By Adekola Afolabi

The Ondo state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, yesterday said his administration is working with the Catholic Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev Jude Arogundade, to ensure smooth and seamless return of Missionary schools to the owners.
Akeredolu confirmed that discussion is still ongoing on the terms of return, adding that government is ready to return the missionary schools to the churches.
The Governor made this known while playing host to the Lumen Fidei Economic and Empowerment Centre of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo, led by the Executive Director of the Centre, Professor Bosede Aworuwa.
“We are ready to return schools, we have said so; but you take schools and take every responsibility, that is it. So, if you want the schools we will give you the schools back”, the Governor stressed.
Akeredolu also appreciated Bishop Arogundade and the Executive Director of the Centre for lauding what his administration is doing to ensure the safety of the people and their property across the state.
The Governor who disclosed that his administration is ready to partner with the Lumen Fidei, further noted that government would continue to support all efforts and activities aimed at empowering and impacting women, youths and the less privileged in the society.
He equally promised to deploy Swam Buggy Excavator for the channelization of Osisi river in Oke-Ijebu, Akure, to further assist and boost fish farming activities in the areas.
Akeredolu also encouraged the church to take advantage of the popular Oke Maria Tourist Centre to improve the revenue base of the church and the state.
Earlier, Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev Jude Arogundade, applauded the Ondo state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, for his unwavering commitment and courage in addressing national issues, particularly national security.
He was represented during the visit by Father Victor Ibiyemi. He particularly lauded the governor for not playing politics with the lives and property of the people of the state.
Also, the leader of the team, Professor Bosede Aworuwa, described Governor Akeredolu’s bold stance on national issues especially security, as commendable.
They specifically commended Akeredolu for his bold steps on issues concerning security and well-being of the people both the state and at the national levels, saying Governor Akeredolu remains one of the few governors who speak up when the need arises.
Aworuwa informed the Governor that Lumen Fidei Economic and Empowerment Centre was established by Bishop Jude Arogundade about three years ago and aimed at ameliorating the suffering of the teaming youth and less privileged in the society.
According to her, the focus of the Centre is in line with the policy thrust of the Governor’s REDEEMED agenda, especially Rural and Agricultural Development as well as Digital Revolution and Entrepreneurship.
“These are being operationalized through out four units, namely, Agriculture and Agriculture value chains, Skills Acquisition and Enterprise Development, Information Communication and Technology (ICT), and Microcredit.
” Since its inception, over 300 youths and the less-privileged members of our community from across the Diocese have benefitted from the projects. More than 45% of beneficiaries are female”, she stressed.
He also said the Lumen Fidei Microcredit Unit launched in October 2019, has supported a total of 334 youth projects worth about N34,810,000 in sector such as Business/Trsde, Agriculture, Asset/Equipment Purchase, among other.