By Our Reporter
The Ondo State Government has unveiled a series of impactful initiatives, including the appointment of four traditional rulers, the recognition of two new stools, and a comprehensive biometric verification exercise for public servants.
These developments, alongside investments in education and public health, reflect Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to sustainable growth and effective governance.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday following the State Executive Council meeting, the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, announced that the government would soon begin biometric verification of civil servants.
The exercise aims to streamline the workforce and ensure accurate data on employee levels, aligning with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s push for fiscal accountability.
“The essence of this biometric verification is to know the respective levels of every public servant. It is not intended to scare anyone but to ensure accountability within the system,” Philip said.
He also confirmed that the implementation of the new minimum wage of N73,000 had commenced, with salaries reflecting the updated structure already paid.
He praised the governor for fulfilling his promise and urged civil servants to enhance their productivity for the state’s development.
The Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Emmanuel Igbasan, announced plans to initiate skill acquisition programmes for youths to empower them as wealth creators, further addressing unemployment across the state.
In the education sector, Commissioner for Education Laolu Akindolire highlighted Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to improving infrastructure.
He revealed that an initial N500 million had been released for constructing a senate building at the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), with the remaining N500 million allocated in the 2025 budget.
Noting that plans are also underway to renovate primary, secondary, and technical schools across the state to provide better learning environments.
On matters of traditional leadership, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, announced the appointment of four new traditional rulers to strengthen grassroots governance. The new rulers are:
• The Takunbe of Ipoke in Ese Odo Local Government: Prince Hosea Julius Bladapo
• The Laragunsin of Ode-Iyansan in Irele Local Government: Prince Akingomi Olasehinde John
• The Lumure of Ayeka in Okitipupa Local Government: Prince Babatunde Michael Ayeyoma
• The Alaboto of Aboto in Ilaje Local Government: Prince Oyetayo Ofoaye
Additionally, two new stools were recognised: the Olusin of Owalusin in Akoko South Local Government and the Onitedo of Mahintedo in Ilaje Local Government.
In public health, Special Adviser on Health Prof. Simidele Odimayo reported significant progress in combating Lassa fever, attributing the success to collaborative efforts between the government and residents.
He urged the public to maintain proper hygiene and clean environments to prevent future outbreaks.
Addressing cholera concerns, Odimayo outlined measures to curb the spread, including awareness campaigns and improved access to clean water in vulnerable areas.
Commissioner for Information and Orientation Otunba Wale Akinlosotu reaffirmed the government’s focus on initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents, noting that 2025 would mark a turning point in the state’s socio-economic development.
