The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has praised Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, for his unwavering commitment to using education as a tool to address societal challenges and promote youth empowerment in the state. Speaking on Saturday during the 29th convocation ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Akpabio lauded the Oyebanji administration’s efforts in reshaping the future of young people through significant investments in education, which, according to him, has not only improved the lives of students but also provided a sustainable solution to tackling crime and fostering peace in the state.
Akpabio, in his remarks, stated that Ekiti State has become a model in leveraging education to prevent crime, emphasizing that “whenever you open the door of education, you close the door of prison.” The Senate President noted that quality education would ensure that Ekiti children stay away from criminal activities, including banditry, by instilling values that guide them to make good choices.
The Senate President also directed members of the National Assembly to expedite the appropriation of funds for the construction of the Ado-Ijan Ekiti road, which will enhance accessibility to the newly established Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport. Akpabio argued that improving road infrastructure would help boost economic activities, facilitate the movement of goods and services, and further complement the state’s strides in the areas of education, infrastructure, security, and human capital development.
“The road from the airport must be appropriated for and be done before my next visit,” Akpabio insisted, highlighting the importance of ensuring that Ekiti’s education and infrastructure systems align to create a conducive environment for growth and development.
Governor Oyebanji, in his address at the convocation ceremony, reiterated his administration’s commitment to repositioning education as the primary driver of the state’s development agenda. He emphasized that education is the foundation of any successful society and remains a central pillar in Ekiti’s roadmap for progress. Governor Oyebanji stressed that his government will continue to invest in quality education to provide youths with the skills needed to thrive in the global economy.
“I remain committed to repositioning education to empower our youths, ensuring that they have access to qualitative and functional education,” Oyebanji said. “This will lay the foundation for a prosperous and sustainable state.”
The governor also highlighted the recent ranking of Ekiti State University as the best state university in Nigeria and the 12th best among over 270 universities nationwide by Times Higher Education in 2025. This accomplishment, he pointed out, reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its growing reputation on the global stage.
At the ceremony, several individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to national development. Notably, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, was awarded an honorary doctorate degree for his dedication to advancing education and youth empowerment in the country. Akpabio commended Bamidele for his leadership, describing him as an exemplary figure whose work has positively impacted the development of Ekiti State, Nigeria, and the international community.
In his speech, the Senate President also acknowledged the significant role played by Bamidele in sponsoring the establishment of a new University of Technology and Environmental Studies in Iyin-Ekiti, a project recently signed into law by the President. This initiative, Akpabio noted, is part of Bamidele’s longstanding commitment to the advancement of education in Nigeria.
Governor Oyebanji also used the occasion to congratulate the awardees, including Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and Dr. Mansur Muhtar, Chairman of the Bank of Industry (BOI), who were also conferred with honorary doctorates for their remarkable contributions to the country’s development.
The governor lauded Senator Bamidele for his exceptional efforts in supporting education, noting that the senator’s recent work in securing legislative backing for the establishment of the University of Technology in Iyin-Ekiti is a clear indication of his dedication to youth development.
Furthermore, the governor took the opportunity to appeal to public sector workers in the state to make the most of the recently approved financial resources allocated to enhance their welfare. Governor Oyebanji revealed that his administration had approved N438,955,884.48 to help public institutions meet the requirements of the new minimum wage, emphasizing that such investments must translate into improved productivity.
As part of his administration’s ongoing efforts to improve education, Oyebanji highlighted his commitment to supporting all levels of education in the state, from primary to tertiary institutions. He acknowledged the vital role of the university in shaping the future of Ekiti, praising the institution for producing graduates equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive global economy.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, Prof. Akin Oyebode, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his outstanding support for education in the state. He commended the governor for his significant contributions to improving the quality of education at all levels, particularly at Ekiti State University, which has continued to thrive despite the current economic challenges facing the country.
Prof. Oyebode assured the governor that the university would continue to work towards excellence, with plans to make EKSU a globally recognized institution. He reiterated the importance of partnerships between government, academic institutions, and other stakeholders in driving positive change and development.
The Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Prof. Joseph Ayodele, also expressed his appreciation to the governor for his leadership and support. He credited Oyebanji’s administration for making significant strides in improving the university’s infrastructure and ensuring the payment of staff salaries, which had helped maintain a stable academic environment.
In his acceptance speech on behalf of the honorary awardees, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele expressed gratitude to the university for recognizing their contributions to society. He promised that the honor would inspire them to continue their work toward the advancement of education and national development.
