By Adedotun Ajayi

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It was a week of purposeful leadership and people-centered governance as Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, actively engaged in youth empowerment and strengthened the State’s traditional institution  with key appointments and commendable policy strides.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday,  attended the opening ceremony of the Niger Delta Sports Festival at the Uyo Township Stadium in Akwa Ibom State.

With athletes from across the region in attendance, the governor lauded the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its commitment to youth development through grassroots sports promotion.

Addressing the contingent from Ondo State, the first team to arrive for the Festival, Governor Aiyedatiwa charged the 313 athletes and 56 coaches to display excellence and bring home laurels, assuring them of full support of his administration.

The atmosphere in Uyo was described by the governor as “electrifying,” as he mingled with the athletes and praised their enthusiasm and preparation.

He also tasked officials of the State’s Ministry of Youth and Sports Development with ensuring the welfare of the team throughout the competition.

Continuing his strategic engagements, Governor Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday, approved the appointment of the Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye II, as the chairman of the  State Council of Obas.

This announcement was made during a special meeting of the Council at the Obas’ Secretariat in Akure, marking the end of the tenure of the previous Chairman, the Deji of Akure, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.

In his address, the governor highlighted major achievements under his administration, including the abolition of the Grade ‘D’ Obas’ category, full implementation of the 5% LG allocation to traditional rulers, and the long-awaited completion of the Council’s Secretariat.

He commended the outgoing chairman for transformative leadership and assured the new Council of continued government support and partnership in advancing traditional governance in the State.

Oba Aladelusi and other monarchs poured encomiums on the governor for his unprecedented support for the traditional institution, while the newly appointed chairman pledged to deepen collaboration between the Council and the State Government.