…….Says traditional institutions key to security, electoral success, economic growth
By Precious Oluwole
The Federal Government has rated Ondo State among Nigeria’s states with the lowest levels of multidimensional poverty, disclosing that the state’s poverty rate stands at 27.7 per cent, significantly below the national average of 63 per cent.
Dr Bernard Mohammed Doro, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, disclosed this on Tuesday during a luncheon with all traditional rulers at the Government House banquet hall in Akure.
He stated that while Nigeria’s national poverty rate stands at 63 per cent, with 30 per cent classified as ultra‑poor, Ondo State maintains a comparatively lower rate of 27.7 per cent.
The minister added that his ministry has begun implementing policies to reduce poverty and support citizens in achieving resilience, independence, and self‑sufficiency.
Dr Doro further said the federal government would collaborate closely with the Ondo State government to reduce poverty further, stressing that engagement with state and local governments is central to federal poverty‑reduction programmes.
He highlighted efforts to strengthen the National Social Register, which has recorded 19.7 million households to ensure social interventions reach intended beneficiaries.
Addressing the monarchs, Governor Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa praised traditional rulers and key party officials for their support, noting their role has been critical to the peace, security and development of Ondo 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,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said.
He noted the significance of traditional institutions, adding that their endorsement during elections contributed to his record 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 said.
The governor also commended the traditional rulers for maintaining peace and security, particularly in border communities and for cooperating with security agencies, which has helped make Ondo one of the safest states in Nigeria.
He extended appreciation to religious leaders and Kabiyesis for their prayers, noting their support strengthens the administration.
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that the government is stable and functioning efficiently, with all arms working in harmony, emphasising that the welfare and security of the people remain the government’s primary mandate.
Highlighting development projects, he cited the deep seaport, refinery, petrochemical fertiliser plant and Nigeria’s first methanol plant producing ammonia bicarbonate, already operational and set for commissioning in early January.
He also thanked the Minister for Humanitarian and Poverty Reduction for assurances to help further reduce poverty in Ondo State, currently rated at 27 per cent. “We will appraise progress in two years to measure impact,” he said.
The governor concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to leaving Ondo State better than it was found, through sustained peace, welfare, and development initiatives.
In his welcome address, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, lauded the governor’s loyalty to culture and traditional institutions.
In his goodwill message, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, commended Aiyedatiwa’s transformative leadership, citing infrastructure, governance, community development, and the resuscitation of critical projects including roads, urban sector development, and the Deep Sea Port project. The monarch also praised the provision of official vehicles to over 200 tribal leaders, the allocation of five per cent of local government funds for community revitalisation, and the governor’s consistent support for development partnerships.
Presenting a letter and card of appreciation, the Olowo affirmed their unwavering support, wishing the governor a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The event was attended by 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 and Head of Service, Prince Segun Omojuwa; members of the State Executive Council; legislators; former deputy governors; the Executive Director (Corporate Affairs) of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; and political appointees.
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