Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has attributed the survival and steady progress of the state over the past 50 years to divine guidance, the resilience of its people and the central role of faith in governance.
The Governor stated this on Sunday during the Ondo State @50 Golden Jubilee Thanksgiving Service held at St Thomas’ Anglican Church, Isinkan, Akure, as part of activities marking the state’s golden jubilee celebration.
Addressing clergymen, worshippers and citizens, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the anniversary as a moment of gratitude, reflection and fellowship, noting that both the milestones achieved and the challenges overcome by the state bore the imprint of God’s grace.
He recalled that Ondo State was created five decades ago as a beacon of unity, governance and opportunity, founded on principles that promote human dignity, communal solidarity and moral responsibility. According to him, the state’s progress has been sustained by the diligence of its people and steadfast reliance on divine guidance.
The Governor emphasised that faith has continued to inspire courage, illuminate wisdom and anchor the conscience of leaders and communities, describing Ondo’s 50-year journey as a testament to vision, resilience and divine providence.
He acknowledged the critical role of the Church in the development of the state, commending Christian leaders for promoting moral values, social cohesion and civic responsibility through worship, teaching and counsel. He noted that the Church has helped strengthen community character and the ethical foundation upon which governance thrives.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also praised the resilience and dedication of the people of Ondo State, whose labour and commitment, he said, have sustained families, institutions and communities over the decades. He further commended past and present leaders for their vision and courage in steering the affairs of the state.
The Governor said the thanksgiving service was not only an expression of gratitude but also an opportunity to recommit to responsible stewardship of the state’s blessings. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth across urban and rural communities, youth empowerment and human capital development through education, skills acquisition and enterprise.
He pledged to continue strengthening institutions to enhance transparency, accountability and sustainable development, while preserving the cultural and moral values that unite the people and guide ethical governance.
In his sermon, the Bishop of Akure Diocese and Archbishop of Ondo and Ekiti Province, Most Reverend Simeon Borokini, urged leaders and citizens to uphold integrity, discipline and moral values as the state marks its 50th anniversary. He noted that the celebration was a collective milestone, calling on leaders to lead with wisdom and citizens to obey laws and contribute positively to development.
Archbishop Borokini prayed for continued divine guidance, peace and prosperity for Ondo State in the years ahead.
The service was attended by the First Lady, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; former deputy governors, lawmakers, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, security chiefs and other dignitaries.
