“We need more governors like Oyebanji,” says VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the need for more governors like Ekiti State’s Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, whose inclusive style of governance fosters educational enhancement, improved security, and socio-economic growth at the sub-national level.

Senator Shettima made this statement during the official launch of the book “Navigating the Politics of Universal Education Policies in Nigeria,” authored by former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Professor Modupe Adelabu, in Abuja on Thursday.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; former Governors of Ekiti, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi; former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; APC chieftain, Chief Bisi Akande; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa; Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; and several notable traditional rulers.

Vice President Shettima recounted his first meeting with Governor Oyebanji during Dr. Fayemi’s administration, when Oyebanji served as Secretary to the State Government (SSG). He recalled telling the then-SSG that he would become the next governor of Ekiti State based on his initial impression.

The Vice President noted that he has since observed Governor Oyebanji’s performance and is impressed by his leadership style, which has united various factions in the state, leading to significant growth and development across multiple sectors.

He emphasized the importance of continuity in good governance, stating that Ekiti is fortunate to have Oyebanji as their governor. Shettima added that Oyebanji has distinguished himself among his peers in Nigeria.

“I am honestly very proud of Governor Oyebanji. He exudes humility, acceptability, and accessibility. He has successfully united all the different groups in Ekiti State.

“Former Governor Niyi Adebayo is here, my friend former Governor Kayode Fayemi and his wife are here, Senator Adetunmbi and many other stakeholders in Ekiti State are all here to celebrate Professor Modupe Adelabu and to also show support for the governor.

“We need more governors like Oyebanji in Nigeria—governors who work inclusively, regardless of political differences, who do not chase shadows, and who maintain humility even at the height of their success.”

Speaking further, the Vice President congratulated Professor Adelabu for sharing her insights, expertise, and experiences in her book. He urged policymakers at all levels to make use of the book’s valuable content.

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji highlighted the critical role of education in nation-building, stating that this has driven his administration’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure in Ekiti. According to him, this focus has led to Ekiti having the highest number of basic school enrollments in Nigeria, with provisions in place to aid teaching and learning, including gender mainstreaming as a core aspect of the educational approach.

Governor Oyebanji praised Professor Adelabu for her contributions to the educational and political development of Ekiti State, noting that the book will be beneficial to all policymakers in the education sector.

“Professor Adelabu’s life is a testament to her unwavering faith in God, whether as a princess married to a prince, a mother who has raised distinguished children, or as an academic who reached the pinnacle of her profession as a professor, and as a politician who once served as the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State.”

“I commend her pursuit of excellence and her commitment to humanity. What we are celebrating today is a recognition of academic excellence and intellectualism.”

“Since we assumed office in Ekiti State, Professor Adelabu has chaired the committee tasked with identifying the best candidates to serve in the government. The same committee recently submitted its report on appointments to boards and parastatals, which reflects her life—a life dedicated to service and humanity.”

Professor Adelabu, the author of the book, provided an overview of its content, explaining that it covers the entire country with a focus on the interplay between politics and education. She advocated for a robust educational system, emphasizing the need to return to fundamental learning principles.

Discussants at the book launch included former Ekiti State First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; former Minister of Youth and Sports, Bolaji Abdulahi; and Senator Bunmi Adetunmbi. They all called for a review of the nation’s education policy, the Universal Basic Education Act, and a greater focus on the enrollment of the girl child in schools.