By Samuel Ogunsona
The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has been recognized as the Most Outstanding Governor of the Year for Inclusive Leadership and Grassroots Development at the 2024 EDGE Awards.
The prestigious award, organized by Marketing Edge Magazine, honors Oyebanji’s exceptional governance and development strides in Ekiti State.
The award ceremony held at Balmora Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos recognizes how Oyebanji’s inclusive approach In leadership has brought peace among political class for the first time since 1999.
The organizers of the award said, “In two years, Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated capacity and redefined governance in Ekiti State. Through his inclusive governance approach, the governor has been able to involve all the stakeholders; the elites, traditional institutions, artisans, women and youths are all represented and carried along by the governor. Again, for the first time since 1999, Ekiti enjoys unbridled peace among the political class. Oyebanji’s endorsement and acceptability cut across party lines,”
Receiving the award on behalf of Governor Oyebanji, his Special Adviser, Media, Olayinka Oyebode said the award would spur Oyebanji to do more in the uplift of the people of Ekiti State.
He said, “To Governor Oyebanji, a passionate leader and committed democrat, political leadership is akin to service to humanity, hence, his determination to spend everyday in office towards developing the state and his people. Until the last minute, Mr. Governor was meant to come in person to receive this because it speaks to some of his core-values but some other pressing state matters sprang up that required his attention.”
The awards ceremony recognized outstanding achievements across diverse categories and rewarded leading brands and individuals in corporate Nigeria.
Oyebanji’s commitment to infrastructure development, good governance, and uplifting the standard of living in the state has earned him widespread recognition. Receiving the award on behalf of Oyebanji, his Special Adviser, Media, Olayinka Oyebode, said the honor would motivate Oyebanji to continue working for the people of Ekiti State.
Oyebanji dedicated the award to the people of Ekiti, stating that any recognition he receives is a testament to their support and dedication.
The EDGE Awards, now in its 11th year, celebrates excellence beyond borders and recognizes outstanding achievements across various sectors.