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Ondo: History, as Aiyedatiwa, Deputy take oath of office
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has officially commenced a new four-year tenure following his inauguration ceremony in Akure, the state capital, on Monday.
The swearing-in, which took place at the Akure Township Stadium, saw Governor Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, take the oath of office, administered by the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola.
This ceremony marked the beginning of a renewed mandate after Aiyedatiwa secured victory in the 16 November 2024 gubernatorial election under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In his inaugural address, Governor Aiyedatiwa paid homage to the founding fathers and past leaders of Ondo State, with a special tribute to his immediate predecessor, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
Reflecting on Akeredolu’s legacy, he recalled the late governor’s public endorsement during his second-term inauguration, where he had described Aiyedatiwa as a worthy successor.
“I must say that I am deeply pained that this great leader, who foresaw the future, is not here with us to witness this occasion,” Aiyedatiwa remarked, his voice laden with emotion.
He assured the people of Ondo State that their overwhelming support placed upon him a weighty responsibility—one he was fully prepared to shoulder.
“The renewed mandate you have freely given us is a call to action. We understand the expectations of our people, and we are determined to meet them with unwavering commitment and strategic execution,” he pledged.
To chart the course for his administration, Aiyedatiwa unveiled a comprehensive seven-point development agenda, which he described as the blueprint for Ondo State’s transformation. Dubbed “O’DATIWA O’DIRORUN” (Our Ease), the agenda is structured to address critical sectors and enhance the quality of life for the people.
The core focus areas include: 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; and Education, Human Capital Development, and Entrepreneurship.
Expanding on these priorities, the governor emphasised that security would be paramount, as no meaningful development could thrive in an unsafe environment.
“We will strengthen security architecture, enhance community policing, and ensure that law and order prevail across Ondo State. No investor will commit funds where there is insecurity; thus, security remains our topmost priority,” he stated.
He also highlighted the untapped potential in agriculture and the blue economy, pledging to implement policies that would harness Ondo’s coastal resources and drive mechanised farming to boost food production.
On industrialization, Aiyedatiwa stressed the importance of technology as a catalyst for economic transformation.
“We will promote innovation, support tech startups, and provide the necessary infrastructure for industrial growth. Ondo State must become a hub for technology and manufacturing,” he declared.
He further reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare, particularly through the expansion of the Ondo State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) to include informal workers such as artisans and traders.
Regarding energy, the governor announced plans to expedite the completion of the Omotosho Independent Power Plant to enhance electricity supply.
“We will also expand the O’DATIWA MASS METERS initiative to ensure fair billing and efficient energy distribution,” he added.
On infrastructure and tourism, he vowed to complete ongoing projects and capitalise on Ondo’s rich eco-tourism potential to attract local and international visitors.
“Ondo State is blessed with stunning landscapes and natural resources. We will develop these into viable tourism assets that generate employment and revenue,” he explained.
In the area of education and human capital development, Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his commitment to equipping youths with relevant skills.
“We will strengthen technical colleges, invest in digital education, and promote entrepreneurship among young people so they can become job creators rather than job seekers,” he stated.
He also reiterated his resolve to complete key projects such as Port Ondo and the commercial exploration of the state’s vast bitumen deposits, which he described as a game-changer for economic growth.
Calling for unity and collaboration, Aiyedatiwa extended an olive branch to opposition parties, urging them to join in the collective task of developing Ondo State.
“The elections are over; now is the time for governance. We must put aside political differences and work together for the progress of our dear state. We cannot afford unnecessary distractions that drain our time, resources, and energy. This is our moment—together, we can make a difference,” he appealed.
He also reaffirmed that his administration would be anchored on transparency, accountability, and fairness, ensuring that no individual or group is marginalised based on political, ethnic, or religious affiliation.
Expressing gratitude, the governor acknowledged the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and other party leaders. He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the people of Ondo State for ensuring a peaceful and credible election. Special appreciation was reserved for his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, whom he described as “a dedicated, loyal, and highly experienced partner in governance.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on his promises and called on the people to rally behind his administration in building a prosperous Ondo State.
“We will create an enabling environment where all citizens can maximise their potential and thrive. Our vision is clear, our mission is well-defined, and our resolve is unshakable. Let us work together to make Ondo State a model of good governance and economic progress,” he declared.
Dignitaries from across Nigeria, including APC National Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji; former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande; former Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko graced the occasion.
Others were: Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji; Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom; former Ondo State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ali Olanusi; Ondo State APC Chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin; Chairman of NNPC, Chief Pius Akinyelure; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa and Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip.
Others include; members of the House of Representatives and the Ondo State House of Assembly; former members of the State Executive Council; Director of Corporate Services at NDDC, Hon Ifedayo Abegunde; APC chieftains; traditional rulers; religious leaders; and heads of security agencies, among others.
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