Ekiti health workers laud Governor Oyebanji’s “Golden era” in healthcare, Endorse re-election bid

Health workers in Ekiti State on Tuesday delivered a resounding vote of confidence in Governor Biodun Oyebanji, lauding his administration for what they described as “people-centred policies that have revitalized the state’s health sector.”

In a remarkable display of appreciation, a coalition of health professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, midwives, laboratory scientists, community health officers, and environmental health professionals, marched from Fajuyi Pavilion to the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti.

During their visit, the workers presented a plaque titled “Health Sector Appreciates His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji” and explicitly declared their support for his re-election.

They cited visible improvements across all levels of healthcare in the state, specifically highlighting better infrastructure, timely payment of salaries, improved working conditions, and a renewed sense of dignity in their profession.

Olatunde Kolapo, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and a pharmacist, commended Governor Oyebanji for his commitment to workers’ welfare, including the payment of arrears to local and state government workers and retirees.

Kolapo also noted that Oyebanji had increased subvention to tertiary institutions twice and approved the timely payment of the N70,000 new minimum wage to workers.

Assuring the public of continued progress, Kolapo stated, “We stand by Governor Oyebanji for another term of four years. The governor has done well in the last three years, and he will do more during the second term.”

Speaking on behalf of the Ekiti State health workforce, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, the Ekiti State Health Commissioner, described the current period as “a golden era in health sector transformation” under Governor Oyebanji’s leadership.

Filani emphasized that health workers have witnessed bold, people-centred policies that have inspired confidence, motivated staff, and restored dignity to care delivery.

The Commissioner enumerated several key achievements that garnered the workers’ appreciation:

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• Timely implementation of hazard allowances and salary adjustments (CONMESS, CONHESS, and minimum wage), including landmark pay parity for doctors.
• Payment of over a decade of unremitted pensions, ensuring security for retirees.
• Recruitment of over 250 health workers.
• Rehabilitation of 11 general hospitals and renovation of 103 Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) and staff quarters.
• Significant investments in ICT, solar power, and water supply.
• Establishment of 16 emergency operation centres across all local government areas, making health systems stronger and more resilient.

Filani also lauded the administration for the Ulerawa Scheme, which guarantees a defined package of services for every Ekiti resident, and the major upgrades at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital.

He highlighted the upgrade of Ikole Specialist Hospital to a Federal Medical Centre as an outcome of strategic advocacy that will boost access and regional development.

Responding, Governor Oyebanji, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, expressed appreciation for the health workers’ gesture and affection.

He assured them of more “goodies” for health facilities and personnel, promising not to disappoint them regarding their welfare and the overall development of the health sector.

“These people are here today to show appreciation for the numerous things the administration has done for them in the health sector,” Adubiaro further explained in a chat.

“They know the difference compared to the past. We are happy they have come here to show appreciation and endorse the governor for a second term. They want to continue enjoying the good work, and we want to assure them that Governor Oyebanji will not disappoint them in future.”