Ondo among Nigeria’s lowest poverty ratio states, says FG
24th December, 2025
The Federal Government has said that Ondo State ranks among the states with the lowest multidimensional poverty levels in Nigeria.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro, disclosed this on Tuesday during a luncheon hosted by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for traditional rulers at the Government House Banquet Hall, Akure.
According to the minister, while Nigeria’s national poverty rate stands at 63 per cent, with about 30 per cent of the population classified as ultra-poor, Ondo State records a significantly lower poverty rate of 27.7 per cent.
Dr. Doro said the Federal Government had begun implementing targeted policies and programmes aimed at reducing poverty and empowering citizens to achieve resilience, independence and self-sufficiency. He added that his ministry would work closely with the Ondo State Government to further drive down poverty levels in the state.
He stressed that collaboration with state and local governments remains central to the success of federal poverty-reduction initiatives.
In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed appreciation to traditional rulers for their unwavering support, noting that their contributions have been instrumental to the peace, security and development of the state.
“The reason for bringing Kabiyesis to this gathering is to formally thank all of you. We appreciate what you have done and continue to do for our state, our people, and this government,” the governor said.
He highlighted the importance of traditional institutions, noting that their endorsement during the last governorship election contributed significantly to his victory, which recorded 366,781 votes—the highest in Ondo State’s gubernatorial history.
“Your support ensured that the majority of voters in your domains cast their votes for us. A few did not, which is allowed in politics, but the majority voted because you stood by me,” he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also commended the monarchs for their role in maintaining peace and security, particularly in border communities, and for their cooperation with security agencies, which he said has helped make Ondo one of the safest states in the country.
He further appreciated religious leaders for their prayers and support, assuring that the state government remains stable and functional, with all arms working in harmony to prioritise the welfare and security of the people.
On development initiatives, the governor highlighted major projects including the deep seaport, refinery, petrochemical and fertiliser plants, as well as Nigeria’s first methanol plant producing ammonia bicarbonate, which is already operational and scheduled for commissioning in early January.
He thanked the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction for the assurance of continued federal support, noting that progress would be reviewed in two years to assess the impact of ongoing poverty-reduction efforts.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, in his welcome address, praised the governor for his respect for culture and traditional institutions.
In his goodwill message, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, citing achievements in infrastructure, governance, community development and the revival of critical projects.
The monarch also applauded the provision of official vehicles to over 200 traditional rulers, the allocation of five per cent of local government funds for community revitalisation, and the governor’s support for development partnerships. He presented a letter and card of appreciation to the governor, pledging continued support and wishing him a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Former Deputy Governor, Ambassador Omolade Oluwateru, also praised the governor for the ongoing developmental projects across the state, particularly in Akure.
The event was attended by the 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 Philips; members of the State Executive Council; legislators; former deputy governors; the Executive Director (Corporate Affairs) of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde; House of Representatives member, Hon. Abiola Makinde; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; and other political appointees.
