It was a historic day in Ayedun-Ekiti on Tuesday as the First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, officially commissioned the newly built Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Secretariat, a solar-powered motorized borehole, and flagged off the empowerment programme for Adire trainees.
The landmark event, attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, and residents, marked what the First Lady described as “remarkable milestones” that symbolize progress, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in Ekiti State.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Oyebanji explained that the new administrative building would provide a conducive working environment while strengthening efficiency, coordination, and service delivery at the grassroots.
She described the project as a demonstration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s vision of laying solid institutional foundations for sustainable development.
“I want to especially appreciate my dear husband, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, whose visionary leadership and commitment to grassroots development made this capital project possible through adequate funding of our local governments and LCDAs”. She said.
On the empowerment of Adire trainees, the First Lady stressed that Adire is more than just fabric, but a symbol of culture, history, and identity woven together. She noted that empowering women and youths in indigenous textile production would preserve tradition while creating wealth and opening new economic opportunities in Nigeria’s growing creative economy.
“I congratulate all our beneficiaries today. I urge you to embrace hard work, discipline, and innovation as you take your place in the value chain of Nigeria’s creative industry. Your success will inspire others and contribute to Ekiti’s prosperity”. She added.
Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Ajoni LCDA, Prince Michael Ogungbemi, described the projects as enduring symbols of progress and sustainable development. According to him, the new secretariat will serve as the nerve centre of governance and public service delivery in Ajoni LCDA, while the borehole will address the challenge of potable water supply.
He commended Governor Oyebanji and the First Lady for their unwavering support for grassroots development and also expressed gratitude to his wife, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and residents for their cooperation.
Ogungbemi urged the people to safeguard the facilities for long-term use and assured residents of continuous developmental projects, with governance brought closer to the grassroots, and a society where skills translate into income.
In their goodwill messages, the Executive Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Samuel Alaba Bejide, and other dignitaries lauded the First Lady for her passion for grassroots empowerment.
They also praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the leadership of Ajoni LCDA for their dedication to sustainable development, while charging residents to make good use of the projects.
