By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has praised the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, for his impactful leadership and dedication to the state’s development, emphasising that the state has witnessed unprecedented progress under his administration.

Mimiko gave the commendation in Ado-Ekiti during a courtesy visit to the governor’s office.

He noted that Oyebanji has successfully combined competence and character to drive meaningful development in the state.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the visit, Mimiko lauded the Oyebanji’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

He emphasised that Oyebanji’s rare blend of qualities has enabled him to implement impactful policies, foster unity among stakeholders, and prioritise the welfare of the people.

Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with Oyebanji, which predates the creation of Ekiti State, Mimiko expressed satisfaction with the state’s progress, noting that Oyebanji had shown clear preparedness for governance, having undergone the necessary tutelage and imbibed essential political values.

“Let me start by saying that, based on the outcomes I’ve seen, I am not disappointed. I feel good about it. As I’ve said, Biodun Oyebanji is prepared for the job.

“He went through the required tutelage. Beyond technical competence, he has character.

” This is a man who is sound in both head and heart, and that has translated into the transformation we are seeing in the state.

“The governor has also leveraged his personal appeal, which is why every past governor in the state, irrespective of political affiliation, has endorsed him for a second term.

That speaks volumes about his achievements and his relationship with people. I am very proud of him,” Mimiko said.

In his response, Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the former Ondo State governor for the visit.

He described Mimiko as his political mentor and the leader who discovered his political talents, adding that the visit had been long anticipated.

The governor explained how Mimiko introduced him to politics and instilled in him the values of honesty, competence, and integrity.

He attributed much of his leadership style including his simplicity and focus on people-centered governance to the mentorship he received from the former governor.

“Governor Mimiko is a mentor to me. I often tell people that if Ekiti State hadn’t been created, I would have been a key part of his government. I worked closely with him and studied him.

He was my first political contact and he instilled critical values in me, values of honesty, competence, contentment, and living for the people,” the Governor stated.