By Adedotun Ajayi

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Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had a remarkable week, making bold moves in education, infrastructure, and economic development.

On Monday, he approved the employment of 1,100 new teachers for primary schools in Ondo State, bringing the total number of newly recruited public school teachers to 2,110. The initiative, aimed at addressing critical staffing shortages, was hailed by the chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Victor Olabimtan, who described it as a game-changer for public education.

Olabimtan said the recruitment would improve the pupil-teacher ratio, particularly in rural and underserved areas, ensuring quality education for all.

Still on Monday, Aiyedatiwa inaugurated a visitation panel for the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo. Headed by Prof. Gbenga Olumekun, the panel is expected to assess the institution’s progress, identify challenges, and recommend solutions for its growth.

At the event, the governor stressed the importance of periodic evaluations to keep institutions on track in delivering quality education.

He also assured the National Population Commission of his administration’s full support for an accurate census, saying reliable demographic data was crucial for effective governance and development planning.

On Wednesday, Aiyedatiwa reinforced his commitment to infrastructure renewal during an inspection of key road projects across Akure. Residents of Odopetu, Iloro-Owe Akala, and Odi-Olowo commended the ongoing rehabilitation and asphalt overlay projects, which have transformed previously neglected roads into smooth urban links.

He also visited major projects, including Oda Road, Ijoka Road, and the Shagari-Onyearugbulem Flyover, assuring that they would be completed as scheduled. He reiterated that his administration was executing 60 kilometres of road construction across the state, with equal attention to all three senatorial districts.

At Odopetu, Aiyedatiwa underscored the importance of rehabilitating abandoned roads within Akure metropolis, saying the projects would enhance mobility and economic activities in the capital city.

On Thursday, the governor demonstrated his administration’s commitment to agribusiness with a visit to JB Farms in Ore, the largest agricultural plantation in the state. He praised the company for transforming a once-abandoned forest into a thriving oil palm plantation and processing hub.

With JB Farms employing over 5,000 workers and set to launch a modern palm oil processing mill, Aiyedatiwa pledged full support for agribusiness expansion. He also hinted at plans to convert parts of the state’s forests into productive farmlands to ensure agriculture remains a key driver of Ondo’s economy.

At SAO Agro Farms in Ajue, another major player in oil palm cultivation, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to supporting both smallholder farmers and large-scale agribusiness investors.

Aiyedatiwa’s week was defined by decisive actions spanning education, infrastructure, and economic development. His administration’s proactive steps in tackling key challenges and fostering progress reaffirmed his vision of a more prosperous Ondo State.