ahead of the inauguration of the Governor-elect, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on October 15, this year.

At the ceremony in Ado Ekiti, Gov Kayode Fayemi said the Transition Committee headed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Foluso Daramola would interact with the outgoing government to ensure a seamless transition and effective receipt of detailed handover notes.

The Governor said the committee would also study the state of affairs of the present administration, review the programmes and projects of MDAs and map out strategies for a smooth transition from the incumbent to the incoming.

Governor Fayemi said, the 4-man Advisory Council on its part headed by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi was saddled with the responsibility of addressing unresolved issues by the transition committee.

Dr Fayemi said he was delighted that the Ekiti electorate overwhelmingly voted for the APC and its candidate, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to consolidate on the achievements of the outgoing administration.

He described Biodun Oyebanji as the symbol of hope for the future of the state and appealed to Ekiti residents to remain vigilant and cooperative to uphold the non-partisan

Dr Fayemi affirmed that the Governor-elect would be coming to office based on his track records as an experienced public administrator and a true home-grown leader who understands the yearnings of the people.

He expressed his appreciation to members of the Transition Committee and Advisory Council for accepting to serve the state in this capacity, informing them that they have just six weeks to complete the task more so when the details of their assignment was already clearly stated in the transition law.

Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Wale Fapohunda, SAN stressed the need for the transition committee to go through the transition law in the discharge of their responsibilities which would guide them appropriately.

Responding on behalf of members of the committee, a member of the National Assembly, Senator Olubunmi Adetumbi promised that they would do the job to the best of their ability and within the ambit of the law.

News

Agbede Becomes Ekiti New Head of Service

By Web News 566

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has approved the appointment of Mr Bamidele Olugbenga Agbede as the new Head of Service in the State Civil Service.

Agbede, until his new appointment, is Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Transport.

He takes over from the State’s first female Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi, who is billed to retire from the State Civil Service on June 30, having attained the mandatory 35years in the service.

Agbede’s appointment as Head of Service takes effect from July 1, 2022.

Meanwhile, Governor Fayemi has commended the outgoing Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi for her demonstrated brilliance, diligence and professionalism which has greatly helped in repositioning the State Civil Service for optimal service delivery.

Agbede, the new Head of Service holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History as well as a Law Degree from the Ondo State University, OSUA now Ekiti State University), Ado-Ekiti, EKSU.

He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2006.

He started his career as a Personnel Officer with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ondo State in 1988.

He was on secondment to the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission, EKSIEC as Executive Secretary between 2000 and 2004.

Agbede, who hails from Ikole Local Government Area, was appointed Permanent Secretary in December 2012.

He served as Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs (2012 to 2014); Government House and Protocol (2014 -2017); and Ministry of Works and Transport (2017 till date).

The new Head of Service is to be sworn in on Monday, July 4, 2022.

Amos Ogunrinde

Lifestyle

Reactions Trail Killings at Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owo

By Web News 638

The Governor of Ekiti State, who is also Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has condemned the attack on Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, which left scores of worshippers dead during a Holy Mass on Pentecost Sunday.

Dr Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, described the attack as vile, barbaric and callous, adding that there could never be any justification for the heinous behaviour of the assailants.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), who is a presidential aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, commiserated with the Governor of Ondo State, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), and the people of Ondo State over the sad incident.

He urged security agencies in the state to ensure that the perpetrators of the crime were apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law, also tasking them to remain vigilant.

“The perpetrators of this dastardly act should not go unpunished. We call on relevant security agencies in the state to spring into action and ensure that they are brought to book.

“Our condolences go to the Government and good people of Ondo State as well as families that lost their loved ones in the carnage.”

In solidarity with the sister state, Dr Fayemi also directed the Ekiti State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Banji Filani, to immediately send human and medical resources to Ondo State.

Similarly, the Olowo of Owo Kingdom and Paramount Ruler of Owo Land, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has expressed sadness over the attack and killing of innocent people while worshipping at the St Francis Catholic Church along Owaluwa Street.

This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Assistant Media, Sam Adewale, Oba Ogunoye.

Oba Ogunoye who was deeply saddened over the unfortunate development said that the perpetrators without mincing words are enemies of the people.

The Monarch described the attack as an assault on the peace and tranquillity the people of the kingdom had enjoyed over the years, saying, the Government and appropriate security agencies would rise up to the occasion by making sure these heartless persons or groups were apprehended to face justice.

Oba Ogunoye urged the people to remain calm, just as he appealed for peace and advised them to shun any action that may snowball into taking laws into their hands.

Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III commiserated with the people of the kingdom, the Catholic Church, and particularly the families of those who lost their lives in the heart-wrenching incident.

Asake /Isename

News

Fayemi Appoints 14 New Permanent Secretaries

By Web News 1382

Ekiti State Governor,  Dr Kayode Fayemi,  has appointed fourteen  new Permanent Secretaries, two General Managers and six Executive Secretaries, 
The chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode announced this in a Statement made available to Radio Nigeria in Ado Ekiti.
According to the statement, the Governor approved the appointments after the beneficiaries scaled through examinations in ICT, Civil Service Procedures and General Knowledge.
The  new Permanent Secretaries:are, Johnson Oluwole Adeola, Mrs Taiwo Modupe Akinbolawa , Mr Babatunde Patrick Adesola, Mrs Omotola Kikelomo Faseluka, Mr Tajudeen Gbenga Adejumo, Mr Emmanuel Babatunde Jegede, Mr Oluwadare Julius Jolumo and Mrs Oyeyemi Oyenike Kayode-Ojo.
Others are, Mrs Mercy Bosede Adaran, Dr Olasunkanmi Alabi, Mr Michael O. Omolayo, Mr Adeyinka Victor Arogundade, Mr Aderemi Oladele Ogunsemoyin and Mrs Olusola, Adeluyi-Femi
The two General Managers are, Dr Rufus Olusanya Adetoye, Olufemi Michael Oyeniran.
The newly Appointed Executive Secretaries are, Dr Dairo Samuel Ojo, Mrs Olurotimi Matthew Famuagun, Mr Biodun Thomas Oguntuyi, Mrs Yetunde Adebimpe Ayodele, Mrs Oluwatoyin Bukola Faluyi, and Mrs Yinka Bosede Jegede..

Amos Ogunrinde

Economy

Fayemi Gives Thumbs Up for On-going Projects  

By Web News 1912

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has expressed delight at the pace and quality of work at the Ekiti Cargo Airport, model colleges and other projects embarked upon by his administration with an assurance to inaugurate them before the expiration of his administration in October this year.

Dr Fayemi, stated this after inspecting some of the on-going projects including model colleges, roads, terminal buildings, runway and other sections of the Ekiti Cargo Airrport in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.  

The Governor, who expressed confidence in the ability of the company in charge of the projects to deliver within the agreed period, said over 720  workers are currently working 24 hours at the airport project site.

He added that the company had no reason not to deliver within the time frame because it has necessary materials, equipment, experience, and expertise required for the timely completion of the project.

The Governor who also visited the ultra modern Chamber of the Council of traditional rulers, Harding Model College, the Bus terminal and the UBEC Model School all in Ado Ekiti, said he was pleased with the pace and quality of work done in each of the places visited.

He described Harding Memory College as a mega school designed to accommodate 36 classrooms with laboratories, sick bay, ICT, library staff quarters and others would provide parents with the opportunity to put their children and wards in public schools that is conducive with modern facilities and well trained teachers.

Dr Fayemi said the school, upon completion, would accommodate a large number of pupils who ordinarily would have gained admission to some of the missionary schools returned by the state government to their original owners.

He added that the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC Model School at the Ekiti Knowledge Zone area would provide space for students at Ago Aduloju and Ago Ayegunle as well as address the distance challenges of the students who usually go to Ijan Ekiti to school.

Tope Bamidele

Politics

Ekiti Gets New SSG, Chief of Staff

By Web News 1598

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has appointed his Special Adviser, Governor’s Office, Mr Foluso Daramola, as the new Secretary to the State Government.

The Governor also approved the elevation of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Tolu Ibitola as his new Chief of Staff.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode says the two appointments are with immediate effect.

Daramola, a retired Permanent Secretary and a member of the State’s Executive Council, was until the new appointment, the Overseer of the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, a position he assumed following the resignation of Mr Biodun Oyebanji as SSG in December 2021.

Ibitola, 39, formerly a Personal Assistant to the Governor, was until his elevation, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor.

He takes over from Mr Biodun Omoleye, who recently resigned his appointment as Chief of Staff to pursue his political interest.

The Governor wishes the two new appointees success in their new offices.

Amos Ogunrinde

Politics

Fayemi Supports Second Term Bid of Ogun State Gov.

By Web News 509

The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Governor of Ekiti state, Dr Kayode Fayemi has supported the second term bid of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

Governor Fayemi stated this while speaking with newsmen shortly after a meeting with  Governor Abiodun at presidential Lodge, Ibara Abeokuta.

While pointing out that Governor Abiodun had performed beyond imagination, Governor Fayemi said he was elected as the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum to protect and promote every Governor in the country.

Governor Fayemi noted that his Ogun state counterpart had demonstrated capacity and increased investment across the state, adding that his extensive knowledge of the investment terrain had attracted huge foreign direct investment into the state.

The Ekiti State Governor also said that recent Olokola Free Trade Zone and Agro Cargo Airport investment by a foreign firm could not have been possible without the confidence of investors in the leadership of the state.

Bolanle Adesida

Politics

I am still making consultations on 2023 Presidency – Fayemi

By Web News 528

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi says he is still in consultation with monarchs, governors and others before declaring his intention officially to run for the presidency in the 2023 general elections

Dr Fayemi spoke when he visited the governor of Ondo State, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu in Akure.

The Ekiti helmsman also visited the Olowo of Owo, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye, the Deji Of Akure Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi and former Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Fasonranti.

Fayemi, who is the Chairman of the Governors Forum, said Nigeria needed an experienced leader capable of improving on the developmental structure of President Muhammadu Buhari 

In a remark, Governor Akeredolu appreciated Dr Fayemi and his entourage for the visit and wished him well in his consultations

Isaac Afolabi

Politics

Governor Fayemi Urges Ekiti Residence to Embrace Health Insurance

By Web News 609

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi wants residents across the state to always seek early medical attention to their health challenges in government hospitals to prevent untimely death.

The Governor gave the advice today In Ado Ekiti while inaugurating four ambulances recently purchased to strengthen the newly launched Ekiti State Ambulances Services, EKSAMS.

Dr Fayemi noted that the current death rate through illnesses and accidents were on the increase as a result of the uncared and nonchalant attitude of residents to their health status.

He said the ambulances would be deployed to hospitals in the three senatorial districts in addition to the existing ones to cater for the needs of the people during emergencies.

The Governor gave assurance that government would continue to work with relevant stakeholders and development partners to enable Ekiti to lead in the health service providers.

Earlier, the state commissioner for health and human services, Dr Oyebanji Filani said the ministry was prepared more than ever before to respond quickly to any health need of the people.

Tope Bamidele

Economy

Omicron: Prepare to work virtually – Fayemi tells Ekiti Workers

By Web News 632

As part of plans to curtail the spread of the new covid-19 variant, Omicron, Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has told workers to be ready to work virtually.

Governor Fayemi made this known when he paid a New Year visit to workers in selected offices situated at the State Secretariat in Ado Ekiti.

Dr Fayemi said, one of the opportunities in the covid-19 era was that workers could learn to work virtually to further cushion the effect of the pandemic and protect their wellbeing.

He said adequate preparation had been made in all the offices to ensure compliance with covid-19 protocols.

’’What is important now is they are back and in coming back, we still owe a duty of protection to them in their various offices that’s partly why I have to go round to see what is going on for myself. It is a new year, it is a new dawn and it is a year of fulfilment as we have described it and we pray that our workers would be imbued with the enthusiasm and the commitment to work smarter and work harder. Smarter because in the age of covid, we worked virtually now, at the level of the Executive council, all our executive council meetings are being held virtually, we still meet every week but we meet virtually because we now have a new variant of covid-19 which is even mutating faster than the previous variants that we have had. Spending too much time physically within the same space is not the most advisable but in that adversity there is opportunity, many of our people will learn to work virtually and to work a lot more away from their physical space in a way that protects their wellbeing and health care’’, the governor said.

Dr. Fayemi urged workers in the state to imbibe the culture of dedication, hard work and commitment to duties to make the state more productive this year.

The visit also afforded the governor the opportunity to pay attention to issues that could serve as challenges to workers performances while furniture was distributed to various offices to enhance working conditions.

The governor, accompanied by the Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi; the Chief of Staff, Biodun Omoleye; Overseer, office of the Secretary to the State Government, Folusho Daramola; leaderships of organized labour in Ekiti and other top government officials were received by the Commissioner for information and value orientation, Barrister Akinbowale Omole, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Alhaja Mariam Ogunlade and the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Dr Bimpe Aderiye at their respective ministries.

Other offices visited included the Ministry of Budget and Economic Development, Pension Commission as well as Ministry of Lands.

Tope Bamidele

Politics

Fayemi Warns New Council Officials against Corrupt Practices

By Web News 610

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has warned the newly elected council chairmen and vice chairmen in the 16 Local Government and 19 Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs not to engage in corrupt practices.

Speaking during the inauguration of the newly elected council officials in Ado Ekiti, Governor Fayemi charged them to make judicious use of resources in their councils to better the lots of the masses.

Governor Fayemi told them to prioritise the security and welfare of the people above their personal interests.

Governor Kayode Fayemi inaugurating LG, LCDA Chairmen in Ado-Ekiti

The governor who encouraged them to carry out people-oriented projects and programmes that would have a positive impact on the people urged them to work with relevant agencies and ministries to key into his administration’s programmes and projects which were designed to bring about rural and community development in the state.

He urged them to devise mechanisms that would improve internally generated revenue of their councils and ensure blockage of leakages, enshrine accountability in revenue-generating process and work hand-in-hand with the State Internal Revenue Services to promote transparency. 

Governor Fayemi equally advised the new council bosses to familiarize themselves with the Local Government Administration laws and Local Government Service Commission laws of Ekiti State in order to guide them in all that is required of them at the council.

Responding on behalf of other council Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen, the Chairman Efon Local Government, Mr Olabode Olatunji assured the people of Ekiti State of their readiness to bring about massive development at the grassroots and intensify efforts at improving IGR at their various councils.

Mr Olatunji commended Governor Fayemi for restoring sanity and virtues to governance and for creating LCDAs to bring government closer to the people, increase participation and make governance inclusive.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Rural Development, Professor Adio Folayan implored the council elected officials to key into the five-pillar agenda of Governor Fayemi and also to execute projects that would impact positively on the lives of people at the grassroots.

Amos Ogunrinde

Security

Tackling Insecurity Requires Strategy, Intelligence – Fayemi

By Web News 582

The chairman Nigeria governors forum and the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi says the task of tackling insecurity requires strategy on intelligence than the use of conventional military warfare tactics .

Governor fayemi said this during the annual birthday of Special Adviser on strategy and political matters to the Oyo state governor, Babatunde Oduyoye held at the International conference center, University of Ibadan.

Delivering a lectue entitled: Security and National Unity in Difficulties Times, Fayemi noted that if federal government is to tackle the security challenges confronting the country, it must be prepared to declare bandits, terrorists and kidnappers as criminals regardless of their geographical region.

The chairman Nigeria governors forum added that the south-west governor’s would synergy to gather intelligence that would be of benefits in stemming the tide of criminality and brigandage in the region.

In his address, the Co- chairman of the event, former senate president, Adolphus Wabara said the federal government government needed the decentralization of the over-centralized security apparatus.

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde describe Mr Babatunde Oduyoye, as a unifier who always demonstrate commitment to any course he believed in to the point of success.

Iyabo Adebisi

Security

S/West Governors, Traditional Rulers, Security Chiefs Meet In Ibadan

By Web News 726

South-West governors and some first class traditional rulers in the Southwest zone of the country are currently holding a security meeting at the Executive Chamber of the Agodi Government Secretariat, Ibadan.

The meeting which commenced at about 3 pm has in attendance the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, Dr Kayode Fayemi, Governors Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Gboyega Oyetola of Osun and the host governor – Mr Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.

Among the traditional rulers that are participating in the meeting are the Ooni of Ife – Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; Alaafin of Oyo – Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Akarigbo of Remo – Oba Babatunde Ajayi; Olugbo of Ugbo kingdom – Fedrick Akinrutan; Olubadan of Ibadan – Oba Saliu Adetunji and Olugbon of Orilegbon – Oba Francis Alao.

The Deputy Inspector General of Police, in charge of the South-West – Mr David Folawuyo, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police – Ngozi Onadeko and other heads of security agencies in Oyo State are also in attendance.

The Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari – Professor Ibrahim Gambari; Inspector General of Police – Mohammed Adamu and the Director General of the Department of State Security, DSS – Yusuf Bishi could not make the journey to attend the meeting due to bad weather.

It is expected that the chairman of the Southwest governors’ forum, Governor Akeredolu will brief journalists at the end of the meeting.

More details to come.

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

Insecurity: Akeredolu Briefs Buhari In Aso Rock

By Web News 703

Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum and Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Wednesday met with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The governor seized the opportunity of the meeting to brief the President as the regards the precarious security situation in the region, especially Ondo state.

“The governor met with the President at a meeting; and it centered on the issue of security concerns in the Southwest, especially in Ondo state.”

“It was a huge opportunity for the governor to put the records straight as regards the erroneous impression that Governor Akeredolu had asked all Fulani and herdsmen to vacate the state.”

“The meeting afforded both leaders a great window to explore ingenious methods to tackle the issue of insecurity in the region.”
“In particular, Governor Akeredolu sought and indeed, obtained the president’s support and encouragement to flush out criminals in the forests of Ondo State.”

“It was a needful meeting and more of such are very likely in the days ahead as the unanimity of purpose against crime gets the desired attention”.

Governor Akeredolu alongside his brother governors from the Southwest region and their colleagues from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) met with the leadership of the Miyetti Allah in Akure on Monday.

The meeting was at the instance of the Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi.

At the Monday meeting, both the Leadership of Miyetti Allah and the governors threw their support behind the directive of Governor Akeredolu that all herders occupying the forest reserves illegally should vacate it within seven days or properly get registered.

Aside, the meeting also affirmed the ban on night and underaged grazing and also outlawed the presence of cows in cities and highways.

Signed
Donald Ojogo
Commissioner for Information and Orientation
Ondo State
January 27, 2021

Lifestyle

Encomiums As Oyo Gov.’s Mother, Madam Omojolagbe Makinde Is Buried

By Web News 1184

The remains of the mother of the Oyo State governor, Madam Abigail Omojolagbe Makinde has been interred at the cemetery of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, Ibadan.

In a sermon, the Archbishop of Ibadan Diocese, Most Reverend Segun Okubadejo, said Madam Makinde lived a fulfilled life, and described her as an epitome of love.

Most Reverend Okubadejo urged all to be their brother’s keeper, number their days, and bear in mind that death is inevitable.

Governor Seyi Makinde, in his tribute, said he has started having sleepless nights since the demise of his mother as the bond between him and his mother was very strong.

Governor Makinde who could not hold his feelings, burst into tears as he showered encomium on his late mother.

The funeral service held at the Cathedral of SS Peters, Aremo, Ibadan church was graced by the former president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, represented by his wife, Chief Mrs Bola Obasanjo; Members of the Federal Executive Council, chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Governor Kayode Fayemi; the chairman, governors of the Southwestern states, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

Others are PDP National Chairman, Chief Uche Secondus; the former governor of Oyo state, high Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, service chiefs, monarchs, amongst other dignitaries.

Also, the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osibajo visited Governor Makinde at the Government House in Agodi to commiserate with him on the demise of his mother.

Professor Yemi Osibajo during his visit to Governor Seyi Makinde

Mama Abigail Omojolagbe Makinde Nee Omoregie died in the early hours of Thursday, October 15, 2020, at the age of 80.

Iyabo Adebisi

Culture

Youngest Monarch In Ekiti Receives Staff of Office

By Web News 4458

The youngest traditional ruler in Ekiti State, Elepe of Epe-Ekiti, Oba Ayodeji William Adesoye has received the instrument of appointment and staff of office with a call on traditional rulers to exercise their power with fear of God and eschew acts that can cause disaffection in their domains.

Performing the ceremony in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi said the traditional rulers needed to be tolerant, painstaking and always respect people’s opinion while making their decision.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, Governor Fayemi maintained that his administration had no special interest in the filling of vacant stools in any town but to ensure peace, progress and harmony across the state.

He urged the people of Epe-Ekiti to support the new monarch to ensure rapid growth in the community, saying that the late Elepe Oba Emmanuel Agbeleoba tried a lot for the development of the town.

Earlier, the permanent secretary, Bureau of Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Adeniyi Familoni noted that the processes leading to the installation of Oba Adesoye were done in an atmosphere of peace and in accordance with Ekiti chieftaincy laws.

In his acceptance speech, the Elepe of Epe-Ekiti, Oba Ayodeji Adesoye who could not hide his joy, appreciated Ekiti State government, kingmakers, family, friends and the Ajero of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Adebayo Adewole for their roles during the selection process.

Oba Adesoye promised to lead by example with a call on Ekiti Government to help rehabilitate all the roads linking Epe-Ekiti to other towns in Ijero Local Government.

The brief ceremony held at the Governor’s Office Conference Hall, Ado-Ekiti, had in attendance High Chiefs, Obinrin Ile, family and friends from Epe-Ekiti and the Ijero Local Government Area officials led by the Chairman, Mr Ropo Ige among others.

Oriola Afolabi

Health

Fayemi Expresses Worry Over Rising Cases Of Assault Against Women

By Web News 783

Victims of sexual abuse and assault in Ekiti State have been challenged to speak out and report any case of such to appropriate authorities for prompt government response to their plight.

Governor Kayode Fayemi gave the challenge in Ado-Ekiti while inaugurating the Moremi Clinic to serve as Sexual Assault Referral Centre, SARC, situated at EKSUTH as part of activities marking a 16-day global activism against Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Ekiti State.

The governor who described violence against women as the most pervasive human right abuse in the society stressed that government was concerned about the increasing rates of the menace.

Dr Fayemi explained that the idea of the sexual referral centre was to demonstrate government’s commitment to ensure global best practices in the promotion and protection of women and girls rights in the state.

He remarked that the centre would provide free medical and legal support for victims to guarantee justice.

Dr Fayemi said the clinic has the response, medical, counselling, legal, police and community outreach team as its operational structure for effective service delivery to victims.

Earlier, the wife of the governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi noted that women and the girl-child need special care and attention as against daily assault.

She urged stakeholders to support government drive in the protection and promotion of rights of women and girls to guarantee a better society.

Tope Bamidele