Ondo State Government

Also featuring are key members of the Ondo diaspora community such as Kehinde Olateju, CEO of Business Analytic Consulting, Dr. Akinloye Olorungbemi, DPT, CEO of Optima Physical Therapy, and Dr. Oluremi Adewale, Founder and CEO of Women Focus Canada. The summit is being organized by the Ondo State Government with support from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the European Union through the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF) Phase II programme led by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Economy, and supported by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs).

Tunji-Ojo, Ooni, Dabiri-Erewa, Aboyeji, Others to Speak at Ondo Diaspora Summit Plans are in full gear for the Ondo State Government to convene a summit of its diaspora community in North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and other places across the world. The diaspora summit, which is billed to hold virtually on Saturday, December 2, 2023 for those in North and South America and Saturday, December 9, 2023 for those in Europe and other parts of the world, is an offshoot of the Develop Ondo conference which took place in Akure earlier this year. The aim of the summit is to make Ondo indigenes across the globe aware of investment opportunities in the state, thus fostering an avenue for mutual growth and sustained development. The event will be hosted by Prince Boye Ologbese, the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations in Ondo State, while Governor Rotimi Akeredolu will be the Chief Host, delivering the keynote address. The event will be anchored by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, Ms. Rinsola Abiola, whose office is also providing technical assistance on the planning of the diaspora summit. The event boasts a lineup of notable government officials at the federal and state levels, and highly respected private sector players and traditional rulers. The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, who is one of the biggest real estate investors in Ondo State, is billed to speak on the opportunities available in the real estate sector. Also to speak at the event are Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the widely celebrated Minister of Interior who, until his appointment, was a member of the House of Representatives from Ondo State, and Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of State for Youth Development and youngest member of the Federal Executive Council. The Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, is also expected to speak on the health sector, a crucial sector which many Ondo diasporans work in. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Director-General of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, is to speak on the importance of sustained diaspora engagement and Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), will speak on investment opportunities available in the tech sector and how Nigerians living abroad can harness these opportunities. Development partners such as the UNDP will also be represented at the summit and Dr. Seye Oyeleye, Director General of the DAWN Commission, will feature as a panelist. Officials of the Ondo State government built to participate in the summit include the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral resources, Engr. Razaq Obe, the Commissioner for Information, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, the Director General of the Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA), Gbenga Badejo, the Ondo State Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Raimi Aminu, and the Head of Business Development at ONDIPA, Femi Akarakiri. Others include Dr. Banji Awolowo Ajaka, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Adedayo Faduyile OON, Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Ajibayo Adeyeye, Special Adviser on Political, Legislative and Strategy, Olumbe Akinkugbe, Chairman of the State Information Technology Development Agency and Peace Odili, Special Assistant to the Governor on Innovation and Partnerships. Private sector players billed to feature as panelists at the summit include Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, leading Nigerian tech entrepreneur and Founding Partner at Future Africa, Folajomi Adegbulugbe, Director of Business at RBD Limited, Joel Ogunsola, Founder of Prunedge, and Prince Adebiyi Ayeni, who serves in the management team of leading real estate company, Jide Taiwo & Co.

GOV AKEREDOLU RELEASES N1BN FOR RETIRED TEACHERS, LG WORKERS IN ONDO Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has flagged off the payment of N1bn as a gratuity to teachers and local government workers who retired in 2011. Akeredolu, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Mr. Dare Aragbaiye, said the N1bn was sourced from the October allocation from the federation account. He said the payment of N1bn marked a gradual defrayment of the backlog of gratuity arrears for retirees of Local Government and Primary school teachers. According to him, “another tranche would soon be paid within the first quarter of next year. Some pensioners who retired in 2012 were paid, while those the government termed distressed benefitted from the N1bn payment. The governor said that his administration has fully paid all outstanding salaries and pensions, including the allowances of all retirees left by the previous administration. “We want to make sure pensioners in the state do not suffer anymore. We are making efforts to rid our communities of miscreants and criminals, as well as those who engage in cult-related activities in our dear state. “The State Government is continually committing enormous resources to strengthening the Amotekun Corps in terms of equipment and human resources. “This is in addition to the provision of funds and other logistical support to other sister security agencies operating in Ondo State. Our government cannot tolerate a situation where our citizens cannot conduct their daily businesses in a safe environment.” The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Takuro Amidu, said the payment of the gratuity was initiated by Governor Akeredolu by ensuring that some money was saved every month. Amidu said that Governor Akeredolu was poised to take care of senior citizens. Some of the pensioners said it was suicidal for them to survive 12 years without collecting their gratuities. Many of them said that they would use a chunk of the money to pay accumulated debts. One of them, Chief Ojo Samuel, said it was difficult for him to cope with life situations after he retired and his gratuity was not paid. “We thank God we are alive to collect and enjoy our benefit.” The chairman of pensioners in Ondo State, Johnson Osunyemi, said the payment of N1bn was a reassurance that the governor would do more for them. Osunyemi said pensioners have not witnessed such a good gesture in the state. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/11/akeredolu-releases-n1bn-for-retired-teachers-lg-workers-in-ondo/ 📸 Olawale Abolade

GOV AKEREDOLU BAGS NUP AWARD OF EXCELLENCE •••He’s The Pillar Of Pensioners - NUP President •••We’re Passionate About Pensioner’s Welfare-Gov Akeredolu The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has honoured the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, with an Award of Excellence as the Pillar of Pensioners in the state. The NUP noted that if all State Governors could take a clue from Ondo State Governor, Nigeria will soon become an 'Eldorado' where no pensioner shall be oppressed. Presenting the Award to the Governor, NUP National President, Comrade Godwin Abumisi thanked the Governor for showing special interest in the welfare of pensioners in the State. Governor Akeredolu was represented by his Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Mr. Dare Aragbaiye. The Award of Excellence was presented during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NUP held at the Union secretariat, opposite NYSC secretariat in Akure, the State capital. Comrade Abumisi said:”The Ondo State Council today has set a very high standard in hosting the NEC of our Union which will remain fresh in our memory as one of the best NEC meetings ever held. “May I thank His Excellency, Governor Akeredolu, the Governor of Ondo State, the government, and the people of Ondo State for playing host to the Senior Citizens from all over Nigeria. “I must thank the Governor of Ondo State in a special way for having taken special interest in the matter of pensioners in Ondo State. “If all our State Governors could take a clue from Ondo State Governor, Nigeria will soon become an 'Eldorado' where no pensioner shall be oppressed. “Here in Ondo State, monthly pensions are being paid as at when due. The Government prioritizes allocation of substantial amount of money for payment of gratuities. “Final payment of all arrears of pensions, (6 months to state pensioners and 7 months to Local Government pensioners). Payment of all pension increases (i.e 33.4% of July 2010 and consequential adjustment of2019). “We don't just move into a state suddenly to celebrate the government and host our flag in any state just for the fun of it as such decision is tied to certain parameters the government of the hosting state must achieve/fulfil. Ondo State Government has surpassed all the set standards. “It is in appreciation of the laudable welfarist efforts of the State Governor that the Union intends to honour the Governor with a special award of excellence, dignity and honour for all he had done for our pensioners in Ondo State. Infact, we refer to him as "the pillar of pensioners in Ondo State." Responding, Governor Akeredolu thanked Pensioners in the country for appreciating his administration’s efforts. The Governor noted that his administration will continue to priotise workers welfare and also give premium attention to pensioners in the state. He expressed appreciation to them and the people of the state for their prayers and well wishes for him. 📸 Olawale Abolade

PRESS STATEMENT Re: Akeredolu Spent N7.3billion In Three Months On ‘Contingency’ Without House Of Assembly Approval We have read the report published on SaharaReporters news platform claiming that the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, spent N7.3billion in three months while he was on medical vacation. In response to the concerns raised across various social media platforms, we wish to provide clarification for the sake of transparency and accountability, which are values synonymous with the Akeredolu-led administration. It is important to state unequivocally that the referenced N7.3 billion constituted the cumulative amount of palliative funds received from the federal government. These funds were allocated under the contingency sub-heading to address unforeseen expenses not initially budgeted for but deemed necessary during the fiscal year. While the original contingency fund in the 2023 budget was N1,069,000,000.00, the additional N7 billion represents funds received from the federal government labeled as "Infrastructure Support Fund," specifically for palliatives meant to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal. In accordance with the Ondo State Public Finance Management Law 2017, the establishment of a Contingency Fund is outlined in Part five, subsection (i) and (ii). It states: A contingency Fund is hereby established. (ii) The contingency Fund may be utilised for making money available to meet emergency expenditure (other than statutory expenditure) which is not provided for in the Appropriation Law for the current year and which although otherwise failing to be met out of the consolidated Revenue Fund or Capital Expenditure and Development Fund cannot without serious injury to the public interest be postponed until a Supplementary Appropriation Law providing for it can be enacted.” Contingency funds are designed to address emergency expenditures not provided for in the current year's Appropriation Law, but crucial to the public interest and requiring immediate attention. Governor Akeredolu did not personally spend the N7.3billion; rather, these funds were appropriately utilised for palliatives. The funds were released to the state by the federal government as part of the efforts to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal nationwide. Our administration remains committed to the highest standards of financial responsibility. Any claim of impropriety is unfounded. We encourage the public to rely on accurate information and refrain from being swayed by sensational claims lacking factual basis. The Palliative committee will in due course avail members of the public the details of the expenditure of the palliative fund. Signed: Richard Olatunde Chief Press Secretary to the Governor November 21, 2023.

GOV AKEREDOLU APPROVES 100% HAZARD ALLOWANCE PAYMENT FOR DOCTORS Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, has approved the payment of 100 percent hazard allowance to medical Doctors on the state government payroll. The payment of the allowance will take effect from 2nd October, 2023 The Chairman of NMA in Ondo state, Omosehin Adeyemi-Osowe thanked the governor for fulfilling his promise. He said this will in no small measure make work interesting for the doctors. According to him, the state government has again demonstrated that it is committed to the welfare of health personnel in the state. He also enjoined the Governor to as a matter of urgency direct the speed up of the recruitment process of health workers as promised .

GOV AKEREDOLU RECEIVES SOUTHWEST GOVERNORS, HARPS ON CONTINUOUS COLLABORATION Chairman of the Southwest Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, on Tuesday, 24th October, 2023, met with Governors from the region to discuss issues of interest. The Governors present at the meeting were Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Engr. Seyi Makinde of Oyo, and Mr. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti. Governor Akeredolu, who appreciated the Governors for their solidarity, harped on continuous collaboration among the Southwest States. Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde said the Forum is praying for Governor Akeredolu, adding that he has the support of all the Governors in the region. The Governors discussed National and other Issues affecting the region and the people. Richard Olatunde Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. October 24, 2023. 📸 Olawale Abolade

ONDO STATE RANKS HIGH IN 2023 FISCAL TRANSPARENCY AND INTEGRITY INDEX Measuring Governance Performance: 2023 Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Index. Congratulations to the TOP FIVE States 1. Ekiti 2. Kaduna 3. Ondo 4. Lagos 5. Gombe The report was compiled by the Center for Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch (CeFTIW) in partnership with the MacArthur Foundation. The index assessed transparency and accountability in public fund management and the implementation of public policies across all 36 states, considering six key areas: Accessibility, Open Budget, Public Procurement, Human Resources, Anti-Corruption, and citizen engagement.

14 YEARS AFTER, ONDO PERMANENT SECRETARIES RECEIVE NEW SUVs ••• Hails Gov Akeredolu’s Commitment to Workers' Welfare ••• We Must Continue To Work For Our People-Gov Akeredolu Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, has presented brand new SUVs to Permanent Secretaries in the state as official vehicles. This marked a significant milestone 14 years after the Olusegun Mimiko administration distributed Toyota Corolla saloon cars to the Permanent Secretaries in the State. In 2019, Governor Akeredolu had provided reconditioned vehicles to the Permanent Secretaries to enhance their work efficiency. The new SUV vehicles were presented to the Permanent Secretaries at the 2023 Public Service Week held at the International Culture and Event Center (DOME) on Igbotoro Road in Akure, the state capital. Representing the Governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, commended the beneficiaries and urged them to continue working diligently to justify his administration's trust. "We expect you to remain innovative and proactive in advancing the development of our state within our REDEEMED Agenda," Governor Akeredolu emphasised. Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the Chairman of the Forum of Permanent Secretaries in Ondo State Public Service, Mr. Bunmi Alade, expressed gratitude for Governor Akeredolu's remarkable gesture, highlighting the unprecedented presentation of SUVs as official vehicles for Permanent Secretaries in the state. He pledged the unwavering loyalty of Public Servants in Ondo State to Governor Akeredolu's administration, adding that their commitment to delivering excellent services is unwavering. The Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele, acknowledged Governor Akeredolu's dedication to improving the quality of life for Ondo State workers. He noted that the presentation of brand new official vehicles to the Permanent Secretaries would enhance their status. "We can now see that Mr. Governor is genuinely concerned about our well-being. With this enhancement, the role of our Permanent Secretaries is elevated, and I can assure you that our best is yet to come," the Head of Service affirmed. 📸 Olawale Abolade

PRESS STATEMENT Independence Day: Governor Akeredolu Calls For Concerted Efforts In Rebuilding Nigeria Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, has called on all Nigerians to unite with the country's leadership in the task of rebuilding the nation towards peace, progress, and development. Governor Akeredolu stressed that now is the time for Nigerians to demonstrate their dedication to national development and nation-building. While describing the nation's diversity as a strength, the Governor indicated that the country must purposefully leverage this diversity for growth and development. Governor Akeredolu expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome the current socio-economic difficulties to emerge more prosperous and stronger. He pointed out that the challenges stemming from the removal of the fuel subsidy should not erode the nation's collective trust. Instead, he said these obstacles should reinforce the people's belief in Nigeria's promising future. Governor Akeredolu emphasised the importance of consciously upholding the principles of national unity and nation-building as a pathway to peace and prosperity. On the 63rd Independence Anniversary, the Governor advocated unity and hope throughout the nation. "Despite today's challenges, our hope and trust must remain unshaken. Our journey towards a prosperous and secure future has just begun. We must continually interrogate every issue that hinders the development and greatness of our beloved nation. "We will persist in our efforts to foster true federalism. We must be dedicated to addressing the root causes of our national issues. The welfare of our people should accelerate our resolve for development." He said. Governor Akeredolu stressed that the task of rebuilding the nation requires the contribution of every citizen. He reiterated absolute confidence in President Bola Tinubu's leadership and assured Nigerians of the country's progress under Tinubu’s administration. The Governor appealed to all Nigerians, regardless of tribal affiliations, to unite in the task of rebuilding Nigeria. He affirmed that it is through these collective efforts that the nation can realise its maximum potential. "As we celebrate Independence Day, I congratulate all Nigerians. I urge us to remain steadfast in our faith in a better and prosperous Nigeria." The Governor called on every citizen to contribute to the nation's development while fostering peace, unity, and progress in all endeavors. Governor Akeredolu assured that under President Bola Tinubu's leadership, and with the proactive participation of the Nigerian people, the nation will overcome its challenges and emerge as a beacon of hope and prosperity. Signed: Richard Olatunde Chief Press Secretary to the Governor October 1, 2023.

PRESS STATEMENT Eid-El-Maulud: Gov Akeredolu Congratulates Muslims, Calls for Unity, Love Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, has congratulated all Muslims in the state and beyond on the occasion of Eid-El-Maulud, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. The Governor said the Eid-El-Maulud is not just a celebration, but an essential moment for introspection, reflection, and a recommitment to the spiritual virtues exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad. Governor Akeredolu implored the people to imbibe the spirit of Unity, love, patience, tolerance, and perseverance, which are the cornerstones of the Prophet's teachings and life. "Let us embrace the act of sacrifice and love, as exhibited by the Holy Prophet during his time. His birth represents a gift of love and peace to all of humanity. It is a beacon of hope, and we should use this occasion to show kindness and extend love to one another, as well as work towards the peace and unity of our dear state and nation."the Governor said. Governor Akeredolu assured that his administration will continue to prioritise the welfare of the people and the development of the State. “In the spirit of the Prophet's teachings, we reaffirm our commitment to the pursuit of the greater good for all our citizens. We will ensure that every action taken by our administration is driven by love for our state and the desire to improve the lives of our people. “As we celebrate this special day, let us remember the essence of the Prophet's teachings and strive to live by them. Let us show more love, exercise more patience, foster more tolerance, and persevere in all our endeavors. “Together, we can continue to build an Ondo State that is prosperous, peaceful, and a place where every citizen feels valued and cared for.“ the Governor said. Signed: Richard Olatunde Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. September 27, 2023.

ONDO GOVT COMMENCES PERMANENT REHABILITATION OF AKURE/OWENA-ONDO ROAD Ondo State Government has commenced permanent repair of the failed portion of Akure/Owena-Ondo road. The State Government through the Ministry of Infrastructure, Land & Housing decided to rehabilitate this road to prevent unnecessary hardship and loss of lives on the Federal highways that fall within Ondo State territory. The state Commissioner for Infrastructure, Land & Housing, Engr. Raimi Aminu, noted that the project was approved by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu as part of his road network initiative. He explained further that the road could not be abandoned despite belonging to the Federal Government. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Allen Idowu who supervised the rehabilitation of the road at Owena-Ondo road, on behalf of the State Government, said work has begun immediately on the site. However, he said pending the completion of the road project, motorists and other road users plying the Akure/Owena-Ondo road are employed to make use of Ipetu-Ijesha road. The State Government assured that the road will be completed in due time and such rehabilitation is being extended to other parts of the state.