Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to govern the State with justice, integrity and accountability, stressing that faith and civic responsibility must remain central to leadership and public service.
The Governor spoke on Friday at the Ondo State @50 Golden Jubilee Jumat Service held at the Central Mosque, Akure, as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed deep gratitude to Almighty Allah for His blessings upon Ondo State and its people, describing the Golden Jubilee as a moment for reflection, honour and renewed commitment to righteousness, justice and service to humanity.
Tracing the history of the State, the Governor recalled that Ondo State was created 50 years ago through vision, courage and the collective desire to bring governance closer to the people.
He noted that the founding fathers laid a solid foundation built on integrity, resilience and shared responsibility.
He acknowledged that the State’s journey has not been without challenges, but emphasized that through divine guidance and communal effort, Ondo State has continued to make progress, overcoming adversity, nurturing human capital and building a society anchored on moral and ethical values.
According to the Governor, faith has remained a vital force in the State’s development, inspiring civic responsibility, communal solidarity and selfless service. He stressed that Islamic teachings view leadership as a sacred trust that must be exercised with justice, compassion and accountability.
“As Governor, I reaffirm that our administration is committed to these principles, ensuring that our policies and projects promote equitable development, social cohesion and the welfare of all citizens,” he said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged the invaluable role of religious leaders, institutions and scholars, describing them as critical partners whose guidance continues to strengthen governance and reinforce the moral fabric necessary for sustainable development.
He commended the resilience, industry and unity of the people of Ondo State, as well as the wisdom and dedication of past and present leaders whose collective efforts, he said, have shaped the State’s policies, development trajectory and progress over the past five decades.
Looking ahead, the Governor said his administration remains focused on inclusive economic growth that benefits both urban and rural communities, youth empowerment and human capital development through education, skills acquisition and enterprise, guided by strong moral values.
He added that the government will continue to strengthen institutions to enhance transparency, efficiency and sustainability, while preserving the cultural and religious values that unite the people and promote ethical governance.
Earlier in his sermon, the Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhaheem Yayi-Akorode Albarka (JP), praised past and present leaders of Ondo State for their contributions over the last 50 years, noting that the achievements recorded today are products of sustained efforts by successive administrations.
He remarked that meaningful progress is expected at 50 years, commending the legacy of the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin and recalling the counsel of his father, late Alhaji Yayi-Akorode, during Ajasin’s administration.
The cleric highlighted the combined 17 years of military and 33 years of civilian rule in the State, noting that democratic governance has delivered visible development.
He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for infrastructural improvements in Akure and appreciated initiatives such as sponsorship of Muslim pilgrims to Mecca, educational support and the employment of teachers.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts, the Chief Imam appealed for additional operational vehicles to enhance environmental sanitation and called for increased Muslim representation in the State Executive Council. He urged sustained commitment to inclusive development to ensure that all segments of society benefit from governance.
Special prayers were offered for Ondo State, Governor Aiyedatiwa and the nation at large.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers; political appointees; and other prominent personalities.
