With Adedotun Ajayi

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, had a busy and productive week as he embarked on a series of official engagements spanning infrastructure, health, security, and governance. The week’s activities, carried out across several local government areas, reflect his administration’s renewed commitment to even development and responsible leadership.

On Monday, Governor Aiyedatiwa flagged off the dualisation of the 27.5km Igbokoda-Okitipupa Road in Ilaje Local Government Area. The project was highlighted as one of the key deliverables marking his first 100 days in office. At the event, he explained that the road is a strategic route linking the southern part of the state and plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity between coastal communities and the hinterland.

The governor emphasized that the project aligns with his administration’s broader infrastructural development plan, especially in preparation for the proposed Ondo Deep Seaport. According to him, the dualisation of the Igbokoda-Okitipupa road would not only  ease movement for residents but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the region.

In his remarks at the flag-off, Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated that his government is committed to ensuring that no part of the state is left behind in the distribution of developmental projects. He noted that the Southern Senatorial District, which is predominantly riverine, deserves critical infrastructure such as road to open up access and unlock investment potential.

Meanwhile on Tuesday, the governor was in Akure to commission the upgraded Central Medical Store, which has been transformed into a Pharma-grade warehouse. The project was delivered through a tripartite collaboration involving the Ondo State Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the Global Fund.

Speaking during the commissioning, Governor Aiyedatiwa explained that the upgraded warehouse was designed to meet the high standards required for storing essential medical supplies. He stated that the new facility would help prevent the circulation of counterfeit and substandard drugs in public health institutions across the state by ensuring a more efficient and transparent supply chain system.

The governor further remarked that the warehouse is now fitted with an automated drug management system, a feature that enables accurate inventory control and helps prevent wastage and shortages. This, he said, is in line with the state’s goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage and improving public health outcomes.

Also on Tuesday, the governor proceeded to Akungba in Akoko South-West Local Government  where he flagged off the dualisation of the Akungba-Ikare road. The project was described by the Governor as a direct response to the outcry of residents who have long expressed concerns over the recurring accidents on the route.

Governor Aiyedatiwa pointed out that the dualisation of the  road signaled  a new era of safety and economic vibrancy for the communities along the corridor. He said the road is a vital link in the Northern Senatorial District and promised that it would be constructed to durable standards.

With the dualisation of the Akure-Idanre, Igbokoda-Okitipupa, and Akungba-Ikare roads now underway, the governor noted that all three senatorial districts in the state are benefitting simultaneously from major road projects. This, he said, is a clear demonstration of his administration’s resolve to pursue balanced development and equitable resource allocation.

On Wednesday, Governor Aiyedatiwa handed over 50 Toyota Hilux patrol vehicles to various security agencies operating in the state. The event, held at the Governor’s Office  in Akure, drew participation from heads of military and paramilitary agencies, as well as traditional rulers and members of the State Executive Council.

The governor explained that the vehicles were procured as part of his administration’s ongoing security interventions under the “OUR EASE” development framework. He said the gesture was in appreciation of the sacrifices made by security personnel and to enhance their operational efficiency in tackling crime and ensuring public safety.

Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the people of Ondo State that his government would continue to prioritise the welfare and support of security agencies as a matter of necessity. He called for increased cooperation among security stakeholders and charged the agencies to put the vehicles to optimal use.

Later that day, Governor Aiyedatiwa commissioned the completed dualised Oda road in Akure South Local Government area. The project, which was initiated by the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, was completed by the present administration after a review and restructuring of funding arrangements.

While speaking at the commissioning, the governor noted that completing the Oda road project was in line with his administration’s philosophy of continuity in governance. He stated that his government would ensure that inherited projects of public importance, such as the Ijoka road and the Onyearugbulem/Shagari Flyover, are completed in due course.