Governor Biodun Oyebanji has gained widespread support from teachers and education leaders in Ekiti State for a second term. The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the Association of Primary Schools Head-teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), along with other key education stakeholders, have praised the Governor’s efforts to improve the state’s education system. This endorsement was announced during the start of the registration for the 2024/2025 school year and the distribution of instructional materials worth N174 million to public primary schools across the state.
The Ekiti NUT Chairman, Comrade Bamidele Daudu, highlighted the Governor’s outstanding achievements in education. He noted that Governor Oyebanji had recruited 1,500 new primary school teachers and improved their career progression by extending their salary grade levels. Additionally, the Governor launched car and housing loan schemes for teachers. Daudu emphasized that these significant steps have greatly improved the teaching and learning environment in public schools, making a strong case for Governor Oyebanji’s re-election.
In a similar vein, the AOPSHON Chairman, Mr. Olusola Ajiborode, praised the Governor for consistently providing funds to run schools and ensuring the regular promotion of teachers. He also commended the administration for promptly paying the pensions and gratuities of retired teachers. Ajiborode further noted that teachers, as influential voices in the community, would continue to support the Governor’s vision for the state.
Mr. Toyin Omotoso, Dean of the Body of Education Secretaries, also expressed support for the Governor, citing the impressive policies and projects initiated by his administration. Omotoso highlighted the payment of N2.5 billion in counterpart funds to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the provision of vehicles for education officials as key initiatives. Additionally, the recruitment of security guards to protect schools was recognized as a critical measure to enhance safety in the education sector.
Governor Oyebanji, through the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, confirmed his dedication to free education. He said the distributed materials are part of ongoing efforts to improve learning in the state. He also called on everyone to keep supporting the government’s work to build a strong education system for Ekiti’s children.
Professor Femi Akinwumi, Executive Chairman of the Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), mentioned that the materials distributed, including exercise books, pens, chalk, attendance registers, and other educational supplies, were aimed at improving the overall academic performance of students.
At the event, the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, also confirmed the government’s dedication to improving public schools. He highlighted that, in addition to free education, the administration helps students with scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid for low-income families.
The event saw the attendance of key figures, including the SUBEB Commissioner for Human Resources Management, Dr. Olufunke Fajobi, and other senior officials from various state ministries.
