Oyebanji Hails Tinubu Over Road Infrastructure Boost in Ekiti as Afenifere Backs Re-Election Bid

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the construction and rehabilitation of key inter- and intra-state federal roads aimed at strengthening economic activities and improving the welfare of residents in the state.

The Governor Oyebanji spoke on Tuesday while receiving leaders of the Ekiti State chapter of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, led by its chairman, Elder Yemi Alade, at his office in Ado-Ekiti. The visit also witnessed a renewed endorsement of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for re-election, with the group citing purposeful leadership and tangible development strides.

Road Projects to Drive Economic Growth and Regional Integration

Governor Oyebanji said Ekiti State had received more than what was initially promised by President Tinubu in terms of federal infrastructure interventions over the past three and a half years. He noted that the ongoing and approved road projects would significantly enhance economic growth, regional connectivity, and overall development within the state and the wider South-West region.

According to the governor, the completion of the Akure to Ado-Ekiti road has reduced travel time to approximately 35 minutes, improving mobility and commerce between Ekiti and neighbouring Ondo State. He also highlighted the rehabilitation of the Ado–Iworoko–Ifaki federal road and the approval of a N153 billion concrete pavement project from the Osun State border to Aramoko as critical milestones.

Further approvals, he added, include the reconstruction of the Aramoko–Ijero–Ido road and the Omuo–Ikole–Ifaki corridor. He disclosed that efforts were underway to link Ekiti to the Osogbo rail line, a development he described as transformative for trade and transportation. Governor Oyebanji stressed that the cumulative impact of these projects represents unprecedented federal support for Ekiti State.

While acknowledging differing political opinions, the governor urged stakeholders not to politicise verifiable development efforts, emphasising that infrastructure achievements should be assessed based on facts rather than partisan considerations.

Afenifere Reaffirms Endorsement of Tinubu and Oyebanji

Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to Afenifere for openly endorsing both President Tinubu and himself for a second term in office. He described the group as the custodian of Yoruba political values and cultural heritage, noting that its endorsement carried significant moral and historical weight.

He stated that the support was based on measurable achievements and transparent evaluation of projects across the state. According to him, Afenifere’s methodical approach and commitment to fairness distinguished it from other socio-political groups.

The Governor Oyebanji also reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on campaign promises and upholding the principle of party supremacy, which he said involves inclusive decision-making, particularly in matters relating to political appointments. He pledged to continue implementing policies and programmes aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of Ekiti residents.

Earlier, Elder Yemi Alade, chairman of the Ekiti State chapter of Afenifere, confirmed the group’s endorsement of both leaders. He said the decision was informed by what he described as unprecedented and monumental achievements under Governor Oyebanji’s administration, as well as President Tinubu’s infrastructural interventions in the state.

Infrastructure as a Foundation for Political Confidence

Observers note that the endorsement reflects growing political alignment within parts of the South-West ahead of future electoral contests. The road projects, particularly those linking Ekiti with neighbouring states such as Ondo and Osun, are widely seen as strategic investments capable of enhancing regional trade, tourism, and agricultural distribution networks.

As construction progresses and new projects commence, expectations remain high among residents regarding timely delivery and sustained economic benefits. The governor’s remarks suggest confidence that infrastructure development will remain central to both governance and political discourse in Ekiti State.