Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his commitment to listening to the people of the state, describing them as his “benevolent employers” whose views must be respected in governance.
Oyebanji stated this on Thursday at a Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti South Senatorial District in Igbara-Odo, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area, organised as part of consultations for the preparation of the 2027 budget.
The governor commended residents for their support and cooperation with his administration, saying the achievements recorded over the past four years were made possible by the trust and sacrifices of the people.
The meeting brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, people living with disabilities and other stakeholders, who presented their development priorities to the government.
Oyebanji said his administration would revive the five-kilometre road project across local government areas to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activities, particularly in rural communities.
He also promised to accelerate the disbursement of financial support to traders and artisans while maintaining human capital development as a key 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 pledged to attract private sector investments to drive development.
Oyebanji said, “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 added that his administration would intensify efforts to improve electricity supply, road connectivity and educational facilities across the state.
Stakeholders from Ayekire, Ekiti Southwest and Ekiti East Local Government Areas called for the revival of the five-kilometre road initiative, alongside urgent intervention in erosion control, electricity infrastructure, healthcare and education.
They also advocated the establishment of a higher institution in the senatorial district.
Representatives from Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure Local Government Areas similarly appealed for increased investment in power, roads, healthcare and education.
They further urged the government to strengthen security in border communities through sustained forest-combing operations to tackle criminal activities.
Speaking on behalf of persons living with disabilities, Damola Ogunleye commended the governor for the state’s inclusive recruitment policy.
Ogunleye noted that the allocation of five per cent of positions to persons with disabilities during recent recruitment exercises into the civil and teaching services had improved their socio-economic wellbeing and promoted inclusivity in governance.
The Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, disclosed that Ekiti State 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.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders and community representatives.
