Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a second term for the governing councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions, citing their performance in strengthening higher education in the state.
Oyebanji announced the decision on Monday while receiving members of the Governing Council of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, BOUESTI, Ikere-Ekiti, led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof. Patrick Aina, at his office in Ado-Ekiti.
The Governor said the move is intended to ensure continuity, policy consistency, and sustained progress in the administration of tertiary institutions.
“Institutions affected by the decision include Ekiti State University, EKSU, Ado-Ekiti; BOUESTI, Ikere-Ekiti; Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti; and Ekiti State College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero-Ekiti,” he stated.
Oyebanji expressed satisfaction with the councils’ performance, noting that their leadership, experience, and dedication have improved academic standards and infrastructure development.
“On behalf of the Government of Ekiti State, I am extremely grateful to you for your contributions to the growth of BOUESTI. I am proud of the strides recorded, and it is clear that the future is bright,” the Governor said.
Noting that his first term ends in October, Oyebanji said retaining the councils would prevent disruption and sustain ongoing reforms.
“When a system is working, there is no need to disrupt progress. I am retaining all the governing councils of our institutions — BOUESTI, EKSU, Isan Poly and the College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero. I am proud of the quality of the council members,” he added.
He directed the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Habibat Adubiaro, to exclude the councils from any winding-down announcements.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for tertiary institutions to thrive, stressing that education and human capital development remain top priorities.
Earlier, Prof. Aina congratulated Oyebanji on his re-election, describing it as an affirmation of public confidence in his leadership. He said BOUESTI had recorded significant growth under the administration due to sustained investment and support.
Also at the meeting were the Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo; Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye; Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode; BOUESTI Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Omojola; and other principal officers of the institution.
