Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, marked his 57th birthday by donating N21 million and food items to three special schools and two centres catering to people with disabilities in the state.
At a ceremony held at the Oshuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Ado Ekiti, the schools and rehabilitation centre each received N5 million, while the therapy centre for children with disabilities was given N1 million.
Speaking through his wife, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the Governor highlighted his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs), ensuring inclusivity, and leaving no one behind in Ekiti’s developmental agenda.
“This gesture aligns with the Governor’s dedication to programmes and policies aimed at providing sustainable livelihoods for the PWD community,” said Dr. Oyebanji.
She added that the Governor believed in the transformative power of education and inclusivity, emphasising that the welfare of PWDs remains a top priority for his administration.
Governor Oyebanji had earlier discouraged public celebrations, urging friends and associates to redirect funds and gifts toward supporting vulnerable groups, including special schools such as the Special School for the Deaf in Ikoro Ekiti, the Government Special School for the Blind in Ikere Ekiti, and the Government Special School for the Mentally Challenged in Ido Ekiti.
Dr. Oyebanji called on well-meaning individuals and organisations to partner with the government in aiding vulnerable groups, stressing the importance of collective efforts in building an equitable society. She encouraged those considering extravagant gifts for the Governor’s birthday to instead channel their generosity towards improving the lives of students in special schools.
Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, lauded the Governor for his dedication to enhancing the lives of PWDs. She noted that his policies have significantly reshaped societal perceptions, empowering parents to celebrate their children’s uniqueness and talents.
The event also featured praise and worship sessions led by students from the special schools, prayers for the Governor and his family, and a birthday cake cutting ceremony.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Head of Service Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development Mrs. Peju Babafemi, and Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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