Ekiti State governor Biodun Oyebanji has commended President Bola Tinubu for his transformative policies, stating they have empowered sub-national governments to implement impactful development projects.
Governor Oyebanji made the remarks on Sunday while receiving the Silverbird Man of the Year award at a ceremony held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
He attributed his administration’s successes to President Tinubu’s reforms, which he said have freed critical resources for states to pursue developmental goals and deliver democratic dividends to the people.
The event was graced by prominent Ekiti State personalities, including former governors of the state – Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, and Kayode Fayemi – alongside Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and other dignitaries.
Expressing gratitude to Silverbird Group for the honour, Governor Oyebanji said the award serves as recognition and a challenge to further his efforts in transforming the state and improving citizens’ lives.
“Today’s award is about the people, some of them are here with me, some in Ekiti State, some in the Diaspora, friends of our government that have stood by us, chief among them are the former governors, senate leader, national and state assembly members, exco members and our corporate friends that have been supporting us to deliver on out promises to Ekiti people,” he said.
He dedicated the award to God and President Tinubu, saying, “The award I receive today is dedicated to God Almighty and also to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu whose policies free resources to sub-nationals to implement their programmes and we are extremely grateful.”
Founder of Silverbird Group Senator Ben Murray-Bruce praised Governor Oyebanji’s leadership, noting that the presence of all former governors at the event underscored his widespread acceptance and respect.
Senator Murray-Bruce also highlighted the overwhelming votes cast in favour of Oyebanji during the selection process, describing it as a testament to the public’s appreciation of his performance.
Other honourees at the event included Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, who received the Governor of the Year Award, and Minister of Works David Umahi, who was honoured as Minister of the Year.
Dignitaries present included the governor’s wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oyebanji; former Deputy Governor Prof. Modupe Adelabu; Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; and legal luminary Wole Olanipekun (SAN), among others.
