ATOF Commemorates 30 Years of Ekiti State Creation
ATOF Celebrates Three Decades of Identity, Resilience, Service and Progress
The Akogun Tai Oguntayo Foundation (ATOF) has joined the people of Ekiti State at home and in the diaspora to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the creation of the state, describing the milestone as a celebration of the resilience, achievements and contributions of its people over three decades.
In a statement signed by its Director-General, Kehinde Ayo Alatise, the Foundation said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on Ekiti State’s journey, recognise the sacrifices of its founding fathers and celebrate the progress recorded since its creation. It also called on citizens to remain united and committed to the continued development of the state.
The Foundation said its history is closely linked to the political evolution of Ekiti State. It recalled its role in supporting the 1999 gubernatorial aspiration of Otunba Niyi Adebayo under the Alliance for Democracy (AD), through grassroots mobilisation and political engagement, which contributed to his emergence as the state’s first elected governor. The Foundation was formally inaugurated in 2002.
According to ATOF, the creation of Ekiti State gave the people a stronger platform to pursue their political, economic, cultural and social aspirations. It noted that the state has, over the years, produced distinguished leaders, professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, farmers, civil servants and community builders whose contributions have strengthened its identity and reputation.
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ATOF has, over the years, remained committed to humanitarian and grassroots development through empowerment programmes, educational support, assistance to less-privileged individuals and families, relief materials, awards for outstanding students and support for people seeking employment opportunities. These initiatives, the Foundation said, are designed to improve lives, encourage self-reliance and create opportunities for individuals and communities to achieve sustainable progress.
The Foundation also reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to progressive politics and good governance in the state. It said responsible political participation, accountability, transparency and respect for the rule of law remain essential to building a stronger and more prosperous Ekiti State.
While celebrating Ekiti’s rich cultural identity and the contributions of its past and present leaders, traditional rulers, professionals, farmers, entrepreneurs, youths and women, the Foundation said the next phase of the state’s development must focus on greater economic opportunities, youth empowerment, quality education, sustainable infrastructure, stronger institutions, improved welfare and inclusive development.
It stressed the need for greater investment in education and skills acquisition, particularly for young people, who represent a significant part of the state’s population. It also called for policies that would support small businesses, attract investment, improve agricultural productivity and create jobs for residents across the state.
The Foundation renewed its commitment to empowering the people, supporting educational excellence, promoting grassroots development and responsible political participation, and contributing to the peace, unity and prosperity of Ekiti State. It said it would continue to work with relevant stakeholders, community leaders, civil society organisations and other partners to advance initiatives that promote human development and social welfare.
ATOF congratulated the people of Ekiti State on the 30th anniversary, expressing optimism that the next three decades would bring greater development, stronger unity and more opportunities for all Ekiti people. It urged citizens to preserve the state’s cultural values, support peaceful coexistence and contribute positively to the collective growth of the state.
