By Adedotun Ajayi

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The Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, had a week filled with impactful decisions and strategic interventions aimed at driving progress across the state.

On Monday, governor approved the employment of 1,010 new secondary school teachers. The Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), which screened the applicants last year, had published the list of successful candidates, who are to began their documentation immediately.

The governor had earlier approved the recruitment of 1,000 secondary school and 1,000 primary school teachers. While the secondary school recruitment has been completed, the list of primary school teachers is undergoing final review.

The recruitment is part of the Aiyedatiwa administration’s efforts to revamp the education sector, following the recent approval of N633 million for WAEC registration fees and the conversion of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, into a University of Agriculture and Agribusiness.

On the same Monday, Governor Aiyedatiwa presented Toyota Hilux utility vehicles to the newly inaugurated local government chairmen in the State to enhance governance and service delivery at the grassroots level.

During the presentation at the Government House, Akure, the Governor emphasised the critical role of local government in governance and reaffirmed his support for local government autonomy. He urged the chairmen to utilise the vehicles effectively in reaching their constituents while ensuring transparency and accountability in their administration.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to funding Ondo State’s tertiary institutions while speaking at the third convocation ceremony of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa.

He commended the university’s remarkable growth and pledged support for ongoing projects, including the planned Faculty of Medical Sciences, the Maritime Transport and Logistics Academy at Ugbonla, and the completion of abandoned hostels. The governor also recognised the contributions of two outstanding OAUSTECH academics—Dr Bartholomew Adeleke and Dr Alaba Joseph Adebayo—for their global and national achievements.

The governor congratulated the graduating students, urging them to embrace lifelong learning, innovation, and excellence in their careers.

On Thursday, Governor Aiyedatiwa visited Akure Airport to assess the destruction caused by a heavy rainstorms earlier in the week, which disrupted flight operations and damaged key infrastructure, including the terminal building and control tower.

After inspecting the affected areas, the Governor commended the swift intervention of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Federal Ministry of Aviation. He announced the donation of a fire truck to the airport and pledged further support.

Following discussions with aviation authorities, the governor confirmed that flight operations, initially expected to be suspended for three months, would now resume by Monday March 10, 2025.

On Friday, Governor Aiyedatiwa constituted a Visitation Panel for the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, with Prof. Gbenga Olumekun as chairman. The panel is tasked with assessing the institution’s compliance with university statutes, financial management, staff adequacy, and other critical areas. It has six weeks to submit its report.

Additionally, the governor approved the appointment of Prof. Ebuoluwa Aderonke Adejuyigbe as the new Vice-Chancellor of UNIMED, following the expiration of Prof. Adesegun Fatusi’s tenure. Prof. Adejuyigbe, a renowned paediatrician and academic leader, will assume office after the Visitation Panel submits its findings.

In celebration of International Women’s Day on Saturday, Governor Aiyedatiwa launched the O’datiwa Women Initiative’s Grant, a financial empowerment programme benefiting 1,000 low-income women across the state.

Speaking at the event in Akure, the governor emphasised the importance of gender equality, economic empowerment, and women’s inclusion in governance. He assured that his administration would continue prioritising women’s welfare, leadership roles, and business opportunities.

Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Dr Seun Osamaye, described the initiative as a significant step in bridging the gender gap. Former Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, also encouraged women to actively pursue leadership roles.

The event featured a panel discussion on gender equality and the official presentation of grants to beneficiaries.