The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has described Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as a shining model of purposeful leadership, particularly in managing successor–predecessor relationships—a perennial challenge that has destabilized governance across several Nigerian states.
Mallam Onilu made this assertion during a high-level meeting held at the NOA Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, April 1, when he received a delegation from the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, led by Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq.
The delegation included Michael Peculiar Ekiran, Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism Development, and Victor Ogundipe, Personal Aide to the Director-General.
Reflecting on his role in the 2022 gubernatorial primaries that produced Oyebanji as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Onilu expressed deep satisfaction with the governor’s performance in office, noting that he has not only justified the confidence reposed in him but has also surpassed expectations.
“So far, so good. Governor Oyebanji is performing excellently. He has not disappointed the party or the people of Ekiti. States experiencing crises in successor–predecessor transitions should learn from Ekiti. His management of stakeholders and predecessors has set a standard worthy of emulation,” Onilu stated.
He further emphasized that the governor’s strategic, hands-on leadership style has fostered political stability, strengthened institutional continuity, and encouraged collaboration among political actors and the civil service—elements critical to sustainable governance.
According to him, states grappling with post-transition conflicts would benefit immensely from studying Ekiti’s governance model.
Mallam Onilu also highlighted the economic significance of tourism, pointing out that events such as golf tournaments serve as catalysts for local economic activity.
“Tourism creates a ripple effect across the hospitality and service sectors. Even small businesses, like local restaurants, experience a surge in daily revenue during such events,” he noted.
In his remarks, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre commended Governor Oyebanji’s deliberate and structured approach to tourism development, describing it as both visionary and sustainable.
He revealed that within less than two and a half years in office, the governor has successfully laid down institutional frameworks that will shape the future of tourism in Ekiti State.
“Earlier this year, the Ekiti State Executive Council approved the Tourism Policy and the Tourism Development Master Plan. These are foundational instruments that will guide the sector’s growth for years to come,” he said.
The meeting culminated in the presentation of comprehensive materials showcasing Ekiti State’s rich natural attractions and vast investment opportunities. In response, Mallam Onilu expressed keen interest in visiting the state to explore avenues for collaboration.
With this endorsement, Ekiti State continues to distinguish itself as a beacon of good governance, demonstrating that intentional leadership, strategic stakeholder management, and long-term planning can redefine political transitions and set a new national benchmark.
