Ondo decentralises diaspora engagement, sets up focal desks across 18 LGAS

1. In a bold and strategic move to deepen inclusive engagement and strengthen the bond between Ondo State and its global citizens, the Ondo State Government has approved the establishment of Diaspora Focal Desks across all the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.

This landmark initiative, championed by the Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, underscores the commitment of the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to decentralize Diaspora affairs and ensure that every local government benefits directly from global partnerships, development opportunities, and community-driven interventions.

The newly established Diaspora Focal Desks will serve as grassroots liaison points, enabling smoother communication, enhanced data gathering, coordinated outreach, and more effective mobilization of Diaspora-led initiatives.

Through this structure, Ondo State indigenes across the world will experience a more responsive, accessible, and community-centered engagement system.

During a stakeholders’ meeting with the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, and all the 18 Local Government Chairmen in Akure, the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, reaffirmed that the initiative is designed to bring Diaspora engagement closer to the people and to unlock the socio-economic benefits of global linkages at the local community level. He noted that this development aligns with the administration’s *OUR EASE* vision of building a more connected, prosperous, and participatory Ondo State.

The establishment of the Diaspora Focal Desks marks yet another milestone in the state’s efforts to harness the potential of its Diaspora community for development, investment, cultural enrichment, and policy support.

“Ondo State continues to set the pace as a model for subnational Diaspora engagement in Nigeria – one that is people-focused, globally connected, and development-driven” Akinlosotu said..

In his response, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government area Hon. Gbenga Dolnad- Fasua appreciated the idea of the focal offices desk and promised that all the eighteen Local Government Chairmen in the State will work with the commissioner to make the programme successful.

At the meeting are the chairmen of Local Governments, The Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Ajibade Olakunle and the Director Diaspora Mrs,
Komolafe.