The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) is set to break ground on a 200-unit residential housing project in Ekiti State as part of efforts to address the state’s housing deficit. The project, which will consist of two-bedroom bungalows, is scheduled to begin in November or December, following the end of the rainy season.
Speaking to journalists in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the FHA, Hon. Oyetunde Ojo, disclosed that construction would begin with an initial phase of 100 units. He commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for facilitating the project through the allocation of 20 hectares of land along the Ekiti State University Road, as well as the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy at no cost.
“The governor, in his magnanimity, gave us 20 hectares of land and ensured all documentation was in place,” Ojo said. “We have completed the groundwork, and the project will officially take off after the rains.”
A former member of the House of Representatives, Ojo lauded Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive governance style and his ability to attract federal support to the state. According to him, the increased number of federal appointments and developmental projects directed toward Ekiti is a direct result of the synergy between the state and the presidency.
“No previous administration has secured as many federal appointments and infrastructure projects for Ekiti State as this one,” Ojo remarked. “It underscores both President Bola Tinubu’s regard for the state and Governor Oyebanji’s effective leadership.”
He noted that Oyebanji’s inclusive leadership had expanded the political base of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti, leading to significant political realignments. Among these is the recent defection of former Senator Biodun Olujimi from the opposition to the ruling party—a development Ojo attributed to the governor’s performance and credibility.
“Oyebanji isn’t governing only for APC members—he is governing for the entire state,” Ojo stated. “He understands the unique challenges of our people because he was part of the struggle that led to the creation of Ekiti. That history informs his approach to leadership.”
In a pointed critique of former Governor Kayode Fayemi’s reported disapproval of Oyebanji’s outreach to political rivals, particularly ex-Governor Ayodele Fayose, Ojo defended the governor’s approach as politically pragmatic and inclusive.
“Politics is about numbers. If people are willing to join and support development, they shouldn’t be turned away,” he said. “Even those who criticize such alliances once relied on similar political support. In 2007 and 2009, some of those now complaining benefited from cross-party collaboration.”
Using a Yoruba metaphor, Ojo added: “Even ‘iru’ and ‘ogiri’ fermented condiments make the soup taste better. That’s the beauty of inclusion.”
Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Government has approved over ₦12 billion in funding for key infrastructure and development projects, including road construction, housing, and agricultural initiatives.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, confirmed the approvals following the latest State Executive Council meeting in Ado Ekiti. Among the major projects is the rehabilitation of the Ikogosi–Ipole–Efon Alaaye Road, awarded at a contract sum of ₦7.3 billion.
According to Olatunbosun, the road project will improve transportation access, stimulate local economies, and enhance public safety. The rehabilitation works will include drainage construction, earthworks, asphalt laying, and are expected to be completed within 24 months.
With the dual momentum of federal collaboration and state-level investment, Ekiti State is positioning itself as a hub of infrastructure growth and inclusive governance.
Source: Punch
