Ekiti Health Workers Endorse Governor Oyebanji for Second Term, Laud Sweeping Reforms in Sector

Health workers across Ekiti State have declared their support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid, praising what they described as unprecedented reforms and improvements in the state’s health sector. The endorsement came during a solidarity rally held in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, where professionals from various health disciplines marched from Fajuyi Pavilion to the Governor’s Office. The event drew participation from doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, midwives, and other allied health workers who presented a plaque to the governor bearing the inscription: “Health Sector Appreciates His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.” Chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards of support, the workers pledged to mobilize for the governor’s second-term ambition in the 2026 gubernatorial election. Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, said the Oyebanji administration had recorded significant achievements including the renovation of 103 primary healthcare centres and 11 general hospitals, the recruitment of over 250 health workers, and the installation of solar energy systems, boreholes, and ICT equipment in various facilities across the state. He also listed the construction of new staff quarters, the establishment of emergency operation centres in all 16 local government areas, the introduction of the Ulerawa Health Insurance Scheme, and the upgrade of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) as critical milestones under the current administration. The state chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Olatunde Kolapo, applauded the governor for prioritizing worker welfare through regular salary payments, disbursement of hazard allowances, and the clearing of long-standing salary arrears. He stated that Oyebanji’s governance style had restored pride to the health profession and improved the morale of the workforce. The rally also served as a political mobilization platform, as speakers urged participants to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and ensure that the progress recorded in the sector was sustained by voting for continuity in 2026. In a related development, athletes, coaches, and officials from the Ekiti State Sports Council held their own solidarity rally in support of the governor. They commended his investment in sports infrastructure, including the renovation of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, construction of an indoor sports hall, and provision of modern training equipment. Receiving the delegations, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, expressed the administration’s appreciation and reiterated its commitment to improving health and sports in the state. She called on citizens to back the governor’s efforts by ensuring active political participation in the coming elections. Although Governor Oyebanji has not officially declared his intention to run for a second term, the growing endorsements from key sectors appear to signal strong momentum behind his leadership and a rising call for continuity.