Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has said he would not take for granted the overwhelming support that produced him as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the 2026 governorship election, describing the development as historic for the state and a call to deepen good governance.

Speaking with reporters in Ado-Ekiti, Oyebanji reflected on his political journey, governance philosophy, and his administration’s priorities for inclusive growth across all sectors.

Historic consensus and continuity

“What happened today is historic,” the governor said. “In the 29-year history of Ekiti State, no democratically elected government has ever succeeded itself. By God’s grace, if we win next year June, we’ll be the first government to run back-to-back.”

He explained that the lack of continuity in governance had often slowed the state’s development, as succeeding administrations usually abandoned the projects and policies of their predecessors.

“I was part of the committee that fought for the creation of Ekiti State at 26. I understand the vision of our founding fathers. Having served as Chief of Staff, Commissioner, and Secretary to the State Government under two different governors, I’ve seen governance up close and learned from their experiences — and mistakes,” he said.

Fostering unity among past leaders

Oyebanji attributed his broad acceptance across political lines to deliberate efforts to maintain peace and mutual respect among former governors.

“When I became governor, I decided to be at peace with everyone,” he said. “I visit them, I check on them, and attend their functions. It’s about respect, not money. That’s why today, I can call former Governor Fayose or his wife directly. Ekiti people are happier for it — there’s no tension, no violence, and our politics is healthier.”

He disclosed plans to institutionalize a quarterly Council of State of Former Governors in his second term to strengthen political collaboration and stability.

Women inclusion and empowerment

On women’s participation in governance, Oyebanji said Ekiti remains a national leader in gender inclusion, with women holding key positions including Deputy Governor, Secretary to the State Government, Head of Service, and Accountant-General.

“We have one of the highest female representations in any state assembly in Nigeria,” he said. “But beyond politics, we’re also empowering women in the informal sector through targeted funding and business support. That’s how inclusiveness truly works.”

Agricultural transformation

Highlighting progress in agriculture, Oyebanji revealed that his administration has moved over 5,000 youths from the streets to farms across 13 agricultural clusters.

“We clear land, provide improved seedlings, tractors, and even build dormitories where farmers can stay and work comfortably,” he said. “Each dormitory has hostels, a kitchen, internet access, and security. We call them Renewed Hope Farm Dormitories — and they’re changing lives.”

He added that the initiative would be expanded to all 16 local government areas, in partnership with local councils and the federal government.

On godfatherism and political independence

Addressing questions about political godfathers, Oyebanji said Ekiti’s political culture allows governors to operate independently.

“In Ekiti, we don’t have a history of a predecessor lording it over a successor,” he noted. “When Dr. Fayemi asked me to run, he gave no conditions. He doesn’t interfere in my decisions. And when I leave, I’ll do the same — I’ll allow my successor to run his government in peace.”

Education reforms

Reaffirming his commitment to education, the governor said his administration is focusing on curriculum relevance, teacher welfare, and learning environments.

“We pride ourselves as the most educated state in Nigeria, but we must sustain that reputation,” he said. “We’re working to revamp our secondary schools — they are critical in bridging the gap between primary and tertiary education.”

On 2026 election and beyond

Asked about the coming election, Oyebanji said he is confident but not complacent.

“Politicians are naturally optimistic, but we’re not taking anything for granted,” he said. “We’ll keep working until the last vote is counted because this election will also shape the 2027 presidential race.”

Ekiti’s long-term vision

Oyebanji reaffirmed that his administration is guided by a 30-year development plan, an offshoot of his campaign manifesto.

“By 2030, we want an economically prosperous Ekiti — industrialised, secure, and attractive for investment,” he said. “Our benchmark remains the development plan, and every year we assess ourselves against it.”