Aiyedatiwa restates commitment to strengthen family values

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening family values and accelerating development in the Niger Delta communities in the state

The governor stated this during the celebration of the 90th birthday of the mother of the former Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs and pioneer Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Hon. Kingsley Kuku, Mama Keketobou Jane Kuku.

The Governor emphasised that Mama Kuku’s legacy aligns with his administration’s philosophy, which holds that social progress begins with strong families and cohesive communities.

He stated that his government will continue to invest in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation, ensuring that the Niger Delta and riverine areas of Ondo State benefit equitably from development programmes.

Represented by the Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Olabiyi Poroye, Aiyedatiwa described the nonagenarian as a matriarch of uncommon virtues, whose life of resilience, sacrifice, and devotion has continued to inspire her family and community.

“Mama Kuku at 90 is not just a celebration of age but a celebration of values that build society. Her strength, faith, and service are reminders of what binds our people together.

“As a government, we remain committed to protecting these values through policies that strengthen families, empower women, and uplift communities,” the Governor said.

“When families are strong, society is strong. This government will continue to invest in social infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation, to ensure our communities flourish and our elders are honoured,” he added.

The Governor paid special tribute to Hon. Kingsley Kuku, describing him as a leader whose service to the Niger Delta peace process remains a testament to the values instilled by Mama Keketobou.

He applauded the Kuku family for honouring their mother with dignity while alive, stressing that such acts reflect the importance of celebrating elders and preserving heritage.

Reaffirming his administration’s focus, Aiyedatiwa said his government, through OSOPADEC, is scaling up intervention projects in riverine communities—ranging from rural electrification to scholarships for indigent students, healthcare delivery, and livelihood support for women and youths.

“Our Niger Delta communities deserve development that matches their contributions to the state and nation.

“The inspiration we draw from Mama’s life of sacrifice strengthens our resolve to build inclusive policies that guarantee equity and opportunity for all,” he declared.

The Thanksgiving service at the First African Church, Arogbo, was attended by dignitaries across political, religious, and community lines.

Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, in her goodwill message, praised Mama as a virtuous woman and a pillar of strength whose prayers and sacrifices have continued to uplift her family and community.

Family members, friends, and guests extolled Mama Kuku as a role model whose 90 years of impactful living remain a blessing not only to her children but to society at large.

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