Ondo at 50: Aiyedatiwa Hails Founding Fathers, sets Agenda for Next Half-Century

The Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described the Golden Jubilee of the state as a historic and civilisational milestone, calling on citizens and stakeholders to reflect on the past, consolidate present gains, and deliberately shape a prosperous future for the next generation.

Governor Aiyedatiwa stated this on Thursday, January 29, 2026, during a world press conference held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Lodge, Government House Grounds, as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State on February 3, 1976.

The governor noted that the Golden Jubilee goes beyond celebration, offering a rare opportunity to assess the ideals that inspired the creation of Ondo State and evaluate how successive administrations and generations have remained faithful to that vision.

He recalled that the creation of the state was the outcome of years of sustained political struggle, intellectual advocacy, and moral persuasion, driven by the belief that governance should be closer to the people and that inclusive development thrives where communities enjoy administrative self-expression.

Aiyedatiwa paid glowing tribute to the founding fathers of the state, particularly the first civilian governor, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, whom he described as a statesman of rare integrity whose leadership set enduring standards for governance and public morality. He also acknowledged the contributions of eminent leaders and nationalists, including the late Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, among others, whose efforts shaped the political destiny of Ondo State.

The governor further recognised the role played by successive military and civilian administrators, from the pioneer Military Administrator, Wing Commander David Ikpeme, to the last Military Administrator, Colonel Moses Fasanya, as well as past civilian governors, including Chief Bamidele Olumilua, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, Dr. Olusegun Agagu, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and his immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON. According to him, Ondo State today reflects the cumulative impact of their leadership efforts.

He also commended the pioneer Head of Service, Chief Theophilus Iwajomo, his successor, Chief Elkanah Adeneye Emuleomo, and the first generation of public servants whose sacrifices laid the foundation for institutionalised governance in the state.

Reflecting on the last 50 years, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted notable progress in education, healthcare, agriculture, industrialisation, road infrastructure, public sector reforms, and human capital development, noting that Ondo State has continued to thrive despite economic, environmental, and security challenges.

As part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, the governor announced a series of activities, including statewide interfaith thanksgiving services, a Golden Jubilee Lecture Series themed “Ondo State Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” cultural and historical exhibitions, as well as a gala and awards night to honour excellence and service.

On governance, Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-centred development anchored on fiscal responsibility, institutional efficiency, and social inclusion. He disclosed ongoing investments in critical infrastructure, healthcare revitalisation, education reform, agricultural value chains, urban renewal, and economic diversification through partnerships with the private sector and development institutions, in line with the administration’s “OUR EASE” policy thrust.

The governor also stressed that security remains central to development, assuring that sustained collaboration with security agencies and community intelligence structures has helped secure lives, farmlands, and investments across the state.

Looking ahead, Aiyedatiwa said the next 50 years must be defined by knowledge-driven growth, industrial competitiveness, environmental sustainability, digital innovation, and strong democratic institutions.

He called on all citizens, both at home and in the diaspora, to see the Golden Jubilee as a shared heritage and responsibility, urging collective support to sustain the Ondo development project.

“As we honour the sacrifices of yesterday, celebrate the achievements of today, and envision the possibilities of tomorrow, together we shall continue to build a state that guarantees fulfilment for all,” the governor said.