Why Oyebanji Thinks Tinubu is Nigeria’s Boldest Hope Yet

By Achimi Muktar

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has made a passionate appeal to Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a courageous leader committed to transforming the nation’s fortunes.

Speaking at the 2025 Inter-faith Thanksgiving Service held at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre in Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji urged citizens to discard negative narratives about the country, emphasizing that Nigeria was on the path to economic recovery and prosperity.

“President Tinubu’s reforms are already yielding dividends,” the governor declared, highlighting Tinubu’s willingness to make tough decisions for the greater good.

A Grateful Nation Needs Support

Oyebanji praised Tinubu as a God-given leader unafraid to tackle the nation’s challenges head-on. He called on Nigerians to show gratitude for Tinubu’s leadership, especially as his policies begin to bear fruit.

Pointing to the President’s approval of increased allocations to states following the removal of fuel subsidies, Oyebanji explained how Ekiti State had benefited. The additional funds, he noted, enabled salary increments for civil servants, new welfare initiatives, and accelerated infrastructure development.

“After God, whatever we may have achieved is through the President,” Oyebanji said, expressing his profound appreciation for Tinubu’s support.

Leadership with Purpose

At the interfaith service, Oyebanji reflected on his responsibilities as governor, pledging to redouble his efforts to improve Ekiti State. “I have no excuse not to meet the expectations of our people,” he said, citing his years of experience in governance as preparation for the task.

He lauded Ekiti residents for their trust in the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose leadership, he said, had been instrumental in the state’s progress.

Tinubu’s Policies Win Over Critics

Oyebanji pointed out how Tinubu’s policies were gaining recognition even among skeptics. He cited THISDAY Newspaper’s decision to name Tinubu “Man of the Year” as a testament to the President’s bold and people-centered initiatives.

A Call for Collective Action

The governor urged affluent Ekiti indigenes at home and abroad to contribute to the state’s development. He praised notable figures such as Aare Afe Babalola, Founder of Afe Babalola University, and Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), former NBA President, for their support and encouraged others to follow their example.

The service was attended by an array of dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, House Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye, Head of Service Folakemi Olomojobi, and traditional and religious leaders.

Oyebanji’s message was clear: unity and support for Tinubu’s leadership could unlock Nigeria’s potential and set the nation on a transformative path to prosperity.