By Ayodele Oni
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has lauded the contributions of past governors, noting that their efforts across various sectors of the economy have positioned the state where it is today.
Speaking at the 50th World Press Conference held at the Government House, Akure, on Thursday, the Governor said the Golden Jubilee is “not merely commemorative; it is civilisational in significance,” offering an opportunity to reflect on the State’s past, evaluate its present, and plan strategically for the future.
He emphasised that half a century was long enough to assess the vision that inspired Ondo State’s creation and the contributions of successive administrations in pursuing that goal.
Recalling the State’s origins, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted the protracted political agitation, intellectual advocacy and moral persuasion that culminated in its creation.
He noted that Ondo State emerged from “the legitimate yearning of a people who believed that governance must be closer to the governed and that identity, equity and inclusive development are best achieved when a people are granted administrative self-expression.”
The Governor paid glowing tribute to Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, the first civilian Governor, describing him as “a rare gem, a statesman of extraordinary integrity, whose principled leadership set enduring standards for governance, public morality and the benchmark within which governments were assessed in Ondo State.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of other nationalists and elders, including the late Chief Ayo Fasanmi, late Barrister Deji Adegoroye, Pa Reuben Fasoranti and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, noting that their legacy remains ingrained in the State’s political consciousness.
Governor Aiyedatiwa recognised successive administrators, both military and civilian, for shaping Ondo State’s growth, from Wing Commander David Ikpeme, the pioneer Military Administrator, through Colonel Moses Fasanya, to civilian leaders including Chief Bamidele Olumilua, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, Dr Olusegun Agagu, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and his immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu.
He also paid tribute to the first generation of public servants, led by Chief Theophilus Iwajomo and Chief Elkanah Adeneye Emuleomo, that laid the foundation for institutionalised governance in the State.
Reflecting on the State’s achievements, the Governor cited significant progress in education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, industrialization, road infrastructure, public sector reforms and human capital development.
He noted that these gains were realised despite economic challenges, demographic pressures, environmental constraints and evolving security threats, driven by the enduring “Ondo spirit” of industry, intellect, and perseverance.
He outlined the Golden Jubilee programme, which includes statewide interfaith thanksgiving services, a lecture series themed “Ondo State Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” grand cultural and historical exhibitions and a gala and award night to celebrate excellence and service, as communicated by the Anniversary Planning Committee.
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