…..Gives Hope to politicians yet to get appointments.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa today sworn-in 16 new commissioners into the State Executive Council, giving reasons on why he delayed their appointments, saying it was to give him opportunities to choose the best hands.
He charged them to demonstrate passion, accountability, and commitment to the service of the people.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the International Culture and Event Centre The Dome, Akure, was attended by politicians, government functionaries, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and families of the appointees.
In an address, Aiyedatiwa reminded the new commissioners that the expectations of the people were high, and that their appointments were based on merit and proven track records.
He enjoined them to prioritize key sectors including food security, healthcare revitalization, youth development, and economic transformation.
The Governor said, “today, marks yet another significant milestone in our constitutional duties towards a collective journey to build a greater Ondo State. We acknowledge God for enabling our administration and for manifesting His hands mightily in the lives of our people.
“Precisely on Thursday, 27th February 2025, we inaugurated the First Batch of the State Executive Council members, including Commissioners and Special Advisers critical to the immediate take-off of our new administration. I must acknowledge the reservations of individuals who felt that the State Executive Council should have come off stream in one fell swoop.
“However, within the first 100 days of our administration, we have been able to prove that slow and steady wins the race. Governance is not just about speed, it is about goal attainment with consistent and sustained effort, even if seemingly slow, but which ultimately lead to success over those who are initially faster but prone to inconsistency or over-confidence. This concept highlights the value of persistence, patience and steady progress in achieving goals.
“It is, therefore, our collective joy to gather here again today, when it seems most auspicious, to inaugurate the Second Batch of the State Executive Council members of our dear Sunshine State. I must say that I feel most fulfilled with the feedback and general applause that greeted the announcement of these new appointees. We have certainly taken our time to carefully select the best hands for this moment.
“Let me quickly extend hearty congratulations to each of the new appointees who have been carefully chosen for their unassailable qualifications, impeccable track records and dedication to public service. You have, undoubtedly, demonstrated your commitment to our shared vision for the State’s development.
“As you assume office, I urge you to hit the ground running. The people of Ondo State expect nothing but the best from us having entrusted us with an overwhelming mandate and we must strive to deliver on all our electioneering promises. Your appointments or upgrading are a testimony to your capabilities and outstanding attainments in your private endeavours and the public service.
“I have the confidence that you will make meaningful contributions to statecraft with a view to delivering dividends of good governance to our people in the Sunshine State. As you are aware, I wish to reiterate that our administration is in a hurry to put in place policies and programmes for the all-round development of our Sunshine State. It therefore, behoves you to discharge the duties and responsibilities of your office with integrity, patriotism, bearing in mind always, the collective interest of the people.
“As appointees of government, you must also foster a cordial working relationship with the bureaucracy in your various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). You must respect due process and work together with your Accounting Officers and other top government functionaries towards ensuring that we deliver on our promise of providing dividends of good governance to our people,” Aiyedatiwa said.
Earlier, the secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti urged the new appointees to align themselves with the governor’s development agenda and view their appointments as an opportunity to serve the people diligently.
In separate interviews, two of the new commissioners, Hon. Ayodele Akande and Hon. Wale Akinlosotu, expressed gratitude to the governor for the opportunity and pledged to assist the governor to deliver on his mandate.
The new commissioners are:
- Professor Igbekele Ajibefun
- Engr. Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye
- Hon. Ayodele Akande
- Engr Alabi Johnson
- Alhaji Amidu Takuro
- Otunba Adewale Akinlosotu
- Mr. Idowu Ajanaku
- Dr. Oluwaseun Abosede Osamaye
- Dr Tob Loko
- Mr. Olaolu Akindolire
- Hon. Sunday Olajide
- Mr. Omoyofunmi Segun Henry
- Pastor Bola Ademuwagun
- Engr. Leye Akinola
- Dr. Banji Awolowo Ajaka
- Hon. Adesoji Afolabi
