Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has once again directed that only cattle sellers within the state be allowed to provide rams for the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir festival.
Ekiti News reports that this initiative aligns with his administration’s dedication to the local content policy, which seeks to bolster local businesses and empower them within the state.
During a meeting held on Wednesday at the Adere cattle market in Ado Ekiti, Dr. (Mrs.) Habibat Adubiaro, the Secretary to the State Government, disclosed the government’s position to cattle sellers.
The SSG highlighted that the directive aligns with the administration’s commitment to supporting local businesses, emphasizing its aim to bolster the state’s economy by empowering local entrepreneurs.
Dr. Adubiaro said, “We are here this morning as directed by His Excellency, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who believes that the re-engineering of the economy value of Ekiti should go round the people and that is why he said this year again, our people should be patronized, they should be the sole suppliers of the rams. That’s why he sent us here to tell you that you are the ones that would supply all the rams that will be given to our people, the Muslims in Ekiti for the Ileya festival.”
She clarified that all rams intended for distribution to Muslims in the state by the government will be sourced locally.
Dr. Adubiaro reassured the stakeholders that the Oyebanji-led administration remains steadfast in its pursuit of a vibrant local economy capable of withstanding external economic pressures.
The SSG urged all residents and businesses in the state to support local enterprises consistently, thereby contributing to the development of a self-sufficient and prosperous Ekiti State.
Alhaji Alani Yakubu, while responding on behalf of the cattle sellers association, appreciated the Governor for patronizing them since coming on board as governor of the state.
He also stated his belief that government patronage would not only significantly boost their business but also stimulate the local economy and create a supportive environment for small and medium enterprises.