By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs Olu Verheijen, on Monday underscored the critical role of energy security, value addition and strategic infrastructure in driving industrial growth and sustainable development in Ondo State, as the state marked its Golden Jubilee.
Verheijen made the remarks in her keynote address at the Ondo State at 50 Public Lecture held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome), Akure.
She lauded the contributions of ordinary citizens, farmers, teachers, civil servants, artisans and entrepreneurs, describing them as the real builders of the state over the past five decades.
According to her, development is not driven by policy alone but by the daily resilience, productivity and enterprise of the people.
Highlighting opportunities in the energy sector, Verheijen identified gas infrastructure development, the revival of the Odigbo power plants and the deployment of modular Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects as key enablers of industrial expansion, job creation and private sector growth in Ondo State.
She also drew attention to major infrastructure investments with long-term economic impact, including the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, ongoing road expansions in Akure, upgrades of teaching hospitals and the development of the Ondo Deep Sea Port.
These projects, she said, would not only stimulate economic activity but also generate revenue and restore dignity to the people.
“Value addition is the foundation for job creation, revenue generation and the dignity of our people,” Verheijen said, stressing that Ondo State must consciously combine its rich cultural heritage with modern innovation to achieve inclusive and sustainable advancement.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Ondo State at 50 Anniversary Committee, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, described the Golden Jubilee celebrations as nostalgic and deeply emotional.
Fasoranti recalled his youthful days when Ondo State was created, noting that the anniversary provided an opportunity for reflection, gratitude and renewed commitment to the state’s progress.
He expressed appreciation to past leaders, royal fathers, elder statesmen and members of the planning committee for their roles in the success of the celebrations.
He disclosed that eminent citizens of the state, including octogenarians and nonagenarians who had contributed significantly to Ondo State’s growth, would be honoured during the anniversary activities.
The event attracted a wide array of dignitaries, including former Governor of the state, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; the Ondo State First Lady, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, and his wife, Mrs Abosede Adelami; the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa; and the Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip.
Also in attendance were former Deputy Governors, Alhaji Abdulazeez Oluboyo and Otunba Omolade Oluwateru; State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Engr Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council and the Ondo State House of Assembly; local government chairmen; and traditional rulers.
Among the royal fathers present were the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, and the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi.
Others included APC chieftains, elder statesmen such as Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa, heads of security agencies, members of the fourth estate of the realm and other eminent personalities.
The public lecture formed a major intellectual highlight of the Ondo State at 50 celebrations, reinforcing the state’s resolve to build on its past while positioning itself for sustainable growth in the decades ahead.
