Aiyedatiwa inaugurates visitation panel for UNIMED, pledges support for accurate population data
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday, inaugurated a Visitation Panel for the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Governor’s Office in Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that the panel’s role would be to conduct periodic assessments of the university every five years, examining its progress, challenges, and overall performance.
He stressed that with the recent appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor, it was essential for the government to gain a comprehensive understanding of the university’s current standing to determine the level of support required for its continued development.
“As a government, we need to have a clear picture of the university’s position so we can provide the necessary backing for its advancement. This panel has been carefully selected to carry out this responsibility, and I am confident that your work will lead to significant improvements and enhance the institution’s value,” Governor Aiyedatiwa stated.
He further encouraged the panel members to collaborate with the new Vice-Chancellor to ensure a thorough evaluation of all aspects of the university’s operations, facilitating efficient management and well-informed decision-making.
Chairman of the Visitation Panel, Prof. Gbenga Olumekun, who also serves as Director of the University Advancement Office at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, expressed gratitude to the Governor and the people of Ondo State. He assured that the panel would approach its task with professionalism and impartiality, engaging with all stakeholders to provide well-rounded recommendations aimed at strengthening UNIMED.
Meanwhile, Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s strong support for the National Population Commission (NPC), following a visit from the newly inaugurated Federal Commissioner for Ondo State, Mrs Olukemi Victoria Iyantan.
During the courtesy visit, the Governor underscored the crucial role of precise population data in effective governance and sustainable development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa pointed out that accurate demographic statistics are fundamental to informed policymaking, noting the NPC’s role in gathering reliable data that influences key areas such as infrastructure development, healthcare planning, and resource distribution.
“The work of the National Population Commission is invaluable. As a government, we rely on these efforts, and we will extend our support within our available resources. A detailed understanding of population distribution—including age groups, geographical spread, and other demographic factors—is vital for structuring our policies and budget allocations appropriately,” the Governor stated.
In her remarks, Mrs Iyantan expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his support in securing her appointment and for his willingness to collaborate with the commission.
She reiterated the importance of the NPC’s data collection efforts, stressing that precise knowledge of the state’s population is essential for addressing socio-economic challenges and guiding investments in key sectors.
Mrs Iyantan also highlighted the synergy between President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Aiyedatiwa’s Our Ease Agenda, both of which prioritise improving citizens’ quality of life and promoting sustainable development in Ondo State.
She assured the Governor that the NPC would work closely with the state government to generate essential population data, supporting policy formulation and contributing to the overall development of the state.
