Ekiti Invests ₦200 Billion in Road Projects, Prioritizes Workers’ Welfare – Oyebanji

Governor Biodun Oyebanji highlights massive road investments, pension payments, and youth empowerment as Ekiti partners with Anglican Church for state development.

Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria – Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has revealed that his administration has awarded road construction contracts worth over ₦200 billion, covering 350 kilometres across the state, as part of efforts to drive infrastructure growth and socioeconomic development.

Speaking on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the plenary session of the Standing Committee of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), held at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji said more than ₦150 billion has already been paid to contractors, with 126 kilometres of roads completed, while others are at various stages of execution.

Huge Investment in Infrastructure and Welfare: The Governor explained that the projects were strategically chosen to connect major commercial hubs, large communities, and provide alternative routes for commuters, thereby boosting trade and easing transportation challenges.

In addition to road projects, Oyebanji disclosed that his administration has spent ₦118 billion on the payment of gratuities, pensions, leave bonuses, and replenishment of loan schemes for state and local government retirees since assuming office.

“As we cater for those in active service, we remain committed to the welfare of retirees. On average, Ekiti spends ₦5 billion monthly on salaries and pensions. Since January, over ₦40 billion has been expended on this,” he said.

According to him, the state has also disbursed ₦7.5 billion to retired state workers and ₦4.3 billion to local government retirees as gratuities, in addition to other welfare packages.

Key Achievements Highlighted: Governor Oyebanji reeled out other milestones of his administration, including:

Recruitment of over 5,000 youths into government service

Engagement of more than 5,000 young people in agriculture under the Bring Back the Youth into Agriculture initiative.

Renovation and equipping of 177 health facilities across the state.

Improved electricity supply in critical areas.

Enhanced security and job creation initiatives.

He emphasized that his government’s policies remain anchored on the welfare of ordinary citizens and the faithful implementation of a social contract with the people of Ekiti.

Partnership with the Church: The Governor commended the Anglican Church for its contribution to education, healthcare, and social development in Ekiti, describing it as a “partner in progress” and a “formidable institution that has consistently laid the foundation for the state’s growth.”

On the theme of the convocation, “The Sanctity of the Church: Contending for Christian Faith and Witness in the World”, Oyebanji urged political leaders to see themselves as missionaries called to serve humanity and uplift the downtrodden.

Clergy Commendations and National Call: In his remarks, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, praised Governor Oyebanji for being “an ambassador of Christ in government” and lauded his administration’s developmental strides. He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing reforms but expressed concern that ordinary Nigerians still grapple with hunger, poverty, poor healthcare, and insecurity.

He called on the Federal Government to review trade policies in line with global realities, expand local refining capacity, tackle insecurity, and fight oil bunkering.

Similarly, the Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Rt. Rev. Andrew Olusola Ajayi, described the meeting as a historic moment for the church, commending Governor Oyebanji for his leadership, promotion of peace, and commitment to justice. He noted that the partnership between the Anglican Communion and the Ekiti government has been built on mutual respect and shared goals.

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