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Author: Flora Lawal

  • Ekiti Governor’s wife seeks stakeholders’ collaboration to curb drug abuse 

    Ekiti Governor’s wife seeks stakeholders’ collaboration to curb drug abuse

    Drugs

    By Bolanle Lawal

    Ado-Ekiti, June 26, 2024 (NAN) Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, the wife of Ekiti Governor, has called for stakeholders’ collaboration on prevention strategies to curtail the menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

    Oyebanji made the call on Wednesday at the commemoration of the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Ado Ekiti.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Day, with the theme “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,’’ is observed annually on every June 26.

    Speaking in her capacity as the state champion against drug abuse and the state ambassador of War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), the governor’s wife urged the stakeholders to take action for a healthier and safer future.

    She said that drug abuse and illicit trafficking had become a global menace, emphasising that education, awareness creation and early prevention remained the powerful tools in the fight against the scourge.

    “Drug abuse and illicit trafficking pose significant threats to our society, affecting our youth, families, and communities.

    “Evidence shows that investing in prevention will not only reduce the prevalence of drug abuse but also foster healthier, more resilient societies. Education, awareness, and early intervention are powerful tools in this fight.

    Mr Sunday Aina, the Ekiti State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said that the war against substance abuse should not be left to NDLEA alone.

    Aina called for more vigorous involvement of governments, educational institutions, corporate bodies and civil society organisations for the preservation of the future generation.

    “Ekiti is among the states in Nigeria where cannabis sativa, known as Indian hemp, is cultivated in commercial quantity, hence the need to support the agency to arrest and prosecute producers and sellers of the drug.’’

    The NDLEA commander disclosed that the state command discovered and destroyed cannabis plantations in locations including Efon Alaaye Forest, Ara Forest reserve, Ise Forest, Isinbode Forest, Ijesa Isu Forest and Okatedo Forest in Imesi Ekiti.

    He called on members of the public to always offer NDLEA information that would lead to the arrest and prosecution of suspected drug abusers, traffickers and growers of drug plantations.

    Dr Adedotun Ajiboye, a resource person at the event, solicited the support of traditional rulers, religious leaders, leaders of thought and other influential persons to save the young generation from abuse of psychoactive substances.

    Ajiboye, a clinical psychologist, also canvassed the regulation of sale of pharmaceuticals in open shop and the implementation of evidence based programmes deliberately primed to curb abuse of drugs in the society especially among the youths.

    Present at the event were the representatives of Nigeria Correctional Centre, Department of Security Service and Nigeria Police force.

    The event also attracted students, teachers, health professionals and officers from the nation’s security agencies, civil society organisations and members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). ( NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FFB/ADA

    Edited by Deji Abdulwhab

     

     

     

     

     

  • Oyebanji receives board appointment committee report, promises prompt implementation

    Board
    By Bolanle Lawal
    Ado-Ekiti, June 20, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, on Thursday, received the report of the committee set up to recommend names for appointment into various boards, parastatals and commissions in the state.
    The governor said the appointment committee was aimed at ensuring a merit-based, transparent and inclusive appointment system that would allow for party supremacy.
    Oyebanji explained that the setting up of the committee was in fulfillment of his campaign promise to return the party to the leaders.
    He said that the committee’s recommendations were rooted in the best practice to foster greater public service trust in government and enhance effectiveness and transparency of board appointments across the state.
    While expressing appreciation to the committee members for their diligence in ensuring that the most qualified individuals were appointed to serve, Oyebanji assured that his administration would promptly implement the recommendations.
    “Let me start on the note of appreciation for our leaders for the tedious job.
    “It is a very tough assignment and I must thank you for accepting to serve our people and to also reiterate my belief in party supremacy.
    “What has happened today is a confirmation of my belief in what I told party members when I was running that I would return the party to the leaders.
    “I have strong belief that the names here came from our leaders from respective wards and local governments,” he said.
    Earlier in his remarks, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, said that the committee consulted with relevant stakeholders across the 177 wards in the state to ensure fair representation and inclusive governance.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Awe stood in for the committee chairman and former Deputy Governor of the state, Prof Modupe Adelabu.
    He said that the committee screened and recommended names of suitable candidates for appointment into boards and commissions, based on merit and competence.
    The special adviser stated that it also reflected gender balance and people living with disabilities as well as religious and local peculiarities.
    Other members of the committee present at the occasion included: Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mr Adeoye Aribasoye; Chairman of Local Service Commission, Elder Alaba Bejide and the acting Chairman of APC in the state, Mr Sola Elesin. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    FFB/WAS
    Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

  • Oyebanji appoints Prof. Olaleye Special Adviser

    Oyebanji appoints Prof. Olaleye Special Adviser
    Appointment
    By Bolanle Lawal
    Ado-Ekiti,  June 19, 2024 (NAN) Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the appointment of Prof. James Olaleye as Special Adviser on Land, eGIS and Survey.
    A statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, on Wednesday,  Olaleye’s appointment takes effect from July 1, 2024.
    Olaleye, a professor of Surveying Engineering, bagged a first class Bachelor’s degree in Surveying from University of Lagos, Akoka in 1981.
    He bagged a Master’s degree in Surveying from the same University in 1984, and his PhD in Surveying Engineering from University of Brunswick, Canada in 1992.
    Olaleye started his academic career as a Graduate Assistant at the University of Lagos in 1982 and rose to the position of a professor in 2015.
    He held different positions including Sub Dean, Faculty of Engineering; Head, Department of Surveying and Geoinformatics.
    He retired from the University in December 2023.
    Olaleye, a specialist in Digital Mapping, Hydrography and Geomatics has extensive work experience in resource mapping, GPS and modern survey methods, especially coastal environment.
    He was awarded the price for  the best paper publication in 1994 by the American Society for Photogrammetry.
    While congratulating the new appointee, Gov. Oyebanji urged him to deploy his wealth of experience as a renowned scholar in the field of Surveying Engineering in his new assignment.
    He urged him to boost the administration’s strategic efforts in areas of land administration, urban renewal project and safer environment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    FFB/SOA
    Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

  • Elemure’s demise sad, shocking – Oyebanji

    Condolences
    By Bolanle Lawal
    Ado-Ekiti, June 18, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti has expressed shock and sadness over the passing away of Elemure of Emure-Ekiti, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo.
    Oyebanji, in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the royal father’s demise as a sad development, given the fact that he did not exhibit any sign of illness during the recent meeting of traditional rulers.
    He described the late Oba Adebayo as a loving and dependable traditional ruler, who loved and cared for his people and showed tremendous interest in their welfare as well as the development of Emure-Ekiti.
    Oyebanji condoled with the late monarch’s family, the Elemure-in-Council and the people of the town over the exit of the royal father.
    He urged them to be consoled by the fact the late oba lived an impactful life of service to the town, the state, Nigeria and humanity in general, for which he would remain unforgettable.
    “My condolences and that of the government of Ekiti State to the immediate family of the late Kabiyesi, the Elemure-in-Council and the good people of Emure-Ekiti on the demise of the Elemure, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo.
    “The late Oba Adebayo was a great leader of his people, a lover of development and a patriot, who devoted his early life to the service of the country.
    “As a police officer, he rose to the position of Commissioner of Police before ascending the throne of his forefathers, where he also made his mark as a traditional ruler, whose reign attracted huge development to his town.
    “Our prayer is that the good Lord would grant the dear departed monarch eternal rest and comfort the family and the good people of Emure-Ekiti,” the governor said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    FFB/OJI/WAS
    Edited by Maureen Ojinaka and ‘Wale Sadeeq

  • Olomojobi’s appointment as Ekiti Head of Service well-deserved – Medical women

    Appointment
    By Bolanle Lawal
    Ado-Ekiti, June 17, 2024 (NAN) Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Ekiti chapter, has congratulated Dr Folakemi Olomojobi on her appointment as the new Head of Service in the state.
    The congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued by the MWAN President and Secretary, Drs Esther Akinsoto Bola Ibirongbe respectively, and made available to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Ado-Ekiti on Monday.
    The association described Olomojobi’s appointment as well-deserved, having served in various capacities within the state civil service.
    It also described the appointment as a testament to Olomojobi’s exceptional dedication, vast expertise, industry, hard work and exemplary leadership.
    The association said that the unwavering commitment and contributions of the new head of service to Ekiti people, particularly in the health sector, had earned her the appointment.
    “We use this opportunity to say that we identify with you as our pioneer President in MWAN, Ekiti.
    “We are confident that your professionalism will continue to drive positive change and inspire excellence in Ekiti State civil service.
    “Your remarkable journey and contributions, particularly in the field of health management, demonstrate your unwavering commitment to public service.
    “We urge you to see this appointment as a call to service by using your position to mentor young women and girls, inspiring them to strive for excellence in their careers,” the association said.
    It expressed gratitude to Gov. Biodun Oyebanji for being gender-friendly, stressing that the appointment was a testament to his administration’s commitment to gender equality and women inclusion. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    FFB/WAS
    Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

  • Oyebanji’s wife distributes bags of rice to households in Ekiti farmsteads

    Rice
    By Bolanle Lawal
    Ado-Ekiti, June 17, 2024 (NAN) Wife of Ekiti Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, has distributed bags of rice to households in 14 farmsteads and villages in Ado-Ekiti to cushion the effects of the present economic situation.
    Oyebanji said that the gesture, aside identifying with the people and meeting their needs, was also an opportunity to connect with the people at the grassroots.
    She described the beneficiaries as important stakeholders in the task of taking Ekiti to greater heights.
    The governor’s wife, who was represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters, Mrs Toyin Adepoju, expressed concern over what the people were passing through, hence the need for the gesture.
    She said that the welfare of the people was paramount to the government and that it was poised to put smiles on their faces, especially during the festive period.
    Oyebanji said it had become necessary for her and other political office holders to visit the farmsteads and other people in the state from time to time to feel their pulse, and not only during election period.
    She appreciated the people for their love, support and prayers for the present administration, urging them to continue in that regard so as to achieve success in all areas.
    She said that efforts were in top gear to bring social amenities to the farmsteads in the state in order to make life comfortable for them.
    Oyebanji appealed for patience, understanding and collaboration with the present administration in order for it to deliver dividends of democracy to the doorsteps of the masses.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the localities visited during the distribution exercise included: Ugbogun Esumo, Aso Ayegunle, Ago Aduloju, Ika, Ilokun, Irasa, Uso, Igbaye, Oke Aso, Odo, Ujemu, Igbo Aso, Aaye, Aba Iya Medi and Temidire, among others.
    The beneficiaries, who were mostly from ethnic groups, such as: Tiv, Ebira, Urhobo and Yoruba, could not hide their joy, as they sang various songs in appreciation of the gesture.
    The community leaders and residents also commended the governor’s wife and prayed for the success of her husband’s administration in the state.
    Earlier, the village heads in the various farmsteads visited had called for equipped health centres, regular grading of their roads, potable water and power supply. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    FFB/KOLE/WAS
    Edited by Remi Koleoso and ‘Wale Sadeeq

  • Oyebanji mourns ex-Commissioners, Adesua, Ojo

    Oyebanji mourns ex-Commissioners, Adesua, Ojo

    Condolences
    By Bolanle Lawal
    Ado-Ekiti, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has expressed sadness over the death of the immediate past Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development in the state, Chief Diran Adesua.

    Adesua, who died on Friday, was Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development from 2018 to 2022.

    Oyebanji, n a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Olayinka Oyebode, described Adesua’s death as shocking.

    The governor noted that Adesua’s demise was an irreparable loss to the progressives fold of the All Progressives Congress(APC) and the state at large.

    He said the deceased served the state meritoriously, and was reputed for contributing meaningfully to the development of the state.

    “On behalf of my wife, the government and good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the children and immediate family members of Chief Diran Adesua on the death of this illustrious son of Ekiti.

    “Though his death is shocking and sad, we are consoled by the impactful life he lived as a community leader, distinguished professional and politician.

    “It is our prayer that the good Lord will grant him eternal rest and comfort the family he left behind”, Oyebanji said.

    Similarly, Oyebanji commiserated with the family of a former Commissioner for Education in the state, Mrs Titilayo Ojo.

    Ojo, who served as Commissioner for Education during the administration of Otunba Niyi Adebayo, was a renowned progressive leader in Ikole Local Government and Ekiti State, and a rallying point for the women fold of the APC.

    The governor who paid a condolence visit to the Ojo’s family home at Odo Ayedun Ekiti, commiserated with the deceased husband, Mr Ayo Ojo, the children and the entire APC family in Ikole Local Government.

    He said the late Ojo lived a life of service to the state, the party and humanity, urging her husband and the children to be consoled with the fact that the former commissioner left behind legacies of service, honour and excellence.

    “We shall miss Mama Titilayo Ojo, no doubt, but she will be remembered for her diligence, discipline and dedication to good causes.

    “May God grant her eternal rest and comfort the family”, the Governor added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    FFB/IKU
    Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

  • Oyebanji urges Muslims to imbibe lessons of Eid-el-Kabir

    Oyebanji urges Muslims to imbibe lessons of Eid-el-Kabir

    Muslims
    By Bolanle Lawal
    Ado-Ekiti, June 15, 2024 (NAN) Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has called on Muslim faithful to imbibe the lessons of love and sacrifice which the Eid-el-Kabir symbolises.

    Oyebanji in a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, congratulated the Muslim Ummah for witnessing this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

    He advised them on the need to reflect on the significance of the sacrifice epitomised by the festival as well as promote the virtues of Islam.

    The governor urged the Muslim faithful to learn from Prophet Ibrahim who surrendered to the will of the Almighty Allah by sacrificing his son, Ishmael, based on Allah’s injunction.

    While expressing optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges, Oyebanji urged Nigerians not to relent in their prayers for the country at this critical time in its history.

    He commended the Muslim community in the state for the support given to his administration through prayers, advice and solidarity, saying that he would not take them for granted.

    He also thanked them for living in peace and harmony with other adherents of other religions, thereby making the state one of the most peaceful states to live in.
    “As we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, it is my sincere wish that we celebrate in moderation, reflect on the lessons of the Eid-el-Kabir festival and show love to one another.

    “Work and pray for the greater level of prosperity for our dear state and country. May God accept our worship as an act of ‘Ibadah. Happy Sallah”, he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FFB/ESI/IKU
    Edited by Ehigimetor Igbaugba/Tayo Ikujuni

  • NAWOJ welcomes female Head of Service in Ekiti

    Appointment

    By Bolanle Lawal

    Ado-Ekiti, June 15, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ekiti chapter, says the appointment of Dr Olufolake Olomojobi, as the state’s Head of Civil Service is a laudable step towards achieving gender equality.

    The Chairperson, Mrs Adewumi Ademiju, who stated this is a statement in Ado-Ekiti on Saturday, commended Gov. Abiodun Oyebanji for the confidence in Olomojobi’s capacity to head the state’s civil service.

    Gov. Oyebanji had on June 13 announced the appointment of Olomojobi as the new Head of Civil Service in Ekiti.

    Ademiji described the development as a positive tone towards gender balance in the state’s civil service.

    She expressed confidence that Olomojobi’s expertise and leadership quality would undoubtedly enhance the performance of civil servants in the state.

    “NAWOJ expressed gratitude to Gov. Oyebanji for his gender-friendly stand.

    “This appointment is a testament to your administration’s commitment to gender equality and women empowerment and continued support for women’s advancement in Ekiti.

    “This is a step in the right direction, and we look forward to more inclusive decisions from your administration,” she said.

    She urged Olomojobi to utilise the opportunity to demonstrate women’s capacity in leadership positions by enhancing the productivity of the civil servants in the state.

    The NAWOJ chairperson also urged the new head of service to mentor young women and girls and inspire them to strive for excellence in their respective careers. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FFB/FDY

    ========

    Edited by Philip Yatai

  • Shettima opens MSME clinic, inaugurates projects in Ekiti

    Visit

    Idowu Ariwodola/Bolanle Lawal

    Ado-Ekiti, June 6, 2024(NAN) Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Thursday said the Federal Government is committed to partnering and assisting Ekiti and other states, in their agenda for development and growth.

    Shettima stated this in Ado-Ekiti, when he declared open, the 3rd Expanded National MSME Clinic, Ekiti 2024.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports  the vice president also inaugurated projects in the state, including, the 9.2 km Omisanjana/ Deeper Life/ Ajebamidele road, the Adire Hub, at Ado-Iworoko.

    The Vice President called on people of the state to align themselves with Gov. Biodun Oyebanji, in working for the greater good of Ekiti.

    He described President Bola Tinubu, as “a man who has shown zeal, commitment, knowledge and passion, towards improving the quality of governance in all tates of Nigeria and making life more meaningful for the entire citizenry.”

    Shettima said the MSME clinic brought together, the regulators in the sector, alongside business owners and investors from various business classes across the length and breath of the nation.

    “We are honoured to be joined by government partners and agencies such as SMEDAN, NEXIM,ITF, NAFDAC and others.

    “They are here to offer guidance and provide the necessary services for the smooth operation of businesses.

    “Our private sector partners, including, MAN, NACCIMA, and many others, are equally mobilised to collaborate with you in transforming your entrepreneurial dreams to reality.

    ” Our other MSME clinic is a fully equipped ICT hub in Eriinmope. Ekiti, which the President has granted the governor to commission, at a later date”, he said.

    Shettima recalled that the governor, during his visit to presidential villa in Abuja, on the MSME clinics, demanded for the establishment of another modern ICT facility in the state capital.

    “I have already conveyed his request to President Tinubu , who has consequently approved the creation of an additional ICT Hub, in Ado Ekiti. This project will be completed within 90 days”

    “Mr president has also directed that all at the MSMSE clinic today receive a N150,000 grant each”.

    ” This is an outright grant, and the beneficiaries will not need to repay it . We thank our partners for this,” he said

    In his address, Gov. Oyebanji, commended the President for the continued support to his administration.

    He urged Ekiti citizens to put politics aside, as election was over, saying it was time for governance to take its full effect.

    ” Development can only take place in a peaceful society”, he said

    Oyebanji, noted that the increase in revenue allocation to states, had allowed government to do so many things in the state.

    Also speaking, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said the Federal Government under President Tinubu, had Ekiti, ‘right inside its heart’.

    ” Today, we are lucky to have a level headed governor, who is cool and has forged convergent of interests in the state”.

    He called on Nigerians not to be disillusioned by the current trends, saying the country was going through economic re-structuring, for the good of the nation.

    The Senate Leader, Sen. Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, who is also from the state, described the governor as a bridge builder.

    Bamidele commended the governor for providing a home for everyone adding that his partnership with the federal government was yielding results.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    ARIS/FFB/ROT
    ============

    Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi