2027 Budget: Oyebanji Meets Ekiti South Stakeholders, Pledges Return of 5km Road Project

By Joseph Sunday

As part of consultations ahead of the preparation of the 2027 budget, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State on Thursday met with stakeholders from the Ekiti South Senatorial District in Igbara-Odo, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area, where he pledged to reintroduce the five-kilometre road project in each local government area to improve rural access.

Oyebanji, who reaffirmed his respect for the people of the state, describing them as his employers whose voices must always be heard and honoured, expressed gratitude to the people of Ekiti for their support and sacrifices in the last four years, noting that the achievements of his administration were made possible by their trust and cooperation.

The interactive forum brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, market women, youth groups, artisans and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs), who presented their developmental priorities.

Stakeholders at the meeting also pledged their continued support for the administration, whose second term is scheduled to begin on October 16, 2026.

Oyebanji also promised to accelerate the disbursement of financial support to traders and artisans to stimulate commerce, adding that human capital development will remain a major pillar of his government.

On concerns raised about Ekiti East Local Government Area, the governor described the area as a strategic gateway to the northern part of the country and assured that his administration would attract private sector investment to fast-track development there.

“I have absolute respect for Ekiti people and will never disrespect them. You put us in this position; you are our employers. Your voices must be heard and respected. This engagement is not a mere formality but a deliberate effort to incorporate your inputs into government’s development agenda,” Oyebanji said.

“I have listened carefully to your submissions, and I agree that we must intensify efforts in providing improved electricity supply, better road connectivity, and enhanced educational facilities to improve the welfare and wellbeing of our people.”

Stakeholders from Ayekire, Ekiti Southwest and Ekiti East called for the revival of the five-kilometre road project, urgent erosion control, expansion of electricity infrastructure, improved healthcare and educational facilities, and the establishment of a higher institution in the district.

Representatives from Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure Local Government Areas also sought more investment in roads, power, health and education, and called for strengthened security in border communities through sustained forest combing to dislodge criminal elements.

In his goodwill message, the representative of Persons Living with Disabilities, Mr. Damola Ogunleye, lauded the governor’s inclusive governance, particularly the reservation of five percent of slots for PWDs in the recent recruitment into the civil and teaching services, which he said has improved their welfare and sense of belonging.

The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, disclosed that the state currently has 958 public primary schools and 200 secondary schools, adding that government is sustaining free education and private sector partnerships to reduce dropout rates and improve learning outcomes.

Present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council, local government chairmen, traditional rulers and other political and community leaders.