Ekiti Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his unwavering respect for the people of Ekiti State, describing them as his “benevolent employer” who deserve to be listened to and treated with utmost regard at all times.
The governor made this assertion on Thursday during a Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from the Ekiti South Senatorial District, held in Igbara-Odo, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area, as part of ongoing consultations for the preparation of the 2027 Budget.
Oyebanji commended the people for their unwavering support and sacrifices over the past four years, noting that the landmark achievements recorded by his administration were made possible through their cooperation and trust.
The interactive session, which featured traditional rulers, community leaders, people living with disabilities, and other critical stakeholders, provided a platform for participants to articulate their developmental priorities.
The stakeholders, in turn, pledged stronger support for the Governor’s second-term administration, set to commence on October 16, 2026.
Speaking during the engagement, Governor Oyebanji disclosed that his administration would reintroduce the five-kilometre road project across local government areas to enhance accessibility and stimulate economic activities, particularly in rural communities.
He also assured that efforts would be intensified to fast-track the disbursement of financial support to traders and artisans in order to boost commerce and productivity.
The governor further emphasized that human capital development would remain a central focus of his administration.
Addressing concerns about development in Ekiti East Local Government Area, Governor Oyebanji described the council as a strategic gateway to the Northern region and pledged to attract private sector investments to accelerate development in the area.
“I have absolute respect for Ekiti people and will never disrespect them. You put us in this position; you are our employers. Your voices must be heard and respected. This engagement is not a mere formality but a deliberate effort to incorporate your inputs into government’s development agenda.
“I have listened carefully to your submissions, and I agree that we must intensify efforts in providing improved electricity supply, better road connectivity, and enhanced educational facilities to improve the welfare and wellbeing of our people,” he said.
Stakeholders from various local government areas, including representatives of Ayekire, Ekiti Southwest, and Ekiti East, advocated the revival of the five-kilometre road initiative to improve connectivity and urban aesthetics.
They also called for urgent intervention in erosion control, expansion of electricity infrastructure, improved healthcare and educational facilities, as well as the establishment of a higher institution in the district.
Similarly, representatives from Ikere, Ise/Orun, and Emure Local Government Areas appealed for increased government investment in critical sectors such as power, roads, healthcare, and education.
They also urged the government to strengthen security architecture, particularly in border communities, through sustained forest combing operations to flush out criminal elements.
In his remarks, a representative of People Living with Disabilities (PWDs), Damola Ogunleye, commended Governor Oyebanji for his inclusive recruitment policy, noting that the allocation of five percent of positions to persons with disabilities during the recent recruitment into the civil service and teaching service has significantly improved their socio-economic wellbeing and reinforced inclusivity in governance.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, disclosed that the state currently has 958 public primary schools and 200 secondary schools.
She added that the government is implementing strategic measures, including free education and partnerships with private institutions, to tackle school dropout rates and improve learning outcomes.
