…Reassures on security, vows to name young person as youth Commissioner
Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to empowering the youth and ensuring a prosperous future for all citizens of the state.
Speaking during an interactive session with youth groups at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome) in Akure on Tuesday, Aiyedatiwa described young people as the foundation of the state’s development and essential to driving meaningful change.
The governor presented his administration’s 7-point developmental agenda, “Our Ease,” which includes priorities such as order and security, rural and urban development, technological progress, healthcare, power, infrastructure, and education.
Aiyedatiwa highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the lives of young people, including the payment of WAEC and NABTEB fees for students, scholarships and bursaries for undergraduates, the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers, and the renovation of educational facilities across the state.
“We have provided nano grants to support 5,000 youths in business, engaged 15,000 young people in public workforce programmes, and officially opened Youth Skill Centres across the state under the One-Youth-One-Skill Scheme,” he added.
Addressing concerns raised by youth representatives, Aiyedatiwa assured them that a young person would soon be appointed as Commissioner for Youth Affairs. He also promised to provide more employment and empowerment opportunities for the state’s young population.
The governor acknowledged the invaluable support of the youth during the November 2024 governorship election, emphasising their contribution to his electoral success across all 18 local government areas.
On security, Aiyedatiwa assured the public that his administration is working closely with security agencies to eliminate criminal elements from the state, saying that calm has gradually returned.
“We will not allow criminals to operate in our state. Those who have recently infiltrated our forests and farms are facing intense pressure. While we guarantee protection for law-abiding citizens, we will continue to root out any criminal elements that threaten the peace and security of Ondo State,” he said.
The governor urged the youth to take full advantage of his administration’s policies and programmes, advising them to avoid actions that could disrupt the state’s development.
“This government is creating a conducive environment to project Ondo in a positive light and attract investment. While protests are part of democracy, they should only occur after engaging with the relevant authorities through dialogue,” he said. “Let us focus our energy on positive initiatives, build our communities, and unlock our collective potential.”
In his welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Orioye Gbayisemore, praised Aiyedatiwa for prioritising youth development. He expressed confidence in the governor’s leadership and his dedication to improving young people’s lives.
Gbayisemore cited key initiatives like the payment of WAEC fees, scholarships, the recruitment of teachers, and the One Youth, One Skill programme, urging the youth to take ownership of the administration’s vision and actively contribute to the state’s progress.
Stakeholders from Ondo’s three senatorial districts, including Mr. Abiola Obanoyen (Northern District), Miss Yewande Omobomi (Central District), and Mr. Jonathan Obatola (Southern District), shared similar views, commending the governor for his youth-centric policies. However, they called for further efforts to ensure that young people continue to feel included and supported.
The Commander of the South West Security Agency (Amotekun) in Ondo, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, addressed the gathering, reaffirming Amotekun’s commitment to tackling security challenges in the state. Despite ongoing difficulties, he said the agency remains steadfast in its mission to protect citizens and appealed for collective action to overcome the challenges.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, the APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, OSRC CEO Mr. Keneth Stevenson-Odusola, local government chairmen, and other senior officials.
