By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

The Ondo State House of Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising staff welfare and diligently performing legislative duties for effective service delivery.

The Speaker, Chief Olamide Oladiji, gave this assurance while addressing Assembly staff and members of the Commission during the first prayer meeting of the year, held at the Assembly Complex in Akure.

While promising to upgrade offices and the health centre within the Assembly Complex, Oladiji described the gathering as an opportunity for legislators and staff of the State House of Assembly to converge and thank God for witnessing the start of another year, 2025.

Oladiji, who read the sole Bible lesson from Psalm 121, commended the lawmakers and staff of the State Legislature for their commitment and hard work, which has ensured the smooth running of legislative business in the state.

The Speaker reiterated the 10th Assembly’s dedication to staff development and urged them to be more productive in the new year.

He encouraged the staff to remain punctual, diligent, and dedicated to their service to humanity.

He also expressed gratitude to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his dedication to the state’s development, assuring continued collaboration between the legislative and executive arms to achieve shared goals effectively.

In her sermon, titled “Why We Should Praise God”, Prophetess Abigail Ibitoye (JP) emphasised the importance of thanksgiving and maintaining a close relationship with God in discharging one’s duties.

Drawing from Psalm 121:1-8, Prophetess Ibitoye advised subordinates to remain loyal to their principals in order to rise to the top.

She added that to overcome challenges and experience abundance, people should cultivate the fear of God throughout the year.

The Clerk of the House, Mr Benjamin Jaiyeola, in his welcome remarks, praised the exemplary leadership of the 10th Assembly under Speaker Oladiji and the Assembly Commission headed by Dare Emiola.

He assured the staff’s cooperation in fostering seamless synergy between lawmakers and the public.

Prayers were offered for the House of Assembly, the Service Commission, the Speaker, members and their families, as well as the state at large.