…as PWDs commend governor’s inclusive recruitment policy at Town Hall Meeting
By Editor
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his commitment to respecting the people of the state, describing them as his “benevolent employers” whose views must always be heard and respected in the running of government.
Oyebanji spoke on Thursday at a Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti South Senatorial District held in Igbara-Odo, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area, as part of consultations towards the preparation of the 2027 budget.
The Governor expressed appreciation to the people of Ekiti for their support, cooperation and sacrifices over the past four years, saying these had contributed significantly to the achievements recorded by his administration.
The meeting brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, people living with disabilities and other stakeholders, who presented their priorities and concerns on development. The participants also pledged their support for the Governor’s second-term administration, which is scheduled to begin on October 16, 2026.
Oyebanji said his administration would revive the five-kilometre road initiative across the local government areas to improve rural connectivity and stimulate economic activities.
He also promised to accelerate the disbursement of financial support to traders and artisans, stressing that human capital development would remain a major priority of the administration.
Addressing concerns about Ekiti East Local Government Area, the Governor described the council as a strategic gateway to the northern part of the state and promised to promote private-sector investment as part of efforts 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,” he said.
The Governor said he had taken note of the stakeholders’ requests, particularly those relating to electricity, road connectivity and education.
Stakeholders from Ayekire, Ekiti Southwest and Ekiti East Local Government Areas called for the revival of the five-kilometre road initiative, as well as urgent interventions in erosion control, electricity, healthcare and education. They also advocated the establishment of a higher institution in the district.
Similarly, representatives from Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure Local Government Areas urged increased investment in power, roads, healthcare and education. They also called for stronger security measures in border communities, including sustained forest-combing operations to check criminal activities.
Speaking on behalf of people living with disabilities, Mr Damola Ogunleye commended the Governor for what he described as an inclusive recruitment policy. He noted that the allocation of five per cent of positions to persons with disabilities in the recent recruitment exercises for the civil and teaching services had improved their socio-economic opportunities and strengthened inclusion in governance.
The Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, disclosed that Ekiti currently has 958 public primary schools and 200 secondary schools. She said the government was implementing measures, including free education and partnerships with private institutions, to reduce school dropout rates and improve learning outcomes.
Among dignitaries at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders and community representatives.
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