In Ekiti State’s dynamic political arena, one phenomenon stands out: the overwhelming endorsements for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
Many find this surprising, even baffling. While endorsements aren’t new in politics, especially for a high-performing leader connected to the populace, the sheer breadth of support for Governor Oyebanji warrants a closer examination.
This isn’t just a political ritual; it’s a resounding affirmation of a leadership style that transcends partisan divides and deeply resonates with the spirit of “Ekitihood.
While Ekiti has had various governors, Governor Oyebanji stands out in fostering brotherhood and uniting past leaders for collective development. Former Governor Segun Oni sagaciously highlighted this unique achievement, a testament that carries immense weight from someone who has walked the same gubernatorial path.
This ability to lubricate the chords of brotherhood, weaving a tapestry of shared purpose among those who once held power, is a rare and invaluable asset, speaking volumes about Governor Oyebanji’s character and strategic foresight.
So, what are the intellectual underpinnings of this extraordinary wave of endorsements?
Why have eminent personalities who have governed Ekiti, political leaders across his party, and indeed, all three Senatorial Districts, converged in this unified declaration of support?
The answer lies in Governor Oyebanji’s approach to governance – one that deftly combines unwavering loyalty to his political platform with an uncompromising commitment to all citizens, irrespective of their political affiliations.
Governor Oyebanji’s administration hasn’t only occupied office. Still, it has also diligently worked to improve the lives of Ekiti people across various sectors, laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development.
His accomplishments are tangible realities underpinning the widespread appreciation. Education, for instance, is a cornerstone of his administration. He has prioritised it, evident in the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers in two years. As I write this article today, Saturday, 19 July 2025, a recruitment exercise for teaching and non-teaching staff is ongoing at Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti. Additionally, a significant investment of N14 billion has been made in renovating and constructing 203 public secondary schools under AGILE, and the regular payment of running grants to all public schools.
His administration has also disbursed over N1.2 billion for examination fees for more than 150,000 students, ensuring access to opportunities.
He champions policies that reflect the state’s “Omoluabi” values in education, moving beyond short-term fixes to achieve sustainable improvements.
Recognising the vital role of infrastructure in economic growth, Governor Oyebanji has embarked on strategic interventions. His administration secured significant support, like $80 million from the African Development Bank (AfDB) for the Ekiti Knowledge Zone. Efforts to stimulate the MSME sector are noteworthy, with N400 million disbursed as grants to 922 MSMEs and the sponsorship of CAC certificates for 5,400 MSMEs. This focus on creating an enabling business environment indicates his vision for economic diversification and prosperity.
Addressing the critical issue of security, Governor Oyebanji facilitated the deployment of additional troops from the Nigerian Army 32 Artillery Brigade and established the Agro Marshals Corps, a grassroots security system.
His commitment to worker welfare is equally commendable, with a consistent focus on the regular and timely payment of salaries and pensions across all levels of government. This dedication fosters morale and stability.
Governor Oyebanji’s vision for Ekiti as a tourism hub is manifest. Recognising the immense, untapped potential of the state’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, he courageously established the Bureau of Tourism Development in August 2023, separating it from the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism to ensure dedicated focus. This act has cultivated unprecedented attention, positioning Ekiti as the “most active tourism state in Nigeria.” Under his leadership, iconic sites like the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort have undergone significant revitalisation, attracting private investments and ensuring the restoration of essential infrastructure, such as power. Initiatives like the “Hike Ekiti Mountain Easter Tourism Carnival” and the “Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari” underscore his commitment to promoting the state’s unique attractions. His administration has received notable endorsements and awards from various media organisations, acknowledging his inclusive leadership and significant developmental strides in tourism, arts, and culture.
Understanding that agriculture remains the backbone of Ekiti’s economy, Governor Oyebanji has championed a robust and forward-looking agricultural agenda. His administration actively works towards making Ekiti the nation’s “food basket” and fostering an agro-industrial hub. He has vigorously promoted the “Bring Back the Youths into Agriculture” program, which has seen young farmers generate significant profits (over N200 million in the past year from pilot schemes). His administration has provided crucial support through land clearing, tractorization, and subsidised inputs, demonstrating a commitment to making farming lucrative for the younger generation.
Furthermore, Governor Oyebanji has facilitated major Federal Government-backed agricultural initiatives, including the establishment of the first soil assessment laboratory in the South West in Ekiti. The development of the Food Processing Equipment and Machinery Development Institute (FOPEMDI) will enhance agro-industrial processing. The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, initially launched by his predecessor, is being vigorously pursued as a strategic gateway for agricultural exports, cementing Ekiti’s position as an emerging agro-tourism hub. The government has also signed MOUs with entities like Cavista Holdings to boost cassava farming, allocated over 1,500 hectares of land to farmers and investors, and contributed N60 million in counterpart funding for the World Bank-supported L-PRES livestock program, unlocking $800,000 in funding. Efforts to de-risk the agricultural value chain by scaling up security in farmlands are ongoing.
Perhaps Governor Oyebanji’s most distinguishing achievement is his unwavering commitment to inclusive and participatory governance.
He has fostered peace and order, actively engaging all stakeholders – including past governors, political elders, and even opposition voices.
This open-door policy, marked by consultation and collaboration, has undeniably healed old wounds and restored decorum to Ekiti’s political landscape. His humility and empathy have allowed him to transcend partisan lines, embodying the true essence of a leader for all. As observed by stakeholders, his leadership style is defined by “restraint, candour, and a refreshing lack of political boisterousness.”
The chorus of endorsements for Governor Oyebanji isn’t mere political expediency; it’s a profound testament to leadership that aligns with fundamental philosophical principles of good governance and societal flourishing.
This speaks to the Aristotelian concept of practical wisdom (phronesis). Governor Oyebanji’s accomplishments, particularly in uniting disparate political forces, revitalising tourism, and strategically investing in agriculture and human capital, demonstrate a deep understanding of Ekiti’s unique challenges and opportunities, translating vision into tangible reality.
As Warren Bennis stated, “Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” Oyebanji isn’t just envisioning a united and prosperous Ekiti; he’s actively building it.
Furthermore, the endorsements reflect the profound impact of servant leadership. This philosophy, popularised by Robert Greenleaf, emphasises that a leader’s primary motivation is to serve, not to lead for personal gain or power. Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to all citizens, regardless of party affiliation, his focus on worker welfare, his dedication to attracting young people to the agricultural sector, and his efforts to bring past leaders together underscore his commitment to service above self.
Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji perfectly fits into Max DePree’s articulation, “The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant,” Oyebanji embodies this servant-leader ethos, earning him genuine respect and trust.
The widespread nature of the endorsements, spanning senatorial districts and political divides, underscores the power of unity and common purpose. In a world often plagued by fragmentation and discord, Governor Oyebanji has successfully cultivated a sense of collective identity and shared destiny. His ability to foster collaboration in critical sectors, such as tourism and agriculture, by drawing in diverse stakeholders, exemplifies this.
As the ancient proverb wisely states, “Where there is unity, there is always victory.” Helen Keller’s timeless wisdom resonates here: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Governor Oyebanji has fostered this “togetherness.”
Ultimately, the endorsements serve as a recognition of effective leadership as a catalyst for positive change. John Quincy Adams’ profound observation comes to mind: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
Governor Oyebanji’s leadership has inspired hope and galvanised collective action, prompting various segments of society, including the influential “fourth estate,” to actively endorse his continued tenure. This isn’t just a vote of confidence in his past performance, but a shared belief in his capacity to steer Ekiti towards an even brighter future.
In conclusion, the resounding endorsements for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji are not a manufactured political spectacle. They are the organic outcome of exemplary leadership – a leadership characterised by a profound understanding of the people, demonstrable accomplishments in critical sectors including education, infrastructure, security, thriving tourism, arts, and cultural landscape, and a transformative impact on agriculture, all underpinned by an unwavering commitment to unity and inclusive governance.
To me, Wale Ojo-Lanre, Governor Oyebanji has truly surpassed others in lubricating the chord of brotherhood and the spirit of Ekitihood. This symphony of endorsements is, therefore, a natural and intelligent response to a leader who has, with humility, dedication, and foresight, proven himself to be a true architect of progress and a custodian of the collective destiny of Ekiti State.
I commend the sagacity and boldness of all those who have personally, individually, in groups, associations, and corporately and openly declared support and affirmation in His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the Governor of Ekiti State, for a second term.
4+4 = BAO. And 4+4 for BAO = 8 years of Sustainable Advancement for Ekiti, particularly its tourism economy.
Bravo, Ekiti Leaders. Bravo! Ekiti State! Bravo, H. E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. You earnestly deserve a worthy 2nd Term.
