Biodun Oyebanji Biography: Age, Wife, Children, Net Worth, Hometown
Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is a Nigerian politician, administrator, and academic who currently serves as the Governor of Ekiti State. Known for his calm demeanor, focus on development, and commitment to grassroots governance, he is one of the most respected leaders in Nigeria’s southwest region. His story is one of education, service, and consistency — rising through the ranks of state administration to become a democratically elected governor.
This biography provides a detailed look at Biodun Oyebanji’s early life, education, career, family, achievements, net worth, and his contributions to public service in Nigeria.
Early Life and Background
Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji was born on 21st December 1967 in Ikogosi-Ekiti, a serene community known for its natural warm springs located in Ekiti West Local Government Area of Ekiti State. He hails from a family known for discipline, education, and community service.
Growing up in Ikogosi-Ekiti gave him a deep connection to his people and culture. From childhood, he was known for his intelligence, curiosity, and leadership qualities. His early exposure to local community life would later shape his vision of inclusive development and rural empowerment as a public servant.
Education
Biodun Oyebanji’s academic journey reflects a blend of dedication and excellence.
He began his primary education at Baptist Primary School in Ikogosi-Ekiti before proceeding to Awo Community High School and later C.A.C. Grammar School in Efon-Alaaye. He later attended Federal School of Arts and Science in Ondo State and District Commercial Secondary School in Aramoko-Ekiti, where he completed his secondary education.
He gained admission to the Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti (now Ekiti State University) where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science in 1989. He went further to earn a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Ibadan, specializing in International Relations and Strategic Studies.
These qualifications gave him a strong intellectual foundation for his later work in academia, governance, and public policy.
Career and Public Service
Biodun Oyebanji’s career is marked by steady growth through dedication and experience. Before joining active politics, he worked briefly as an academic and in the private sector, gaining practical experience that later proved vital in government administration.
Early Career
After completing his studies, Oyebanji started as a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at the Ondo State University (now Ekiti State University) between 1993 and 1997. His time in academia helped him build strong analytical and leadership skills.
He later ventured into the banking sector, where he gained experience in administration, management, and strategic planning.
Entry into Politics
His transition into public service began during the administration of Otunba Niyi Adebayo, the first civilian Governor of Ekiti State, where he served as Special Assistant on Parliamentary Affairs.
Over time, his competence earned him several key appointments, including:
- Special Adviser on Legislative Matters
- Chief of Staff to the Governor
- Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Service Delivery
- Secretary to the Ekiti State Government (SSG) under Governor Kayode Fayemi
In all these roles, he demonstrated integrity, vision, and professionalism, gaining recognition as a dependable technocrat and administrator.
Governor of Ekiti State
In 2022, Biodun Oyebanji contested the Ekiti State Governorship Election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He won by a wide margin and was sworn in as the Governor of Ekiti State on 16th October 2022.
As governor, his leadership has focused on six key development pillars:
- Youth and Human Capital Development
- Agriculture and Rural Development
- Infrastructure and Industrialization
- Education and Technology
- Healthcare and Social Inclusion
- Good Governance and Accountability
His administration emphasizes continuity, community engagement, and sustainable growth.
Family Life: Wife and Children
Governor Biodun Oyebanji is happily married to Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oyebanji, an Associate Professor at the University of Ibadan and a respected educationist. She is a Princess from Ado-Ekiti Royal Family, making the union one that blends academic excellence with cultural heritage.
Their marriage is admired for its humility and partnership. Dr. Olayemi is known for her supportive role and her advocacy for girl-child education, youth mentorship, and community service.
The couple is blessed with children, though their names and personal details are kept private to protect their family’s privacy. The family is deeply rooted in Christian values and public service.
Hometown and Cultural Heritage
Biodun Oyebanji’s hometown is Ikogosi-Ekiti, a community world-famous for the Ikogosi Warm Springs, one of Nigeria’s most remarkable natural wonders. His connection to Ikogosi deeply influences his policies and love for tourism, cultural heritage, and environmental development in Ekiti State.
He often speaks about transforming local tourism into a driver of economic growth and job creation for the people of Ekiti.
Achievements and Leadership Style
Since assuming office as Governor, Biodun Oyebanji has initiated and completed several projects across sectors. His leadership has been described as inclusive, visionary, and people-centered.
Key Achievements Include:
- Launch of youth empowerment and entrepreneurship programs across Ekiti.
- Expansion of infrastructure projects including rural roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.
- Promotion of agricultural mechanization and local food production.
- Development of Ekiti’s technology innovation hubs and skill acquisition centers.
- Improved welfare for civil servants and pensioners through timely payment of salaries and pensions.
He is praised for maintaining a clean record, avoiding unnecessary controversy, and focusing on practical governance. His collaborative leadership approach ensures that policies are community-driven and transparent.
Personality and Leadership Philosophy
Biodun Oyebanji is known for his humility, patience, and quiet strength. He often describes leadership as a call to service rather than a platform for personal gain. His ability to unite diverse interests and build consensus makes him a respected figure both within and outside Ekiti State.
He values integrity, accountability, and teamwork, qualities that have guided his administration. His speeches frequently emphasize unity, hard work, and the dignity of labor.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Biodun Oyebanji’s net worth is estimated at around $3 million to $5 million USD.
His income is primarily from his legitimate career in public service, legal and administrative consultancy, and other verified investments. He is known to live modestly and channels most of his resources into governance and philanthropy.
While his official assets are publicly declared in line with Nigerian constitutional requirements, the exact figures are not available to the public.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Governor Oyebanji has received several awards and recognitions for leadership, integrity, and service excellence.
- Leadership Newspaper Governor of the Year Award (2024)
- Best Performing Governor in Youth Empowerment (2023)
- Public Service Achievement Recognition (2022)
He has also been honored by various professional and community groups for his contributions to governance and education.
Age and Physical Profile
As of 2025, Biodun Oyebanji is 57 years old and will turn 58 on December 21, 2025.
He is of average height and build, often seen in traditional Yoruba attire reflecting his cultural pride. His calm personality and approachable nature have made him one of the most respected public figures in Nigeria’s Southwest.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Biodun Oyebanji’s legacy is one of continuity, humility, and service. He represents a new generation of leaders who prioritize results over rhetoric. Under his leadership, Ekiti State continues to experience stability, infrastructural renewal, and an increase in public trust.
As his administration progresses, he is expected to deepen reforms in education, agriculture, digital economy, and healthcare — positioning Ekiti as a model of good governance in Nigeria.
His focus on youth inclusion and entrepreneurship will likely remain central to his legacy beyond his tenure.
Conclusion
Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is more than just a politician — he is a symbol of dedication, education, and leadership built on values. From his humble beginnings in Ikogosi-Ekiti to becoming the Governor of his home state, his story inspires many Nigerians who believe in hard work and integrity.
Married to Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji and blessed with children, his family life mirrors the discipline and balance he brings into public service. His achievements in education, policy development, and governance make him one of the outstanding political figures of his generation.
