Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has officially commenced another four-year tenure alongside his deputy, Monisade Afuye, following their inauguration in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, on Friday.
The inauguration marks a new phase in the administration’s leadership, with expectations that the government will consolidate its existing programmes, address outstanding challenges and introduce further measures to improve the welfare of residents.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented at the ceremony by Vice President Kashim Shettima, congratulated the governor on his re-election but urged him to approach the new term with greater commitment to effective governance, inclusive development and the creation of opportunities for young people.
The President’s message highlighted the responsibilities that accompany a renewed electoral mandate, stressing that the confidence expressed by voters should translate into better public services and tangible improvements in people’s lives.
Oyebanji, Afuye take oaths of office
The Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, administered the oaths of office to the governor and his deputy during the ceremony attended by political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers and other prominent Nigerians.
Afuye took her oath at approximately 1:25 p.m., while Oyebanji was sworn in at about 1:35 p.m.
Shortly after the exercise, the governor inspected the parade of honour at approximately 1:45 p.m., marking the formal commencement of the administration’s second term.
Oyebanji’s re-election represents a historic development in the state’s political history. He is the first governor since Ekiti was created 30 years ago to secure a second consecutive term and return to office through a back-to-back inauguration.
His return provides an opportunity to continue policies initiated during his first administration while responding to the expectations of the electorate for further progress in critical sectors.
Tinubu calls for higher governance standards
In his message delivered by Shettima, President Tinubu urged Oyebanji to use the opportunity provided by his second term to raise the standard of governance and widen access to opportunities, particularly for young people.
Tinubu noted that the electorate had assessed the governor’s performance and decided to give him another mandate.
He said the decision should encourage Oyebanji to demonstrate greater responsibility and ensure that the benefits of government reach people across different social and economic backgrounds.
The President emphasised the importance of inclusive leadership, particularly in ensuring that disadvantaged residents and people whose concerns are not always adequately represented receive attention from the government.
He described the inauguration as an occasion that combined celebration with a serious obligation to serve.
According to the message conveyed by Shettima, Oyebanji’s victory demonstrated the importance of democratic accountability and the effort required to build public confidence.
Tinubu also commended the governor’s leadership style, highlighting his composure, respect for institutions and understanding of public office as a responsibility rather than an avenue for personal prestige.
The President’s charge places emphasis on the need for the administration to maintain public trust through responsible leadership, effective policies and measurable progress.
Governor highlights first-term achievements
In his address, Oyebanji expressed appreciation to God, Tinubu and the people of Ekiti State for the support that enabled him to secure another term.
He pledged to preserve the unity of the state and continue pursuing policies aimed at strengthening economic activities, improving public services and enhancing the quality of life of residents.
The governor also acknowledged his opponents in the electoral contest, commending them for their sportsmanship.
Reflecting on his administration’s performance, Oyebanji identified workers’ welfare, infrastructure, electricity, healthcare, agriculture, education and security as major areas of attention during his first term.
He said his government had taken steps to improve schools, strengthen security and support workers whose contributions remain essential to the state’s development.
Oyebanji indicated that the administration would build on these efforts rather than abandon existing programmes as it enters another four-year period.
He stressed that skilled workers play an important role in driving development and should be able to feel the impact of government policies through improved welfare and a supportive working environment.
The governor’s remarks suggest that the welfare of public servants will remain part of his administration’s priorities.
Reliable electricity, healthcare remain priorities
Oyebanji also highlighted the importance of dependable electricity to economic growth, promising to continue efforts to provide more reliable power for industries, businesses and other enterprises.
He said improved electricity supply would help create a more supportive environment for commercial activities and strengthen the ability of businesses to operate efficiently.
Reliable power remains an important consideration for enterprises seeking to expand operations, reduce operating difficulties and improve productivity.
On healthcare, the governor pointed to the state’s health insurance scheme as one of the initiatives pursued during his first term to improve access to medical services.
He pledged to sustain progress in healthcare alongside continued investment in education, agriculture, infrastructure and security.
The governor’s challenge in the new term will be to turn these commitments into results that residents can experience in their communities, workplaces, schools and healthcare facilities.
APC support ahead of future elections
Beyond outlining his administration’s priorities, Oyebanji appealed to residents to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming general elections.
He urged the electorate to vote for the party at all levels, expressing his desire to see the APC maintain its political strength in the state and across the country.
The appeal comes as political parties look towards future electoral contests and seek to consolidate their support bases.
Shettima, Akpabio, Governors attend ceremony
The inauguration attracted several high-profile guests from the political, legislative and traditional institutions.
Among those present were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin.
The event also featured the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
Former governors Bisi Akande of Osun State, Segun Osoba of Ogun State and Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State were also in attendance.
Other dignitaries included Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake.
Members of the National Assembly, including senators and members of the House of Representatives, joined the gathering.
The traditional institution was represented by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, alongside the chairman and members of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers.
As Oyebanji and Afuye begin their second term, attention will turn to how effectively the administration delivers on its promises, sustains development programmes and responds to the needs of the people who have renewed their mandate.
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