Ondo Diaspora Ministry outlines vision as House Committee pays familiarisation visit

The Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations has reiterated its commitment to advancing regional development and diaspora engagement as it hosted members of the Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on Inter-Parliamentary and Diaspora Matters.

The lawmakers familiarisation visit served as an official platform for them to understand the ministry’s structure, operational framework and strategic priorities for improved legislative collaboration and oversight.

Welcoming the committee members, the Honourable Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Akinsola Akinlosotu, described the engagement as timely.

He noted that the ministry was established in 2016 by the late Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and had previously been led by Prof. Ademodi, Princess Olateju and Prince Ologbese.

Otunba Akinlosotu, who resumed duties on 15 July 2025, expressed gratitude to the Governor for the opportunity to serve.

He outlined the ministry’s core mandate and presented his agenda, which includes, Smart City development, establishment of a Diaspora Trust Fund, launch of a Diaspora Bond, hosting of a Diaspora Festival in 2026 and Diaspora Road Show to engage the global Ondo community.

The commissioner further disclosed plans to liaise with the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for broader collaboration on diaspora affairs.

In his remarks, Hon. Fatai Atere assured the ministry of the committee’s readiness to support its initiatives, provided that regular engagement is maintained.
Hon. Abitogun also commended the ministry’s budget performance and encouraged the staff to share innovative ideas with the House.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Olatunji Oshatti, applauded the commissioner’s vision and pledged the committee’s full backing in helping the ministry deliver on its mandate.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Integration, Hon. Muyiwa Ogunyemi, presented a breakdown of the ministry’s planned programmes, existing challenges, and the strategic need for trust and cooperation to achieve tangible results.

In her contribution, Committee Clerk Mrs Asanbe encouraged the ministry to maintain close coordination with the House, noting that teamwork is essential for success.

The Administrative Secretary expressed appreciation to the visiting lawmakers and commended the staff for their commitment and resilience.