Aiyedatiwa Swears In New Commissioners, Reaffirms Commitment to Ondo’s Development Agenda

In a significant step towards strengthening governance in Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Monday, July 14, swore in a new batch of commissioners to join his executive council. The swearing-in ceremony, held at The Dome in Akure, marked a strategic moment in the ongoing restructuring of the state’s administration under the governor’s leadership.

The event attracted top government functionaries, party stalwarts, traditional rulers, and enthusiastic supporters. It was a celebratory yet purposeful occasion, highlighting the governor’s resolve to continue delivering meaningful development across the state.

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Ondo’s Ongoing Transformation: Aiyedatiwa Unveils New Commissioners

Among the newly inaugurated commissioners are Idowu Ajanaku, Adewale Akinlosotu, Igbekele Ajibefun (former Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University), Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye, Ayodele Akande, Alabi Johnson, and Amidu Takuro. Others include Oluwaseun Abosede Osamaye, Tob Loko, Olaolu Akindolire, Sunday Olajide, Omoyofunmi Segun Henry, Adesoji Afolabi, Banji Awolowo Ajaka, Leye Akinola, and Bode Ademuwagun.

Governor Aiyedatiwa lauded the appointees, describing them as individuals with “unassailable qualifications, impeccable track records, and unwavering dedication to public service.” Their appointment, he stated, was not arbitrary but the outcome of a meticulous selection process aimed at elevating the quality of governance in Ondo State.

In a keynote address that reflected both reflection and ambition, Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s non-negotiable commitment to continuity. He firmly declared that no project would be abandoned, regardless of which administration initiated it.

“Let me restate that our administration will not abandon any project but rather build upon them, while regularly introducing new initiatives that will benefit our people,” the governor emphasized.

Reflecting on his administration’s first 100 days, Aiyedatiwa pointed to a series of life-changing projects that had already been commissioned and flagged off across various parts of the state, reinforcing his claim that measured, strategic action often yields greater results than hasty governance.

‘Governance Is Not a Sprint, But a Marathon’

Anticipating criticism about the phased appointment of his cabinet, Governor Aiyedatiwa responded with calm clarity. “Governance is not just about speed; it is about goal attainment with consistent and sustained effort.”

He acknowledged that while some expected all commissioners to be appointed at once, the gradual rollout of the executive team was deliberate. He compared the approach to a marathon—emphasizing strategy over speed.

The governor also laid out his administration’s seven-point development agenda encapsulated under the acronym “OUR EASE.” The blueprint focuses on:

• O – Ondo’s Economic Expansion
• U – Uninterrupted Food Security
• R – Revamped Education System
• E – Enhanced Healthcare
• A – Accelerated Infrastructure Renewal
• S – Strengthened Security
• E – Empowerment of Youth and Social Welfare Improvement

With urgency in his tone, Aiyedatiwa declared, “We are in a hurry to implement policies and programmes that will ensure all-round development for our Sunshine State.”

A Call to Action and Assurance of Inclusiveness

Charging the new commissioners with the responsibility to deliver, the governor stressed the importance of integrity, teamwork, and respect for due process.

“You must discharge the duties and responsibilities of your office with integrity and patriotism, bearing in mind always, the collective interest of the people,” he said. He urged each appointee to foster collaboration with the civil service, noting that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) must function as unified structures to be effective.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also addressed political stakeholders and supporters who were yet to be appointed, assuring them that his administration remains inclusive and open to all willing to contribute to the state’s progress.

“There is room enough for everyone. Governance offers limitless opportunities for people who are ready to contribute to the state’s development,” he stated, signaling a governance style rooted in participation, unity, and progressive values.

The swearing-in of the new commissioners signals the next phase of governance under Aiyedatiwa—one that promises not only to sustain inherited projects but also to initiate impactful policies aimed at empowering the people of Ondo State and solidifying the state’s place in Nigeria’s developmental narrative.