…Progress of Ondo State built on past sacrifices — Yayi-Akorode
By Our Reporter
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice, integrity and accountability, declaring that moral values and faith must remain central to governance as the state enters a new era of development.
The governor spoke on Friday at the Ondo State @50 Golden Jubilee Jumat Service held at the Central Mosque, Akure, one of the key activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state.
Expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah for His guidance and blessings over the past five decades, Aiyedatiwa described the golden jubilee as a moment for sober reflection, appreciation and renewed dedication to righteousness, justice and service to humanity.
Tracing the history of Ondo State, he recalled that its creation 50 years ago was driven by vision, courage and the desire to bring governance closer to the people.
According to him, the founding fathers laid a strong foundation anchored on integrity, resilience and collective responsibility, values which continue to guide the state’s progress.
The governor acknowledged that the journey of the state has been marked by challenges, but noted that through divine guidance and communal effort, Ondo State has continued to record steady progress.
He said the state has overcome adversity, invested in human capital and nurtured a society rooted in strong moral and ethical principles.
Aiyedatiwa emphasised that faith has remained a critical pillar of development in Ondo State, inspiring civic responsibility, communal harmony and service to others.
He stressed that leadership is a sacred trust, adding that Islamic teachings emphasise justice, compassion and accountability in public office.
He assured that his administration remains committed to these ideals, noting that government policies and programmes are being designed to promote equitable development, social cohesion and the welfare of all citizens, regardless of religious or social background.
The governor also acknowledged the role of religious leaders, institutions and scholars in strengthening governance, describing them as indispensable partners whose guidance helps to sustain peace, social stability and ethical leadership across the state.
Commending the resilience and industry of the people of Ondo State, Aiyedatiwa paid tribute to past and present leaders whose sacrifices and service, he said, have shaped the state’s developmental path over the last five decades.
Looking ahead, he said his administration is focused on inclusive economic growth that benefits both urban and rural communities, youth empowerment, and human capital development through education, skills acquisition and enterprise, all anchored on strong moral values.
He added that government will continue to strengthen institutions to improve transparency, efficiency and sustainability, while preserving the cultural and religious values that bind the people together and guide ethical governance.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhaheem Yayi-Akorode Albarka (JP), commended successive administrations for their contributions to the development of Ondo State over the past 50 years, noting that present achievements are built on the sacrifices of previous leaders.
He observed that anyone who attains the age of 50 without tangible achievements has failed in life, while praising the legacy of the late Pa Adekunle Ajasin and recalling the advice of his father, late Alhaji Yayi-Akorode, during Ajasin’s tenure as governor.
The cleric noted that Ondo State has experienced 17 years of military rule and 33 years of civilian administration, adding that democratic governance has delivered visible developmental gains across the state.
While commending Governor Aiyedatiwa for infrastructural improvements in Akure, the Chief Imam expressed appreciation for initiatives such as the sponsorship of Muslim pilgrims to Mecca, support for indigent beneficiaries and the recruitment of teachers to strengthen the education sector.
He, however, appealed for additional operational vehicles to improve environmental cleanliness in the state capital and called for increased representation of Muslims in the state cabinet, urging the government to sustain inclusiveness in governance.
Special prayers were offered for Ondo State, the governor and the country.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; the Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; the Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers and other political appointees.
