Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has renewed his commitment to youth empowerment and job creation, assuring young people of greater opportunities under his administration.
At a youth engagement forum held at The Dome in Akure on Tuesday, the Governor emphasized the essential role of young people in the development of the state, describing them as a vital force for progress and innovation.
He presented his administration's 7-point policy framework, known as “Our Ease,” which focuses on key areas such as security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, technological growth, and both rural and urban development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted various youth-centered initiatives already in motion, including the payment of WAEC and NABTEB examination fees, scholarships and bursaries for students, the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers, and the ongoing refurbishment of schools across Ondo State.
According to him, "We’ve supported 5,000 young entrepreneurs with nano grants, engaged 15,000 youths in labour-intensive public work programs, and launched Youth Skill Centres under the One-Youth-One-Skill initiative."
He responded to the concerns raised by youth representatives by promising to appoint a young person as Commissioner for Youth Affairs soon. He also pledged more opportunities for employment and skill acquisition.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude for the immense support received from youths during the 2024 governorship election, acknowledging their significant role in securing victory across all 18 local government areas.
On security, he assured that the state government is actively collaborating with security agencies to clamp down on criminal activities. He maintained that Ondo State is regaining calm and will not serve as a safe haven for criminals.
“Law-abiding citizens can be rest assured of their safety. Criminals who have infiltrated our communities are being pursued and flushed out. We are committed to keeping our state safe,” he said.
The Governor urged young people to embrace the opportunities available to them and refrain from any actions that could disrupt the state’s progress. He acknowledged the importance of protests in a democratic setting but stressed that they should come only after proper dialogue channels have been explored.
"We must direct our energies positively to build our communities, ensure peace, and realize our full potential. We believe in the abilities of our youth and are committed to backing them," he added.
Earlier, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Orioye Gbayisemore, commended the administration’s efforts toward empowering young people. He cited several programs, including the One Youth, One Skill scheme and the support for students’ education, as proof of the administration’s dedication.
Representatives from the three senatorial zones — Mr. Abiola Obanoyen (North), Miss Yewande Omobomi (Central), and Mr. Jonathan Obatola (South) — appreciated the Governor's inclusive approach but appealed for even greater youth-focused efforts to ensure wider participation and impact.
Also speaking, Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye of the Amotekun Corps provided an update on the security situation in the state.
He reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to combat crime, noting the risks his officers take daily to protect residents, and called for stronger community involvement in ensuring safety.
The event was attended by key government officials including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, APC State Chairman Engr. Ade Adetimehin, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, OSRC DG/CEO Mr. Kenneth Stevenson-Odusola, local government chairmen, and other senior officials.
