The Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has commended the collaborative efforts of all arms of government for driving visible developmental progress across key sectors of the state’s economy, noting that only those with negative dispositions would deny the achievements recorded so far.
Dr. Oyebanji made this known in Ado-Ekiti during the birthday celebration of the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, which was marked with students of special schools from across the state.
While appreciating the support of stakeholders, the First Lady decried the activities of individuals she described as “social media militants,” who, according to her, deliberately attempt to discredit the present administration.
She urged such persons to have a rethink and embrace positive attitudinal change in the overall interest of society.
She further called for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders, assuring that the Oyebanji-led administration remains committed to delivering more developmental projects that will benefit the masses.
In her remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, eulogised Governor Oyebanji for his visionary and compassionate leadership, noting that his generosity and benevolence have continued to transform lives and foster an enabling environment where dreams can flourish.
“As we celebrate the birthday of His Excellency, we reflect on his profound impact not only within the corridors of power but also in the hearts of individuals, families and communities. You have touched lives beyond human reasoning, igniting hope and instilling purpose in all you encounter”. She said.
As part of the celebration, cash support of over ₦20 million was distributed to special schools, alongside food items including bags of rice and beans, tubers of yam, salt, spaghetti and noodles.
Beneficiary institutions included the Government Special School for the Blind, Ikere-Ekiti; Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti; Government Special School for Children with Intellectual and Physical Disabilities, Ido-Ekiti; and the Therapy Centre for Children, Oke-Oriomi, Ado-Ekiti.
Speaking on behalf of the benefiting students, Eniola Awelewa expressed heartfelt appreciation to the state government for its continued care and support for persons with special needs.
The programme also featured special prayers led by one of the students, Amos Isaiah.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chief Monisade Afuye; the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi; the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Abibat Adubiaro; the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; the celebrant’s cousin, Mrs. Cynthia Akindele; political office holders, top government officials and other guests.