- Aiyedatiwa hosts obas
The federal Government has declared that Ondo ranks among the lowest in multidimensional poverty across Nigeria.
Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction minister, Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro disclosed this on Tuesday during a luncheon Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had with with traditional rulers in the state at the Government House banquet hall in Akure.
The minister saids 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.
He added that his ministry has begun implementing policies to reduce poverty and support citizens in achieving resilience, independence, and self‑sufficiency.
Doro added that 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.
Addressing the monarchs, Aiyedatiwa praised them for their support, noting their role has been critical to the peace, security and development of Ondo State.
He said, “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.”
He noted the significance of traditional institutions, adding that their endorsement during the last governorship election 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 for their prayers, noting that their support strengthens the administration.
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 and 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. “We will appraise progress in two years to measure impact,” he said.
In his welcome address, the 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 and Chairman of Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s transformative leadership, citing infrastructure, governance, community development, and the resuscitation of critical projects.
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 to the governor, the Olowo affirmed their unwavering support, wishing the governor a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
In his goodwill message, former Deputy Governor, Ambassador Omolade Oliwateru, also commended the governor for the impressive developmental projects going on in the state, especially in Akure.
