Aiyedatiwa Calls for Devolution of Powers, Stronger Institutions at Southwest Leaders’ Dialogue
Akure, Ondo State, October 29, 2025
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has urged Nigerian leaders to embrace true federalism through the devolution of powers and the strengthening of democratic institutions, saying that “dialogue must birth action” if democracy is to serve the people meaningfully.
Speaking at the Southwest Leaders’ Dialogue with Federal Government officials held at The Dome, Akure, on Wednesday, the Governor said the forum came “at a most auspicious time” for reflection and collective action to deepen democracy in Nigeria.
Themed “Strengthening Democracy through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future,” the meeting brought together governors, traditional rulers, policymakers, and senior federal officials to discuss governance, development, and regional integration in the Southwest.
“Shall we continue with centralisation when true federalism demands devolution of powers at the centre? We must rise. We must reform. We must renew,” Aiyedatiwa declared to a round of applause from participants.
The Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “bold and transformative reforms,” noting that the policies have begun to stabilize the economy, boost non-oil revenues, and enhance fiscal discipline. He added that the improved financial inflows to states had enabled sub-national governments to embark on developmental projects that directly impact citizens.
Aiyedatiwa also listed several Federal Government projects ongoing in Ondo State, including:
the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway 71km within Ondo State
the Ilaje Deep Sea Port initiative;
the Akure–Ado-Ekiti Dual Carriageway;
Ore–Ondo–Akure and Benin–Ofosu–Ore Road rehabilitations the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital and the proposed Aviation School and 1,000-unit FHA Housing Scheme and host of others
He described the projects as “practical evidence of collaboration between the Federal Government and the Southwest sub-nationals.”
Reaffirming the Southwest’s heritage of dialogue and consensus-building, Aiyedatiwa said the Yoruba people have historically valued inclusive decision-making, citing the saying “àgbàjọ ọwọ́ la fi ń sòyà” (we achieve success through unity).
“Dialogue is not for talk alone. We must walk the talk. We must strengthen our institutions to work for our people and renew trust between citizens and government,” he emphasized.
The Governor also paid glowing tributes to past and present Yoruba leaders — including Pa Obafemi Awolowo, Pa Adekunle Ajasin, and Pa Reuben Fasoranti — for their enduring contributions to democracy, justice, and good governance.
Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the presence of traditional rulers from across the region, describing them as “custodians of culture, conscience, and unity in Yorubaland,” and lauded their role as bridge-builders between government and the people.
He further commended the Dawn Commission and Afenifere Group for facilitating the regional dialogue, saying their policy-driven approach continues to strengthen the Southwest’s leadership position in national discourse.
Concluding his remarks, the Governor called on regional leaders and the Federal Government to sustain collaboration for the benefit of citizens, stressing that unity, not division, remains the key to Nigeria’s progress.
“May our deliberations today strengthen democracy, deepen unity, and secure the future,” he said.
