Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has defended the calculated and measured approach of his administration, emphasizing that “slow and steady wins the race,” as he officially swore in the second batch of Commissioners into the State Executive Council.
The swearing-in ceremony, held on Monday at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure, was marked by calls for integrity, service, and a renewed push toward the administration’s development agenda. The Governor described the event as a key milestone in his ongoing efforts to build a greater and more inclusive Ondo State.
Addressing the newly inaugurated Commissioners, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged them to get to work immediately, stressing that the people of Ondo State expect quality leadership and tangible results.
“The people of Ondo State expect nothing but the best from us, having entrusted us with an overwhelming mandate, and we must strive to deliver on all our electioneering promises,” he said.
Speaking on the delayed appointment of Commissioners, the Governor explained that the decision was intentional, rooted in his belief in structured and sustainable governance.
“This concept highlights the value of persistence, patience, and steady progress in achieving goals. Within the first 100 days of our administration, we have been able to prove that slow and steady wins the race,” he said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized transparency, accountability, and alignment with the administration’s 7-point development agenda—OUR EASE—focusing on Economic Development, Food Security, Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Security, Youth Empowerment, and Social Welfare.
He praised the competence and experience of the new appointees, warning against any undue pressure from family members or associates, and encouraged them to maintain professionalism in all dealings.
“Discharge your duties with integrity and patriotism. Let your work reflect loyalty to the people of Ondo State, not individual interests,” he charged.
Highlighting achievements within his first 100 days, the Governor noted progress in infrastructure, social welfare, and economic development, citing targeted interventions for vulnerable groups and increased investment opportunities through private sector engagements.
On security, Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s firm stance against criminality, referencing the newly approved bill that prescribes the death penalty for kidnapping and abduction offenses in the state.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, said the new appointments are part of a broader strategy to deepen inclusive and people-oriented governance in Ondo State.
Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in Commissioners, Mr. Omoyofunmi Segun thanked the Governor for the opportunity, pledging their full commitment to the administration’s goals.
The ceremony drew a large audience, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; the Governor’s wife, Mrs. Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; and several other political, religious, and traditional leaders.
