Aiyedatiwa Restates Commitment to Inclusive Governance at Independence Thanksgiving
By Exponent News, Akure, 29th September,2025
As Nigeria marked its 65th Independence anniversary, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reiterated his administration’s resolve to ensure no community is left behind in the state’s developmental journey.
Speaking during a special thanksgiving service held at the Chapel of the Annunciation, Archbishop Vining College of Theology, Oke-Emeso, Akure, on Sunday, Governor Aiyedatiwa described inclusive growth, security, and accountability as key pillars of his government’s agenda.
Addressing the congregation, the Governor declared that despite the progress made so far, his government was just getting started.
“In the last several months, much has been achieved, yet I stand before you to humbly say that we are only just beginning. By God’s grace, we shall not relent until every community in the state can feel the touch of development,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the implementation of his “Our Ease” development agenda was already taking shape across sectors, promising continued transformation in all parts of the state.
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Reflecting on the significance of Nigeria’s Independence, the Governor said it must go beyond the ceremonial flag rituals, serving instead as a reminder of the country’s journey, unity, and collective responsibility.
“Independence is more than the lowering of one flag and the raising of another. It is a constant reminder of freedom, responsibility and nationhood,” he noted, urging citizens not to forget the sacrifices of past heroes.
Quoting from Psalm 124, he highlighted Nigeria’s resilience through various national trials, including the civil war, economic crises, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He called on citizens to give thanks—not just for past victories but for the nation’s future potential.
On the issue of insecurity, Aiyedatiwa underscored the need for citizens’ involvement, noting that security cannot be achieved by government alone.
“Security is the primary duty of government, but it is everybody’s business. It is not the elephants or bamboos that cause insecurity; it is human beings breaking the laws,” he stated.
The Governor also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold reforms and commendable infrastructure development, urging Nigerians to support the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Earlier in his sermon, the Chairman of the Board of Vining College and Bishop of Ijesa North Diocese, Rt Rev. Joseph Alaba Olusola, called on Nigerians to return to God in repentance, stressing that true national transformation must begin with a moral rebirth.
“God’s new thing must empower our youth with education, innovation, jobs, and government leadership,” he said.
Also speaking, the Rector of the College, Ven. Dr Moses Adetunbi, praised the Governor’s infrastructural strides, particularly road projects outside the capital, and acknowledged the prompt payment of workers’ salaries and pensions.
Special prayers were offered for the Governor, his team, and the state by Bishop Michael Ipinmoye, former Bishop of the Anglican Communion.
The thanksgiving service was attended by top government officials including the Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Olusegun Omojuwa; members of the state executive council; lawmakers; and heads of security agencies
