Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Friday appealed to residents to support President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda and to pray for the administration, saying the policies are essential for economic growth and stability.
Tinubu reforms show early gains in Ekiti
Speaking at an inter‑faith thanksgiving service to mark the first working day of 2026 at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic Centre in Ado‑Ekiti, Mr Oyebanji said the reforms, though initially difficult, were beginning to deliver measurable results.
“Though painful initially, the reforms are yielding results, with lower food prices, cheaper petrol and improved indicators, including currency stability,” the governor said. He attributed many of his administration’s achievements to divine support and the backing of Ekiti residents, and thanked President Tinubu for his “immense support”.
Oyebanji used the occasion to urge residents to rally behind federal policies, arguing that collective buy‑in would hasten recovery and broaden the benefits of reform. He described 2026 as a year of “unlimited opportunities” and counselled public officials to manage resources prudently so that governance yields tangible results for citizens.
The governor also addressed the upcoming June 20 governorship election, appealing for peace before, during and after voting. He said campaigns would not distract his administration from delivering services and that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would “play by the rules”.
“I am prepared for the election, and the APC will play by the rules,” Oyebanji told the congregation, expressing confidence that his record in office would secure another term.
Religious leaders at the service echoed calls for unity and responsible leadership. Rev. Emmanuel Aribasoye, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Ekiti State, urged faithfulness and servant leadership. Abdul‑Hakeem Afenifere, state Qareeb Missioner, called for gratitude, contentment and compassion among citizens and officials alike.
Analysts say public endorsements from state governors can strengthen the political capital of a federal administration, especially when those governors point to tangible improvements at the local level. Oyebanji’s emphasis on lower food costs and currency stability aligns with broader government messaging that economic reforms are beginning to ease inflationary pressures and reduce the cost of living.
Still, critics of some of the federal measures warn that short‑term pain must be managed carefully to protect vulnerable households. Oyebanji’s appeal for prayer and popular support underlines the political sensitivity of reform programmes and the need for visible early wins to maintain public confidence.
As Ekiti prepares for elections in June, the governor’s dual message of support for federal reforms and a pledge to keep governance steady seeks to reassure voters that everyday services will not be jeopardised by political contests. He closed by urging all stakeholders to work towards a peaceful electoral process and to ensure that the benefits of reform reach all communities.
Key Takeaways:
- Ekiti Governor Biodun Oyebanji urged public support for President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, saying they are producing early economic benefits.
- He highlighted lower food prices, cheaper fuel and improved currency stability as indicators of progress.
- Oyebanji called for peaceful conduct ahead of the June 20 governorship election and pledged that governance will continue uninterrupted.
- The governor declared 2026 a year of opportunity and urged prudent management of public resources.
