…Vows jobs, empowerment, Security
By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
In a powerful affirmation of his administration’s commitment to youth development, the Governor of Ondo State, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pledged to create more employment and empowerment opportunities for young people across the state, while reinforcing his government’s dedication to security and inclusive governance.
The governor made the promises during an interactive session with youth stakeholders at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome) in Akure, on Tuesday.
Describing young people as the engine of the state’s progress, Governor Aiyedatiwa laid out his administration’s 7-point developmental agenda, dubbed “Our Ease”, which includes pillars such as security, rural and urban development, technological innovation, healthcare, power, infrastructure, and education.
He cited a number of initiatives already underway, including the payment of WAEC and NABTEB fees, scholarships and bursaries for undergraduates, the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers, and renovation of educational facilities across Ondo State.
He further highlighted that his administration has disbursed nano grants to 5,000 youths, engaged 15,000 others in labour-intensive public work programmes, and opened Youth Skill Centres across the state under the “One-Youth-One-Skill” scheme, aimed at equipping young people with employable skills.
Responding to concerns raised by youth representatives from across the state, Governor Aiyedatiwa promised to appoint a young person as Commissioner for Youth Affairs in the near future.
He also expressed profound gratitude for the strong support shown by the youth during the November 2024 governorship election, noting that their mobilisation across the 18 local government areas was critical to his electoral victory.
On security, the governor assured the gathering that calm is steadily returning to the state, thanks to ongoing collaboration between the government and security agencies.
He declared that criminal elements operating in forests and farmlands are currently being flushed out, adding that his administration will continue to protect law-abiding citizens while making the state inhospitable for criminals.
“We will not allow criminals to find comfort in our State.
“Let us not waste our God-given talents on negative tendencies. We must work together to build peace, strengthen our communities, and unleash the full potential of our youth,” he said.
The governor encouraged young people to embrace the administration’s various initiatives and avoid actions that could derail development, stating that while protest is a democratic right, it should only follow failed dialogue with relevant authorities.
“This administration is committed to creating an enabling environment that attracts investment and offers young people a chance to thrive,” he stated.
In his welcome remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Orioye Gbayisemore, lauded the governor’s leadership and unwavering focus on youth development.
He urged young people to take ownership of the administration’s vision and actively contribute to the state’s progress.
Youth leaders from the state’s three senatorial districts, Mr. Abiola Obanoyen (North), Miss Yewande Omobomi (Central), and Mr. Jonathan Obatola (South) applauded Governor Aiyedatiwa’s youth-friendly initiatives but appealed for further efforts to ensure that young people are fully integrated into the governance and development process.
Also speaking at the event, the Commander of the South West Security Agency (Amotekun) in Ondo State, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, outlined the ongoing efforts by the corps to tackle insecurity.
He reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to safeguard the state, despite the significant risks faced by its personnel, and called for greater cooperation from the public in maintaining peace.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; the APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa; OSRC Director General, Mr. Keneth Stevenson-Odusola; local government chairmen, and other key stakeholders.
