With Adedotun Ajayi

It was a week of landmark actions and people-focused governance in Ondo State, as Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the protection of children, eradication of land grabbing, and infrastructural renewal across key locations in the State.

On Tuesday, the governor led the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade in Akure, with a powerful message of hope and protection for the younger generation. Addressing a large gathering of children, parents, teachers, and dignitaries, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that the State would continue to advocate  policies and actions that safeguard the rights and well-being of children.

Describing the day as both a celebration and a moment of solemn responsibility, the governor said the theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” reflects a call to action against all forms of bullying and abuse. He used the occasion to inaugurate the third Ondo State Children’s Parliament, and highlighted ongoing interventions such as the payment of WAEC fees, renovation of schools, and recruitment of over 2,000 teachers as part of his administration’s efforts to improve child development.

On Wednesday, Governor Aiyedatiwa turned attention to the pressing issue of land-related crimes as he inaugurated the State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing. In a firm tone, he declared a zero-tolerance policy against unlawful land practices, describing land as a “birthright” that must be defended from criminal exploitation.

Backed by a new law recently passed by the Ondo State House of Assembly, the governor announced severe penalties ranging from 2 to 21 years’ imprisonment for offenses such as illegal occupation, land grabbing, and fraudulent resale of properties. He charged the Task Force to act with integrity and collaborate with community leaders and relevant agencies to restore order and justice in land dealings across the State.

The week also marked the commencement of activities celebrating Governor Aiyedatiwa’s first 100 days in office, with the commissioning of major road projects in Ondo city and Akure. On Thursday, the governor commissioned the rehabilitated Stadium–Hospital road in Ondo, a critical route serving healthcare institutions and residential communities. He emphasized that the project exemplified the goals of his “OUR EASE” Agenda—focusing on infrastructure, social service access, and quality of life improvement.

On Friday morning, the governor presided over the first quarterly meeting of the Ondo State Task Force on Primary Health Care for the year 2025, held in Alagbaka, Akure. Addressing health sector stakeholders, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the State’s primary healthcare system.

He identified five priority areas for health sector reform: strengthening the primary healthcare system, expanding immunisation and disease surveillance, improving maternal and child health indicators, promoting health education in rural communities, and ensuring transparency in the use of health resources.

The governor acknowledged the dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases as well as maternal and child health challenges confronting the State, and stressed the need for proactive strategies and sustained collaboration across ministries, local governments, healthcare providers, development partners, and traditional institutions.

He commended the Task Force for its performance during previous epidemic responses and announced that such meetings will now be held quarterly to evaluate progress, address challenges, and develop actionable health solutions.

Later that Friday, the governor inaugurated the newly reconstructed Gbangbalogun axis road, a seven-kilometre stretch that links several high-traffic areas within the state capital.

He explained that the road project was part of a broader urban renewal strategy and aligned with the ongoing Oke-Aro–Idanre road development. The Governor expressed gratitude to residents for their cooperation during construction and reiterated his commitment to projects that boost economic activity and improve public welfare.

Throughout the week, the governor received commendations from stakeholders across sectors. Traditional rulers, legislators, and community leaders all praised the administration’s purposeful approach to governance, especially in areas of education, child welfare, justice reform, and infrastructure.

Delivering the vote of thanks during one of the ceremonies, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, lauded the governor’s “bold and people-oriented leadership,” and assured the public of more impactful initiatives as the administration continues to deliver on its promises.