ONDO AT 50: AIYEDATIWA PAYS TRIBUTE TO FOUNDERS, UNVEILS DEVELOPMENT AGENDA FOR NEXT FIVE DECADES
29th January, 2026
— State to honour Ajasin, Fasanmi, Fasoranti, Arogbofa, others
As Ondo State marks its Golden Jubilee, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has paid tribute to the founding fathers and successive leaders whose contributions, he said, laid the foundation for the State’s growth, while unveiling a long-term vision to drive development over the next 50 years.
The Governor spoke on Thursday at a World Press Conference held at the Government House, Akure, as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State.
Describing the anniversary as more than a ceremonial milestone, Aiyedatiwa said the Golden Jubilee represents a historic opportunity to reflect on the State’s journey, assess its present realities and chart a sustainable path for the future.
According to him, five decades provide sufficient basis to evaluate the ideals that informed the creation of Ondo State and the collective efforts of past administrations in translating those ideals into governance outcomes.
Tracing the origins of the State, the Governor recalled the long years of political struggle, intellectual engagement and moral advocacy that eventually led to its creation. He said Ondo State was born out of the “legitimate yearning of a people who believed that governance must be closer to the governed,” adding that equity, identity and inclusive development thrive when people enjoy administrative self-expression.
Governor Aiyedatiwa paid glowing tribute to the first civilian Governor, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, whom he described as a statesman of rare integrity whose principled leadership set enduring benchmarks for governance and public morality in the State.
He also acknowledged the roles played by prominent nationalists and elders, including the late Chief Ayo Fasanmi, late Barrister Deji Adegoroye, Pa Reuben Fasoranti and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, noting that their contributions remain deeply rooted in Ondo State’s political and socio-cultural consciousness.
The Governor further recognised the efforts of successive military and civilian administrators who shaped the State’s development trajectory, from the pioneer Military Administrator, Wing Commander David Ikpeme, through Colonel Moses Fasanya, to civilian leaders including Chief Bamidele Olumilua, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, Dr Olusegun Agagu, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and his immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
He also paid tribute to the first generation of public servants, led by Chief Theophilus Iwajomo and Chief Elkanah Adeneye Emuleomo, for laying the institutional foundation of governance in the State.
Highlighting achievements recorded over the years, Governor Aiyedatiwa cited progress in education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, industrialisation, road infrastructure, public service reforms and human capital development. He noted that these milestones were achieved despite economic constraints, population pressures, environmental challenges and emerging security concerns, driven by what he described as the enduring “Ondo spirit” of resilience, intellect and hard work.
The Governor outlined activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee, including interfaith thanksgiving services across the State, a public lecture series themed “Ondo State Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” cultural and historical exhibitions, as well as a gala and award night to celebrate excellence and service, as announced by the Anniversary Planning Committee.
On governance priorities, Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s commitment to people-centred development anchored on fiscal discipline, institutional efficiency and social inclusion. He said the government is investing in infrastructure, urban renewal, healthcare revitalisation, education reform, agricultural value chains and economic diversification under the “OUR EASE” policy framework, in partnership with the private sector and development partners.
He stressed that security remains central to development, noting that through collaboration with security agencies and community intelligence networks, the State continues to protect lives, farmlands and investments, ensuring a stable environment for economic and social activities.
Looking ahead, the Governor unveiled a vision for the next 50 years focused on knowledge-driven growth, industrial competitiveness, environmental sustainability, digital innovation and strong democratic institutions. He said Ondo State aims not only to respond to change but to shape it, building a future where opportunity is inclusive and prosperity sustainable.
Calling on citizens at home and in the diaspora to embrace the Golden Jubilee as a shared responsibility, Aiyedatiwa said collective effort remains key to building a State that guarantees fulfilment for all.
On legacy projects, the Governor said his administration is not driven by the desire to establish institutions unnecessarily, but noted that the ongoing judiciary complex will remain a lasting contribution. He added that the proposed seaport, alongside petrochemical fertiliser plants and bitumen exploration, will significantly boost agriculture and job creation.
He disclosed that approvals have been secured for a refinery, fertiliser and petrochemical plant, with groundbreaking expected in the first quarter of the year.
On power supply, the Governor said electricity distribution companies are working closely with the State government, noting that while the State is not yet generating its own power, steps are being taken to regulate electricity distribution. He added that O’datiwa meters are being distributed to residents and assured that electricity costs would become more affordable over time.
In his vote of thanks, the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Ondo @50 Planning Committee, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, recalled the creation of Ondo State, describing himself as privileged to have witnessed the historic moment. He urged members of the press to give adequate publicity to the anniversary activities.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Ololade Gbegudu; the Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; the Chief Justice of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; the State Chairman of the APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers; political appointees; and other stakeholders.
