By Ayomide Otitoju
Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has assured that no community will be left behind in his administration’s development agenda, pledging reforms across all sectors as Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service at the Chapel of the Annunciation, Archbishop Vining College of Theology in Akure, Aiyedatiwa described his administration’s journey as “only just beginning,” emphasizing inclusive growth, infrastructure, and security as central priorities.
“In the last several months, much has been achieved, yet I stand before you to humbly say that we are only just beginning,” the governor said. “By God’s grace, we shall not relent until every community in the state can feel the touch of development.”
He listed service, accountability, and progress as guiding principles of his government, adding that independence should remind Nigerians of “freedom, responsibility, and nationhood.”
On security, the governor stressed shared responsibility between citizens and government. “It is not elephants or bamboos that cause insecurity; it is human beings breaking the laws.
Citizens’ participation is very key,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa commended the Church for promoting peace and morality and reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “revolutionary reforms and infrastructural development.”
“We are very proud of the exemplary leadership of the President. It is our collective duty to support him and remain loyal to his Renewed Hope Agenda,” he noted.
Rt Rev. Joseph Alaba Olusola, Bishop of Ijesa North Diocese and Chairman of the College’s Board, urged Nigerians to embrace unity, honesty, and repentance, stressing the need for youth empowerment through education, innovation, and job creation.
The Rector, Ven. Dr Moses Adetunbi, commended the governor for road projects beyond Akure and for ensuring prompt payment of salaries and pensions.
Aiyedatiwa assured worshippers that his “Our Ease Agenda” was already taking shape and would soon yield visible impact across Ondo communities.
Special prayers were offered for the governor and state leadership by Bishop Michael Ipinmoye. The service was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, and security chiefs.
