In a recent address commemorating the 27th anniversary of Ekiti State’s creation and Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, Governor Biodun Oyebanji highlighted the significance of the state’s existence in the country’s political landscape. Drawing attention to the numerous blessings that have emerged since the state’s inception, the governor expressed gratitude for the recognition of Ekiti State as a prominent force in Nigeria.
Reflecting on his involvement as the Secretary of the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State, Oyebanji praised the collective efforts of traditional rulers, statesmen, captains of industry, and top bureaucrats who fought tirelessly for the establishment of the state. With joy, he observed the significant progress the state has made over the past 27 years.
Furthermore, Governor Oyebanji acknowledged Ekiti State’s accomplishments across various development indices, with notable achievements in education, life expectancy, access to quality healthcare services, and physical infrastructure development. The governor expressed his administration’s dedication to harnessing the state’s abundant mineral resources for economic growth.
Oyebanji also revealed ongoing collaborations between his administration and relevant Federal Government agencies to explore Ekiti State’s mineral resources, fostering wealth creation and boosting internally generated revenue.
During his address, Governor Oyebanji made a plea to the Organized Labour union to reconsider their proposed strike action. He highlighted the government’s interventions, including direct food distribution, cash transfers to the most vulnerable, and provision of buses for transportation in the state capital. The governor appealed to Local Governments to replicate these initiatives in their respective areas.
Furthermore, Oyebanji shared the Federal Government’s commitment to a comprehensive wage review, assuring workers of better remuneration and increased disposable income. He emphasized that a strong economy would lead to more job opportunities and the desired shared prosperity.
Consequently, the governor implored the organized labour movement to exercise patience and engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the current economic challenges. He stressed the importance of avoiding a total shutdown of the already fragile economy, as it would be detrimental to the nation.
The anniversary celebration serves as an opportunity for Ekiti State to reflect on its progress and set the path for further growth, building on its newfound influence in Nigeria. As the state continues to flourish in various domains, it holds the potential to play an even more significant role in the nation’s political enterprise.
