…Signs six new laws as lawmakers endorse him for second term

By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has commended the State House of Assembly for playing a vital role in the progress and development recorded by his administration.

The Governor made this known during a special plenary session commemorating the Assembly’s second anniversary, where he also signed six new bills into law.

The newly signed laws are aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery, promoting local participation in economic activities, and driving sustainable development. They include: Ekiti State Quality of Healthcare Law, 2025; Ekiti State Water Resources, Sanitation and Hygiene Sector Law, 2025; Ekiti State Local Content (2nd Amendment) Law, 2025; Ekiti State Statistical (First Amendment) Law, 2025; Ekiti State Senior Secondary School Board Law, 2025; and Ekiti State House of Assembly Service Commission Pension and Loans Board (First Amendment) Law, 2025.

The event, which drew traditional rulers, institutional leaders and other dignitaries, featured a vote of confidence in Governor Oyebanji by the Assembly.

The lawmakers also endorsed him for a second term, urging him to continue his transformational leadership beyond 2026.

Speaking at the plenary session held at Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji emphasised the importance of the new laws.

He stated that they were designed to improve evidence-based planning, educational governance, staff welfare, local procurement participation, water and sanitation systems, and healthcare delivery.

He lauded the lawmakers for their consistent support and described them as “partners in progress”. According to the Governor, their collaboration has been instrumental to the success of his developmental agenda.

“The progress we have achieved so far is a testament to what is possible when there is a shared vision between the executive and legislative arms of government,” Oyebanji said.

“I urge you to sustain this synergy, as it is critical to building a state that meets the aspirations of our people.”

He assured the legislators of his continued respect, collaboration and support, reiterating that the joint goal of transforming Ekiti into a model of good governance remains the administration’s guiding principle.

“Let me take this opportunity to thank members of the House for being responsible and responsive. With the new laws signed today, the total number of bills enacted in two years now stands at 30—an unprecedented achievement in our state’s legislative history. It reflects your resilience, commitment and passion for the well-being of your constituents,” the Governor added.

In his welcome address, Speaker of the House, Rt Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, expressed appreciation to the Governor for his support, guidance and collaborative spirit.

He credited the remarkable progress of the 7th Assembly to the synergy between the two arms of government.

The Speaker highlighted key achievements over the past two years, including the passage of 24 bills—nearly double the output of the previous Assembly within a similar timeframe—and 63 resolutions on issues ranging from youth unemployment to environmental protection.

He also announced the digital transformation of the Assembly with the installation of an electronic voting system and the launch of a live-streaming platform for plenary sessions and committee hearings.

“As legislators, we have remained committed to enacting impactful laws that reflect our people’s needs—laws that ensure improved data management, enhance educational and healthcare systems, and foster staff and economic development,” Aribasoye said.

A major highlight of the event was the endorsement motion for Governor Oyebanji’s second term, moved by Hon. Jacob Adeyemi Awoniyi (Moba Constituency 2). Awoniyi praised the Governor’s outstanding performance, particularly in education, healthcare, infrastructure and social welfare, describing his achievements as “transformative and people-centred”.

Dignitaries at the event included Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi; Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo; Acting Chief Judge, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye; members of the State Executive Council; and constituents from across the state.