Governor Aiyedatiwa Empowers 15,000 Youths, Unveils Ambitious Development Agenda in Ondo State

During an interactive session with youth groups at the International Centre for Culture and Events in Akure, the governor unveiled his 7-point developmental agenda, ‘Our Ease’, focusing on order and security, rural and urban development, technological advancement, healthcare, power, infrastructure, and education. He highlighted several achievements, stating, “We have provided nano grants as business support to 5,000 youths, engaged 15,000 young people in labour-intensive public workforce programmes, and officially opened youth skill centres across the state under the One-Youth-One-Skill Scheme”.

Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the crucial support of youths during the November 2024 governorship election, describing their contribution as “instrumental to his electoral victory across the 18 local government areas of the state”. He urged young people to leverage the administration’s policies and avoid actions that could hinder the state’s progress. “This administration is creating the enabling environment to project the state in a good light to attract investors,” he said, adding that while protest is part of democracy, it should only follow dialogue and negotiations with the appropriate government agencies.

He further advised, “Let us not dissipate our God-given talents and energies on negative tendencies. We must work together to promote peace, build community, and unleash your potential. We believe in you and are committed to supporting you”.

In his welcome address, Orioye Gbayisemore, Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, praised Aiyedatiwa for prioritising youth development and job creation, highlighting initiatives such as the payment of WAEC fees, scholarships, teachers’ recruitment, and the One-Youth-One-Skill scheme. He encouraged youths to “take ownership of the administration’s vision and play active roles in building a progressive Ondo State”.