Oyebanji: Knowledge, Development And Human Wellbeing -By Abiodun Ololade

Since assuming office as the Governor of Ekiti State on October 16, 2022, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, fondly referred to as BAO, has redefined governance by implementing impactful policies and programmes. From improved infrastructure to enhanced healthcare and economic opportunities, his administration has spearheaded tangible interventions that directly enhance the quality of life for all Ekiti residents.

Guided by a deep commitment to the rule of law, Oyebanji envisions a society that is egalitarian, crime-free, and conducive to human flourishing. This vision is rooted in the belief that individuals should be empowered to reach their full potential, and that the state’s role is to create an environment that fosters growth, development and standard of living. 

The governor’s extensive experience, shaped by his broad national and international exposure, has uniquely positioned him in Nigerian politics. This experience has not only honed his exceptional human relations skills but also deepened his commitment to selfless service. It has gone a long way in demonstrating his understanding of the importance of interpersonal connections in governance. His tenure as Secretary to the Ekiti State Government (SSG) under the Kayode Fayemi-led administration showcased his diligence, sincerity, and strong work ethic, earning him recognition and trust, and ultimately leading to his rare privilege of administering the state. 

Building on this success, his commitment to good governance has yielded several notable achievements, reflecting his forward-thinking approach. Key among these innovations are initiatives such as annual staff retreats and modern manpower capacity building, increased funding for the education sector, enhanced healthcare delivery, and strategic public-private partnerships. Underpinning these efforts is a deep understanding of the importance of meritocracy and the need to transcend parochial boundaries. In the mould of a modern-day John the Baptist, Governor Oyebanji is widely regarded as a harbinger of a new era, driven by a special mission to bring about positive change.

As an avowed reformer, the governor embodies a unique blend of intellectual breadth, clarity of thought, and an unwavering commitment to truth and integrity. His boldness in defending these values has drawn comparisons to legendary figures of the past, earning him a revered place among the Yoruba Afenifere community. As a result, through his actions and ideals, he inspires a new generation of leaders to strive for excellence and uphold the highest standards of character and integrity.

As a leader, Oyebanji is a beacon of guidance and direction for his people. Through community-based interaction and transformation, he seeks to empower Ekitis by fostering a sense of ownership and participation in the governance process. By engaging with the community and driving meaningful change, he positions himself as a champion of progressive ideals, committed to the betterment of society. This is evident in his initiatives to enhance education, healthcare and social welfare, thereby demonstrating a genuine concern for the quality of life of Ekiti residents.

Ekiti State’s strategic geographic location has made it a hub of economic activity. Farming and commerce are thriving in the region; and this has attracted people from diverse backgrounds. This diversity can lead to a complex societal dynamic. In this dynamic, traditional norms and values are reevaluated and adapted. This phenomenon highlights the importance of embracing diversity. It also emphasizes the need to foster a sense of shared citizenship and community. This is crucial for promoting social cohesion and stability in a multicultural society like Ekiti State.

At its core, the state’s economy was rooted in agriculture, which served as the primary driver of growth and development. The sector’s significance was evident in the occupational distribution and consumption patterns of the people. These patterns highlight the intricate relationship between the economy and the daily lives of citizens. This agricultural foundation highlights the importance of understanding the economy’s underlying structures and the interdependencies that shape its trajectory. 

BAO’s administration prioritized ambitious development plans to drive rapid economic growth and development in Ekiti State. A key initiative was the partnership with the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti to boost palm oil production, a crucial sector for the state’s economy. The aim is to harness knowledge and resources to drive sustainable development.

The ‘Bring Youth Back into Agriculture’ programme is a visionary initiative. Its goal is to revitalize the state’s agricultural sector. The programme focuses on six staple crops and provides support to young farmers. Its goal is to enhance food production and achieve self-sufficiency in food supply. To support this endeavor, the state government established dormitories in farm settlements, providing a practical incentive to encourage young people to engage in farming. 

In addition, a strategic partnership was forged with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. It’s to ensure that agriculture received the attention and resources it deserved. This multifaceted approach underscores the administration’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development and food security.

On Oyebanji’s watch, the construction industry saw significant growth, with several key roads and bridges constructed or upgraded. Notable examples include the Hospital Management Board–Doctors’ Quarters Road, Ado–Ilawe Road, and Ikere–Ise Road. This focus on infrastructure development reflects the administration’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for economic activity and enhancing overall welfare. By investing in these critical projects, the administration aims to drive sustainable development and improve the quality of life for citizens.

The state government invested in constructing farm roads across all 16 Local Government Areas of the state. Furthermore, its advocacy efforts yielded results, as the Federal Government has given attention to most of the dilapidated federal roads linking Ekiti State to neighbouring states. The state government is also committed to providing quality education. To achieve this, it is building new schools and renovating existing ones. The schools are also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

Oyebanji’s government has a vision for a Knowledge-Driven Economy (KDE), recognizing that knowledge is a strategic asset for economic advancement. This understanding is reinforced by the experiences of developed and newly-industrialized countries, where knowledge has been a key driver of economic progress. 

Building on this insight, the state government has designed programmes aimed at cultivating a highly skilled workforce, with a focus on incentivizing youth to pursue careers in Science, Technology, and Innovation. A cornerstone of this approach is a comprehensive overhaul of the education system, which includes the introduction of modern tools and resources necessary for producing high-quality graduates who are articulate, skilled, IT-literate, innovative and entrepreneurial.

Ekiti State’s healthcare sector has undoubtedly undergone significant transformations in recent years, with notable improvements in both physical infrastructure and medical services. A critical aspect of the administration’s healthcare initiative was the modernization of Ekiti State General Hospitals, equipping them with cutting-edge diagnostic instruments. Building on this momentum, the Health for All (HFA) scheme was launched as a comprehensive approach to promote the highest possible level of physical, mental, and social vitality. Targeting individuals, families, and communities, the scheme has shown promising results.

But Oyebanji’s impact doesn’t stop there. Beyond healthcare, his administration has been instrumental in driving economic emancipation in Ekiti. His leadership approach has been marked by a commitment to progress, positioning Ekiti as a trailblazer in the region. This transformation underscores the impact of visionary leadership on the socio-economic trajectory of a state.

*Ololade wrote from Igede-Ekiti, Ekiti State.