Oyebanji declares 2026 year of opportunities for Ekiti residents
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has declared 2026 a year of “unlimited opportunities” for the government and people of the state, pledging to sustain the rapid development witnessed across all sectors. He made the declaration in his statewide New Year broadcast aired on all radio and television stations.
The governor highlighted that Ekiti recorded remarkable progress in 2025 through the completion of key projects and implementation of transformative programmes and policies. He expressed gratitude to God and the people of the state for their support, describing the achievements of the past year as “remarkable” and vowing to set higher standards in 2026.
Oyebanji noted that the state enjoyed socio-political stability, improved security, and economic growth despite numerous challenges. He acknowledged the cooperation, prayers, and understanding of Ekiti residents, which he said had made governance smoother and more effective.
On security, the governor reaffirmed that the safety of lives and property remains his administration’s top priority. He urged political stakeholders to maintain peace and civility ahead of the June governorship election, assuring that the political environment would be free of intimidation and violence.
The governor celebrated the completion of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport and the commencement of commercial flights, emphasising its potential to attract investment, boost tourism, and enhance export opportunities. He also announced plans to accelerate the Ijigbo–Okeyinmi flyover project and commence the second phase of the ring road project, alongside large-scale township road rehabilitation across the state.
Oyebanji outlined his administration’s priorities for 2026, including further investment in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and rural development. He also pledged to expand youth participation in commercial agriculture to create jobs and improve food security, citing the recent distribution of N1.4 billion in profits to participants of the Bring-Back-the-Youths-in-Agriculture programme.
He commended President Bola Tinubu and the federal government for supporting Ekiti’s development, particularly the immediate reconstruction of the Itawure–Aramoko–Ado road. Oyebanji also acknowledged the contributions of National Assembly members, the State House of Assembly, the Executive Council, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to the state’s growth.
The governor concluded by calling on all residents and leaders to continue supporting his administration in 2026, expressing optimism that the new year would bring greater opportunities for progress, peace, and prosperity across Ekiti State.
