Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that his government deliberately adopted a unique Rural Development Policy to unlock the potentials of all towns and ensure that none of the 140 communities in the state suffer neglect.
This came as former Governor Kayode Fayemi commended Oyebanji for his performance in the last two years, describing him as a pride to the progressive fold.
The governor spoke on Saturday, at the 32nd edition of Isan Day ceremonies and launching of N250 million development fund, held in Isan Ekiti, in Oye Local Government Area of the state.
Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, said his love for community development spurred the even distribution of projects across the three senatorial districts to ensure that no town suffer unwarranted neglect.
The governor appealed to the communities to promote the concept of self-development by aggressively pursuing projects that could complement government’s efforts
“These also reflected in the quantum of intra and inter-town road infrastructures, opening of access rural roads to boost agriculture, establishment of cluster farming in Ipao and Emure axis, engagements with towns to help build their potentials in arts and culture, and many others,” the governor stated.
Underscoring the importance of peace to sustainable development , the governor posited that Isan Ekiti has no alternative to peace and unity, being the host community to public institutions of interest across the country.
“Don’t forget that your town is a host to a fledging Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti and the Nigerian Army College.
“Under this context, we expect that the town must unite to promote and maintain the peace you have always enjoyed, so that more dividends of democracy can be extended to your doorsteps under the current government.”
Saluting the town for sustaining the ceremony, Oyebanji said he had demonstrated uncommon passion for the growth of arts, culture and tourism as thematic areas of the policy thrust of his administration.
Emphasizing the imperative of peace and unity to development, former Governor Kayode Fayemi, urged his kinsmen to continue to support Oyebanji’s government to attract more development to Isan Ekiti and the state at large.
“Our governor has done well in the last two years, though I am not saying he has done everything.
“Whoever says he hasn’t done anything must have his eyes examined medically. No governor can do everything, it is a gradual and steady process.
“The governor has surprised us by his contributions to development through series of projects. If there are areas yet to be touched, I know he must have been told and he will do the right thing to touch those places at the appropriate time,” Fayemi said.
In his submission, the Onisan of Isan Ekiti, Oba Gabriel Ayodele Adejuwon, appreciated Oyebanji and all the sons and daughters of the town for their passion to peace and unity.
Rural development: No community in Ekiti will suffer neglect – Oyebanji
