Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared that the state’s survival and steady progress over the last half-century are deeply rooted in divine guidance and the resilience of its people.
Speaking on Sunday at the Golden Jubilee Thanksgiving Service held at St. Thomas’ Anglican Church, Isinkan, Akure, the Governor anchored his vision for the state’s future on the pillars of faith, justice, and ethical leadership.
Addressing a congregation comprising the state’s political, traditional, and religious elite, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the 50th anniversary as a moment of profound gratitude and reflection.
He noted that the state, established five decades ago as a beacon of governance and unity, has overcome numerous challenges through a combination of human diligence and a steadfast reliance on God.
According to the Governor, faith has served as a compass for the state, inspiring courage and illuminating wisdom for leaders and communities alike.
Governor Aiyedatiwa paid special tribute to the role of the Church in the state’s journey.
He described pastors and Christian leaders as key drivers of moral values and social cohesion, emphasizing that their counsel has strengthened the community character and provided the moral foundation upon which governance rests.
He commended the citizenry for their labor and solidarity, which he noted have sustained families and institutions through decades of change.
Looking toward the future, the Governor utilized the thanksgiving service to recommit his administration to responsible stewardship.
He pledged to pursue inclusive growth that uplifts both urban and rural communities, placing a specific focus on youth empowerment through education, skills acquisition, and enterprise.
Aiyedatiwa assured the congregation that his government would continue to strengthen institutions to promote transparency and accountability, preserving the cultural values that unite the people.
The service featured a poignant sermon by the Bishop of Akure Diocese and Archbishop of Ondo and Ekiti Province, Most Reverend Simeon Borokini.
The cleric charged the state’s leadership and citizens to look beyond the festivities and embrace discipline for the next phase of the state’s history.
“Leaders must lead with integrity. Leaders must guide with wisdom. Citizens must rise with discipline and innovation,” Archbishop Borokini stated.
He urged the faith community to continue praying and speaking the truth, warning that the jubilee celebration must be accompanied by genuine repentance and a renewal of responsibility.
He prayed that the next 50 years would bring greater peace, prosperity, and innovation to the state.
The historic event was attended by the highest echelon of the state’s leadership, including the First Lady, Mrs. Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami; and the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji.
Also present were the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, former deputy governors, the State Chairman of the APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, traditional rulers, and heads of security agencies.