As Ekiti State gears up for its next governorship election, a civic advocacy group, The Progress Mandate, has declared its support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid, lauding his administration for what it described as a “quiet revolution” in governance marked by tangible progress rather than political theatrics.
At a press conference in Ado-Ekiti, the group’s Director-General, ‘Yomi Oso, praised Oyebanji’s leadership for being community-driven, consultative, and results-oriented. He noted that the governor had chosen a governance style rooted in substance over showmanship.
“Governor Oyebanji’s approach is inductive and grassroots-focused. It reflects a clear shift from the traditional, promise-heavy politics that have failed our people,” Oso stated.
Highlighting the administration’s achievements, the group cited key reforms such as the automation of revenue systems and the reorganization of government institutions—initiatives that have significantly curbed corruption and financial wastage.
A major fiscal accomplishment, according to Oso, was the release of ₦7.58 billion to settle long-standing gratuities owed to pensioners. “This isn’t just a financial gesture—it’s a moral statement that restores dignity to our senior citizens,” he said.
On infrastructure, the group praised the government’s investment in both urban and rural development, referencing completed road rehabilitation projects and the ongoing construction of the Ajilosun–Okeyinmi flyover. In the education sector, it noted improvements in school facilities, increased teacher recruitment, and curriculum innovations designed to better prepare students for future challenges.
Oso also spotlighted the Youth Digital Skills Initiative, which he described as a game-changing program that has equipped thousands of young Ekiti residents with vital digital competencies. “This is not a handout. It’s a strategic hand-up into the digital economy,” he remarked.
The administration’s health sector reforms were similarly commended, including the upgrade of primary healthcare centres, enhanced medical equipment, and expansion of health insurance coverage for residents.
In agriculture, the governor’s commitment to mechanization and partnerships with private investors has begun to transform the sector into a driver of economic growth. Extension services have also improved, modernizing farming practices and strengthening food security.
The civil service, long plagued by stagnation, has also seen renewed morale and efficiency under Oyebanji’s leadership, thanks to merit-based appointments and a clear focus on staff motivation.
Beyond administrative achievements, the group praised Oyebanji’s role in fostering unity across political, traditional, and community lines—ushering in what it called “a rare era of peace and cohesion” in the state.
When asked why the group is backing Oyebanji, Oso cited his humility, anti-corruption stance, and inclusive governance style. “He’s a leader whose impact roars even when his style whispers,” he said.
The Progress Mandate called on Ekiti citizens at home and in the diaspora to look beyond political propaganda and focus on the concrete gains recorded under Oyebanji’s tenure.
