Personality in Focus
Aiyedatiwa, the Man from the Backwaters at 61: Focusing on Legacy
By Idowu Ajanaku
“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s contributions to the progress, growth and development of Ondo State, formerly as Deputy Governor, Acting Governor, and now Governor, are a pragmatic testament to his visionary leadership and passion for public service” – Gov Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Call him a jinx-breaker of some sort, a history-maker or better still, a trail blazer and you might not be far from the truth. In fact, his intriguing yet, inspiring life trajectory resonates with that of great leaders, who as John Harold Johnson, the creative mind behind the popular Ebony Magazine referred to as those who have taught the world that ” the greater the obstacles we overcome in life, the greater the glory we achieve”. But who really is the subject of this tribute? That is the million- naira question
Good enough, the answer is right here before us as he is none other than Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa (born 12 January 1965), the first Ondo citizen from the backwaters of the coastal Ilaje community to mount the prestigious pedestal as the executive governor of the acclaimed Sunshine State. An astute businessman and people- oriented politician, who as fate would have it has served as governor of Ondo state since 2023. Before then he was the deputy governor of Ondo State from 2021 to 2023 under Governor Rotimi Akeredolu (of blessed memory ). But what has defined his sterling leadership capacity are the outstanding capabilities to bridge the gap between the people’s most pressing needs and government’s popular policies. Interestingly, these are amplified by the achievements especially in the critical areas of security, infrastructural development, agriculture, education, healthcare delivery, youth development, job creation, transportation and tourism.
His is therefore, a true testament of a leadership with character, commitment, consistency and of course, the courage to dare whatever odds he finds along the way. And to do so, he has taken those challenges as hurdles to rise above; scale over and keep moving along the crooked paths that have eventually taken him to the governorship glory, that he is reckoned with as at this day. That rhymes with the thoughts of the iconic Chinese martial arts sports gem, Bruce Lee who explained the wisdom in turning one’s challenges as stepping stones to greater heights. As Roger Crawford rightly noted: “Being challenged in life is inevitable, but being defeated is optional”. Aiyedatiwa made the right choice.
So good that this has been amply reflected with regards to his praiseworthy achievements, ever since his Inauguration on February 24, 2025 he has kept to the tenets of the 1999 constitution that the primary purpose of government include the guarantee of security and provision of welfare to the citizenry ( Section 14 (2) (b) ). His administration has therefore, strengthened securiity by completing the second phase of utility vehicle distribution to security agencies which has increased mobility and rapid response of the security operatives, Amotekun inclusive. Also, additional funds were released to support security operations across the state, ensuring greater safety for residents and their businesses processes.
With resoluteness of purpose combined with
resilience, creativity and being futuristic
in vision and action he and his able team have turned Ondo state into a construction site, indeed an industrial hub of the country, Nigeria. On infrastructural development for which he keeps receiving accolades, his administration’s resolve to revive and complete several abandoned projects left behind by previous governments is praiseworthy. So is the construction of the 7km road at Gbangbabalogun axis at Akure stands out. There is also the reconstruction and rehabilitation of over 60 kilometers of roads across various parts of the state . Apart from their even distribution, this salutary effort is making transportation easier for the citizens while improving access to economic and social opportunities. All these are worthy of commendation.
So is the rehabilitation and reconstruction of selected roads, totaling 60 kilometers, reducing travel time and improving connectivity.The administration has flagged off the dualisation of the Akure–Idanre Road, a critical route that supports commerce and tourism.
When it comes to educational development, the employment of over 2,000 teachers in both primary and secondary schools in addition to the construction and renovation of schools have cumulatively boosted quality education delivery. This would eventually reduce unemployment by providing jobs for several youths. Furthermore, to ease the financial burden on families, the government paid ₦633 million to cover the WAEC fees of 23,000 secondary school students. This noble initiative ensures that no child is left behind due to economic challenges. On the improvement of learning resource, the state introduced a 1:1 textbook-to-learner policy, ensuring that every pupil has access to core learning materials. In addition, books, tablets, and sports equipment were distributed to elementary schools to promote holistic education.The expected spin-off effects point to a brighter future.
In fact, one remarkable policy implementation is his prudent financial management of state funds. Apart from ensuring that all political appointees declare their assets to curb corruption Ondo State recorded an 82.6% reduction in its domestic debt profile, the highest percentage in the country.This reflects fiscal discipline and effective debt management strategies. And has gone a long way in stabilizing the financial system and restoring confidence in the state’s economy.
In a similar vein, in the health sector, the governor’s intervention in upgrading 102 health centres has largely improved access to primary healthcare delivery. In addition, a modern drug warehouse was commissioned in Akure, designed to improve the availability and distribution of essential drugs to health facilities across the state. The ongoing rehabilitation of 50 primary healthcare facilities is underway across different communities, strengthening the grassroots health system and improving access to essential care
Pointing the way to agriculture, over the years Ondo state has stood out with vibrant vision for food security, availability, and rural development. As the major cocoa producer in Nigeria, there is growing focus on chocolate processing, with several initiatives aimed at boosting local value addition. The state government and private investors have been developing cocoa processing facilities, including the Johnvents Cocoa Processing Factory, to increase the amount of cocoa processed locally. Also, on Agriculture and Youth Empowerment, investors were engaged in the agriculture and agribusiness sectors, while 100 youths received training in modern farming techniques, boosting food security and employment opportunities. That is in addition to acquiring 10,000 hectares of land to position agriculture as a key driver of economic growth of the state.
On the indusrrial landscape the state is actively pursuing the development of a deep-sea port at Araromi Seaside, also known as the Ondo Sea Port. This project is considered a key part of the state’s economic development strategy, with plans including a 75-kilometer stretch of unbroken Atlantic coastline and an adjacent Free Trade Zone. The deep-sea port is envisioned to be located two kilometers offshore. The governor has also emphasized the need for synergy among security agencies to protect border communities, which is likely related to the port development and its potential impact on the region.
One unique attribute of this administration is that of empowering women to ensure gender parity and equity In the light of this, grants were distributed to 1,000 low-income women to support small-scale businesses and income-generating activities. This has significantly assisted to reduce poverty and promote financial independence.
In all of these, the governors’ landmark achievements keep receiving well deserved commendations from within and outside the state because they are people- focused; they enjoy equitable distribution across Ondo state and have positively impacted on their Human Development Index ( HDI ). And as a grateful personality who spends quality time actively engaged in praising God every last Friday of the month there can only be more glorious years ahead.
Big congratulations!
Idowu Ajanaku is Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Ondo State
Personality in Focus
Eminent Gents Int’l Announces Philanthropist Abiodun Enilari Paseda As New President
By Eric Elezuo
The Eminent Gents International Club, an association of eminent gentlemen, who have proved their mettle in the society, and committed to lending a helping to the upliftment of the society, has announced Sir Abiodun Paseda as its new president.
Paseda takes over from Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni, who performed creditably well during his tenure in office.
The announcement was made following a keenly contested electoral process, where Paseda was elected unopposed. His election, according to a cross section of the club members, was made possible as a result of the confidence members reposed in him owing to his acknowledged discipline, focus and leadership abilities.
Announcing the results, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Eminent Barr. Taiwo Odumosu, commended members for the maturity, discipline, and commitment they demonstrated throughout the process, noting that despite minor challenges encountered, members conducted themselves in a manner that reflected the values and ideals upon which the Club was founded.
Immediate Past President Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni
Barr. Odumosu congratulated the newly elected officers and urged them to provide purposeful and inclusive leadership capable of strengthening the unity and growth of the Club.
Among members of the executive council, who will be working with Eminent Paseda are Eminent Barr. Oluwaseun Basorun, who was elected as the Vice President and Eminent Ariyo Abass, who won the General Secretary position.
Others are Eminent Ganiu Omotoso for the office of the Assistant General Secretary, Eminent Akinsanya Olaseni as Financial Secretary, Eminent Muyiwa Jayesimi as the Treasurer, Eminent Barrister Yomi Akodu as the Public Relations Officer and Eminent Segun Fetuga, who won the position of the Social Secetary.
Eminent Odumosu admonished the incoming administration to ensure that no member is left behind in the affairs of the Club, and to place the welfare of members at the forefront of its programmes and policies in order to continue to enhance the beautiful etiquette of the almost 20 years Club.
The Eminent Gents International Club was established in 2006 as a group saddled with the responsibility of catering for the less privileged, the needy and the have-nots of the society. The Club strongly believes in giving back to the society, with an overriding philosophy, which revolves around pooling skills, resources and experience to create a sustainable change, and improve the lives of those in need.
New Vice President Eminent Barrister Oluwaseun Bashorun
Consequently, the Club has prioritise engagements in targeted initiatives aimed at addressing critical issues affecting the needy cutting across food, heathcare, shelter, clothing and not forgetting empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Eminent Paseda pledged to live up to expectations, and ensure that the founding principles of the Club is not derailed.
He congratulated his co-executive council members, urging everyone to give their best performance to ensure the success of the administration in particular, and the Club in general.
A distinguished Nigerian based in London, England, Paseda is the Chief Executive Officer, Focus on Disabilities (FOD) Foundation, a not for profit organization that is saddled with the responsibility of seeing to the wellbeing of those living with disabilities. The organization, founded in 2010, has supervised the provision of sundry humanitarian assistance to people living with disabilities across Nigeria and the African continent with special mention to England, his place of residence.
He is a stern believer in the lifting of the downtrodden in the society, and has been awarded the Humanitarian award by Ceebee Gold Foundation.
A recipient of the BEFFTA Award, Africa achiever Award, Scotland among many others, Paseda has since 2012 been distributing movement enhancing materials to the disabled across the continent. Some of these distributions include 60 wheel chairs and disability aids in Kano and Kaduna states in 2012; distribution of clutches, wheel chairs, food items among other things in Ogun state in March and September 2013. Ever since, the selfless giver has not looked back in supporting the less privileged with his resources. He runs an all-expense paid home for people living with disabilities in Odogbolu, Ogun State
Paseda’s humanitarian outreach stretches across Africa and the UK where he is reputed to have touched a lot of lives.
A new chapter in clinical leadership has commenced at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, with the appointment of renowned Consultant Nephrologist, Dr. Olusola Adebisi, as the institution’s new Head of Clinical Services (HCS). He officially resumes duty today, Monday, June 15, 2026, following the expiration of the tenure of his predecessor, Dr. A.S. Adediran, whose stewardship contributed significantly to the advancement of clinical services within the tertiary healthcare institution.
The appointment, approved by the 7th Board of Management at its 6th Extraordinary Meeting held on June 8, 2026, is hailed as a strategic move that places one of the hospital’s most experienced clinicians and respected administrators at the helm of its clinical operations. With a distinguished career spanning renal medicine, healthcare leadership, organized medicine, and community service, Dr. Adebisi brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence to the role.
Until his appointment, Dr. Adebisi served as Head of the Nephrology Unit at FMC Abeokuta, where he earned recognition as one of the leading authorities on kidney-related illnesses within the West African sub-region. A passionate advocate for preventive nephrology, he has spearheaded numerous community sensitization initiatives, including annual World Kidney Day campaigns aimed at promoting early detection and management of kidney disease. He has also mentored and supervised generations of resident doctors, medical officers, and specialized nephrology nurses, helping to sustain a culture of clinical excellence.
His leadership credentials extend beyond clinical practice. Dr. Adebisi previously served as Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), FMC Abeokuta Chapter, where he was instrumental in fostering professional harmony and academic advancement among consultants. He currently serves as Faculty Treasurer of the West African College of Physicians (WACP), a role that underscores his financial discipline, organizational trust, and administrative competence. His earlier engagements with the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) further enriched his understanding of Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Adebisi is actively involved in civic and community development. He currently serves as President of the Rotary Club in the Oke-Ona Egba District, championing humanitarian, maternal health, and community empowerment initiatives. He is also the Social Secretary of the Abeokuta Sports Club, contributing to social cohesion and cultural development within Ogun State.
A devout Christian and committed family man, Dr. Adebisi is widely respected for a leadership style rooted in integrity, compassion, and service. As Head of Clinical Services, he is expected to focus on strengthening patient-centred care, enhancing clinical research and residency training, improving interdepartmental collaboration, and promoting institutional harmony across all clinical cadres.
Speaking on his vision for the office, Dr. Adebisi emphasized the need for innovation, professionalism, and teamwork in healthcare delivery. “Our objective remains clear: to deliver compassionate, world-class, and accessible healthcare to our immediate community and beyond, fueled by clinical innovation, integrity, and absolute dedication to human life,” he said.
With his assumption of office today, stakeholders within and outside FMC Abeokuta express optimism that his blend of clinical expertise, administrative experience, and people-centred leadership will further strengthen the institution’s position as a leading centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, training, and research.
Personality in Focus
June 12: Tinubu Confers National Honours on Kolade-Otitoju, Dasuki, Okei-Odumakin, Others
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on several prominent pro-democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders, and retired military officers in recognition of their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic struggle and the historic June 12 movement.
The announcement was made during the President’s nationwide Democracy Day broadcast commemorating Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
According to President Tinubu, the awards are intended to immortalize the sacrifices of individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, solitary confinement, harassment, and exile during the fight against military dictatorship and the struggle to actualize the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate.
Tinubu Honours Democracy Heroes
The President emphasized that the honourees played critical roles in defending democratic values and laying the foundation for the civilian rule Nigeria enjoys today.
Among those recognized are veteran journalists, media executives, civil rights advocates, and leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), whose resistance to military rule helped shape the nation’s democratic journey.
Media and Civil Society Leaders Recognised
Notable recipients in the media and civil society category include:
* Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ)
* Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Director of News at TVC News and veteran journalist
* Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, renowned human rights campaigner
* Chief Ayo Opadokun, NADECO chieftain
* Sam Omatseye
* Oladele Alake
* Olatunji Bello
* Louis Odion
* Tunde Fagbenle
* Richard Akinnola
* Debo Adeniran
The recognition highlights the pivotal role played by the media and civil society organizations in resisting authoritarian rule and advocating for democratic governance.
Retired Military Officers Honoured for Opposing Dictatorship
In what observers have described as a historic and groundbreaking move, President Tinubu also created a special category to honour military officers who worked from within the armed forces to challenge authoritarian rule and support democratic ideals.
The honoured retired officers include:
* Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd)
* Colonel Lawan Gwadabe (retd)
* Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe
* Major General Ishola Williams (retd)
* Major General M.A. Garba
* Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa
The President noted that these officers risked their careers, personal freedom, and lives in pursuit of democratic governance during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political periods.
Celebrating 27 Years of Democracy
The national honours ceremony forms part of activities marking Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12 in remembrance of the 1993 presidential election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving democratic institutions, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring that the sacrifices of June 12 heroes remain permanently etched in Nigeria’s national memory.
The honours have been widely viewed as a significant step toward acknowledging the contributions of individuals and groups whose courage and resilience helped restore democratic rule and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
