Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has declared 2026 as a year of unlimited opportunities for both the government and people of the state, pledging to sustain the rapid development being witnessed across all Sectors.
The governor made the declaration in his New Year statewide broadcast, aired across radio and television stations in Ekiti, where he highlighted what he described as remarkable progress recorded under his administration through the completion of key projects and the implementation of life-changing programmes and policies.
Oyebanji expressed gratitude to God and the people of the state for what he termed the “remarkable achievements of 2025,” assuring residents that his administration would build on existing gains and set higher standards in the New Year.
He noted that Ekiti enjoyed socio-political stability, improved security and economic growth in 2025, despite numerous challenges confronting both the government and the people, adding that his administration remains committed to consolidating the strides already recorded.
The governor acknowledged the support of Ekiti residents, saying their prayers, cooperation and goodwill had continued to make governance easier, despite the challenges of leadership.
Oyebanji also said his administration had fulfilled its promise to complete ongoing projects in the state, including inherited and newly initiated ones, noting that those still ongoing would be delivered before the end of his current term.
Reaffirming his commitment to the security of lives and property, the governor described citizens’ security as his top priority.
He called on political stakeholders to maintain peace and civility ahead of the June governorship election, promising to ensure a political environment free from intimidation and violence.
“Let me assure all Ekiti people that your security remains our number one priority,” Oyebanji said. “We are very deliberate, proactive and strategic in safeguarding our state. By God’s grace, Ekiti will continue to know peace.”
He also commended political actors in the state for their maturity, urging all parties to avoid actions that could undermine security during the election period. Oyebanji further assured that, as the incumbent governor and candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), he would guarantee a level playing field devoid of unhealthy political activities capable of triggering violence.
While celebrating the completion of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport and the commencement of commercial flights from the facility, the governor said the airport would open the state to increased investment, tourism development and export opportunities.
He disclosed that work would be accelerated on the Ijigbo-Okeyinmi flyover, while the second phase of the ring road project would commence in 2026.
According to him, the year would also witness massive township road construction and rehabilitation across local government areas and communities.
Oyebanji said his administration would invest more in infrastructure, overhaul the health sector, expand rural development, strengthen the education sector and promote youth participation in commercial agriculture to boost job creation and food security. He cited the recent distribution of N1.4 billion as profit to youths participating in the Bring-Back-the-Youths-in-Agriculture project as evidence of this commitment.
The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Federal Government’s support for Ekiti State, particularly the approval for the immediate reconstruction of the Itawure-Aramoko-Ado Road, noting that the contractor had already mobilised to site.
He also appreciated members of the National Assembly led by the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly; the State Executive Council; serving and former political office holders; traditional rulers; religious leaders; and other stakeholders for their contributions to the development of the State.
“As I end this New Year address, I once again thank our traditional, religious and community leaders for the critical roles they play,” Oyebanji said. “I solicit your continued support and cooperation as we look forward to more opportunities for progress and partnership in 2026.”
