The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has commended Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his administration’s commitment to combating drug trafficking, cybercrime, cultism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.
Governor Aiyedatiwa gave the assurance of stronger support for security agencies when he received a UNODC delegation led by its Nigeria Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, at the Governor’s Office in Akure on Thursday.
The governor noted that security and the rule of law remain the cornerstone of his seven-point development agenda, stressing that Ondo State continues to back security agencies through intelligence gathering, logistics, prosecution, and technical support.
“In recent times, we distributed about 75 hybrid vehicles to our security agents to aid their operations, especially in flashpoint areas across the state. We have also given massive support to the NDLEA to tackle illicit drug cultivation and trafficking, particularly cannabis, which grows freely in some parts of the state,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He also highlighted youth empowerment initiatives such as the One Youth, One Skill programme, which equips young people with vocational training and startup grants to reduce crime and promote productivity.
“Our ultimate goal is to build a resilient society where our youths are positively engaged and our communities live in peace and dignity. That is why we are ready to partner with the United Nations and other stakeholders to tackle crimes collectively,” the governor added.
Responding, Mr. Cheikh Toure praised Ondo State’s efforts in security, economic development, and youth empowerment, noting that Nigeria faces some of the highest drug addiction rates globally. He stressed the need for preventive strategies such as education, community-based interventions, and stronger inter-agency collaboration.
“Ondo State has shown commendable commitment, and we are here to see how best to consolidate our work at the grassroots level, especially in empowering young people and strengthening institutions to curb crime,” Toure stated.
He assured that UNODC would explore deeper collaboration with the state to enhance prosecution capacity, strengthen youth resilience, and address drug abuse, trafficking, and financial crimes.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service Mr. Bayo Philip, Attorney General Dr. Kayode Ajulo, and several commissioners.
