Ondo @ 50: Aiyedatiwa Salutes Founding Fathers, Unveils Vision for Next 50 Years

Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commended the founding fathers and successive leaders of the state for laying foundations that have shaped its growth over the past five decades.

The governor spoke on Thursday at the Ondo State @ 50 World Press Conference held at the Government House in Akure, where he described the Golden Jubilee as more than a celebration, calling it a moment of deep historical and civilisational reflection.

According to him, the anniversary provides an opportunity to assess the ideals behind the creation of the state, evaluate present realities and strategically plan for the future.

Governor Aiyedatiwa recalled the long political struggle, intellectual advocacy and moral persuasion that led to the creation of Ondo State, noting that it emerged from the desire of the people for governance that is closer, inclusive and equitable.

He paid glowing tribute to the first civilian governor, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, whom he described as a statesman of rare integrity whose leadership set enduring standards for governance and public morality in the state.

The governor also acknowledged the contributions of notable nationalists and elders, including the late Chief Ayo Fasanmi, late Barrister Deji Adegoroye, Pa Reuben Fasoranti and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, noting that their legacy remains deeply rooted in the state’s political consciousness.

He recognised the roles played by successive military and civilian administrators, from the pioneer military administrator, Wing Commander David Ikpeme, through Colonel Moses Fasanya, to civilian governors including Chief Bamidele Olumilua, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, Dr Olusegun Agagu, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and his immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also paid tribute to the first generation of public servants, led by Chief Theophilus Iwajomo and Chief Elkanah Adeneye Emuleomo, for laying the foundation for institutional governance in the state.

Reflecting on achievements over the years, the governor cited progress in education, healthcare, agriculture, industrialisation, road infrastructure, public sector reforms and human capital development, despite economic challenges, population pressures, environmental constraints and security concerns.

He attributed these achievements to the enduring Ondo spirit of industry, intellect and perseverance.

The governor outlined activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee celebration, including interfaith thanksgiving services across the state, a lecture series themed “Ondo State Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” cultural and historical exhibitions, as well as a gala and award night to celebrate excellence and service.

On governance, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-centred development, driven by fiscal responsibility, institutional efficiency and social inclusion under the OUR EASE policy.

He said the government is investing in infrastructure, urban renewal, healthcare revitalisation, education reform, agricultural value chains and economic diversification, in partnership with the private sector and development partners.

Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed that security remains central to development, adding that the state is working with security agencies and community intelligence networks to protect lives, farmlands and investments.

Looking ahead, he outlined a vision for the next fifty years focused on knowledge-driven growth, industrial competitiveness, environmental sustainability, digital innovation and strong democratic institutions.

He called on citizens at home and in the diaspora to see the Golden Jubilee as a shared responsibility, assuring that his administration remains committed to building a state where opportunities are inclusive and prosperity is sustainable.

Speaking on legacy projects, the governor said his administration would avoid unnecessary institutions but noted that the judiciary complex under construction would stand as a lasting project. He added that proposed projects such as a seaport, petrochemical fertiliser plants and bitumen exploration would boost agriculture and job creation.

He disclosed that approvals have been granted for a refinery, fertiliser and petrochemical plant, with groundbreaking expected in the first quarter of the year.

On power supply, the governor said electricity distribution companies are collaborating with the state government, noting that while Ondo State is not yet generating its own power, electricity regulation is ongoing and O’datiwa meters are being distributed to residents.

In his vote of thanks, the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Ondo @ 50 Planning Committee, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, recalled the creation of Ondo State and urged the media to give adequate coverage to the anniversary activities.

Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji, represented by his deputy, Rt Hon Ololade Gbegudu; the Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; the Chief Justice of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; the APC State Chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council, House of Assembly members, political appointees and other stakeholders.