By Adedotun Ajayi

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reaffirmed his dedication to fostering an inclusive and transparent administration, focused on improving the lives of the entire people of the state.

He made this promise during the 2025 first working day prayer meeting held at the Governor’s Office, Akure, on Thursday.

Addressing a gathering of public servants, political leaders, and religious figures, Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude for the achievements of 2024 despite challenges, including the death of his predecessor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, and the political tensions that followed.

“Despite the challenges, God restored peace and tranquillity in our state, and for that, we are deeply grateful,” he said.

Highlighting his administration’s milestones since taking office in December 2023, the governor pointed to the implementation of the N73,000 minimum wage, prompt payment of salaries and pensions, and the resolution of promotion arrears.

“Our administration has deliberately prioritised good governance, translating to massive developments across all sectors of the economy. We owe no promotion in arrears, have recruited personnel into critical sectors, and ensured the regular payment of salaries and pensions,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

The governor also addressed advancements in infrastructure, education, health, and security, emphasising his administration’s commitment to holistic development.

“Work is progressing on ongoing infrastructural projects, particularly urban and rural roads. In education, we have provided bursaries and scholarships for indigenous students.

“In the judiciary, the appointment of new judges has improved access to justice. Ondo State remains one of the safest and most peaceful states in Nigeria, positioning it as a prime investment destination. This is largely due to the robust support from our security architecture, including the Amotekun Corps,” he stated.

As the state transitions into a new mandate period from 24 February 2025, Governor Aiyedatiwa unveiled his administration’s new policy blueprint, ‘OUR EASE,’ which focuses on areas such as security, urban and rural development, technological advancement, efficient healthcare, sustainable agriculture, and education.

“We will run an all-inclusive, open, and accountable administration in the best interest of our people,” he said.

The governor also revealed plans for a retreat aimed at aligning top government officials with the administration’s vision and setting actionable plans to meet public expectations.

He urged public servants and political office holders to remain loyal and committed to the vision of a vibrant Ondo State. “Our people deserve the very best, and we must be committed to delivering responsible and responsive governance. We will run an all-inclusive, open, and accountable administration in the best interests of our people,” Aiyedatiwa assured.

The governor also announced plans for a retreat for top government officials to align their efforts with the administration’s goals. “After the inauguration, we will organise a retreat to distil government policy thrusts and set actionable plans. The expectations of our people are high, and we must do all we can to meet them,” he said.

In his remarks, the Head of Service, Bayo Philips, praised Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to civil servants’ welfare, describing it as heartfelt and impactful.

“Mr Governor, what makes your support for the public service so meaningful is that it comes not out of obligation but out of the goodness of your heart,” Philips said.

He also highlighted achievements such as promotions, recruitment in education, health, and judiciary sectors, and measures to plug financial leakages.

The meeting featured a sermon by Michael Ogunbayode, Senior Elder of Seasons of Life Ministry, who drew from Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, verse 11, and James 4:17 to encourage attendees to embrace divine timing and purpose.

The event also included prayers for the state, the governor, and public servants, with attendees including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Speaker of the House, Olamide Oladiji, Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Odusola, APC Chairman Engr. Ade Adetimehin, and other top officials.