Aiyedatiwa pledges more investment in school infrastructure, students’ welfare

The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure and enhancing student welfare across the state.

Speaking during a meeting with student leaders from various tertiary institutions at the Governor’s Office, Akure, on Tuesday, 7 October 2025, the Governor commended the students for their maturity and peaceful conduct, which he said had contributed to the prevailing stability in the state’s education sector.

“I want to commend all of you for the way and manner you have been conducting yourselves. Since I became governor, there has been no student unrest. You have engaged clearly without any form of violent agitation,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

The Governor urged the students to remain patient in the face of current economic hardship, assuring them that the ongoing national reforms were already yielding positive results.

“It’s a temporary hardship that is easing up. The reforms are yielding results and benefits, and they are making the economy better. If these reforms had not been implemented, Nigeria would have been worse off today,” he added.

Dr Aiyedatiwa also called for collaboration between government and private investors to address accommodation challenges facing students, noting that public resources were limited.

“The government cannot provide everything. That’s why we are calling on investors to build hostels for students on or near campuses. It’s a viable venture that will also enhance student security,” he said.

Highlighting key infrastructure projects, the Governor mentioned the reconstruction of the Akungba–Ikare Road, explaining that it was aimed at reducing road accidents near Adekunle Ajasin University and boosting local commerce.

“We had to reconstruct that road because of the high rate of accidents near Akungba University. It’s a technical road, but we’ve started it and we will complete it,” he assured.

Aiyedatiwa further emphasised his administration’s renewed focus on technical and vocational education, describing it as vital for industrial growth and job creation. He also promised to resolve electricity challenges at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), to enhance academic and research productivity.

As part of efforts to improve student welfare, the Governor announced the approval of five new buses for student bodies across tertiary institutions in the state.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, commended the Governor’s youth-focused policies, including the approval of double bursaries and scholarships, as well as the introduction of the under-17 football competition to empower young people.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Comrade Kelvin Solomon Olaolu (KSO), appreciated the Governor’s leadership, describing him as a father figure to the student community.

Student representatives from across the state appealed for improved transportation, enhanced campus security, and better learning facilities.

Among them were Comrade Martins Ayemoluwa, President of the Niger Delta Students’ Union; Comrade Precious Ikuenomore, Chairperson of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (Ondo State Chapter); Comrade Mayomi Adekanye, NANS JCC Chairman; Comrade Temitope Alade, President of NAOSS; and Comrade Adegoriola Abejoye, Chairman of NAUS, who all commended the Governor’s responsiveness and urged more action in key areas.

Dignitaries present included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Igbekele Ajibefun; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo (SAN); and other top government officials.