Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has called on Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Tinubu in his unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria’s fortunes and improving the standard of living for its citizens.
Speaking at the 2025 Interfaith Thanksgiving Service held today at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre in Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji urged Nigerians to refrain from making negative remarks about the country.
He emphasised that Nigeria is on the right track toward economic recovery and prosperity, with the President’s reforms already yielding tangible results.
Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a courageous leader unafraid to make bold decisions for the greater good of the masses.
He encouraged Nigerians to appreciate Tinubu’s efforts and trust in the positive outcomes of his policies.
The governor also used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to advancing the development and prosperity of Ekiti State.
Responding to commendations from clerics at the service for his leadership, Oyebanji acknowledged the responsibility placed upon him, stating that his years of experience in governance have adequately prepared him for the role.
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He praised the people of Ekiti for their trust and support, which enabled him to lead the state as its chief servant.
Oyebanji pledged to continue working alongside dedicated individuals to ensure growth and development in the Land of Honour.
“As the chief servant of the people, I make a promise again before God and before all of you that are here today that I will serve you with every fibre, every energy. I will serve you in truth and I will serve you with fear of God and 2025 will be our year of accelerated growth and development for us as a state and individually,” he said.
The governor credited the recent increase in the state’s allocation—which has led to higher salaries for civil servants, welfare packages for non-government workers, and ongoing and completed projects—to President Tinubu’s generosity.
He highlighted Tinubu’s approval of increased state allocations following the removal of the fuel subsidy as a key factor.
Oyebanji praised Tinubu for his support to him and the people of Ekiti, stating, “After God, whatever we might have achieved is through the President. When you find favour with the President, it translates to good things for our people.”
He further observed that Tinubu’s bold policy shifts, once misunderstood, are now gaining appreciation in certain quarters.
As an example, he cited THISDAY Newspaper’s decision to honour the President as Man of the Year, acknowledging his courageous and people-focused decisions.
He called on prominent sons and fathers of Ekiti, both at home and in the Diaspora, to follow the example of Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Wole Olanipekun, by mobilizing support for the state government through their influence, resources, and goodwill.
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He noted that these two distinguished citizens have consistently supported the state and expressed the need for similar contributions from other well-established individuals in Ekiti.
The service featured songs of praise, Bible and Qur’an readings, as well as sermons and prayers delivered by both Muslim and Christian clerics.
