By Dr. Akeem Bello

Gov. Oyebanji’s transformation of Ekiti, testament to compassionate leadership – Ajila-Jakande


Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has been commended for his far-reaching reforms across healthcare, infrastructure, and sports development.
Chairperson of the Ekiti Sports Development Trust Fund (ESDTF), Tokunbo Ajila-Jakande (TAJ), through her foundation, the Tokunbo Ajila-Jakande Children Foundation (TAJCF), applauded the governor’s transformative strides, describing him as her role model in compassionate leadership.
Ajila-Jakande, known for her dedication to humanitarian service, expressed admiration for the governor’s initiatives, which align with her passion for uplifting the less privileged.

During a visit to the Ekiti State Teaching Hospital in Ado Ekiti, she lauded Oyebanji’s healthcare reforms, which she described as a significant improvement over previous administrations.
“The State Teaching Hospital and other public healthcare facilities have undergone a major upgrade, with the introduction of modern medical equipment, recruitment of qualified health workers, and enhanced services,” she noted.
These improvements, she added, have positioned Ekiti’s public hospitals to provide care that rivals, and in some cases surpasses, private healthcare institutions in the state.
The governor has, in turn, urged citizens to take full advantage of these upgraded facilities, stating, “Our public hospitals are better than ever before. It is our collective responsibility to ensure everyone has access to quality healthcare.”
Beyond healthcare, Ajila-Jakande highlighted Oyebanji’s commitment to social welfare, citing his intervention in the case of Mama Ajayi Alufoge, a woman in desperate need of shelter.
In a gesture of profound compassion, the governor not only built her a new home from scratch but also furnished it to ensure her comfort and dignity.
” This, she observed, has not only transformed Mama Ajayi’s living conditions but has also contributed to her well-being and longevity.
As Chairperson of the ESDTF, Ajila-Jakande also acknowledged the governor’s investment in sports development. A prime example of this is the ongoing transformation of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, which is being upgraded to national standards.
Recent excavation work on the stadium’s natural grass field has sparked speculation about the installation of an AstroTurf pitch, among other state-of-the-art facilities.
These upgrades, she noted, will not only enhance sports infrastructure but also inspire young athletes and provide a platform for them to showcase their talents on the global stage.
Oyebanji’s commitment to development extends beyond sports and healthcare. In line with the vision of former Governor Kayode Fayemi, he has also seen to the completion of the Ekiti State Agro-Allied Airport, upgrading it to international standards.
This ambitious project is poised to boost the state’s economy by facilitating trade, investment, and tourism. With the airport now ready for operation, it is expected to enhance connectivity, create business opportunities, and contribute significantly to the state’s overall growth.
Commending the governor’s all-encompassing approach to governance, Ajila-Jakande remarked, “Governor Oyebanji’s work reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of healthcare, infrastructure, sports, and compassion. His leadership is a shining example of what it means to serve the people and make decisions that benefit every sector of society.”
In closing, she also extended her appreciation to the First Lady, Mrs. Oyebanji, for her remarkable humanitarian efforts.
She highlighted the First Lady’s pet programme, which has provided much-needed support to widows, widowers, and children, enabling them to live more comfortable and dignified lives.
“The efforts of Mrs. Oyebanji complement her husband’s work in the most extraordinary way,” she said. “Together, they embody a model of compassionate leadership that is transforming Ekiti State. The combination of BAO and BAORESS is truly a blessing to our state.”