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
By NOMA
The Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA) has celebrated Mr. Olakunle Aderinokun on his 55th birthday, describing him as a distinguished strategic communications expert and media professional whose nearly three-decade career continues to shape Nigeria’s communications and business landscape.
In a statement by Theresa Moses, Chairperson, NOMA highlighted Aderinokun’s current role as Head, Media and Public Relations at Access Holdings Plc, where he leads group-wide media strategy, executive communications, crisis management, and corporate reputation positioning across local and international markets.
The Alliance noted that his ability to align corporate narratives with business strategy, stakeholder expectations, and regulatory realities has strengthened institutional credibility and public trust.
Aderinokun’s career reflects a unique blend of journalism, financial services, and corporate leadership. He spent 24 years at THISDAY Newspapers, rising to the position of Group Business Editor and Associate Editor, where he played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s business journalism ecosystem. He later served as Editor, Business at ARISE News Channel, further consolidating his reputation for editorial excellence and impactful storytelling.
Throughout his journalism career, he covered critical sectors including banking, capital markets, energy, aviation, and macroeconomics, engaging directly with top policymakers, regulators, and corporate leaders. His extensive international exposure includes participation in global platforms such as the IMF-World Bank Meetings, African Development Bank Meetings, TICAD in Japan, the Nigeria-China Business Forum, Africa Oil Week in Cape Town, and Vaasa Energy Week in Finland.
Beyond journalism, Aderinokun brings strong financial and investment expertise, having worked with United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Wall Street Trust Company (now WSTC Financial Services), where he handled equity analysis, market research, and investment advisory. This foundation, NOMA noted, has enabled him to effectively bridge financial performance with strategic communication outcomes.
An entrepreneur, he founded Pure Synergy Ltd in 2013, a firm focused on reputation management and strategic communications, and later served as CEO of Excite Enterprise Ltd, an online business solutions platform.
In the public sector space, Aderinokun served as Media Adviser to Senator Tokunbo Abiru in 2020, where he led media strategy and publicity for the Lagos East Senatorial campaign, contributing to its successful outcome.
Academically, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics (Pure and Applied) from the University of Ilorin and an MBA from the University of Lagos, complemented by executive education at Lagos Business School and professional training with the World Bank Institute, NIPR, and Standard Bank Group, South Africa. He also holds multiple professional certifications across public relations, banking, marketing, and digital communications.
NOMA described him as a quintessential, multifaceted professional whose career embodies excellence, innovation, and leadership.
“Olakunle Aderinokun represents the very best of strategic communication and media practice in Nigeria. His journey is not only inspiring but also instructive for the next generation of professionals navigating the evolving media and corporate landscape,” the statement read.
As he marks his 55th birthday, NOMA commended his enduring contributions and wished him continued success, good health, and greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, has congratulated the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on the occasion of his birthday, commending his visionary leadership and reform-driven approach to policing in Nigeria.
In his birthday remarks, Dr. Ogunsan described the IGP as a “distinguished officer whose career has consistently reflected professionalism, courage, and a deep commitment to public safety.”
He noted that since assuming office as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police early this Year 2026, Disu has demonstrated a clear resolve to reposition the Nigeria Police Force towards greater efficiency and public trust.
Dr. Ogunsan particularly praised the IGP’s emphasis on intelligence-led policing, a strategy aimed at enhancing proactive crime detection and prevention, as well as his push for the integration of digital tools and forensic capabilities into police operations. These reforms, he said, signal a shift towards modern, accountable, and citizen-focused policing.
He further highlighted Disu’s decisive steps to strengthen the state policing agenda and officers’ welfare. He praised him for the effective policing model through the restructuring and reduction of tactical units, a move designed to address concerns over excesses while redeploying personnel to police divisions for improved community-level security.
The LSSTF boss also acknowledged the IGP’s consistent advocacy for discipline, integrity, and professionalism within the Force, noting that such values are critical to restoring public confidence and enhancing institutional credibility.
Reflecting on his track record, Dr. Ogunsan recalled Disu’s impactful leadership roles across key commands, including the Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory Commands, where he contributed significantly to crime control and intelligence-driven operations.
His tenure as the Commander of the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos is a testament to his operational excellence and urban crime management.
Ogunsan wished the IGP good health, wisdom, and continued success in his efforts to build a more secure Nigeria. “On this special occasion, we celebrate not only a remarkable leader but a reformer whose vision continues to inspire confidence in the security architecture of our nation,” Ogunsan said.
Terrorists in northeast Nigeria killed a brigadier general in an assault on a military base, a local government chairman told AFP on Thursday, the second killing of a high-ranking officer in five months.
Africa’s most populous country has been fighting a terrorist insurgency for 17 years, since Boko Haram’s 2009 uprising, which has seen the emergence of powerful splinter groups, including Islamic State West Africa Province.
In an overnight attack, unidentified terrorists killed at least 18 soldiers and torched vehicles at a base in Benisheikh, about 75 kilometres from Borno state capital Maiduguri, an intelligence source told AFP.
“Unfortunately, the brigade commander, Brigadier General O.O. Braimah, lost his life,” Kaga Local Government Chairman Zannah Lawan Ajimi told AFP in a phone interview.
Two intelligence sources confirmed Braimah’s death to AFP.
His death follows the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba by ISWAP in November. He was the highest-ranking military official to die in the long-running conflict since 2021.
“They overran the brigade,” one of the intelligence sources said, giving the death toll as “at least” 18.
The second intelligence source said that “the terrorists killed several troops” and “burnt vehicles and buildings before they withdrew,” without giving a toll.
The army and Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
– Rising terrorist violence –
Researchers have warned of an uptick of violence since 2025.
Borno capital Maiduguri has seen two suicide bombings since December — the type of bloody, urban attacks reminiscent of the insurgency’s peak a decade ago.
On Wednesday, the US State Department said in a notice it was authorising “non-emergency US government employees” to leave Abuja “due to the deteriorating security situation”.
While the insurgency is concentrated in the northeastern countryside, terrorists from Nigeria and the neighbouring Sahel have made inroads western Nigeria, where organised crime gangs known as “bandits” have been raiding villages and extorting farmers and artisanal miners for years.
Gunmen killed at least 90 people across several remote villages in northwest Nigeria this week, according to an AFP tally of tolls given by local and humanitarian sources.
Among the attacks was an assault in Kebbi state that police blamed a local terrorist group known as Mahmuda, which is affiliated with Al-Qaeda.
Kebbi sits on Nigeria’s border with Benin and Niger and since 2025 has been targeted by a rising number of terrorist attacks.
Conflict monitor ACLED says there has been a surge in violence in the area carried out by militants affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group.
In nearby Kwara state, in October, fighters from the Al-Qaeda-affiliated JNIM claimed an attack after years of researchers warning that the terrorist conflict ravaging the Sahel risked spreading south towards coastal West African states.
In December, the United States, with Nigerian assistance, bombed northwest Sokoto state, targeting Islamic State Sahel Province fighters usually found in neighbouring Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso.
AFP
