Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has described his immediate predecessor in office, Dr Kayode Fayemi, as a role model, mentor, teacher, and dependable pillar of support whose counsel and support continue to add value to governance and development efforts in Ekiti State.
The Governor said the state is proud of Fayemi and all that he stands for as a shining light, a reformist, a pacesetter, a change agent and a public servant par excellence who redefined public service in the state, leaving an enduring impact on the polity.
Oyebanji congratulated Fayemi on his 60th birthday and said his diamond jubilee offers an opportunity to celebrate the former Governor’s worthy legacies of integrity, service, and honour.
Fayemi, a two-term state governor (2010- 2014 and 2018-2022) and former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, turned 60 on February 9.
Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said Ekiti is lucky to have a personality like Fayemi, who gave his all in the service of the people and remains passionate about the socio-economic development of the State in and out of office.
He added that the immediate past Governor of the state’s contributions to the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999 as a pro-democracy activist alongside other prominent Nigerians are well documented and would continue to be a reference point and a source of inspiration to the younger generation.
The Governor noted that Fayemi would always look back with a sense of fulfilment for having the opportunity to bring his wealth of experience to bear for the benefit of the people as a two-term Governor, a former Federal Minister, and a former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) with sterling and glittering records of service.
He prayed to God to grant Dr. Fayemi a long life, good health, and renewed energy for more service to Ekiti, Nigeria, and mankind in years to come.
“On behalf of my wife, Olayemi, the Government and the good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate this great leader and illustrious son of the Land of Honour on his diamond jubilee, which earns him membership of the “Elders Club” May you continue to prosper and flourish as you continue to serve and champion good causes”, the Governor added.
