Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) has been a transformative force in Ekiti State, driving shared prosperity and empowering citizens through innovative initiatives. His leadership embodies simplicity, inclusivity, and a commitment to service, making him a standout candidate for the 2025 Governor-of-the-Year Award.
Oyebanji’s vision for the state focuses on empowering citizens and promoting economic growth, securing his re-election in 2026. His administration has been marked by tangible results, earning him a strong contention for the award.
One can readily point to the following key achievements:
- Infrastructure boost: In 2025, Oyebanji commissioned 10 major road projects, with 25 more underway, and reconnected communities to the national grid
- Agricultural revolution: He launched “Bring Back the Youth in Agriculture” scheme, empowering 4,567 young farmers with N1 billion, increasing enrolment from 1,000 to 5,000 in just a year
- Education transformation: Oyebanji renovated 203 secondary schools and 900 primary schools, with teachers receiving motivation and modern learning facilities
- Healthcare revamp: He renovated nine general hospitals and 105 primary health centers, with the Ulerawa initiative providing free healthcare services.
- Fiscal transparency: Ekiti ranked first in BudgIT’s State Fiscal Transparency League multiple times, showcasing Oyebanji’s commitment to accountability
- Economic growth: He signed N415.57 billion 2026 budget into law, prioritising infrastructure development, food security, and wealth creation
- Revenue reform: Oyebanji established Ekiti State Revenue Administration Law, ensuring transparency and accountability
And the following are Oyebanji’s priorities in 2026 as reflected in his “Budget of Sustainable Governance”:
- Completing ongoing projects
- Food security
- Wealth creation
- Infrastructure development
- Revenue administration reform
- Education and human capital
- Governance and transparency
These priorities align with the state Development Plan 2021-2050, outlining a long-term vision for the state’s growth.
Oyebanji is no doubt a model of Servant Leadership with his leadership style characterised by simplicity, inclusivity, and a commitment to service. His focus on tangible results rather than political fanfare has earned him widespread acclaim.
With Oyebanji’s impactful governance, he’s the frontrunner for the 2025 Governor-of-the-Year and favorite for re-election in 2026. His achievements have set a new standard for governance in Ekiti State, making him the obvious choice for a second term.
As the state looks to the future, Oyebanji’s vision and leadership are clear. His commitment to empowering citizens and promoting economic growth has transformed the state, making him the ideal candidate to take Ekiti to the next level.
If not BAO, then who?
Dipe is the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress in Ekiti State
