Stability, solid strides as Ondo heads to gov polls

WHEN Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa took over the reins of leadership following the demise of his predecessor, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, many might have viewed his elevation as a mere twist of fate. Yet, in the ten months since he took office, Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated a remarkable ability to govern, delivering the dividends of democracy and proving that his leadership was far from accidental. Now, as the people of Ondo prepare for the upcoming governorship election on November 16, 2024, the question on the minds of many is: who better to lead than the man who has shown a keen understanding of the state’s needs and aspirations? Governor Aiyedatiwa has made it clear through his actions that he is the candidate to take Ondo State to new heights, building on the solid foundation he has laid during his brief but impactful tenure. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has prioritized rural development, an area that had long been neglected by previous governments. His decision to focus on the grassroots has been one of his most applauded moves. By commissioning the sinking of 54 boreholes in rural communities and approving the installation of 1,600 solar-powered streetlights, the governor has addressed two of the most pressing needs in these areas: access to clean water and security. “We’re committed to improving the lives of our people, especially those in rural areas,” said Fadairo, one of Aiyedatiwa’s senior aides. This focus on providing essential services, such as the reticulation of the Owena Dam for the Ondo Central Senatorial District, underscores the governor’s dedication to ensuring that no part of the state is left behind in development.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration has made significant strides in infrastructure, education, job creation, financial interventions, and social welfare, further cementing his leadership as Ondo State approaches its governorship election. In the area of infrastructure, Aiyedatiwa has focused on enhancing road networks and essential facilities. His administration has flagged off the construction of key rural roads, including the 15.5km Oda Cocoa Board Road, Ode-Omi-Ebute Iyara in Irele, and Ifira-Afo in Akoko SE. Additionally, 120km of roads are being rehabilitated across the state, and major projects like the 28km Akotogbo-Iju-Osun-FTZ Road and 60km township roads have been approved. Another major initiative includes the N3.47 billion Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Projects, coupled with the “Light Up Akure” project and the construction of the Walkway Jetty at Obe-nla, Ilaje. In education, the payment of N550 million for WAEC fees for secondary school students highlights the administration’s dedication to supporting families. The government also approved N2.2 billion for the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) and the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) to upgrade facilities, reflecting Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to institutional development. Job creation has also been a key focus, with the recruitment of over 2000 health workers and teachers and employment letters issued to 165 ODIRS applicants. In an effort to promote entrepreneurship, the governor disbursed N30 million in grants to young entrepreneurs, alongside the training of 618 young people in tech skills, with plans to train 5000 more soon. The administration’s support for financial interventions and loans has extended to N220 million in loans to traders, artisans, and SMEs. Additionally, the approval of a N2 billion intervention fund on food security shows foresight in safeguarding economic resilience.

In terms of social welfare, Aiyedatiwa has tackled long-standing arrears, such as the payment of 3 months’ salary arrears to RUGIPO workers and the settling of ex-political office holders’ salary arrears after 7 years. The payment of over N5.7 billion in gratuities to retirees has been a major boost to the welfare of pensioners. Furthermore, the governor’s administration distributed food items to vulnerable groups and farmers and introduced free shuttle buses for students. The governor has also made progress in legal and security sectors, enacting the Judiciary Act to increase the number of judges in the state and approving a judicial complex for the state judiciary. To enhance security, the administration distributed operational vehicles to security agencies. In economic development, Governor Aiyedatiwa commissioned the Sunshine House in Lagos, which is expected to significantly boost the state’s revenue.

These achievements, spanning multiple sectors, reflect the governor’s broad commitment to Ondo State’s progress, ensuring that his leadership has a solid foundation for continued success. While Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership has earned him widespread admiration, his choice of running mate for the upcoming election further solidifies his candidacy as the best option for Ondo State. Chief Olayide Owolabi Adelami, a seasoned administrator, politician, and philanthropist, has a distinguished track record that complements Aiyedatiwa’s vision for the state. With a background that includes serving as Deputy Clerk of Nigeria’s National Assembly and co-founding the Elizabeth Foundation, Adelami brings a wealth of experience and dedication to public service. Born in Owo, Ondo State, Adelami’s deep roots in the state, along with his extensive education—from Imade College in Owo to the University of Lagos—makes him a trusted figure in the community. His understanding of governance, business administration, and philanthropy makes him an ideal partner for Aiyedatiwa as they seek to continue their work of transforming the state. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has demonstrated a clear commitment to the welfare of the people. His focus on rural development, education, and agriculture, alongside his astute selection of a capable deputy, speaks to his readiness to continue leading Ondo State into a prosperous future. As the governorship election approaches, the people of Ondo are placing their confidence in a leader who has proven that, despite the circumstances that brought him to power, he is fully equipped to carry the state forward. With Aiyedatiwa and Adelami at the helm, Ondo State stands on the cusp of even greater achievements, and their continued leadership promises to deliver even more to the people.

• Salako writes in from Abuja.

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