Education

By Amos Ogunrinde

Ekiti State Government has banned the graduation ceremonies for pupils in kindergarten, nursery, primary and secondary classes in public and private schools across the state.

The ban, which is expected to take effect from 2025/2026 academic session, is contained in a circular issued in Ado Ekiti by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Mr Mike Omolayo, on-behalf of the commissioner, Dr Bimpe Aderiye.

According to the circular, the new policy became necessary to reduce undue financial pressure on parents and curbing excesses associated with such ceremonies.

The circular further noted that government is still committed to once in six years text books review for Primary Schools, while that of Secondary School level had been changed from once in three years to once in four years.

It adds that parents and guardians are to note that siblings can pass textbooks to their younger ones as long as the textbooks books are in good conditions.

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Politics

By Lanre Omotoso

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has cautioned those engaging in political thuggery by unleashing attacks on residents and politicians  in the state to desist from such act.

Mr Oyebanji, who gave the caution during a statewide broadcast on Tuesday, explained that, those seeking to contest for the governorship position during the forthcoming 2026 election should follow due process and be peaceful in their approach.

He condemned political thuggery in some parts of the state in the last one week, calling on those fanning ember of discord to desist.

Mr Oyebanji enjoined political leaders to call their followers to order while security agents have been put on alert to prevent any form of unrest.

The Governor however gave residents assurance of adequate protection of their lives and property,

He urged them to report anybody caught disrupting the existing peace in the state to law enforcement agents.

On road construction,  Governor Oyebanji cautioned those hiding under the conditions of some federal roads to discredit present administration who had performed brilliant in all sectors to desist, saying “many roads have been constructed and rehabilitated by Federal and Ekiti State governments”.

Mr Oyebanji urged motorists to make use of the alternative routes pending the time others would be put in good conditions.

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Security

By Ayodeji Kazeem

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has called on Nigerians to prioritize security as a collective responsibility to ensure a safe and harmonious environment for all. 

He made the appeal during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, Launch of the Emblem and Appeal Fund at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House Grounds, Ado Ekiti.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the need to shun actions that deepen divisions along ethnic, religious, or political lines, urging citizens to foster unity and peaceful coexistence. 

He said the launch of the emblem and appeal fund symbolizes support and appreciation for the gallant men and women of the armed forces, calling for generous donations to honour their sacrifices and sustain the fight for the nation’s freedom and progress. 

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing lives and properties in Ekiti state, with a pledge to leave no stone unturned in its efforts, while admonishing residents to support the initiatives by providing timely and useful information that could aid security efforts.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Ekiti State, retired Colonel AbdulRazaq Atoki, expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for recognizing the contributions of the veterans and appealed for the inclusion of the state legion in the state’s social welfare packages. 

In another development, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has again appealed to friends, associates, and the public to forgo organizing birthday parties or placing newspaper advertisements to mark his 57th birthday on Saturday.

In a statement in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji encouraged those who wish to celebrate with him to channel their goodwill towards helping less privileged children in the state. 

He urged individuals to make cash or material donations to support the three Government Special Schools in Ekiti State, as well as the State Relief and Rehabilitation Centre for the Mentally Challenged in Ado Ekiti. 

The governor noted that gifts and donations to these institutions would be the most appreciated way to mark his birthday.

Governor Oyebanji expressed his heartfelt gratitude to those who contributed to the special schools during his birthday last year, emphasizing that such acts of kindness have a more meaningful impact on society. 

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Labour

By Oriola Afolabi

There was jubilation galore across Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Parastatals and local Governments as civil servants and political office holders in Ekiti State received  December salaries with the new minimum wage.

The civil servants, who could not hide their feelings, rolled out drums in large numbers with various songs to appreciate Governor Biodun Oyebanji for implementing the new minimum wage across the board.

Addressing the jubilant civil servants, the Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji appreciated the Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu for graciously increasing the monthly allocation to the states across the federation.

Mr Oyebanji, who observed that President Tinubu’s administration reform agenda had begun to yield positive results, urged Nigerians to always support the federal government’s policies and programmes.

The governor, who believed in prayers, said that if the Government had more resources, the minimum wage would be increased to meet the current economic situation.

Mr Oyebanji, however, promised not to relent in his efforts to make life meaningful to the people at the grassroots, especially civil servants with a call on them to reciprocate the gesture by increasing their productivity.

Earlier, the Ekiti State Heads of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi who led Permanent Secretaries, Executive Secretaries, General Managers and some union leaders to appreciate the Governor, promised their unflinching support to the present administration.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Sesan Alabi, Dr Olomojobi emphasized the civil servant’s loyalty and commitment to the present administration.

The Head of Service observed that this would be the first time that minimum wage implementation would caught across all categories of those in service in the last twenty years.

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Governance

By Kazeem Ayodeji

Vice President Kashim Shettima is set to arrive in Ekiti State on Thursday to declare open, the  Expanded National Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Clinics and inaugurate several infrastructure projects.

The event, which is a combined effort of the federal and state government is scheduled to take place at Adetiloye Hall, Old Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti at ten o’clock clock in the morning, where registered participants in the MSME clinics will be empowered.

Vice President Shettima is also expected to meet royal fathers and later visit the Adire hub on Iworoko road in the state capital.

While conducting a final inspection of the venue and the projects to ensure a smooth ceremony, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, expressed satisfaction with the preparations. 

He affirmed the state government’s readiness to host the vice president and urged residents to come out and welcome the number two citizen.

Projects slated for inauguration include the MSME clinic, Ekiti State Fashion and Garment Hub within the Textile Building in Awedele, and the newly constructed Omisanjana/Ajebandele Road in Ado Ekiti.

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Security

By Ayodeji Kazeem

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has reiterated the necessity of establishing Army Barracks in the state to enhance security.

The governor, who made the request while receiving the General Officer Commanding GOC, Second Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Orji-Onubogo in his office in Ado Ekiti, said that Ekiti State possesses all the necessary criteria for setting up a military barrack.

He emphasized that while the existing Garrison Commander in the state is beneficial, a full-fledged Military Barrack would significantly enhance security measures. 

Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, for his assistance, particularly during the recent security incident in the state. 

Earlier, the General Officer Commanding GOC, Second Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Orji-Onubogo, who was on a familiarization visit, commended Governor Oyebanji’s security strategies and pledged the Army’s unwavering commitment towards combating crimes in Ekiti.

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Infrastructure

By Amos Ogunrinde

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has disbursed three hundred million naira to properties owners affected by the urban renewal policy of his administration.

The beneficiaries were those whose buildings would be demolished in the Atikankan area of Ado Ekiti metropolis, a popular slum within the capital city, for the construction of the proposed Ultra-Modern Central Business District and Modern Park.

Distributing cheques at an event held in Ado Ekiti, Gov Oyebanji, represented by the state Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, pledged that his government would not subject property owners to undue bottlenecks before having their compensation paid.

The governor stated that the properties were acquired as part of the determination to rid Ekiti of slums and shanties, among which is the Atikankan area. 

He said Atikankan has been a notorious hideout for criminals perpetrating evils and constituted a threat to the people, besides its high proclivity for the breakout of communicable diseases.

“The proposed project will be one of the major trading hubs in the state where government, private individuals, business and corporate organisations can buy and sell goods and services in a decent and more coordinated manner. The projects will have an impact and improve the living standards of the people, as they are capable of generating employment for the youth.

“Let me reiterate that none of the developmental projects where structures, crops or property are affected will be demolished without payment of full compensation to the owners of such property. My administration is committed to prompt payment of compensation, no matter how small it might be, so that the little amount paid will not be consumed by the inflation rate.

“Although the amount might be meagre compared with the cost of erecting new structures, I want you to bear with us as this is part of the collective sacrifices we have to make to enjoy the prosperity of industrial and infrastructural development in our dear state,” he said.

Earlier, the State Head of Service, Mr Sunday Komolafe, described the proposed Central Business District and Park Legacy projects as facilities that would add aesthetic value to Ado Ekiti and upscale the state’s economic prosperity.

Mr Komolafe added that the government shared the pains of those who lost their property and businesses to the construction of the facilities, but clarified that the urban renewal policy was initiated in the interest of the public .

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Crime

By Amos Ogunrinde

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Ekiti State Command has arrested one Afolabi Ojo of Olujoda Street, Ado-Ekiti for allegedly defiling a four-year-old girl in the state capital.

The suspect popularly known as “Afo” was arrested after the mother of the girl made a formal complaint at the office of the NSCDC in Ado-Ekiti.

The four-year-old girl alleged that the suspect, “Afo” removed her pant and had carnal knowledge of her late last month.

Similarly, the mother of the girl who spoke to journalists in Ado Ekiti, disclosed that her daughter informed her about the incident before she reported the matter at the NSCDC office.

However, the suspect, Afolabi Ojo, denied the allegation, saying that he was implicated by the mother of the victim.

Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Ekiti State, Mr Tolu Afolabi said a medical report confirmed that the hymen of the “little” girl had been broken.

He added that investigation is ongoing on the matter.

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Religion

By Ayodeji  Kazeem

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has extended Eid-el-Fitri greetings to the Muslim community in Ekiti and across the nation as they celebrate the end of the Ramadan fast.

In a statement in Ado Ekiti, governor Oyebanji reflected on Ramadan as a period embodying love, self-discipline, and sacrifice.

He encouraged Muslims to uphold the virtues and pursue truth and justice, as advocated by the Holy Quran.

The governor also called on them to pray for Nigeria’s triumph over its present adversities, emphasizing that peace is essential for all religious followers to significantly contribute to the nation’s socio-economic progress.

He particularly commended the Muslim populace in Ekiti for their steadfast support and contributions to his administration, through prayer, advice, and active engagement, with a call on them to continue fostering religious harmony in the state.

Governor Oyebanji appealed to all religious adherents in Ekiti to collaborate with the government in cultivating peace, maintaining order, and reviving the state’s esteemed values of integrity, excellence, respect, and industriousness.

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Education

By Ayodeji Kazeem

Ekiti State governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji says his administration is working hard to ensure that the state sets zero per cent record of out-of-school children within the next two years.

Speaking at an event at Ekiti State University in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji highlighted that Ekiti already leads the nation in school attendance rates and has the lowest number of out-of-school children.

Emphasizing the critical role of education in fostering societal, political, and economic development, he reaffirmed the government’s dedication to continuous investment in education. 

Governor Oyebanji also noted the significant progress made through partnerships with various agencies, resulting in extensive renovations of over 200 secondary schools and the provision of educational materials to enhance the learning environment for students.

The governor called for a unified effort from all education stakeholders to further advance the quality of education in Ekiti State.

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Fasilat Lawal

Lifestyle

By Kazeem Ayodeji

In a heartfelt expression of solidarity, former governor of Ekiti State, Chief Segun Oni has conveyed his profound sorrow over the passing of the APC Chairman, Mr Paul Omotosho, describing it as a monumental loss to the state. 

Chief Oni who stated this during a condolence visit to Governor Biodun Oyebanji in his office in Ado Ekiti, said the development requires the sympathy of everyone, irrespective of political differences.

He extended his deepest condolences, saying that he had already paid respects to the bereaved family in Imesi Ekiti while offering prayers for solace and strength for them.

Responding, governor Oyebanji commended Chief Oni’s gesture, recognizing him as a statesman whose considerations transcend political divides.

Mr Oyebanji expressed gratitude for the state’s former governor’s empathetic presence during this time of mourning.

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Education

By Amos Ogunrinde

Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani says the five rescued pupils and four teachers of Apostolic Faith Group of Schools, Emure Ekiti currently undergoing medical attention at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, EKSUTH Ado Ekiti are all in stable medical condition.

Dr Filani who made this known to Journalists at the premises of the hospital shortly after he visited the victims, noted that they would soon be discharged after the outcome of the clinical psychotherapy result they went through.

He pointed out that the result would determine the next phase of their treatment.

Dr Filani was joined on the visit by the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Professor Kayode Olabanji and top officials of the medical facility.

Also speaking,  the EKSUTH Chief Medical  Director CMD, Prof Kayode Olabanji maintained that the pupils and their teachers had received all necessary medical attention because the specialists expected to attend to them were available.

Five pupils and four teachers of Apostolic Faith of Schools Emure-Ekiti were abducted by some gunmen along Emure-Iporo Ekiti road on Monday January 29, 2024.

However, the pupils and their teachers regained their freedom last Sunday, February 4 and they were brought to EKSUTH for medical attention at the directive of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

The Governor had also visited the victims at EKSUTH where he directed the medical personnel to give them quality health care.

The school bus driver, Mr Taye Rasaki was however killed by their kidnappers.

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Environment

By Amos Ogunrinde

Residents of G.R.A Ilokun besides Radio Nigeria Ado Ekiti have again appealed to the State Government to relocate the dumping site in the area.

The residents including landlords and landladies who made the appeal on Monday during a peaceful protest over the effect of the dumping site on their health, blocked the road leading to the site and turned back waste vans.

Speaking with Newsmen the Assistant Public Relations Officer of the community, Mr Sunday Afolabi said the thick smoke coming out from the dumping site had adverse effects on their health, particularly children residing in the area.

Mr Afolabi pointed out that several letters had been written to the appropriate authorities, without any step.

He maintained that relocation of the dumping site was the only way to save them from untimely death.

Also, one of the residents, Pastor Victoria-Modupe Olayinka said the residents particularly children had become regular patients in various hospitals

Pastor Olayinka therefore appealed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to save the souls of residents of G.R.A Ilokun, Ado Ekiti by relocating the dumping site to safer area.

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Governance

By Ayodeji Kazeem

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has cautioned Local Government and LCDA chairmen as well as other council officials against corrupt practices that can smear his name or tarnish the image of the state.

Mr Oyebanji who gave the warning in Ado Ekiti while declaring open a three days retreat for the newly elected Local Government/LCDA chairmen  said anyone found wanting would be sanctioned accordingly by the state house of assembly

He stressed the need for the new council bosses to be diplomatic by aligning their policy thrust with the yearnings and expectations of their people as well as the development plans of the state government.

He also reminded them that their position was not a privilege, but a responsibility to serve their people

Mr Oyebanji encouraged them to be innovative and creative in finding solutions to the challenges facing their people and communities.

In his welcome address, the state commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Mr Folorunsho Olabode, welcomed the participants and said the retreat was meant to train them on how to make effective decisions and to acquaint them with the rules and regulations of their office.

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Environment

By Amos Ogunrinde

Ekiti State has joined other States like Lagos and Oyo, to witness the first rain of the year.

The rain was witnessed in some parts of Ado Ekiti, the state capital, irepodun Ifelodun Local Government and Aramoko in Ekiti West Council Area.

The rain which was heavy in some parts of the state lasted for more than thirty minutes.

The first rain in the year started around ten O’clock in the night and subsided at half past ten.

There had been signs of imminent rain in Ekiti State in the last few days.

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Communication

By Amos Ogunrinde

All is now set for the conduct of the election of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Ekiti State Council.

The election will produce new officers that will pilot the affairs of the union for the next three years.

The election and inauguration of the new executive officers will take place tomorrow (Wednesday December 20, 2023) at the NUJ Secretariat, Okebarake near Old Governor’s office, Ado Ekiti by two O’clock in the afternoon.

A statement by the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists Electoral Committee, NUJECO, Alhaji Yaqoub Popoola and the Secretary, Pastor Amos Ogunrinde implores NUJ members across the state to be at the Secretariat for the exercise.

The statement appeals to them to be orderly during the election and inauguration.

Meanwhile the manifesto night ahead of the NUJ Election in Ekiti State comes up today at the union Secretariat in Ado Ekiti beginning from five O’clock in the evening.

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Transportation

By Amos Ogunrinde

Ekiti State Government has decried the threat being posed by unregistered vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles to road safety and security within the state.

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Kehinde Ajobiewe who
stated this while fielding questions from newsmen in Ado-Ekiti, advised those concerned to do the needful to avoid embarrassment.

Mr Ajobiewe noted that owners of unregistered vehicles often bypass essential inspections and regulations, declaring that they will no longer be permitted to ply roads in the state.

According to the Commissioner, the enforcement exercise will commence early next year, saying that it was not meant to kill businesses but to put sanity into the transportation sector.

Mr Ajobiewe however re-stated Government’s unwavering commitments to improve road safety and ensure that transport operators adhere strictly to the necessary regulations and highway codes.

He stressed that the massive ongoing road intervention projects across the State was an indication that Governor Biodun Oyebanji was
working in accordance with his six pillars of administration for the State’s development.

Crime

By Amos Ogunrinde

The Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Mr Dare Ogundare has visited the scene of Wednesday’s armed robbery incident at Ikere-Ekiti for an on-the-spot assessment.

In a statement made available to Newsmen in Ado Ekiti,  the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Sunday Abutu said the Commissioner expressed displeasure over the ugly incident.

He directed the Ikere Area Commander and all the Tactical Teams within the Command to ensure that, the perpetrators are trailed, arrested and brought to book. 

Mr Ogundare commiserated with the family members of those who lost their loved one and wished those currently receiving treatment in the hospital a quick recovery.

The Commissioner called for calm and implored everyone to go about their lawful businesses as the Command will not rest until the hoodlums are made to face the full wrath of the law. 

He explained that the Command’s tactical squads as well as the military who were deployed to the scene immediately information was received, engaged the hoodlums who later abandoned the three vehicles and two motorcycles they used for the operation and escaped into the bush. 

According to the CP, the vehicles and the motorcycles were recovered to the station. 

Mr Ogundare therefore enjoined anyone with useful information concerning the identities and whereabouts of armed robbers to contact the following numbers:

√ 08062335577

√ 07031620186

√ 08033470524

√ 07032152150

√ 09064050086

Three persons were said to have been feared dead today in Ikere Ekiti and five others sustained injuries when suspected armed robbers attacked two commercial Banks, Access and Wema in the town.

The men of the underworld allegedly carried out the attack  in the peak hour of the day when business activities were ongoing which caught the residents unaware.

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Economy

By Kazeem Ayodeji

The Ekiti State Government has distributed N50 million to 10,000 vulnerable citizens across the Local Governments and LCDAs in the state as part of its palliative schemes to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government.

The Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr Niyi Adebayo, said the beneficiaries would receive N5,000 each for five months, adding that two payments had already been made in October and November.

He said the initiative was motivated by the governor’s concern for the welfare of the people of Ekiti State who were facing hardships and difficulties due to price increases and inflation.

“The beneficiaries are the people at the bottom of the pyramid, the widows, 65 years and above, physically challenged, those who have economic challenges or no income. That is where we feel that the shoes are pinching more because of the withdrawal of fuel subsidy, increase in price of petroleum products and the following inflation. So that’s why the government has put this in place”, he said.

Mr Adebayo explained that the beneficiaries were selected from a social register that contains names of vulnerable people that were compiled under the guidance of the Federal Government and World Bank in 2013 and that the state government has been updating the record since then.

He stressed that the programme was not based on political party affiliation but on merits and economic difficulties.

He also listed other social intervention programmes that the governor Oyebanji had implemented for the people of Ekiti State, such as the Social health insurance scheme, empowerment of farmers, and provision of soft loans to traders, among others.

He assured the people of the state that the government would continue to engage in meaningful ventures that would bring succour to them in the face of hardship and thanked the relevant partners who had contributed to the realization of the scheme in the state.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr Shola Akinluyi, also commended the governor for his commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of the good people of Ekiti State, especially for approving the palliative programme for the indigent citizens.

He said the various developmental projects that the present administration had embarked upon since 2022, showed the governor’s determination to engender sustainable socio-economic development in Ekiti State.

Mr Akinluyi appreciated all stakeholders who had played a vital role in the success of the palliative scheme.

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Lifestyle

By Kazeem Ayodeji

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has thanked President Tinubu for consistently appointing the state indigenes to key federal positions. 

Governor Oyebanji expressed his gratitude when the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagement, Mr Sunday Asefon visited him in Ado Ekiti to present his appointment letter.

He highlighted the president’s commitment to advancing the Ekiti cause, hoping for additional appointments for the state’s indigenes at the federal level.

The governor particularly praised the appointment of Mr Sunday Asefon as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagement.

Mr Oyebanji urged Mr Asefon to exceed expectations, assuring him of the state government’s full support to ensure success in his mandates. 

In response, the SSA to the President on Student Engagement, Mr Sunday Asefon, expressed gratitude for the governor’s unwavering support for him and Ekiti youth with a pledge to leverage his position to champion the cause of Nigerian students.

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Environment

By Lanre Omotoso

Nigerians should avoid activities that degrade the soil as this could impact the environment and economy negatively.

A lecturer in the Department of Soil Resources and Environmental Management, Ekiti State University, Professor Olusegun Aruleba gave the warning in Ado-Ekiti to commemorate this year’s World Soil Day.

Professor Aruleba identified factors that deprived sustainable management of soil resources including bush burning, animal overgrazing, and the use of bulldozers to scrape the uppermost layer of the soil.

Speaking on this year’s theme “Soil and Water, a Source of Life”, Professor Aruleba emphasized the need for sustainable soil management practices, such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, organic matter addition and cover cropping, describing them as ways to preserve soil biodiversity as well as improving fertility.

The soil scientist stressed that improper soil management would not allow crops to yield bountifully, which may trigger famine and hunger.

While recognizing the role of soil and water as foundation for food production, ecosystems and human well-being, the University lecturer called for proactive measures to safeguard them for future generations.

The 68th United Nations General Assembly in 2013, designated December 5 as the World Soil Day to create awareness that improper soil management practices affect soil fertility as well as water quality and quantity.

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Human Angle

By Kazeem Ayodeji

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has stressed the need for the creation of an inclusive world for People with Disabilities to break down barriers to foster a society where individuals’ unique talents are valued.

He stated this while addressing a gathering on the occasion of this year’s International Day of People With Disabilities held at the Lady Jibowu Hall in Ado Ekiti.

Mr Oyebanji said Ekiti was at the forefront of creating a more inclusive society with the passage of laws to protect the rights of people with disabilities while investing in programmes that help them to flourish.

The Governor who highlighted the achievements and initiatives of his administration especially in the areas of education, employment, and training, expressed gratitude to the various stakeholders and partners who have supported his vision for the PWD.

Earlier, the  Special Adviser to the governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, said the government decided to celebrate this year’s International Day for the PWD to give them a sense of belonging.

The event featured a panellist discussion on PWD issues, a choreographic display, special goodwill messages from stakeholders and a quiz game where the School for the Physically Challenged, Ido Ekiti, emerged as the winner among other activities.

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Politics

By Busuyi Ogidiolu

Candidates of the All Progressives Congress APC have been declared winners of the just concluded Local Government Election in Ekiti State.

The Party won in all the 16 statutory Local Governments, 22 Local Council Development Areas Chairmanship seats and 177 Councillorship seats.

Chairman of the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission, EKSIEC Retired Justice Cornelius Akintayo received the results from returning officers at the Commission’s situation office in Ado Ekiti where winners were announced.

Retired Justice Akintayo noted that eleven political parties including, the Labour Party, Zenith Labour Party, Action Alliance, Action Democratic Congress, New Nigeria Peoples Party, and Peoples Redemption Party, among others participated in the exercise.

He commended the efforts of security operatives, political parties, ad-hoc staff, Journalists and other stakeholders who demonstrated the spirit of patriotism and sportsmanship by ensuring the smooth conduct of the election.

Retired Justice Akintayo also applauded the people of Ekiti State for their cooperation and peaceful conduct which led to the success of the exercise.

According to EKSIEC Chairman, the date for the collection of Certificates of return by the winners will be announced later.

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Security

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has urged the Nigerian Army to remain loyal to the country in order to safeguard democracy.

Governor Oyebanji made this appeal while receiving the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Bamidele Alabi in his office in Ado Ekiti.

He said democracy is the best system of government for the current situation of things, praising the Nigerian Army for adhering to the principles of democracy, encouraging them to continue doing so.

He said that once there is a stable and orderly form of government, development will be easier for the government to deliver to the people.

The governor said a secure society attracts investors, hence the need to maintain a strong collaboration and partnership with the army to ensure a peaceful environment.

Expressing the gratitude of the government and Ekiti people to the Nigerian Army for confronting security challenges, Governor Oyebanji said the country owed its stability to the efforts of the devoted men of the military, who have been fighting insurgency on the frontline.

Oyebanji said the state government would continue to provide suitable facilities and give the necessary support to the army to succeed in their operation, with a request for more personnel in the state.

Earlier, Major General Bamidele Alabi the General Officer Commanding 2 Division Nigerian Army, who said he was on a familiarization visit to Ekiti, thanked governor Oyebanji for his support to the military personnel in the state and for putting measures in place to ensure peace and security.

Major General Alabi emphasised the need for the military to intensify its operations in Ekiti but solicited more logistics support from the state government to improve the activities of the personnel.

He noted that security issues require the efforts of everyone with a call on the people of Ekiti to continue to provide the needed information and other supports that the troops need to perform optimally.

Major General Alabi however assured governor Oyebanji of the continued cooperation of the army towards ensuring adequate security of lives and properties of the people.

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Lifestyle

By Kazeem Ayodeji

Governor Biodun Oyebanji has expressed his deep appreciation to Ekiti citizens worldwide and friends of the state for their unwavering support throughout the first year of his administration. 

In a statement on Ado Ekiti by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji specifically acknowledged the invaluable support and well-wishes from notable figures including President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by the leader of the House, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

The Governor also extended his gratitude to his predecessors, former Governors, Kayode Fayemi, Niyi Adebayo and Ayodele Fayose, traditional rulers, cabinet members, development partners, donor agencies and relevant institutions among others for their significant contributions to the growth of the state and success of the anniversary celebration.

Mr Oyebanji emphasized that the overwhelming support he received is a driving force for continued dedication to the welfare of the people of Ekiti State, while reassuring the residents that the best is yet to come.

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