Tinubu reaffirms FG’s commitment to Ondo development

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting Ondo State’s development through infrastructure improvement, enhanced security and economic empowerment, as the state marked its 50th anniversary.

The President, who gave the assurance on Tuesday, during the golden jubilee celebration of the state, commended the people of the state for their resilience, civic responsibility and commitment to democratic values.

The President, who was represented by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, assured the people of the state of the Federal Government’s continued support under his Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to the President, the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, will continue to partner with the state to harness its vast economic potential in agriculture, education, technology, tourism and the blue economy, with the aim of ensuring inclusive growth and shared prosperity.

He said, “Our goal is to ensure that growth and development are inclusive, so that every citizen of Ondo State benefits from the opportunities ahead, regardless of background.”

He noted that Ondo state is richly endowed with fertile land, a long coastline, mineral resources and a vibrant youth population, stressing that these assets must be strategically developed to create jobs, strengthen local economies and improve living standards.

Tinubu also emphasised the Federal Government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and strengthening security across the state, describing peace and stability as critical foundations for sustainable development and investment.

He further pledged continued support for policies and initiatives that promote social cohesion, tolerance and inclusiveness, noting that diversity in religion, culture and political opinion should remain a source of strength for the state and the nation at large.

“This administration will continue to protect democratic values and support initiatives that promote social cohesion, inclusiveness and equitable opportunity for all citizens.

“We must continue to build a society where differences unite us, not divide us, and where every citizen feels protected, respected and included,” he stated

Addressing the youth, the President identified them as central to his administration’s long-term development agenda, urging them to embrace innovation, education and discipline as tools for driving economic growth and democratic stability.

The President said the next phase of the state’s development must be guided by unity, visionary leadership and citizen participation, adding that governance must continue to focus on long-term impact rather than short-term political cycles.

He said, “You are the architects of the next fifty years. Your energy, innovation, education and commitment to service are vital to sustaining development and strengthening our democracy.

“Fifty years is not just a celebration; it is a call to action to deepen unity, strengthen democracy and expand opportunities for all citizens,”

He, however, maintained that the Federal Government would remain a reliable partner in the state’s development journey, expressing confidence that the state has the capacity to emerge as a model of national progress in the years ahead.

The state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-centred and sustainable development as the state marked its Golden Jubilee, 50 years after its creation.

The governor described the occasion as a historic milestone that called for reflection and renewed commitment to the future of the state, saying the state was created as the fulfilment of the people’s aspirations for self-governance and dignity.

He said his administration’s focus is anchored on the security of lives and property, economic diversification, infrastructural renewal, human capital development, and transparent governance, stressing that governance must translate into improved living conditions for the people.

The governor assured youths that they are central to the state’s future and pledged to continue creating an enabling environment for workers, entrepreneurs and investors to thrive.

He said his administration is committed to equipping the youths to lead that future with confidence and said, “to our elders and fathers of the land, we say: your wisdom remains our compass, your counsel our anchor, and your legacy our responsibility.

“To our workers, entrepreneurs, farmers, artisans, professionals and investors, we reaffirm our commitment to building an enabling environment where diligence is rewarded, innovation is supported, and talent is allowed to flourish without hindrance.

“We are determined to ensure that the next chapter of Ondo State’s story is written with boldness of ideas, innovation of methods, compassion in leadership and integrity in execution,” Aiyedatiwa said.

He added that an award night would later hold to honour individuals who have contributed to the growth of the state, urging residents to remain united and optimistic, expressing confidence that Ondo state’s best days lie ahead.

Former governor Olusegun Mimiko, in his goodwill message, said, “I congratulate the government and people of our Sunshine State on this historic milestone.

“For five decades, your resilience, unity, and commitment to progress have upheld the spirit of service and community.

“I urge all citizens, young and old, to continue working together to build a state that is peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive.

“Ondo state’s future is bright when we embrace innovation, deepen democratic values, and serve one another with humility and purpose.”

Some of the dignitaries at the celebration include Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, former Governor Dr Olusegun Mimiko, Deputy Governor Dr Olayide Adelami, former deputy governors Alhaji Abdulazeez Oluboyo, as well as members of the State Executive Council, the House of Assembly, and local government chairmen, who were all in attendance.

Traditional and cultural leaders included the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, and the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, alongside other monarchs.