The Ekiti State Executive Council (SEC), chaired by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has approved several transformative initiatives aimed at youth development, education, agriculture and infrastructure.

In a statement signed by the Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, the Council ratified the implementation plan for the Ekiti State Youth Policy, following its initial approval on November 29, 2024.

The Ministry of Youth Development has been tasked with executing the policy, ensuring clear timelines for short-term, medium-term and long-term goals.

Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering young people through creativity, innovation, job creation and better participation in governance.

In response to stakeholders’ demands, the Council approved the upgrade of the College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero Ekiti, to a polytechnic. An eight-member committee had earlier assessed the feasibility of this transition, leading to the decision.

The upgrade will expand academic offerings, enhance technical skills training, and improve graduates’ employability across various sectors.

To boost sports development, the Council awarded a contract worth N7,642,981,521.50 for the construction of the Ekiti State Indoor Sports Hall. The project was awarded to Messrs. Aron Nigeria Limited, with a completion timeline of 52 weeks.

This facility aims to engage young people in sports and create opportunities for professional and recreational sporting activities.

Ekiti State has been selected for the first phase of ECOWAS financial support for Human Capital Development (HCD).

To maximise this opportunity, the state has developed a Human Capital Strategic Plan which focused on education, healthcare, and workforce development.

The plan, formulated through consultations with civil society and non-governmental organisations, is expected to attract both local and international partnerships, guiding Ekiti’s human capital investment from 2025 to 2030.

To ensure a steady supply of clean water, the Council approved N113,319,500.00 for the procurement of water treatment chemicals and reagents.

Following a needs assessment, the State Water Corporation sought approval for the purchase, which was awarded to Messrs. Reliant Overseas Limited. The contract is expected to be completed within three weeks.

Governor Oyebanji emphasised his administration’s resolve to provide safe drinking water to all residents.

In a bid to boost agricultural productivity and encourage youth participation in farming, the Council approved N2,211,157,000.00 for the clearing of 1,300 hectares of land.

This phase builds on the success of the 2024 land-clearing initiative and will be executed by 13 vendors using direct labour. Locations earmarked for clearing include Ose Emure, Gede, Iyemero, Omuo Ekiti, Egbe Ekiti, Ayede Isan, Ogotun Ekiti, and Ise Ekiti among others.

The project, scheduled for completion within three months, aims to facilitate planting for the current agricultural season.

To support young farmers under the “Bring Back the Youth to Agriculture” initiative, the Council approved N144,300,000.00 for the procurement of Japan-customised farming tools.

The package includes 902 raincoats, 902 rain boots, and other essential implements. The contract, awarded to Betty Future Way Limited, was secured through direct procurement to ensure timely delivery ahead of the dry season planting period.

These far-reaching decisions underscore Governor Oyebanji’s dedication to sustainable development, youth empowerment and economic progress.

 With strategic investments in education, agriculture, infrastructure and human capital, Ekiti State is poised for significant advancement.