Oyebanji: Ekiti Spends Over N200bn on Road Projects
….Prioritises Workers’ Welfare
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has revealed that his administration has committed more than N200 billion to the construction of 350 kilometres of roads across the state.
Out of this sum, over N150 billion has already been disbursed to contractors, with 126 kilometres completed and the rest at different stages of execution.
Oyebanji made the disclosure on Wednesday while addressing participants at the plenary of the Standing Committee of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), held at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado-Ekiti. The five-day event is being presided over by the Primate of the Church, Most Revd. Henry Ndukuba, with no fewer than 100 bishops and church leaders in attendance.
The Governor explained that the projects are designed to link major commercial centres, open up large communities, and create alternative routes for commuters, stressing that road infrastructure remains central to his administration’s plan for socioeconomic transformation.
He further disclosed that beyond infrastructure, his government has released over N118 billion for gratuities, pensions, leave bonuses, and the replenishment of various loan schemes for state and local government retirees. He noted that Ekiti spends an average of N5 billion monthly on salaries and pensions and had already expended more than N40 billion this year alone.
According to him, N7.5 billion has been paid as gratuities to retired state workers, while N4.3 billion went to local government retirees—amounting to a total of N11.8 billion.
Highlighting other achievements, Oyebanji listed improved security, youth empowerment, and job creation—especially the employment of over 5,000 young people—stable electricity supply, renovation of 177 health centres, and the engagement of thousands of youths in agriculture under the “Bring Back the Youth into Agriculture” scheme.
Commending the Anglican Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, and social development in Ekiti, the Governor described the institution as a dependable partner in progress. He urged political leaders to see their positions as platforms for service to God and humanity, insisting that his administration remains faithful to the social contract signed with Ekiti people.
Primate Henry Ndukuba, in his remarks, praised Oyebanji’s leadership and also lauded President Bola Tinubu for reforms aimed at rebuilding Nigeria’s economy and infrastructure. However, he lamented that ordinary Nigerians continue to grapple with hunger, insecurity, and poverty. He urged the Federal Government to review trade policies, fight oil theft, boost local refining, and strengthen security.
The Bishop of Ekiti Anglican Diocese, Rt. Revd. Andrew Olusola Ajayi, also commended the Governor for his commitment to justice, peace, and development, describing the relationship between the church and the state government as one built on mutual respect and collaboration.
