Ekiti govt approves multi-billion naira projects, new cooperative law

By Boye Oyeyemi –

The Ekiti State Executive Council (EXCO), chaired by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has approved a raft of multi-billion naira projects and policy initiatives spanning infrastructure, agriculture, urban renewal, and youth empowerment.

One major decision was the approval of a bill to repeal the Co-operative Societies Law Cap. C15, Laws of Western Region of Nigeria, 1978, paving the way for a modern framework to strengthen cooperative societies in the state.

In infrastructure, N65.23 million was earmarked for the renovation of the Olugbenga Faseluka Building at the State Secretariat, Ado-Ekiti. The project will be executed through direct labour and completed within 16 weeks. Another N78.11 million was set aside as compensation for 41 property owners affected by demolition under the Atikankan urban renewal project.

To boost agriculture and youth empowerment, the council approved N418.99 million for the purchase of seven Toyota Hummer buses and a Toyota Prado SUV to support the “Bring Back Our Youths to Agriculture” (BBYA) programme across all local government areas and LCDAs.

In addition, N86.12 million was allocated for the construction of six 2,000-capacity poultry pens, while N638.38 million will be used to furnish new dormitories for BBYA participants.

The Ekiti Broilers Production Scheme for Youth Empowerment (EBOPS) will also benefit from N299.92 million for expansion, alongside N70 million for the Fountain Agricultural Marketing Agency to procure agrochemicals.

For aviation and road infrastructure, the council approved N3.87 billion for the construction of 40 residential units at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti. It also allocated N7.34 billion for the rehabilitation of the Ikogosi–Ipole–Efon Alaaye Road, with completion scheduled for 24 months.

Governor Oyebanji said the approvals reflect his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, agricultural transformation, youth empowerment, and sustained economic growth in the state.