Ekiti State Promotes Inclusivity: Holds Strategic Engagement with Non-Indigenous Communities
Ekiti State distinguishes itself among Nigerian states for its vibrant diversity, boasting a significant population of non-indigenous residents. This demographic tapestry stresses the state’s reputation for peace and unity, strengthen by the inclusive governance approach championed by Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration.
On Thursday ,the Office of Community Communications spearheaded a pivotal engagement with leaders of non-indigenous communities in Ekiti State. Representatives from a wide array of ethnic groups, including Idoma, Ebira, Hausa, Tiv, Nupe/Tapa, Urhobo, Igbo, and Igala, converged for this strategic meeting.
During the gathering, Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotosho, the Director-General of the Office of Community Communications, conveyed Governor Oyebanji’s profound gratitude for the unwavering cooperation and support from these communities. She emphasized the governor’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, evident in the substantial appointments of non-indigenous individuals across various sectors.
While acknowledging the government’s goodwill, Mrs. Omotosho urged community leaders to galvanize their members in alignment with the administration’s vision and initiatives. Emphasizing the importance of reciprocity, she encouraged leaders to discourage food hoarding and extortion, especially amidst recent spikes in commodity prices.
Proposing collaborative solutions, Mrs. Omotosho highlighted opportunities for bulk food purchases from local farmers to alleviate shortages and stabilize prices, aligning with Governor Oyebanji’s agricultural investment and food security agenda.
On the security front, Mrs. Omotosho stressed the imperative of community vigilance and cooperation in crime prevention. She called for enhanced data gathering and reporting mechanisms to improve security measures across the state.
In their individual responses, traditional leaders from each ethnic group lauded Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive leadership style, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of agricultural support and interventions. They commended the governor’s proactive security initiatives aimed at safeguarding farmlands and forests in Ekiti State.
Expressing profound appreciation for the government’s recognition, the community leaders pledged unwavering support for the Oyebanji-led administration. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to seek unity, cooperation, and progress for the betterment of Ekiti State.