When Lucky Aiyedatiwa took the oath of office as Governor of Ondo State on February 24, 2025, expectations were high.
Six months later, the administration has rolled out what many describe as a “transformational scorecard.” With 25 verifiable achievements spanning security, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and fiscal discipline, the Sunshine State appears to be on a new trajectory.
Guarding the State: Security First
From day one, Aiyedatiwa emphasized that no development can thrive in an unsafe environment. His government completed the second phase of utility vehicle distribution to security agencies and released additional operational funds, boosting mobility and readiness. Businesses and residents across Ondo now speak of a renewed sense of safety.
Healthcare for the Grassroots
Health reforms have taken shape quickly. A modern drug warehouse in Akure now ensures steady supply and distribution of essential medicines. Rehabilitation of 50 primary healthcare centres across communities is underway, bringing essential care closer to the people.
Education: No Child Left Behind
Perhaps the most celebrated initiative is the payment of ₦633 million WAEC fees for over 23,000 students, lifting financial burdens off families. To tackle staff shortages, 2,000 new teachers were recruited. The 1:1 textbook-to-learner policy was launched, ensuring every pupil has a core text in hand. Beyond books, tablets and sports equipment have been shared, while school renovations are creating classrooms that inspire learning.
Women and Youth at the Centre
1,000 women received business grants to boost small-scale enterprises. For the youth, a Skills Development Centre in Akure has already admitted 500 trainees in ICT and digital skills. Another 100 young people have been trained in modern farming techniques, linking agriculture with youth empowerment.
Roads that Connect the People
Infrastructure remains the governor’s loudest statement:
60 km of roads under rehabilitation.
Dualisation of Akure–Idanre Road, Akungba–Ikare Road, and Igbokoda–Okitipupa Road now in motion.
The Oda Road dualisation is completed and commissioned, easing Akure traffic.
20 km of new roads opened across senatorial districts.
₦3.5 billion released as counterpart fund for World Bank RAAMP rural road projects, set to improve farm-to-market access.
Other key projects — the Onyearugbulem–Irese flyover, Ijoka Road dualisation, and the new Judiciary Complex — are also underway.
Agriculture and Industry: Planting for the Future
The government acquired 10,000 hectares of land for large-scale farming and food hubs. Major MoUs were signed for petrochemical and fertilizer plants, positioning Ondo as an industrial growth hub.
Fiscal Discipline and Worker Welfare
Ondo State achieved an 82.6% reduction in its domestic debt profile, the highest in Nigeria, hailed as evidence of prudent management. Salaries, pensions, and gratuities are being paid promptly, earning the administration trust among workers and retirees alike.
Environment and Energy
Flood-prone communities have benefitted from canal dredging and waterway clearance. To tackle rural darkness, an MoU with the Rural Electrification Agency promises to expand electricity to underserved areas, lighting up homes and businesses.
Land Protection and Reforms
Land grabbing and fraudulent resales have long plagued the state. In response, a special task force was inaugurated to sanitize the land market and guarantee transparency.
Conclusion: Momentum or Mirage?
In just 180 days, Governor Aiyedatiwa has unveiled a long list of 25 achievements. Supporters hail this as proof of competence and renewed hope, while critics argue that sustaining such momentum will be the real test.
What is certain is that Ondo State today is buzzing with projects, reforms, and promises of a brighter tomorrow.
