Ekiti tourism Issue 1 gets serious

Governor’s report card

T.Avanta

Media Ekiti kete - No place like home Diary or a foreigner in Ekiti | Ekiti Farming: The way ahead | Ekiti women empowered Publisher’s message

Avanta Media is made up of Ekiti indigenes T.Avanta and our European colleagues. We realised there is a need to reach out to other Ekiti prominent people professional Nigerians to offer their global expertise to the benefit of our nation as a Media past and present, home and abroad whole. Starting with , the idea behind the ’Rising’ community magazine was to Contact create a direct link of communication between [email protected] the state government and it’s people by being Taiwo and Kenny Olateju the first truly free community magazine to be 178 Waterside Close Chief Julius Shola Olatoye Late Madam produced and delivered to local indigenes to London Adefunmilayo Ani US Housing guru Folake Adigun Notable Management the Nigerian states at no cost to the reader. SE28 0GS pioneering entrepreneur 1942 – 1999 experts Working with the various state governments we are confident that this concept will be a lasting legacy of communicationTo make this Folake House happen, we intend to recruit locally based D74 Ilale Street individuals to get relevant information to you Isan, Ekiti State through the tri-monthly magazine. Nigeria T.avanta is a British-Nigerian organisation from a construction/Agric background in the UK, hoping to also get involved with the Editorial team development of our Nigerian states through effective project management and community Tajudeen Raheem cohesion through our publication. Chief Anisulowo, a.k.a. Chief This year Shola Olatoye Born in 1944 at Isan-ekiti ,she They are both innovative twins Ani, a native of Are-Ekiti spent reaped the rewards of hard attended Saint Paul Anglican and natives of Ekiti State. The most of his life in Ado where work and distinct expertise Primary school isan-ekiti, Olateju’s are both directors of he thrived as a most visionary in her field, to be appointed later relocated to Kano stste. ERP Consulting, a specialist business man. His business the Chair person and leading She established herself as an Information Technology Editor’s message career with multinationals person for the New York enterprising business woman. consulting firm. They are started with SCOA in Ondo, City Housing Authority. With the blessings of wealth true professionals in their Oshogbo and Ado-Ekiti, where Her position oversees the that came with her business field with a great reputation We are highly pleased to be approached with Features Editor Deputy Editor he rose to become the area interests of over 40,000 efforts, one of many including for their consultative skills such a project. This pilot magazine has been Dupe Folawiyo Marian Foster US residence in terms industrial fishery. she became and knowledge in Business researched extensively to ensure that the Manager. With great business knowledge, he rose to become of housing and general a noted figure of philanthropy Analysis, IT management, magazine serves its purpose to the people of accommodation. She is a with countless donations to solutions, process and project one of the few early pioneers Ekiti state first, before any individual interests proud native of Okemos - educational and religious management. This spans over of local trade and commerce, or organisation. We hope the people of Ekiti Ekiti. After graduating from institutions. This included 20 years working with major building for himself a vast would connect with the publication and use it Wesleyan with honours in scholarships and personal world corporations such as business empire which included as a tool to communicate issues, concerns and history, Ms. Olatoye received mentoring. She is remembered Accenture, Logica and Atos wants to their state governor. From important real estate and retailing under her master’s degree in public as one of the pioneers of to name a few. Their work issues to light hearted social activities. Ekiti the Anisulowo Supermarket administration from New York vehicle hire purchase schemes portfolio also extends to human Rising is for you the local reader. Get involved Image Editor/ Content liaison brand. He introduced Ekiti to University’s Robert F. Wagner enabling many drivers to capital development, with and let’s hear your views regarding all issues Sola Akinfie lead graphics Tunde George the industrial style supermarket School of Public Service. eventually become proud high profile clients including that affect you. Tincuta Moscaliuc concept, supplying the The 39 year old Nigerian- owners of work vehicles. Her the Cabinet Office, The residence of Ado -Ekiti with American built her career agricultural development Metropolitan Police, Deutch Tourism Editor groceries and domestic goods on community progression contributions came in the form Bank, Royal Bank of Scotland, Frank Palmer serviced with a passion for for the city, creating of cassava plantations, through British Telecoms, British Gas, high quality and mainstream quite a name for herself the Owena river basing project, Transport for London etc. They presentation. His mid -scale in the reform of housing a joint successful project maintain a keen interest in the Agricultural Editor chain of supermarkets became allocation to the needy. The between herself and the former development of their home land Yemi Oguntayo a centre point in competitive present mayor of New York government. as seen in their involvement standards to the then national recognised her achievements She championed the women’s with Nigerian Community Social Editor giants UTC, Leventis and at the centre of some of the cause by being an active voice associations which includes Gbenga Ogunsanya Kingsway. He left behind a most innovative interventions in politics and becoming the Nigerians in Diaspora (NIDOE) legacy of professionalism in for seniors and homeless Ondo State women’s leader and Ekiti Club with special focus local commerce and trade. families. Olatoye is married for the then NPN party. In on the progression of Ekiti and Engineering Project to Matthew Strozier, an editor recognition of her work she was its people. Liaison Editor at The Wall Street Journal. made the Iyalaje of Isan-ekiti, Adekunle Adeyemo above all she was survived by 3 children, Tajudeen, Olusegun and Tinuke Adigun. Writers/Contributors

Yele Ogunyemi Emeka Okabi Helen Fraser Jide Oshobi Steve Davies Akintunde Ogunleye Patience Olotu Gary Hines

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www.reachcentrica.com 3 We call on all clubs and associations based in other parts of Nigeria and Ekiti Socials abroad to connect with Ekiti Rising. Through this quarterly publication we aim to build a growing number of gallery Woman of Ekiti faithfuls who have one common goal in the benefit of the State. Let’s hear from you. Share your comments, views and prospects with the Ekiti substance people. Look closer at investment or growth opportunities to get involved in, while Ekiti emerges as a beacon region to the rest of Nigeria. Deputy Governor, Mrs. Funmi Olayinka trains for the World Send details to: cup in Brazil. [email protected]

I D O FIDUO IGBEMO IN DIASPORA ORGANISATION - FEDERATION OF IKUN EKITI DESCENDANTS Usa, Canada, UK & Nigeria UNION OVERSEAS - California Igbemo sons and daughters, wives Sons and Daughters of the Town and and friends. their spouses. Traditional weddings www.igbemo-ekiti.com www.fiduo.org AFOGOGE ASSOCIATION FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE O P U LONDON A Tribute to the late IN EKITI - Fct Abuja OYE PROGRESSIVE UNION LONDON - London Individuals or groups of people who are of deputy governor R.I.P. Ekiti source. All Oye indigenes living in UK.

Mrs Olufunmilayo Olayinka was and 1983 respectively. She was WWW.OPU.UK truly a woman of elegance three times winner of the Dean’s EDAFC and refinement. Charming and Honour roll. OESPU EKITI DIASPORA ASSOCIATION FOR most knowledgeable,with a ONDO EKITI STATES PROGRESS UNION FUTURE CHANGE - Brussels, Belgium heart for the people of Ekiti. Olufunmilayo Olayinka died in HAMBURG GERMANY - Germany Subsequently sworn in as the the evening of 6 April 2013 after For every Ekiti citizen from the age of 20 years, Ondo & Ekiti states origin and wives. living outside Nigeria, by birth or by marriage. substantive Deputy Governor of a long battle with cancer. She is Ekiti State by virtue of her existing survived by her husband and their www.ekitidafc.com role as the running mate of Dr three children. www.ondoekitigermany.com Kayode Fayemi during the 2007 Governorship Elections . A great The people of Ekiti will always EDESC EK 47 shame that her short but effective remember you for her enthusiastic EKITI IN DIASPORA FOR ECONOMIC AND 47 EKITI INDIGENES FOR CHANGE - role as Deputy Governor was cut work alongside the present SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT - Denver, CO, USA Area 11 Garki Abuja short, she is certainly missed. governor, working hard to support All Ekiti Sons and Daughters residing in the the interests of the people and For University graduates with a passion for USA and beyond. political change within Ekiti. A Marketing Analyst & Strategist our great nation at large. RIP who started her career in Banking Mother, wife, sister and friend of with First Bank of Nigeria Plc in 1986 the people. www.edesc.org www.ek47.com and later on a most prominent ADA career in other mainstream banks ENAS ARAMOKO DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION in Nigeria, her role in public EKITI NOBLES ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA - INTERNATIONAL - Abuja, , Port Harcout relations and overall co-ordinaton Abuja National Headquarters of administrative services for Pictures from the Couple with Adebayo Fatoba, All Ekiti nobles patrotic indegens. annual festival,Ayede, Ecobank offered her a taste of of Ara Ekiti Ekiti State. connecting with the public and led .ORG www.aramkdevpt.org to her political career WWW.EKITINOBLESASSOCIATION EKITI 22USD CLUB Her academic credentials is apo Lagos typical of an Ekiti native holding EKITI 22 UNITED STATES DOLLARS CLUB - Ekitipar Lagos EKITIPARAPO LAGOS - , Nigeria a Masters Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor Open to anyone in any location. of Business Administration Sons & Daugthers of Ekiti resident in Lagos. [Marketing] from Central State

JKF before the grey hair University, United States in 1981 www.22usd.com Dinner time in Ekiti days of government 4 www.ekitiparapolagos.org 5 The provision of a significantly increased budgetary allocation and the commissioning of professional individuals Hotel spotlight experienced in the tourism industry is a step in the right direction. One can see how the various sites are being By Binta Ohege upgraded to accommodate visitors with the necessary infrastructure and resort Past and present state governors facilities in view of making regular visit’s Pathfinder Hotel Pathfinder Hotel and Holiday have always recognised the potential a much more attractive prospect. Inn arguably the best hotel in of Ekiti state tourism. The Ikogosi the state and most competitively Ekiti tourism warm springs for instance, may be A capital vote of N146million being better than many in Lagos seen as the flagship destination allocated in the 2011 Budget for tourism or Abuja. It sits close to the for tourism but there is much more development is showing signs of life sprawling expanse of The - a new dawn delights that Ekiti has to offer. This is 3 years on. Private investors are now University of Ado-Ekiti in the evident in the several programmes looking more closely. Other states have Ilokun area of the town. It makes designed to promote the tourist taken note and began to review their own a perfect stay over for all types attributes of the region. Take the Ekiti areas of potential tourism more closely. of visitors to the University Nature Trails, it’s a linkage scheme in Ekiti Tourism is not just about getting as well as other parts of the collaboration with the Ikogosi Warm the visitor numbers up. It brings with it immediate area. It is one of Employment and offshoots of internal Spring Resort, aimed at matching and the inclusions that has benefited Is Ekiti really ready to lead trade and commerce. Taking advantage jointly associating the various eco- of a more attentive private sector, The from nearby government the way in Tourism? tourism sites in the state. present government should looked closer modernisation structures. Not in the direction of private /public sector to be confused with the typical partnerships to fully develop the tourism hotel types of old, this one is potential. One of such initiatives to kick 5 star and insists on keeping it Ekiti tourism is set to continue benefiting especially amongst the indigenes of prospects on a worthwhile return on start the development ambitions was the that way in look and service. from the state government’s aim to the area or other citizens in the west of investment. The raw materials is there, it launch of a Tourism Development Trust further develop the sector as a major Nigeria. The idea of a spending holidays can certainly be done. Fund for the state. • 60 rooms Average charges: source of internal revenue and to and short breaks in Ekiti needs to be sold boost the popularity of domestic as to the market directly. • Full parking and valeting N8280 - N32,400/night well as international tourism. Being a So what‘s An example of the spread of government • Twin pools source of employment is also a major To further develop the other clusters of being done? investment into the industry is seen • Restarant & bars 0808 548 4968 with work on the Arinta Waterfalls plus for the state. If all goes well with tourist sites in Ekiti, there is a need to We do see evident commitment to feed • Fully equipped gym www.pathfinderhotel.com the development of such sites, the source outside investment from private site. Fund allocation was approved to the potential cash cow with ambitious • Large capacity conference university of road, venture could serve as a benchmark for concerns or even foreign stake holders. projects to exploit the commercial the State Tourism Board to begin the developing alternate sources of internal The government can only do so much attributes of Ekiti tourism. It’s been a construction of the first phase of the and event halls Ilokun, Ado, Ekiti and federal contributory revenue besides with the very limited budget allocation. good move not to neglect other sites development of the tourist site, which oil production and that goes for any state Private investment campaigns are done in besides Ikogosi Warm Springs, but has been completed. It consists of a Quite an elegant three star hotel not just Ekiti. Putting Ekiti on the tourism other countries such as the UAE, the UK more can be done to bring them up to befitting revenue office, gate/gate house, Midas Hotel map should draw secondary economical and Spain, why not here? expected standards. At the start of the security fencing and erection of five designed with the standard benefits as it opens up external Fayemi administration, a new Ministry of relaxation huts for the use of tourist at look of solid concrete, styled in investment and public/private commerce. The present administration also Culture, Arts and Tourism was created the waterfalls. adjacent blocks. Located on it’s recognises that remote located tourist immediately in accordance to the practice own named road near Ayemi garage. The architecture is set The challenge destinations typical of Ekiti state requires in line with the national efforts to support It’s a mighty task but it’s well underway a robust facility for transport. If it’s such the development of tourism-friendly to appeal to business or leisure Is two fold - The first is to develop these with a drive in the implementation a task to get to these tourist destination, states. Getting the ministry busy with stay overs. The lobby and other sites into international standards and run of developing the tourism region of the target number of visitors will never milestones and development targets is an parts of the hotel looks great them commercially as revenue generating the state, from Ikogosi to Ipole-Iloro, be reached, after all, people take holiday essential need. with the marble-tiled floor and enterprises and the other is to market down to Efon- Alaaye and Okemesi tours to relax and not stress themselves dazzling chandeliers. It has them effectively to citizens of the country. Hills, they are all receiving government with inefficient or unsafe transport managed to deliver a service While the natural spots of beauty are attention with commencement surveys options. This translates to a need for The goals attractive to travellers, foreigners vast and filled with great commercial and assessments, Range and scope of further investment with roads and or just the local people out for potential, there has been limited tourism markets are being researched vehicles, and that means an extra burden ▪ Ekiti State to attain regional an evening of relaxation set in commitment to development from leadership in Tourism Development. in the state as well as other community on the state run budget. It’s probably calm and beautiful surroundings. past state governments as tourism is based Tourism initiatives which will be time to woo the investors with realistic It’s carefully laid out suggesting not necessarily seen as a priority need ▪ Transform Ekiti to a significant launched shortly. national and international tourist opulence without being to destination. restrictive. A place for all to taste a bit of luxury. ▪ Make Ekiti an all year round tourist destination state. • 53 Luxury and Average charges: 46 standard rooms N 12,000 - N150,000/night ▪ Brand Ekiti as a friendly, peaceful, stable and secure state. • Gymnasium • Indoor swimming pool +2348135017777 ▪ Position Tourism as the driver and • Fully stocked bars and www.midashotelng.com catalyst for the development of the state and the region. restaurants 15-19 Midas Avenue, • Parking and valeting Iworoko Road, ▪ Compete favourably in the global Ado - Ekiti, Nigeria. tourism market place. 6 7 have a whole school of catfish visible to the eyes before you enter the river. While my mouth Hotel spotlight was watering thinking of fried Ekiti catfish I am told the is a sacred token on the fish preventing By Binta Ohege anyone from cooking and eating them, we were not even allowed to contemplate catching them A hotel with a humble but Wab Razaq Hotel competent standing. Looks and removing them for later Kilometer 1 Isan Road consumption. I guess, that’s part more like a large home built of what makes the place mystic for a very large extended I took a six month break from my role and interesting. We noticed other family. Smaller than the rest but as a travel and leisure writer with the Nigerian tourists mixing with the has a home like atmosphere. locals. Diary of a foreigner American Times to explore the far Located in Ilafon Ekiti, the rooms reaches of West African countries not usually seen in the glossy brochures In view of this, the river, Omi resemble what you’d find in a we see in the travel agencies in Erin, has become a sort of tourist guest house. All air-conditioned in Ekiti State the central part of Newyork. On centre as people come from and airy for the guests to relax recommendation, I packed my bags different parts of Nigeria to see and reflect. You get a bar open and made my trip to this new state in the sacred fish. the western part of Nigeria. for long hours and a much Jane Madison’s Nigerian experience quieter environment since there Ikogosi Warm are fewer guests staying over at Springs the hotel. Building is secure and The Arinta Waterfalls surrounding mountains and rocks was the staff are polite . The food Days 1 - 5 quite a sight to behold. We passed This place is seen as the most served works well with local While I did enjoy the hustle and This was one of my favourites. through long steep valley sand natural popular resort in Ekiti and dishes dominating the menu. bustle of the former capital Lagos Tourists to Arinta Waterfall are ridges to get to the waterfall passing arguably of the whole country. A state, I immediately felt the huge welcomed by a supervisor who also through the Oluwa stream which place where warm and cold water difference in the environment once we doubles as the tour guard, Mr. Francis I am told hold devine cures. This springs meet. Much seems to have Located at the entrance to the cultural landmark constitutes a major been invested in this paradise with Queens Court Hotel reached the Ayetoro Ekiti Motor Park. Adetule. He is always available to hilly city of Ado Ekiti along Ado guide visitors through some sheds landmark in the enclave and it’s highly min chalets and lounging areas Much more tranquil and quiet, you - Ikere road. Being right opposite where they can take a rest and eat treasured by the people. surrounding the area. I’d go as far Ologede Police Station offers immediately begin to feel relaxed. few metres away from the slope. From as suggests it holds itself quite added security to compliment that I got my camera out to take shots of well by international standards. The people were warm and friendly the slope, one can see the wonder of of the hotel. While this is not your the wildlife which included rare birds We met an Australian and British and quite approachable. Being a nature as fresh water rushes along the flagship hotel for the Ekiti area, rocky channel. It takes less than four and domesticated mammals. couple also relaxing at the resort. it’s still a decent facility for rest foreigner clutching hiking gear and minutes to walk to the foot of Arinta I made sure I took a dip in the travel bags I certainly stood out from Waterfall. As we reach the main centre of springs enjoying some deep tissue and relaxation. The grounds are the crowd. I recall all the places I attraction we join other visitors plunge therapy from the waters which I concreted and the main building visited with our guide: We are welcomed by the tour into the powerful jets of the seven hear is great for the skin. aims at bringing that home feel guard who also stands in as the cascades of Arinta Waterfalls. Pure by way of its standard design. It site caretaker who briefly explains heaven! The spa-like environment of looks like a large sized home that Fajuyi what tourist facilities are available the spring has been skilfully extends horizontally connected Memorial Park right near the slope. we found the Omi Erin landscaped balancing nature by out facing balconies similar waterfall located in Ekiti West within and man made structures to to the typical US motel. It may accommodate the high frequency Our first port of call while we were still the surrounding village of Ipole-Iloro Being a fish food lover, I enjoyed this not be five star material but its of visitors staying over at the within the town centre, I hear it’s a Ekiti a sleepy but fascinating rural River area located in Erinjiyan-Ekiti, neat and competent with various resort or passing through. It’s a big revived space built as the final resting community. I loved that smell of The area is a beautiful lush tourist room types of varied standards place covering 116 hactares full, place of the first Military Governor of fresh unspoilt vegetation. Before we destination that still manages to hold from classic to Diplomatic rooms. of luxury chalets and villas styled the Western Nigeria who was killed even reached the waterfall itself, the on to it’s past ancestral allure. You It makes up for less exquisite in different themes. I think I will be in a military coup back in the 60s. I grounds by it’s panoramic staying here for a day or two. wished we had more time to enjoy the location. The surrounding rock boating pool right near the fountains Fajuyi memorial park laden landscape is breath taking, with a nearby games arcade, we did and certainly aids the presence however take the time to go up the of the hotel. As an added extra tower and visit the mini-museum that serves the hotel well, the where I got busy with my camera circular swimming pool is large clicking away at old artifacts and and inviting. The hotel is busy over symbolic pieces of work. We had a quick bite to eat at the reastaurant the weekends with locals making with me enjoying some sort of African for the bar or just enjoying the giant snails and meat delicately surrounding views within the hotel prepared from the African hairy dwarf and around it. goat. I‘d never tasted anything so divine once I got used to the generous portions of pepper roasted into the Average charges: 08148808800 soft meat. After which we set off N8500 - N18000/night KM 5 Ikere Road, Opposite deeper into the rural parts. Ologede Police Station 8 9 We take words of wisdom and Views from progressive comments from natives of Ekiti the diaspora State residing across the globe. With Sarah Harris Ekiti before and after The government’s projection Oba Adamo Idowu Babalola (The Onitaji Of Itaji Ekiti)

Before Ekiti before Fayemi; Ekiti was doing well, particularly during Oba Sunday Ajiboye of Isan Ekiti with the Governor and wife at her the Segun Oni’s admin, it was better than the regime before inauguration as Erelu Of Isan - Ekiti it. But was lacking the political will to totally develop road networks in the Ado Ekiti metropolis. Fayemi’s admin in Ekiti fall back to a slow development. But according to the Bible, tasked itself to develop institutions instead of personalities; even the Quran, the people get the type of leader suitable like Traditional institution, Health, public works, water etc. for them. If there ways are good, they get good leaders, I would say iIt is the first institution to think of the welfare but if otherwise, God sends a leader that will punish them. I for elders. Above all, is the level of peace during his tenure. pray we have a leader that will be good to us. Dr Solanke Akindele Dayo Akinsanya The people of Ekiti however, still complain that there is no Community liaison officer Lecturer money in circulation, and the changes on introduced into Quebec, Canada University Of Bristol, UK the system were harsh in the people, even then it is better than the administration before it. On the brain drain issue My ideas on Tourism

It’s not only in Nigeria we get this problem of mass migration to I am firstly pleased to hear that the current government is taking The future the cities for want of a better life. It’s prevalent in China, India and tourism quite seriously as seen in the development at Ikogosi and Projection to the future depends on the people, if they push other emerging economies as well as developed ones. In the case the like In the effort to enable revenue streams and promoting the sentiment away and allow continuity to be maintained; then of the younger generation opting to leave the farmlands of Ekiti for culture of the state. While the initial commitment to revamping the future will be bright. But the fear of the people is that it Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe 111 ( EWI Of ADO ) the bright lights of Lagos and Abuja. It’s a sad reality call when it these previously neglected tourist sites is producing results. It will may be too harsh if allowed to over rule them, they might becomes obvious that their standards of living is worse off. I believe continue to be a wasted exercise if the target visitor numbers are rural Ekiti has a lot to offer the younger generation. The agricultural not increased and achieved. industry as a source of income and these days as a career option should be made to be an attractive option to our youths. I would This is crucial to the future of the states internal revenue as well like to see the state government launch precision campaigns as future investments. To do this, I would suggest the creation to promote the idea of staying back to exploit the attributes of of an expert marketing team to plan and execute a national and A call for cultural farming and food processing in Ekiti. international campaign to sell the leisure facilities to holiday makers. If possible, design and distribute brochures featuring these preservation Appoint more mentors to the agric youth programs launched by wonderful centres of peace and relaxation. Organise package By Ekiti cultural ambassador Chief Jimoh Aliu (MFR), the present government. Volunteer or paid Individuals who can fully tours. Overcome the visitor barriers of transport convenience by train the youth on building viable farming businesses adding the coach rides as an inclusive package like they have over The Asipa Of Iloro Ekiti here in Britain. There is no community embedded with culture like Ekiti State. I was born in Ekiti State and could recollect the olden days when our fore fathers were upholding and uplifting Eunice Bamgbose Reverend Kolapo Akinmade culture. in those days, people respected culture but now it Council executive All Souls International has been abused. There was more interaction and guidance Cape Town, South Quebec, Canada from the Ifa Oracle for instance. It also encouraged respect. That is why people like Aare Baamofin and Afe Babalola Adapting the plantation approach Collective cooperation do not take sacred things like this lightly. Cultural heritage has been abused to the extent that some Kings who are Plantation style farming as seen in developed countries is what Ive always favoured the idea of collective responsibility and originally the custodians of culture have sold it, also, our we need at Ekiti, it is the most effective means for efficient joint effort. Considering the history of Ekiti and Ondo as well as farming where large scale productivity is achieved through surrounding regions why not have joint schemes where we can children are taking abroad our cultural artefacts and industrial scaled farming activities. The issue we tend to have in all put heads together as well as resources to create industrial heritage, so that everything we might have continued to these rural farmlands in Ekiti as well as other Yoruba states is consortiums. Enable the build of better roads and transport enjoy here at home is now accessed at cost. the issue of how land is acquired. Mostly through inheritance of initiatives to start, form joint units of agriculture and trade. State What is Culture? Culture is the habit of our fore fathers, what scattered plots, private small scale leasing or purchase etc. The governors working together to put the western region on the map. Every country in the world have their own culture, and our father did in the olden days as habits and beliefs, there Italian Cocoa importers we used to see in Ondo town used to culture is very different from religion, the two are not is a lot of wisdom there and carries its own benefits which suggest this as they dealt with scattered clusters of cocoa farmers The exchange of resources and initiatives can only be a good supposed to conflict with each other. All our father’s is a different angle to religion. The Fayemi regime has done where large quantities were purchased for imports to chocolate thing. We’ve seen it in tourism development in countries like Spain costumes like labangada, sanyan, etu, damask, alagba, quite a lot but there is more to cover, like the Olosunta, producing countries in Europe. and Portugal where the shout out becomes much louder due to a damask lasan, sapara etc, with things like the drums have ire, Esu Ijelu festival and so on. All these festivals should be larger concentration of facilities, thereby highlighting the region been casted aside because of the influence of religion, observed annually. We should have a museum at least. For The same goes for other produce such as maize, yam , cassava as a whole. none of our children these days can identify with this sacred and even livestock. I’d like to see some sort of scheme introduced instance, Ondo State has two museums and here in Ekiti culture and experience. We certainly need to build a museum to buy and hire professional farmers or jointly own and merge State we don’t really have one. Let’s embrace our culture for cultural artefacts in order to preserve our historical farms to create massive plantation scale acres where modern and do our best to interact and preserve it if we are to safe identity before the missionaries even reached our shores. implements and food processing can be better put to use. guard our historical profile in Ekiti. 10 11 The skill of financial accountability It’s been an ambitious move to boldly increase the IGR more than 6 times over within six months without much of a tax increase. Word on the street is that the tightening on corrupt or wasteful fund looting is highly reduced. Nothing seems to be going to waste here. So far, Ekiti is actually at the fore front of detailed financial planning and The Governor’s accountability. The budget management reports are detailed and monitored against discrepancies. Documentation on financial history and future plans are open and available to the public. Report Card - Youth engagement and education 1 Ekiti State has not only employed youths but also engaged over 14,000 of them; 5000 volunteered youths at different capacities A Scoring By Results such as the Traffic Management Agency and youths in commercial agriculture with skilled old and young being employed as facility managers and support workers. The implication of this is a lower number of idle youths who have become gainfully engaged. The Hitting the ground ambitious target for training 4,160 teachers was achieved. running, Governor Fayemi As far as education goes, credit has to be given for the commissioned over 1,000 commitment to not just providing educational facilities, major projects in all the 16 but executing the modernisation and renovation of school equipment and buildings. 2.5 Billion to do all this is testimony local government areas of to the commitment for better education. We are glad that the State. Close watchers wasn’t missed.

describe him as an experienced At tertiary level education, there is still a long way to go. Ekiti strategist eager to apply could do with using its academic reputation to develop itself learned principles of effective further . The state could encourage more public /private With Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Wole partnerships to encourage research investment in agriculture, Olugboji (L), Inspecting a guard of honour by newly governance since he took technology , medicine and computer science for instance. recruited State Fire Services Department. office. His leadership appears to include policy formulation, Infrastructure and commercial development interpretation and execution. 2 A much needed review and executable plan has been going His performance to date ahead to bring public companies into significant production while should be based not just about enabling further employment. This included the revamping of tourist centres such as Ikogosi and the former Odua Textiles into what we see visibly happening the Odua Skill Acquisition Centre; Commencement of mining in Ekiti but the strength of activities by the Fountain Solid Minerals Company in Itawure, legacies prepared for future Orin, amongst many others. Senior Special Assistant ( SSA ) on Environment Okun Dawodu suggests determined efforts by this Ekiti. Some see it, some don’t. administration has helped to create an optimal environment that stimulates economic activities which makes Ekiti State a most conducive environment for foreign investors and an attractive tourist destination. Deputy governor While there seems to be a significant shift towards modernization and development caution needs to be exercised in the rapid revival of derelict public companies and infrastructure. Ekiti doesn’t just need them to be operating at full capacity for the sake of it, Revival efforts for the Itapaji and Ero dams for there must be a realistic forecast for the return on investment. enhanced food sufficiency and commercial drive.

Public relations 3 Under their APC mantra, the Fayemi administration since being sworn in, chose to connect with the people by forging a deeper relationship with the traditional rulers. It’s a known strategic means to provide a direct and respectable link between the government and it’s people, thereby providing a channel where local issues can be addressed, wants, needs and suggestions can Senior Special Assistant (SSA) be aired. The respect and perk incentives seems to be paying off Education commissioner Police commissioner on Environment with a greater involvement of the traditional rulers. It all works quite well if this continues.

Dr. Fayemi’s government signed of floundering public companies, industrialization of the State and The first lady of the state seems to be born into the job of communicating with the indigenes of Ekiti and is particularly into law over 30 bills within three modernising and upgrading commercialization of Agriculture. strong in enhancing the empowerment of Ekiti women. Since she’s years which seems to have aided educational facilities and the It all seems like a massive task to been quite good at it, It would be great to see her out there doing in the development of the State. empowerment and employment take on. What are the results of more to assist the cause of other target groups. The duties that The renovation and rejuvenation of over 5,000 youths including the such an ambitious mandate? comes with being the wife of a governor was never going to be a Fostering community relationships. laid back affair. 12 13 Security and policing T.Avanta in 4 Politically motivated killings and unruly intimidation unrest is a stain that taints the performance of policing and community roads and safety in the state. Trouble in the motor parks of recent is also an unwanted headache. Similar to any other state, Ekiti is not without infrastructure it’s own criminal and anti-social problems.

In regards to the government’s method of internal security, there have been proactive actions introduced or approved such as the endorsement of VGN set up to facilitate the voluntary T.Avanta participation of people in the security of their community through Projects their membership of Vigilance similar to the Neighbourhood Knowing Governor Watch schemes over in the UK and USA. It affords the three tiers of government to work more effectively with the police and other security agencies. Dr John Kayode Fayemi

As part of the efforts to reduce the crime rate to the barest By Remi Folawiyo minimum in the state, the governor recently approved the appointment of a former Commissioner of Police, Mr Oladipo Ayeni, as Special Adviser on Security. Also, the Governor Fayemi Yesterday Sector Governance in Africa and Deputy Governor, Prof Adelabu with the Assistant appointed a retired military officer, Col Babatunde Oluwayose, as Out of the Shadows. Inspector-General (AIG) of Police, Mr. Christopher Commander of the Youth Volunteers Corps Scheme. These veteran JKF was born on February 9, 1965. Dega and Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ekiti individuals were handpicked to enable result driven policing. He is the last born in a middle class JKF was sworn into office as State Command. The two retired officers are expected to bring their wealth of family of six, the offspring of late Governor of Ekiti State, Nigeria experiences to bear on the government’s security. Chief Francis Falade Fayemi a long on Saturday October 16, 2010. standing administrator within the He again applied his knowledge Ondo state civil service and the of strategy and execution to his Transport and safety governing Western region back in governing style with the introduction T.Avanta’s Reheem Tajudeen on of the ‘collective Rescue Mission’ a the Uk’s Crossrail project 5 The rehabilitation of the Oke – Oro-Ilukuno – Ipoti road in Ijero the 70s. He is a native of Isan-Ekiti in Oye Local Government of Ekiti progressive approach to real regional Local Government at the sum of over 277 million naira was The present state government has State Nigeria. As evident in his development of a people and the another milestone along with other road extensions and repairs. done great things in regards to road knowledge and personal attributes, regional economy, with a detailed The transport worker groups seem to be relieved at some of the and infrastructural development the governor is well learned with focus in Infrastructural Development, improvements. The road conditions overall have faced neglect amongst others. There is still a way an impressive CV which includes a Modernising Agriculture, Education over the years and appear to be addressed presently on a traffic to go if we as Ekiti people wish to see start in one of the flag ship schools and Human Capital Development, volume priority. a continuation in progressive legacy. Christ’s School, Ado Ekiti and on to Health Care Services, Industrial Roads and transport infrastructure a line of degrees in History, Politics Development, Tourism Development, The proactive launch of EKSTMA charged with marshalling road would need to not just be planned and International Relations from the and Gender Equality and Woman safety on key roads and trouble spots in Ekiti is a definite plus. The and built, but maintained up to Universities of Lagos, University Of Empowerment. recruits seemed to be well trained and managed. It started off with standard. We at T. Avanta are happy and a most useful Doctorate in 300 field agents an impressive number for a new scheme. There is to offer our project execution and War Studies from the prestigious however a greater need for ongoing training. To make better use Fayemi Tomorrow management skills achieved through King’s College, University of London. of the agency, officers need to do more to curb dangerous and numerous stage operations with Based on his current manifesto and Europe and the UK’s Network Rail, uneducated driving. The governor seems to have built a decent He has been a lecturer, strategist, future vision for the development and the very present Crossrail. It’s relationship with the road transport workers in the various motor writer and researcher. Over the of the state of Ekiti and it’s people, all about effective and accountable parks, it would help to gain more cooperation from them to ensure years he has applied his academic his administration aims to achieve project management to see major travel within and out of Ekiti meets its safety targets. knowledge to specialist civil-military certain immediate developments projects like this to fruition. and governing relations. Being while at the same time, placing a born strategist in applicable the foundation for future growth Monitoring every agreed stage or democracy, Constitutionalism, Conclusion legacies for the state. This milestone with contingencies for Security Sector Governance, and includes the introduction of greater any unforeseen eventuality is the Regionalism in the Global Context While there is still much to do and there are certainly problems to deal with, there is notable success but some slow progression in efficiency in the use of state way we do things. For the team, the has offered him the means to plan development resources with more certain sectors as expected, the governor’s approval rating is holding strong. The very idea that a large percentage of Ekiti indigenes personal reward is in the completion and execute. detailed accountability. Create an urged Dr Fayemi to re-contest is a strong indication of support and appreciation. He did win the Leadership Governor Of The Year of the project sometimes under cost environment of wealth creation and within the allocated date for award in 2011 and that’s no small feat. The people of Ekiti will decide, and we trust they are smart enough to vote with heads before Fayemi Today and self sufficiency for the people contract end. their hearts. Either way, The Fayemi Administration seems confident as reflected in their enthusiastic political rallies. and a more effective template for Before his 4 year tenure as the public and private sector business present state Governor. he served prosperity. Dr Fayemi has made poverty, education and healthcare as Director at the Centre for For more information about us: Democracy & Development from central to his manifesto. 1997 -2006 after a stint in various other similar positions before that. Recognising the strength of www.t-avanta.com He has written extensively on collective inclusion. Planned policies governance and democratisation, and executable action will continue civil-military relations and security to be consultative, including being sector issues in Africa. Among his open to ideas from the diaspora and recent books are: Mercenaries, The the local citizenry. African Security Dilemma, Security 14 15 by an indigenous industrialist and Polish foreign partners. The second is a Wood Processing venture jointly owned by an indigenous Ekiti State industrialist and foreign partners. The businesses Ekiti operating as agricultural processing hubs are Campaign Gallery 2014 designed to attract external investment and trade Efon Alaaye roundabout gets a dose through the use of processed products at relatively Colours of unity lower prices. Localizing the complete end-end of the election campaigns rising Schools renovation and modernisation production of agricultural products not only boosts the state economy but provides much needed Is the employment.

Looking at the progression of things come 2014, future bright? the pace of industrialisation is on the increase, there is more evidence of this conglomerate By Babajide Cole styled industrialisation as seen in the more visible exploitation of the vast agriculture and mineral attributes of the state. Ekiti state is blessed Modern health service infrastructure with vast forestry and fertile land blotted with valuable mineral deposits for miles. Hopefully, industrial mobilisation may step up it’s activity within the next 3 years. The shoots of growth are Ekiti State it seems, waits showing but there needs to be some fertilisation applied. With a greater emphasis on reviving for no one when it comes the public companies initiative who knows, this to an appetite for rapid may just become a template for similar collective development. It’s a state development in the near future, we watch eagerly. where academia and a quest A ni opolopo oke lati gun e for knowledge resides deep jeki a jiroro kia si fi iku lu We did like the idea of promoting agricultural businesses amongst our youths. The five into the culture of the people. iku lori ona ti a maa gba hundred million Naira awarded to the graduating participants of the Youth in Commercial Agricultural Development (YCAD) programme has become another offshoot of incubator mentoring t’s taken time to come back to agriculture. Working swiftly with development initiatives are actually where the agro -business can also enjoy the this philosophy of collective finance houses such as The Bank of benefits inherited from the past Ondo same supporting style as the tech and new progression. Taking a page out Industry, the idea is to encourage State government administration. One media start ups. The “Start and Improve Your of the book of community and small private enterprises to build and such example is the creation of the Business” (SIYB) under the Youth in Commercial Looking for a clean sweep Multitude of APC supporters regional development often grow their businesses with lowered board of 7 OASIS companies set up Agricultural Development (YCAD) programme practicedI in foreign lands, there is burdens in regards to costs. way back in 1989. Scattered around of the state has done well to woo the youths to evidence of encouragement by the state EmureEkiti, lgbaraOdo, lgbemoEkiti agriculture not as a burden inheritance but as a PDP solidarity The heat is on! government for self development and The administration insists on self and Okemesi Four of these centres business venture with exciting growth activities proactive wealth creation as seen in reliance as well as a connection to are located in the new Ekiti state. and an insight into farming on an industrial scale. the industrial development through the external investment and involvement, Some have had a up and down results creation of technology and industrial be it through creating an environment becoming less active but others have One of the state governments more successful parks for small and medium scale with the best climate for a return on grown in their business activity. These inclusions, the established Ekiti Enterprise enterprises, and why not? The indigenes investment. This seems to be evident companies also serve to prepare the Development Agency (EEDA) in it’s quest to of Ekiti are known for their academic in the state governments development ground for attracting further external cultivate and lure investors to the state was and technical knowledge, exploiting this policy on redeveloping state owned business activity or state private/ a highly rated move to make the investment valuable resource has been wanting for business facilities as well as foster public ventures. Within the last few into Ekiti state a more attractive prospect to years. The brains and the will to thrive is private-public companies. The idea years some industries sponsored by external stake holders. There has been an there. Al that is needed was leadership is all about output and productivity. small scale industrialists have sprung increase in government backed development in to create a path. Keeping the population busy with up in various parts of the state such infrastructure and other necessities of community a new focus on self empowerment as Ekole -Ekiti. Such industries include progression. We need more of this towards In support of financing and business and community cohesion through block-making and lumbering industries develop targets leading up to 2018. mentoring the Fayemi administration opportunities for wealth creation and and two large factories currently introduced micro-credit facilities consistent income. under construction. The first is the for promising entrepreneurs and multi-million Naira Electronic Bulbs those seeking to exploit commercial No doubt, some of these worthwhile Manufacturing Factory jointly owned In retrospect, the future should be bright for the people of Ekiti, there however needs to be improved communication with the people. This is not a political product of a pre - election manifesto. The people would need to understand what the long term goal is. A clearer picture of what is in it for them, needs to be communicated in clearer detail. Milestones and outcomes being checked like a score board can only be a good thing, it encourages the Modernising agriculture -The watermelon Thumbs up from the world bank The ongoing road development plan people as well as investors alike. farms in Emure Ekiti Prince Dayo Adeyeye and co pushing Fayoshe beats his tune 16 the PDP challenge 17 Reforming the micro a much more informed plan for usage farmers in view of joint activities. and repayment of the loan as well as loan process a stronger drive towards expanding Educate the farmers on crowd funding The micro - loan option has been on output, modernised farming and a and global micro finance schemes around for decades. In states like desire for progressive income. which has been doing the rounds on Ekiti, there has been minimal overall the internet. Many farmers and micro success investing in farmers despite The state government’s proposed businesses in other African countries the committed finance to support the Commercial Agric Credit Scheme are benefiting immensely from these industry. Noted, the government has (CACS) Loan disbursed to farmers charitable loans to buy equipment rolled out it’s own micro loan packages through a commercial Bank to boost of stock and agriculture is actually but it’s a very demanding challenge food production in Ekiti State is getting more out of it. For instance to make this available to all those certainly a step in the right direction. - Living Water Microfinance Trust Inc who can make a decent return on Under the scheme, about 500 farmers (wwwlivingwateris.com) . is a free and The present measures investment. There is yet to be a more are expected to benefit. However, the open fundraising platform for creative Ekiti visible sign of industrialization for a valiant attempt to support the sector projects for Africa. There is no success for growth are bold number of reasons. Funds are limited through assisted financing can only fee or any other fee. within the various state and national go so far, if Ekiti is to meet or exceed and brave, are farmers schemes. One of the main issues with it’s productivity targets in realising a It was conceived out of need, and farming the allocation of loans is the time huge increase in internal revenue, then the thought that through the energy, however, in the position period for repayment. Unlike other farmers would need greater assistance commitment, and donation of many, business loans for small scale farmers, in accessing micro -credit beyond the great things can be achieved. There to make the best of it? the loan amount takes all through Options for borders of Ekiti. To offer Ekiti farmers are others available as portals to the planting and harvesting period much more confidence in exploiting it, help Africa grow and feed itself. Most to generate repayment, furthermore, there is a need to discover better ways support subsistent farming and the success Ekiti mi tio rewa jeki agbaye ri realistic funds for real farm expansion to put themselves forward. Again, it is growth of the small scale farmer in requires a much higher individual slice ewa ati ogoo re best to look at going for it as a group terms of raising funds for modern By Yele Ogunyemi of the pie. That said, there are other or a cooperative. equipment. Microfinance from portals ways to pull in cash investments if such as Develop Africa (Developafrica. properly organised and connected to The National Association of Micro org) and One Acre Fund consists of central funds from the private as well Finance Bank (NAMB) advised farmers making small loans of usually around Ekiti state along with the rest of Ondo all involved play their part, the future as the public sector. to access agricultural loans as an $500 - $2000 depending on the size can certainly take centre stage in should be bright. One such approach association as opposed to borrowing of the individual farming area to farming reforms to feed itself and to farmer empowerment in view of possible options on individual capacities. Makes much ensure the growth of such small, self- the rest of the country with surplus greater productivity is the strength of The farming industry is more sense there. A group with a sustaining businesses. For example, for international export in mass. The the cooperatives. Encourage farmers or even supposed to be one of the representative can access funds much a woman may borrow $400 to buy agricultural reform introduced by the form the cooperatives operating easier while the micro-loans can be chickens so she can sell eggs. As the Fayemi administration can certainly A farming cooperative as a business safer risks since demand for managed on behalf of the group. chickens multiply, she will have more provide employment, stemming organization is owned and operated as the administrator for the product is always there. It’s being done successfully by a few eggs to sell. Soon she can sell the migration away from the farms to the by a group of individuals for their various groups. mutual benefits. A cooperative may farmers in other states who go as far chickens. Each expansion pulls her city centres and introducing western Perhaps the re-education of the be owned and controlled equally as sharing farming machinery and further from the devastation of poverty. style industrialization which is no traditional Ekiti farmer could have its by the people who use its service access to food processing units. The longer a want but a must. Encourage participation in benefits. If we had more educated or by the people who work with the state government of Ekiti has done Conclusive research cooperatives by using it as a farmers attracted to such a profession well to prioritise the growth of the Farming reform across the whole cooperative enterprise. The first lady of A study facilitated by the Department it could only benefit the industry. There farming industry but there may be a nation has been tried for so long, the state, Bisi Erelu Fayemi even lends medium to reach the farmers Of Agricultural Economics at the would be a clearer understanding of call for promoting the idea of collective remember operation feed the nation? her words of encouragement on the University of examined the in the distribution of funds or accessing and applying for the loan, financing and networking amongst various schemes executed in the rural issue advising women farmers to think impact of the “on-lending” scheme parts of the country predominantly in about joining or forming cooperatives., equipment to farmers rather the south east and west have seen the advantages are quite significant. than targeting individuals who little success in terms of the feeding would divert such incentives to the country as a whole and raising Last year, a study published by Toluwase national revenue to decrease the SOW and O.M Apata for the department unintended purposes. reliance on oil. The good news is that of Agricultural Economics and Extension certain studies and initiated reforms Services, Ekiti State University suggested are being tested and executed. The there were detailed findings about the Launch farmers networking Ekiti State government has recognised advantages of cooperatives compared events in every part of the state to independent small scale farming. The the importance of radical growth and where agriculture specialists can development of the sector and we are study examined the impact of farmer’s seeing significant changes through it’s cooperative in such detail, by using a mentor farmers and encourage robust agric development policies. We multistage random sampling technique commercial cooperation. identify certain options that may just to select three local Government areas get us there. from which two villages were selected. Ten co-operator farmers were selected Extension agents should utilize randomly and ten non-co-operator cooperative forums to reach Going Cooperative farmers were purposively selected from Collective effort fin the interest of each village to make one hundred and the farmers on information to farmers and their scale of production twenty respondents. Data collected increased productivity. Greener leads to greater productivity personal and analyzed revealed a wide gap in wealth and regional income for the efficiency and productivity between the Journal of Agricultural Sciences. state. Ekiti is blessed with numerous two. The conclusive results proved that crop capabilities, the potential to mass the farmer’s cooperative is a viable tool produce efficiently is certainly there. If towards improving farmers’ productivity. 18 19 to crop farming in Ekiti State, Nigeria, of income since the old days. Land people. The University also pledged a shortage of modern mechanised under the State Agricultural Credit Recommendations availability is scattered far and wide. several hectares of farmland that farming equipment. While there What the farmers say Agency. This suggests that income Small scale farmers in their great was to be cultivated with a focus on is abundant support and training per capita was higher than the gross numbers tend to have access to small value chain management, starting in the science of agriculture and The government could empower Olayinka Odeyemi - Ikere, Ekiti margin for non-beneficiaries. The plots of land in multiple locations, from primary production to processing better business management, if the Cocoa and cassava farmer ESACA (Ekiti State Agricultural Credit farmers cooperative so as to this being another reason why they and marketing. The Business initiative availability of such equipment is not We want more support and help to get us Agency) loan beneficiaries undertook be able to grant more loans to are not able to practice large scale would increase the Internally Generated achieved, there will most probably modern equipment and cheaper solution for diversified cropping practices farmers, as Loans administered single site farming which is a better Revenue (IGR) of the University and be a slow pace for productivity tractors. Work is too slow with our old way involving a mix of food and cash crop under this condition will be well option for them as well as for the help ease socio-economic problems change, plus, the farming prospect of farming. production which enhanced their managed and supervised with internal revenue of Ekiti State. While such as unemployment, poverty would look less attractive to the gross margins compared with non- the number of land leases and sales and food shortage. Professor Aina youth. There is a need to push high resultant effect. Tayo Omotosho - Itapúa, Ekiti beneficiaries. Purchased inputs and is on the increase, there are problems emphasized that the venture would start support as far as possible if Maize, vegetables, livestock farmer’s accessibility to ESACA loan in acquiring them. priced at N500,000 also encourage impacting and result employment or productivity targets Much more grass root The help for youths in farming is good but facility were major determinants of per hectare on average, there are driven research. are to be met. communication and support we older traditional farmers also need help farmers crop output. also horror stories with plenty of tales Attracting the youths for better farming practice and support. We for farmers to exploit micro regarding disputes with ownership With the Growth Enhancement The Agricultural/Community Skill are not going to be working in any other job, financing from national and and personal fraud.(in very large pop Scheme, the federal and state Training Centre. Was set up to the government should support the older Non-beneficiaries of international agencies and quote please) This has not helped to government is responsible for 50% establish skill acquisition centres generation too. the scheme attributed not just reliant on the state give the farmers much confidence in of the cost of fertilizers, 80% cost across the 16 Local Government governments limited funds. expansion and industrial thinking. It’s of cocoa and oil palm seeds as well their situation to heavy Areas of the State to train youths in Mr and Mrs Femi Adeyinka a messy affair when it comes to land as 90% of the cost of rice seedlings, various aspects of agriculture such as - Ilesha bureaucracy in loan acquisition. For now, it seems we are this was most encouraging when The ministry could do more Sericulture, Poultry, Fishery and arable Yams and Kola nut processing; stuck with large masses of scattered proposed a while back, however, to sign - post farmers to what crops. The target for the training and Our biggest problem is land. There is no farms independently trying to achieve there have been certain issues micro financing is available or employment of 20,000 Ekiti youths recognised authority to help with land a decent return for their hard work. and problems in the execution. It’s even the beneficiaries complained in mechanized agriculture by 2014 issues. Government encourages us to applicable to them. To counter these issues there needs simply not getting to the target that late disbursement of loans is an indication of commitment to expand and work together as one, but to be some sort of regulated body, a number of farmers that need it. negatively affected their cropping enhancing the farming industry, the not much help to make land rent or buy Organise and appoint liaison state government authority that can Success here is acceptable but schedule. The conclusion suggests results may not have reached that secure. There is still too much conflict with officers to canvass and validate the process and safeguard there is a need to review the means that the ESACA initiative was well figure to date, but even getting close land owners cheating the farmer with new represent the Ekiti farmer the interest of the farmers as well as of access and availability to farmers intentioned and should be better to that is a sign of sheer determination charges and double dealing. the land owners or administrators. A not just on paper. funded. However, considering the community in terms of loan and laudable efforts. There is however, large sum already committed to the access and the step by step dedicated directory similar to internet programme, there is a need to ensure usage of the loans. sales portals would be a great better fund management and prompt introduction to connect land owners to buyers much more efficiently. disbursement to farmers. Undue and demand for Nigerians living in the an unbelievable unnecessary hurdles like collaterals country. What we would like to see situation when and complex loan application Challenges abound Steps in the right direction T.Avanta in Last year, representatives of Agro- is a much more robust production of you have a ready processes should be minimized so While the government takes the these crops and having them packaged crop market you that the loan can readily get to the growth of the agricultural industry Allied Company, Vegefresh got Agriculture together with the Vice-Chancellor of for direct consumer supply through cannot supply. targeted small scale farmers for quite seriously, the feedback on results complete harvest and processing right That kind of the Ekiti State University, as part of Being closely connected to Ekiti increased production. comes from the farmers themselves. from Ekiti. We have the packaging raw potential economy an ongoing investment collaboration state we take great interest in the They have voiced their concerns and materials to do so. What we would need can no longer be on the establishment of commercial development of the state with firm explained the barriers they face. It is is much more modernised equipment ignored. We will Bridging the farms. It was a commendable intent intent on applying professional project not always about the lack of direct and infrastructure to boost end - of be investing in towards the introduction of such a management expertise in agricultural gender gap funding, or the lack of modernisation - the line productivity. This is why we tractors and other cultivation hardware. joint venture designed to change development and infrastructure. We’ve While we are on the subject there support from the government. There are in talks with various organizations Young farmers will be employed and the face of farming management seen various schemes launched in areas are deeper issues which continue to in Europe that deal with equipment managed efficiently using modern needs to be a gender equality to which offers significant benefits in such as Belgium and Holland where plague the farming community. supply and manufacture. We ourselves innovative techniques. We may be able bridge the gap between male and regards to future progressive income. land is very much limited and the soil will be investing in the importation of to achieve this by working with EKSU Such collaborations as these would type is nowhere near that of western female farmers. modernised farming equipment and and other agriculture related agencies The land issue further encourage young agricultural Nigeria in terms of cultivation and introducing project plans starting from on sustainable agricultural research Ekiti like other Yoruba states have entrepreneurs, increase food availability fertility capabilities. These countries Mrs Sarah Yapwah, the National the development of our own farms as projects. relied on farming as a main source and create jobs for thousands of have achieved great self sufficiency first President of the organisation, a template for others to join or follow. and then export capacity next. They highlighted this disparity in an We take special interest in the state The aim is to equip Ekiti’s farming have done this through innovation and interview with the News Agency of government’s cassava processing mill industry to such an extent that it Farming initiative precise project management to ensure Nigeria (NAN) in December last year. in Ekiti geared to process 240 metric can benefit directly with the present targets are met within the given time tonnes a day. This is what we need and government’s drive for mass crop and frame and budget. Working with people According to her, the way more of it. livestock production and modernisation resources in Ekiti we can do this too. agriculture-related policies are being of the industry as a whole. On a We have more than enough natural implemented in the country does We have several acres of land already business and investment point of view, resources and raw materials. not favour women. In Ekiti state, available around Isan-Ekiti where we are already in talks with foreign there is a high percentage of female we plan to introduce plantation type investors and various stake holders to We aim to introduce not just mass farmers scattered across a wide farming for Cocoa, rubber, cassava make this venture a reality. cultivation industrial style, but full tiered area. Hopefully, as and when micro and other cash crops in mass. We’ve processing right up to the production - financing achieves a higher rate researched the feasibility of juice and in brand packaging. In the UK for of efficiency, we may see schemes pure water production and looked instance, there are much more Nigerian set up and managed by women for into supply deals with China. This brands supplying mainstream Nigerian women like those that have proved also extends to meeting the maize T.Avanta food right on to the shelves of major successful in the rural parts of India and cassava derivative product super markets and other African food and south America. demand in these foreign markets. It’s Projects shopping outlets meeting the growing 20 21 A show of strength

her appreciation to the people of the state for their support for Governor Kayode Fayemi- led administration in his bid to Erelu Bisi Fayemi has been at the forefront of women bring all-round development to the state through the faithful Women empowered empowerment long before she took the role as the implementation of his 8-point first lady of the state doing her bit to support the agenda. She stressed that interest of the Ekiti people. the needs of the communities Now and then should be addressed through an institution that could outlive The politics of successive administrations so as to raise the voice of the According to the initiator, Ekiti women Erelu Bisi Fayemi voiceless women in the society. is one of the three pillars of the thematic focus of the With Yetunde Fasudo the AWDF. The fund is an organization, are economic Erelu Fayemi advocated Yetunde Fasudo - DG Council African-wide grant-making empowerment, political legislation and other legal for Art and Culture Ekiti State foundation, which has participation, enhanced framework to support There is an endless list of prominent Ekiti been in existence for over healthcare, education and women, from academia to politics, celebrity philanthropy to assist women one decade. training, promoting the rights and clergy. Tracing the part and role of women of women and enhancing and the girl-child in their of Ekiti is an interesting journey, it dates way the Ekiti woman . Amongst those 30 women leadership capacities. creativity and leadership back from the ancient days . The Ekiti woman The fund has assisted over were Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Late Mrs Funmi Adunni drive. Dignitaries present at wasn’t just known for giving birth to a most 800 women organizations Olayinka and Chief Ronke Okusanya etc. Erelu innovative people but herself has been active In her speech at the launch the official launch of EDF Bisi Fayemi herself a devoted wife, led a 100 in over 42 African countries in the political progression of the state. They of the Foundation, Erelu Bisi made various donations women pressure group on advocacy for gender and the counting is ongoing. have always been at the fore front of country Fayemi was upbeat that to support and identify equality. The fight against rape, abuse and As the President of AWDF, building in a supporting role or as the path with the foundation and its inequality for the Ekiti woman. I myself happen the governor’s wife thought the EDF would become a finders themselves initiator. While announcing to be one of those 100 Ekiti women taking part it wise to initiate in Ekiti respected and sustainable his donation, one of the in that powerful and historical protest. State a foundation similar philanthropic institution The new Ekiti woman has emerged, she is truly owned by Ekiti citizens Chief Launchers, Chief knowledgeable active, engaging daring and to AWDF which is based in After about 2 years of advocacy both before Michael Ade Ojo, who is the warm . the Ekiti woman is patriotic with equal Accra, Ghana. and which would serve as the Ekiti House of Assembly, the public and the passion for the development of her native Ekiti. an inspiration to others. Chairman of Elizade Nigeria domestic household, Ekiti state has established In terms of the politics through the usual part She agreed that non-profit Limited, reiterated the need itself as a gender friendly region within the Based on her passion and of the academia, Ekiti women skilfully sell their organizations could only for individuals to give to the country. We now have laws backing the firm love for women, youths academic and personal attributes through their less-privileged­ in the society; resolution to accord women their rightful and the entire citizenry of thrive when values and works in various industries at home and abroad. position in all areas assented to by the present principles such as dignity, adding that it was a Biblical Through proof of knowledge and tenacity the Ekiti State, she initiated governor. Ekiti has domesticated the national accountability, transparency, injunction. Chief Ade Ojo Ekiti woman then graduates into charming her the Ekiti Development gender policy, I make bold to say that the role of inclusiveness and ownership commended the initiator for way into effective politics Foundation (EDF), which is Ekiti women in politics is well defined. Women not bringing government a platform for the economic were integrated, adding themselves have created a political space into the funding of the EDF A good example is Prof Modupe Adelabu an empowerment of women that all these would be the through guided political leadership. hallmark of EDF. and for making it truly non- understated woman of gentle demeanour and the youths of the state. (Present deputy Gov). With the influence of such governmental. He donated a Ekiti women stand for justice, fair play and Ekiti women, the state is leading the way in vehicle and cash. truth, this has become a main focus in their The foundation was officially While professing her passion gender equality issues, this position for women political agenda. In some cases, Ekiti women for the development of has gone further, thanks to the equality agenda launched on June 10, 2011 ensure these strong areas of social progression women and children of Ekiti Among numerous other propagated in positions of influence such as where dignitaries from all is hinted and sold to their husbands in positions State, the governor’s wife donors were a legal luminary, with the states first lady Erelu Bisi Fayemi who walks of life converged on of influence and political power. In Ekiti as well Aare Afe Babalola (SAN,) has made significant strides in the area of Ado-Ekiti, the capital city. used the occasion to express as other areas where women have proved to be advocacy for gender equally, capacity building who also donated cash; a a precious resource to nation building, people and empowerment for women. former Ekiti State Governor, are getting much more used to trusting in Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, knowledgeable women when it comes to their In those anomalous days in Ekiti, we recall the Alhaji Aliko Dangote, wife of position in politics. Thankfully in regions such historical protest orchestrated by the 30 elderly as Ekiti, there is a greater call for women to get Lagos State Governor, Dame women who rallied bare-chested back in April much more involved in Regional and national Abimbola Fashola, members 2009, this is an old but well respected and even politics. This is because women are seen to of the National Assembly, feared mode of protest. It was practiced to re be blessed with more visual compassion and Barrister Dele Belgore and enforce a stand or protest against an injustice. motherly affection for her native people besides Or to seek redress. This practice is most Senator Oluremi Tinubu. their immediate families. effective in results for a well deserved cause. It was a grand display of the political stand of Ekiti women, more grease to your elbow!

First lady at past EDF functions IYA OJO ONIRU HIGH CHIEF MRS RACHEAL ABIKE FUNOILA PROFESOR MRS ADELABU CHIEF MRS WAYE OSO – IYA LOJA MRS FUNMILAYO OLAYINKA – FORMER DEPUTY GOV EKITI INTERN ALAJA KEMILOLA ADEGUN – BIO CHEMIST DR MRS ENIOLA AJAYI ARCHITECT MRS OLAJUMOKE PERM SEC AJUMOBI ADEMOWO

PRICES MOTUNDE ADELABU PROF MRS OLUFUNKE EGUNJOBI

MOJI OLAIYA – CELEBRITY PRINCESS BADEWA ADEJUGBE WILLIAMS 22 23