The All Progressives Congress in Ekiti State and the State Universal Basic Education Board have congratulated the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Olayemi Oyebanji, on her elevation to the rank of professor by the University of Ibadan.

The APC, in a statement on Tuesday by the State Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe, stated that “Dr Oyebanji’s ascension to the peak of her academic career is not just a personal milestone, but a collective pride for Ekiti State.

“It affirms what we have always known her for – diligence, discipline, humility and an unquenchable passion for excellence, whether in the classroom, in public service, or in her compassionate interventions for women, children and the vulnerable through her pet projects.

“This is cheering news and a well-deserved recognition of years of dedication, intellectual rigour, scholarly excellence and impactful contributions to knowledge and humanity,” it stated.

The party took pride in the governor’s wife, saying, “We are particularly proud that the First Lady has combined the demanding duties of her office with an unbroken commitment to academic growth. She has shown Ekiti women and youths that it is possible to excel in public life without abandoning intellectual pursuit.

“On behalf of the leadership, members and supporters of our great party across the 16 local government areas and 177 wards, we celebrate this historic feat and pray that this new academic cap will open greater doors of honour, influence and service to Ekiti, Nigeria and the world. Congratulations, Prof. Olayemi Oyebanji,” the APC stated.

Also, the SUBEB State Chairman, Prof. Femi Akinwumi, described the First Lady’s promotion to the rank of professor as “a well-deserved recognition of her diligence, dedication to scholarship and unwavering commitment to serving humanity”.

The SUBEB boss, in a congratulatory message to the First Lady, made available in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, singled out the willingness of the governor’s wife “to deliver lectures pro bono. It reflects her passion for knowledge, commitment to mentorship, and desire to advance society.

“Your elevation is not only a personal milestone, but also a source of inspiration to academics, students, and the people of Ekiti State,” the SUBEB boss said.

Akinwumi also prayed that God would continue to bless the First Lady with sound health, peace of mind, renewed strength and many more fruitful years of service to humanity.

The governor’s wife holds a PhD in Educational Management and lectures in the Department of Educational Management, Faculty of Education, University of Ibadan.

She has been described as a seasoned scholar in the fields of Institutional Administration, Higher Education, Quality Assurance in Education, Human Resource Development and Leadership in Education.