Gov Aiyedatiwa Swears in Second Batch of Commissioners

………..Reiterates administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability

By Precious Oluwole

In a significant step toward consolidating his administration’s vision for a better Ondo State, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has inaugurated the second batch of Commissioners in the State.

The new Commissioners are: Otunba Adewale Akinlosotu, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, Dr. Banji Ajaka, Engr. Johnson Alabi, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, Mr Idowu Ajanaku, Dr. Tob Loko, Mrs Seun Osamaye, Engr. Abiola Olawoye.

Others are; Prof Igbekele Ajibefun, Mr Olaolu Akindolire, Hon. Sunday Olajide, Pastor Bola Ademuwagun, Mr Adesoji Afolabi, Mr Olaleye Emmanuel Akinola, Mr Ayodele Akande.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at The Dome in Akure, marked a key step in consolidating Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration’s agenda for effective governance and accelerated development across the state.

The Governor recalled that the precisely on Thursday, 27th February 2025, the First Batch of the State Executive Council members were inaugurated, including Commissioners and Special Advisers critical to the immediate take-off of his new administration.

He congratulated the new commissioner, noting that they have been carefully chosen for their unassailable qualifications, impeccable track records and dedication to public service.

The governor reiterated his administration’s readiness to fast-track policies and programs aligned with the state’s 7-point development agenda, codenamed OUR EASE, which focuses on economic growth, food security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, youth empowerment, and social welfare.

He advised the appointees to prioritize integrity and teamwork, especially in collaborating with permanent secretaries and accounting officers across ministries, departments, and agencies. “You must respect due process and work with the bureaucracy to ensure smooth service delivery,” he added.

In a cautionary message to the appointees’ associates, family, and supporters, the governor warned against exerting undue pressure or promoting sectional interests. “Their constituencies are not limited to specific areas; the entire State is their responsibility,” he stressed.

While acknowledging that not everyone could be appointed at once, Aiyedatiwa assured that there would be opportunities for others to contribute meaningfully to governance in due course.

Highlighting his administration’s progress, Aiyedatiwa spoke of strides made in infrastructure, welfare programs, and investor engagement. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuing and completing ongoing projects while initiating new ones that benefit all residents.

On security, the governor disclosed that decisive measures were being taken to maintain peace across the state. He announced a proposed bill prescribing stiffer penalties, including the death sentence for kidnapping, and disclosed that 50 high-grade operational vehicles were recently distributed to security agencies to bolster their efforts.

Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and excellence, urging the new appointees to align themselves with these values.

“Our vision is for a more prosperous Ondo State where every individual can thrive,” he concluded.

Earlier in his address, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti noted that the appointment of the Commissioners is a critical step in reinforcing a responsive, inclusive and people-centred governance structure in Ondo State.

He added that It is a testament to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to an all-inclusive governance, deepening of democracy, and delivering on the mandate given to him by the people of Ondo State, commending his unique and visionary leadership style as well as his eagerness to ensure Ondo State experiences all-round development.

According to him, the appointees were carefully selected based on merit, competence, and loyalty to both the shared vision of progress for the Sunshine State and as encapsulated in “OUR EASE” agenda of this government.

“I am highly delighted that they reflect this administration’s special consideration for women and youth groups, as promised by Mr. Governor. It is impressive to therefore state that these appointees will bring fresh ideas, youthful energy, and technology driven perspectives to governance in our dear State.

“I am optimistic that the incoming Commissioners will justify the confidence reposed in them, even as they are expected to hit the ground running. aligning with the priorities and directions of this administration”.

He urged them to understand that they are to be entrusted with the critical task of steering the policies of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration, implementing programmes and advocating for the welfare of the people. Your dedication and integrity are vital to the realisation of our collective goals”. He also charged them to see their appointment as a call to service, and should be filled with laudable impact.

Speaking on behalf of other Commissioners, Mr Segun Henry Omoyofunmi appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for the trust and opportunity to serve. He pledged that they will continue to strife to build a brighter future for all.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, the First Lady of Ondo State, Her Excellency Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, State Chairman of APC, Engr Ade Adetimehin, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, Commissioner for finance, Mrs Omowumi Isaac, Traditional rulers, Local Government Chairmen, LCDA Chairmen, Labour Leaders, religious leaders, political appointees, among other eminent personalities.