Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has lauded the contributions of the state’s founding fathers and successive administrations, noting that their efforts have positioned Ondo State for sustainable growth as it marks its 50th anniversary.
Speaking at the 50th World Press Conference at the Government House, Akure, on Thursday, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the Golden Jubilee as “not merely commemorative; it is civilisational in significance,” offering an opportunity to reflect on the past, assess the present, and plan strategically for the future.
The Governor traced the State’s origins to years of political agitation, intellectual advocacy, and moral persuasion that culminated in its creation, emphasizing that Ondo State emerged from “the legitimate yearning of a people who believed that governance must be closer to the governed and that identity, equity and inclusive development are best achieved when a people are granted administrative self-expression.”
He paid glowing tribute to Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, the first civilian Governor, describing him as “a rare gem, a statesman of extraordinary integrity whose principled leadership set enduring standards for governance and public morality.” Other nationalists and elders recognised included the late Chief Ayo Fasanmi, late Barrister Deji Adegoroye, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged successive administrators, both military and civilian, for shaping the State’s development, from Wing Commander David Ikpeme, the pioneer Military Administrator, through Colonel Moses Fasanya, to civilian leaders including Chief Bamidele Olumilua, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, Dr. Olusegun Agagu, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and his immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON. He further recognised the first generation of public servants, led by Chief Theophilus Iwajomo and Chief Elkanah Adeneye Emuleomo, for laying the foundation of institutional governance.
Highlighting the State’s achievements, the Governor cited progress in education, healthcare, agriculture, industrialisation, road infrastructure, public sector reforms, and human capital development, crediting the “Ondo spirit” of industry, intellect, and perseverance for these gains.
The Golden Jubilee programme includes interfaith thanksgiving services, a lecture series themed “Ondo State Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” cultural and historical exhibitions, and a gala and award night to celebrate excellence and service.
On governance, Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s commitment to people-centred development through fiscal responsibility, institutional efficiency, and social inclusion. He highlighted ongoing investments in critical infrastructure, urban renewal, healthcare, education reform, agricultural value chains, and economic diversification under the “OUR EASE” policy.
Security, he stressed, remains a core pillar of development, with strategic partnerships between the government, security agencies, and community networks ensuring Ondo State remains stable for economic and social activities.
Looking ahead, the Governor outlined a vision for the next fifty years, centred on knowledge-driven growth, industrial competitiveness, environmental sustainability, digital innovation, and strong democratic institutions. He emphasised that Ondo State would “not merely respond to change, but shape it: a State where opportunity is inclusive and prosperity is sustainable.”
Regarding infrastructure projects, Governor Aiyedatiwa said a judiciary complex under construction will be a lasting legacy, while planned sea ports, petrochemical fertiliser plants, and bitumen exploration will boost agriculture and create jobs. He also confirmed the approval of a refinery, fertiliser, and petrochemical plant, with groundbreaking scheduled for the first quarter of the year. On power supply, he assured residents that electricity distribution companies are cooperating with the State government and that O’datiwa meters are being distributed, with plans to make electricity more affordable over time.
In his vote of thanks, the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Ondo @50 planning committee, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, recalled witnessing the creation of Ondo State firsthand and urged the press to give the anniversary events adequate coverage.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Ololade Gbegudu; the Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; the Chief Justice of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; the State Chairman of the APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council and House of Assembly; Director-Generals of the Project Implementation and Monitoring Unit, Engr. Rasaq Obe, and OSRC, Mr. Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson; political appointees; and other dignitaries.
