New dawn, as Aiyedatiwa, Deputy take Oaths for fresh term
All roads led to the State Township Stadium in Akure, the venue of the inauguration of Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and his deputy, Olayide Adelami, where they took the oath of office to officially commence a new four-year administrative tenure.
The swearing-in ceremony, held on Monday, was administered by the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola.
This marks the beginning of another four-year term following Aiyedatiwa’s victory in the 16 November 2024 gubernatorial election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In his inaugural speech, Governor Aiyedatiwa paid tribute to the founding fathers and past leaders of the state, with special recognition of the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
Reflecting on Akeredolu’s legacy, he recalled the former governor’s public declaration during his second-term inauguration four years ago, where he recognised him as a worthy successor.
“I must say that I am deeply pained that this great leader, who saw tomorrow, is not here with us to witness this occasion,” Aiyedatiwa said, his voice tinged with emotion.
“The overwhelming renewed mandate you have freely given to us has placed on us a huge burden of leadership, and we promise never to rest on our oars. We fully understand the expectations of our people, and we are prepared to meet them head-on with determination and strategic action,” he assured.
Aiyedatiwa unveiled a seven-point development agenda for his new administration, describing it as the blueprint for the transformation of Ondo State.
The agenda, tagged O’DATIWA O’DIRORUN (Our Ease), is structured to address critical sectors of the economy and enhance the overall quality of life for the people.
He outlined the key focus areas as:
Order, Security, and Rule of Law
Urban and Rural Development through Agriculture and the Blue Economy
Revolutionary Technological Advancement and Industrialisation
Efficient Healthcare and Socio-Economic Welfare
Adequate Power and Affordable Energy
Sustainable Infrastructure and Tourism
Education, Human Capital Development, and Entrepreneurship
The governor emphasised the need for a secure environment to drive economic growth.
“We will strengthen our security apparatus, enhance community policing, and ensure that law and order are upheld across the state. No investor will put money where there is insecurity; therefore, security remains our top priority,” he stated.
Speaking on the state’s vast potential in agriculture and the blue economy, Aiyedatiwa affirmed that his administration would implement policies to maximise the benefits of Ondo’s coastal resources and promote mechanised farming to boost food production.
He stressed that technological advancement would be central to the state’s economic transformation by fostering innovation, encouraging tech startups, and providing the necessary infrastructure for industrial growth.
“Ondo State must be a hub for technology and manufacturing,” he declared.
The governor also pledged to prioritise healthcare, particularly by expanding the Ondo State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) to cover informal workers such as artisans and traders.
Addressing the issue of affordable energy, he revealed that his administration would work towards completing the Omotosho Independent Power Plant to improve electricity supply in the state.
“We will also expand the O’DATIWA MASS METERS initiative to ensure fair billing and energy distribution,” he added.
On infrastructure, he vowed to complete ongoing projects and develop tourism as an economic driver, particularly in areas with eco-tourism potential.
“Ondo State is blessed with beautiful landscapes and natural resources.
We will harness these to attract local and international tourists, thereby creating jobs and boosting our economy,” he explained.
Regarding education and human capital development, Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping youths with relevant skills.
“We will strengthen our technical colleges, invest in digital education, and promote entrepreneurship among our young people so they can create wealth rather than just seek jobs,” he noted.
He further assured the people of his determination to complete key projects, including Port Ondo and the exploration of bitumen deposits, which he described as a game-changer for the state’s economy.
Calling for unity and collaboration, Aiyedatiwa extended a hand of fellowship to opposition parties, urging them to join in the collective task of developing Ondo State.
“Elections are over, and now is the time for governance. We must put aside political differences and work together for the progress of our dear state.
We have no need for unnecessary political distractions that cost us time, resources, and energy. This is our moment; together, we have a chance to make a difference,” he said.
He also emphasised that his government would operate with transparency, accountability, and fairness, ensuring that no one is marginalised based on political, ethnic, or religious affiliations.
The governor expressed gratitude to various stakeholders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and other party leaders, for their support. He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the people of Ondo State for ensuring a peaceful and credible election.
He reserved special appreciation for his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, mni, whom he described as “a dedicated, loyal, and highly experienced partner in governance.”
Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on his promises and urged the people to support his administration in building a prosperous Ondo State.
“We shall provide a level playing field for all to maximise their potential and create an enabling environment for economic prosperity. Our vision is clear, our mission is defined, and our resolve is unshakable.
Let us work together to make Ondo State a shining example of good governance and economic progress,” he declared.
