As Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa celebrates his birthday today, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements he has accomplished since taking office on February 24, 2025. Under his leadership, the ‘Our Ease’ agenda has transformed Ondo State, bringing positive changes that have touched the lives of residents across all 18 local government areas.
Strengthening Security: The Aiyedatiwa administration has prioritised public safety, completing the second phase of utility vehicle distribution to security agencies. This initiative has significantly improved mobility and operational readiness, with additional funds allocated to enhance security operations, ensuring the safety of both residents and businesses.
Education and Support for Students: In a bid to alleviate the financial burdens on families, the state government disbursed ₦633 million to cover the WAEC fees for 23,000 secondary school students. The administration also approved ₦350 million for scholarships and bursaries for Ondo State students in higher education, demonstrating a commitment to accessible education. Furthermore, selected school buildings have been renovated, and revamped free school bus and boat shuttles have been introduced, ensuring students can attend school safely and conveniently.
Empowering Women: The administration has empowered 1,000 low-income women through grants to support small-scale businesses, fostering financial independence and reducing poverty. In August, over 500 women benefited from the distribution of essential empowerment items.
Prudent Financial Management: Governor Aiyedatiwa has overseen an impressive 82.6% reduction in the state’s domestic debt profile, the highest in Nigeria, showcasing fiscal discipline and effective management strategies.
Improving Learning Resources: A pivotal 1:1 textbook-to-learner policy has been introduced, ensuring every pupil has access to essential learning materials. Additionally, resources such as books, tablets, and sports equipment have been distributed to enhance holistic education.
Healthcare Access: The rehabilitation of 50 primary healthcare facilities is currently underway, significantly strengthening the grassroots health system. The recent handover of the State Specialist Hospital in Akure to FUTA as a Teaching Hospital further exemplifies his commitment to improving healthcare services.
Expanding the Workforce: To address teacher shortages, over 2,000 teachers have been recruited for primary and secondary schools, alongside 1,000 additional workers across various sectors, including health and agriculture.
Upgrading Road Networks: The administration has commissioned approximately 20 kilometers of new roads across the three senatorial districts, enhancing access to rural and urban communities. Major projects, including the dualisation of Oda Road and the Akure–Idanre Road, have been successfully completed to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity.
Agriculture and Youth Empowerment: Engaging investors in agriculture and agribusiness, the state has trained 100 youths in modern farming techniques, bolstering food security. A significant acquisition of 10,000 hectares of land supports large-scale farming initiatives.
Youth and Skills Development: The launch of a Youth Skills Development Centre in Akure has begun empowering 500 young people with ICT and digital skills training, enhancing their employability.
Flood Control Measures: Proactive dredging of canals and clearing of waterways have been implemented across communities, effectively reducing flood risks during the rainy season.
Power Supply Improvements: A partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) aims to expand electricity access to underserved areas, while the O’datiwa Meter Scheme offers subsidised electricity meters to residents.
Industrial Development: The signing of Memoranda of Understanding with major investors for petrochemical and fertilizer production plants lays the foundation for industrial growth and job creation. A special task force has also been established to combat land grabbing and ensure transparency in land transactions.
Ongoing Major Projects: Key projects such as the new Judiciary Complex in Akure and the Onyearugbulem–Irese flyover are progressing towards completion, alongside the dualisation of Ijoka Road and the rehabilitation of roads across local governments.
Commitment to Workers’ Welfare: The administration prioritises the timely payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities to retirees, maintaining trust within the workforce. Recently, vehicles were distributed to permanent secretaries to enhance operational efficiency.
As Governor Aiyedatiwa marks another year of life, his dedication to the people of Ondo State is evident through these impactful initiatives. Starnews NG joins in celebrating his birthday, looking forward to more years of visionary leadership and commitment to progress in Ondo State.
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