Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has projected that the state will evolve from a predominantly civil service economy into a major technology and commercial hub in Nigeria over the next 30 years.

Oyebanji made the projection in a statewide broadcast marking Ekiti State’s 30th anniversary, which was created on October 1, 1996, alongside five other states by the administration of former military Head of State, Sani Abacha.

The Governor said his administration had launched a 30-year Transformation Agenda aimed at positioning Ekiti as a leading centre for agriculture and agro-processing, technology, education, tourism, creative industries and youth entrepreneurship.

He identified the ongoing multi-billion-naira Ekiti Knowledge Zone as a key component of the plan, describing it as a technology park and economic ecosystem designed to support innovation and the creative potential of young people.

Oyebanji said the government also expects the planned Special Agro-Processing Zone to contribute to economic transformation, job creation and private-sector investment.

He said the anniversary theme, “Ekiti at 30: Celebrating the Past and Creating the Future,” reflects the administration’s intention to build on the state’s achievements while preparing for its long-term development.

The Governor acknowledged the contributions of past leaders, traditional rulers and members of the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State, describing their efforts as instrumental to the creation of the state.

He said the administration’s vision was to build an industrialised Ekiti where private-sector investment, enterprise and productivity drive prosperity.

Oyebanji also announced a youth-focused conversation scheduled for October 7, 2026, at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre in Ado-Ekiti, as part of activities marking the anniversary.

He said the state’s long-term development would focus on converting its existing infrastructure into sustainable economic growth, quality employment and improved living standards.