By Emeka Blast 
Ekiti Allocates N18.5bn to Roads, Electricity, and Development Initiatives
The Ekiti State Executive Council (SEC), chaired by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a robust N18.5 billion budget for critical infrastructure projects, targeting roads, electricity, water, sanitation, agriculture, and security enhancements across the state. Announced by Commissioner for Information Taiwo Olatunbosun on Thursday, July 30, 2025, following a virtual SEC meeting, the allocations underscore the Oyebanji administration’s commitment to improving socio-economic conditions and connectivity in Ekiti. The move, part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, has sparked optimism among residents, with social media buzzing about the potential to transform the state’s infrastructure landscape.
The largest chunk, N10.115 billion, is earmarked for the rehabilitation of 11.4km and reconstruction of 6km of the Ita Ido-Ido Ile-Okemesi-Ikoro Road, a vital artery connecting rural communities. Olatunbosun emphasized that the project aims to “ease the hardship of the people, boost socio-economic activities, and enhance security along this axis.” The road, long plagued by potholes and erosion, is expected to reduce travel times and improve access to markets for farmers in Okemesi and Ikoro, fostering economic growth.
In healthcare infrastructure, N1.1 billion was approved for constructing an access road to the new multipurpose building at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado Ekiti. This project aligns with Oyebanji’s vision for a well-maintained road network, ensuring seamless access to critical medical facilities. “This demonstrates our commitment to making every part of Ekiti accessible,” Olatunbosun noted, highlighting the road’s role in supporting the hospital’s expanded services.
Tourism and cultural heritage also received a boost, with N1.83 billion allocated for remodeling Adekunle Fajuyi Memorial Park into an international tourism center. Awarded to Messrs. Rutnael Project Limited, the project aims to honor the late Lt. Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, a revered Ekiti icon, while attracting visitors to boost the local economy. “The park will become a befitting tribute and a global destination,” Olatunbosun said.
Water and sanitation efforts secured N1.5 billion for the Odo Oja Water Scheme in Ikere Ekiti, part of the state’s push to enhance potable water access under the World Bank-supported Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) program. This initiative aims to improve health outcomes and living standards in Ikere, a major commercial hub. Additionally, N515.9 million was approved for reconstructing a failed culvert at Adekaitan Filling Station on Ilawe Road, Ado Ekiti, to mitigate flooding and improve urban mobility.
Electricity infrastructure, a priority for Oyebanji’s administration, received N998.2 million for projects including solar-powered street lights, transformers, network rehabilitation, and a modular solar-powered irrigation system across various communities. These initiatives aim to enhance power supply, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and improve security through better-lit streets. This builds on Ekiti’s recent investments, with Governor Oyebanji revealing on July 16 that over N4 billion has been spent to reconnect unserved communities to the national grid and deploy solar infrastructure for schools and hospitals.
The approvals follow a pattern of significant infrastructure investment in Ekiti. In November 2024, the state allocated N24.28 billion for road projects, including the Igbara Odo-Ikogosi and Itawure-Okemesi roads, while December 2024 saw N14 billion approved for roads, schools, and water projects like the Oke Ayedun–Ipao–Oke Ako–Irele Road rehabilitation. The state’s partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the licensing of 14 electricity vendors in November 2024 further underscore its push for energy independence, addressing a shortfall where Ekiti requires 120 MW but receives only 20-25 MW.
Residents have lauded the move, with @EkitiProgress tweeting, “N18.5bn for roads, power, and water? Oyebanji is delivering! #EkitiRising,” while @NaijaGist noted, “Ekiti’s infrastructure game is strong, but let’s see timely execution.” Critics, however, urge transparency, with @TruthSeekerNG posting, “N18.5bn is huge. Ekiti must ensure every kobo is accounted for.” The SEC’s virtual meeting format, leveraging Zoom, reflects Oyebanji’s embrace of technology for efficient governance, a model also used for a N32.5 billion bond issuance for the Ekiti Ring Road project in April 2025.
