Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has urged student leaders across tertiary institutions in the state to remain patient and resilient as the nation continues to experience the impact of ongoing economic reforms.
Speaking during a meeting with student representatives at the Governor’s Office in Akure on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the current economic hardship being felt nationwide is temporary and that the reforms initiated at the national level are beginning to yield positive outcomes.
“It’s a temporary hardship that is easing up. The reforms are yielding results and benefits, and they are making the economy better. If these reforms had not been implemented, Nigeria would have been worse off today,” the Governor stated.
Aiyedatiwa commended student leaders for their maturity, discipline, and constructive engagement, noting that since his assumption of office, the state has not recorded any instance of student unrest or violent agitation.
He attributed the peace in the education sector to their responsible conduct and partnership with the government.
“I want to commend all of you for the way and manner you have been conducting yourselves. Since I became governor, there has been no student unrest as it were. You have engaged clearly without any form of violent agitation,” he said.
As part of efforts to further support student welfare, the Governor announced the approval of five new buses for student unions across tertiary institutions in the state, with a promise of more to come.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development through bursaries, scholarships, grants, and empowerment programmes.
Addressing accommodation challenges facing students, Aiyedatiwa called on private investors to partner with government by constructing hostels within and around campuses to ease the burden on students and enhance their safety.
“The government cannot provide everything. Resources are limited. That’s why we are calling on investors to build hostels for students on or near campuses. It’s a viable venture that will also enhance student security,” he added.
The Governor also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects across the state, including the reconstruction of the Akungba–Ikare road, which he said was designed to prevent frequent accidents near Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, and to boost local commerce.
He further pledged to resolve electricity supply challenges at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), assuring students that the issue would be addressed promptly to improve academic and research output.
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s focus on technical and vocational education as a means of driving industrial growth and job creation, noting that “investors are coming, and they will need skilled labour.”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Segun Omoyofunmi, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Comrade Kelvin Solomon Olaolu (KSO), lauded the Governor’s inclusive leadership and consistent engagement with the student community.
Student leaders at the meeting, including representatives from NANS, NAOSS, NAUS, and other associations, expressed appreciation for the Governor’s interventions and appealed for continued government attention to accommodation, transportation, security, and scholarship support.
The event was attended by top government officials including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN); and other members of the state executive council.
