Governor Orimisan Aiyedatiwa: Catalyzing Comprehensive Development in Ondo State
Since assuming office, Governor Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has been a driving force behind Ondo State’s transformation, implementing strategic initiatives across economic revitalization, infrastructure development, agricultural advancement, educational reform, and social welfare enhancement.
Economic Revitalization
Governor Aiyedatiwa has prioritized economic growth by fostering public-private partnerships (PPPs) to attract investments and stimulate innovation. His administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment has led to increased foreign direct investment, bolstering the state’s economy. The Governor has emphasized the state’s rich natural resources and dynamic youth population as key assets for development.
To diversify the state’s economy beyond its traditional civil service base, Governor Aiyedatiwa has launched programs to foster entrepreneurship and innovation:
ONDEA My IDEA 2.0 Competition: In September 2024, the state empowered 20 young startup entrepreneurs through this competition, providing each with ₦1 million in cash and ₦2 million in equipment. This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to transforming Ondo into a hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology. The Governor emphasized the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs to reshape the state’s economy and elevate residents’ quality of life.
Infrastructure Development
Governor Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has undertaken significant infrastructure projects across Ondo State, focusing on enhancing road networks to stimulate economic growth and improve residents’ quality of life.
Rural Road Construction Initiatives: In February 2024, Governor Aiyedatiwa launched the first phase of rural road construction, targeting key agricultural areas to facilitate the movement of farm produce to urban markets. This phase includes the 15.5 km Oda Cocoa Board–Camp 2–Langbodo Road in Akure South Local Government Area, the Ode-Omi–Ebute Iyara Road in Irele Local Government Area, and the Ifira Akoko–Afo Road in Akoko South East Local Government Area. These projects aim to bridge the infrastructure gap between rural and urban regions, thereby boosting economic activities and ensuring food security.
By September 2024, the administration expanded its efforts with the commencement of a 3.5 km Ebute Ipare–Oke rural road project in Ilaje Local Government Area. This project is part of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), a collaboration involving the World Bank, the French Development Agency, and the Ondo State Government. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transforming rural communities through improved infrastructure, thereby enhancing the socioeconomic status of residents.
Urban Road Rehabilitation and Expansion: In December 2024, Governor Aiyedatiwa approved the reconstruction, asphalt overlay, and rehabilitation of over 50 township roads across all 18 local government areas. This comprehensive plan addresses critical urban infrastructure needs, aiming to improve transportation networks and stimulate local economies. The projects encompass various regions, including:
Akoko Region: Roads such as Olokun Street in Ikare, Iwaro-Ayegunle Road, Isua Akoko–Epinmi Road, Ekan Ile Road, and Oyinmo–Osele High School Road are slated for rehabilitation.
Owo and Ose Local Government Areas: Selected roads are undergoing asphalt overlay to enhance durability and safety.
These efforts reflect the administration’s dedication to creating a robust transportation infrastructure that supports economic development and improves residents’ quality of life.
Commitment to Completing Ongoing Projects
Governor Aiyedatiwa has pledged to complete all ongoing and previously abandoned road projects within his tenure. During a visit to Ose Local Government in October 2024, he emphasized his administration’s focus on delivering tangible improvements, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. This commitment ensures that no community is neglected and that development is equitably distributed across the state.
Urban Water Supply: Launched a project targeting potable water supply to 500,000 homes, aiming to provide clean water to approximately 2 million residents.
Agricultural Advancement
Recognizing agriculture as the backbone of Ondo State’s economy, Governor Aiyedatiwa has implemented programs to modernize farming practices and improve market access:
Fertilizer Distribution: Distributed over 18,000 bags of various fertilizers to farmers across all 18 local government areas, aiming to boost productivity and ensure food security.
Financial Support: Established a ₦1 billion fund for subsidized agricultural inputs and tractor hiring services, addressing challenges such as inadequate financing and infrastructure.
Educational Reform
Governor Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated a strong commitment to education by allocating substantial funds to state-owned institutions:
University Funding: Allocated ₦1 billion to the University of Medical Sciences in Ondo and ₦1.2 billion to Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology in Okitipupa for infrastructural development.
Honorary Recognition: In recognition of his contributions, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, awarded him an honorary doctorate in Public Administration.
Social Welfare Enhancement
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s inclusive governance model ensures that development benefits reach all societal segments:
Retiree Support: Launched the third batch of payments, totaling ₦3.2 billion, to clear backlog gratuities for state and local government retirees, demonstrating a commitment to improving the welfare of senior citizens.
ONDO-CARES Social Intervention Program: In October 2024, Governor Aiyedatiwa launched the disbursement of ₦1.4 billion under the ONDO-CARES program, targeting unemployed youths, the elderly, and other vulnerable residents. This initiative underscores the administration’s dedication to social justice and human dignity. The program has provided financial assistance to over 7,500 beneficiaries, with plans to enroll an additional 5,000 individuals. Additionally, the Labour-Intensive Public Works (LIPW) scheme has supported over 19,000 beneficiaries, primarily unemployed youths, with more than ₦2 billion disbursed to stimulate the local economy. An extra 1,000 beneficiaries are slated for enrollment to further combat youth unemployment.
Distribution of Palliatives: In June 2024, the state government commenced the second phase of palliative distribution, providing 24,000 bags of rice, 14,040 bags of maize, 3,440 bags of garri, and agricultural tools such as tricycles, tillers, and canoes. These efforts aim to alleviate the hardships faced by vulnerable groups and enhance food security. Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the administration’s commitment to regular interventions to reduce the rising costs of food items and urged market stakeholders to consider price reductions.
O’datiwa Cares Initiative: In December 2024, the O’datiwa Cares Initiative, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Seun Osamaye, distributed food items and financial aid to hundreds of widows and orphans in Ipogun, Ifedore Local Government Area. This program reflects the administration’s focus on supporting the most vulnerable members of society. Osamaye highlighted Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unparalleled dedication to the welfare of widows and orphans, positioning him as a compassionate leader committed to social welfare.
Healthcare Improvements
The healthcare sector has experienced significant enhancements under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership:
Primary Healthcare Facilities: Collaborated with the World Bank to construct healthcare facilities across 203 wards, aiming to bring primary healthcare services closer to rural dwellers and reduce the burden on secondary and tertiary health institutions.
Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS): In September 2024, Governor Aiyedatiwa expanded the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) to include the informal sector, targeting artisans, market women, farmers, and commercial transport operators. This initiative aims to provide affordable healthcare services to a broader segment of the population, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to universal health coverage. The scheme has been operational for public servants since 2022, offering financial relief and improved health outcomes. The Governor highlighted the importance of collective efforts in enhancing healthcare accessibility and affordability, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3.8. Ongoing projects include the construction of 250-bed hospitals in Akure and Ondo, recruitment of healthcare workers, and enhancement of doctors’ salaries to retain medical personnel. The administration also plans to complete the permanent office for the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission promptly.
Free Medical Outreach: In November 2024, the state government conducted a three-day free medical outreach across all 18 local government areas. Approved by Governor Aiyedatiwa and implemented by the Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (OSPHCDA), the program offered screenings and treatments for conditions such as Hepatitis B, hernia, hypertension, diabetes, and malaria. Beneficiaries received free medications and counseling, with those requiring surgical interventions referred to tertiary health facilities at no cost. The outreach aimed to lower morbidity rates and ensure residents have access to essential healthcare services. The Permanent Secretary of OSPHCDA, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, announced plans to conduct the program quarterly, reinforcing the government’s dedication to public health.
Environmental Sustainability
Governor Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability in Ondo State through a series of strategic initiatives aimed at combating plastic pollution, mitigating flooding, and promoting a zero-waste philosophy.
Combating Plastic Pollution
Recognizing the detrimental impact of plastic waste on the ecosystem and public health, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has prioritized the reduction of plastic pollution. In October 2024, during the Ondo State Environmental Protection Agency (OSEPA) Summit themed “Combating the Menace of Plastic Pollution in Ondo State 3.0,” he reaffirmed this commitment. The Governor announced plans to adopt the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, which mandates that manufacturers develop measures to reclaim and recycle the products they produce, thereby reducing environmental waste.
Flood Mitigation Efforts
To address the challenges of flooding exacerbated by clogged waterways due to improper waste disposal, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has implemented proactive measures. The state procured amphibious excavators for each senatorial district, facilitating the dredging of waterways and canals to ensure unobstructed water flow. This initiative aims to protect lives and property from the adverse effects of flooding.
Zero-Waste Philosophy
Emphasizing a holistic approach to environmental management, Governor Aiyedatiwa has articulated a commitment to a zero-waste philosophy. This approach seeks to minimize waste generation and promote sustainable practices across the state. By integrating policies such as the EPR scheme and enhancing waste management infrastructure, the administration strives to position Ondo State as a leader in environmental stewardship.
Collaborative Environmental Governance
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s efforts have garnered support from federal authorities. The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Razak Salako, commended the state’s initiatives and affirmed the federal government’s commitment to collaborating with Ondo State to address environmental challenges, including sea incursions affecting riverine communities.
Conclusion
Governor Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s transformative leadership has redefined governance in Ondo State, setting a new standard for others to emulate. Through strategic economic reforms, infrastructural development, inclusive social programs, and a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability, his administration has significantly improved the lives of Ondo State’s residents. As the state continues to progress under his guidance, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s legacy stands as a testament to the profound impact of visionary and dedicated leadership.