Ekiti’s Development Under Governor Oyebanji: A Testament to the Social Contract
Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s recognition as the ‘Governor of the Year 2024’ comes as no surprise. His transformative leadership and strategic vision have positioned Ekiti as a model for economic growth, industrial development, and social progress.
A notable initiative under his leadership is the construction of a world-class Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport. This project is not just an infrastructure development but a foundational step toward an export-driven agro-industrial economy. It aligns with his broader vision of modernizing agriculture, creating industrial linkages, and fostering economic diversification.
Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to reviving commodity boards and strengthening cooperative movements is another crucial intervention. These efforts mirror the economic strategies that once defined Western Nigeria’s success, ensuring that the agro-industrial airport functions as an economic hub for local farmers and agribusinesses.
The World Bank’s approval of an agribusiness hub in Ekiti further reinforces this vision. This hub will serve as a one-stop center for farmers, processors, and investors, providing access to finance, technology, and markets. By establishing storage facilities for farm produce, the state government has also ensured food security and price stability, shielding farmers from post-harvest losses and market fluctuations.
Security remains a top priority under Governor Oyebanji’s administration. He has made significant investments in security infrastructure, including:
• Provision of patrol vehicles, ballistic helmets, and protective gear
• Deployment of advanced technology such as trackers and an Early Warning and Response System (EWERS)
• Implementation of the Safe City Project for enhanced security monitoring across local governments
To protect the state’s agricultural sector, the governor established the Agro Task Force (ATF) and inaugurated the Farmers/Herders Peace Committee, ensuring peaceful coexistence between farmers, herders, and local communities. Security agencies, including Amotekun and the Peace Corps, have been mobilized to gather intelligence and safeguard farmlands and rural areas.
Governor Oyebanji’s security-driven governance approach aligns with the Social Contract Theory, which asserts that a government derives its authority from the trust and consent of the people. By prioritizing citizen welfare and safety, he is fulfilling his fundamental obligation to the people of Ekiti State.
His administration has also prioritized rural road construction, ensuring that farmers and entrepreneurs have access to markets and business hubs. These strategic infrastructural projects are designed to stimulate employment, boost trade, and enhance the agro-industrial economy.
Additionally, Ekiti State has witnessed improvements in electricity supply and access roads, essential components for industrial development. Governor Oyebanji’s economic empowerment efforts are further complemented by the Widows, Aged, and Orphans Hope (WAOH) Support Foundation, spearheaded by his wife, Olayemi Oyebanji.
Recognizing 2025 as the Year of Accelerated Growth, Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated a clear vision for the future. His ability to remain focused on governance, avoid distractions, and uphold Nigeria’s constitutional secularism reinforces his commitment to inclusive leadership and development-oriented governance.
Ultimately, the awards and recognitions conferred upon Governor Oyebanji reflect the tangible results of his administration, validated by objective performance metrics and measurable progress indicators.
