By Our Reporter
— Akungba–Ikare road dualisation, Atiba Market upgrade to be fast-tracked
Akure — Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening state-owned tertiary institutions and accelerating key infrastructure projects in host communities, assuring that education, security and development will remain top priorities of his government.
The Governor gave the assurance on Tuesday in Akure while receiving the Alale of Akungba, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, alongside other community leaders, during a courtesy visit at the Governor’s Office.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that universities, polytechnics and other tertiary institutions owned by the state would continue to receive improved funding to sustain quality education, research capacity and operational efficiency. He acknowledged that several institutions had requested increased running grants and additional resources, noting that while government finances remain stretched, critical needs would be treated with urgency.
“Everybody is asking for more. The universities, ministries, workers and communities all have genuine needs. Our responsibility is to balance these demands prudently while ensuring that priority sectors such as education are adequately supported,” the Governor said.
He added that the government is intensifying efforts to block revenue leakages and expand internally generated revenue in order to free up more funds for developmental projects, particularly in the education sector, which he described as a long-standing strength of Ondo State.
Speaking on infrastructure in Akungba Akoko, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the ongoing multi-billion-naira dualisation of the Akungba–Ikare road as a strategic investment that will boost economic activities, improve safety and enhance the living conditions of residents and the university community.
He also disclosed that the relocation and rehabilitation of Atiba Market would be fast-tracked, with plans to transform it into a modern central market that will serve Akungba and neighbouring communities.
On security, the Governor assured that proactive measures had been put in place to sustain peace and safety in Akungba, pledging continuous collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders.
Earlier, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu commended the Governor for the visible developmental strides recorded in Akungba, citing the Akungba–Ikare road project, Okusa Basic Health Centre and the ongoing work at Atiba Market as impactful interventions.
The monarch appealed for increased employment opportunities for qualified indigenes of Akungba in the state civil service and urged stronger funding and oversight of Adekunle Ajasin University to complement the introduction of new professional courses.
Oba Oseni Adu also expressed gratitude to the Governor for the provision of modern vehicles to traditional rulers across the state, describing the gesture as a demonstration of respect and support for traditional institutions.
Dignitaries at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo; Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Johnson Alabi; Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Hon. Ayodele Akande; Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperative Services, Pastor Bola Ademuwagun; Chairman of SUBEB, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan; and the Member representing Akoko South/West Constituency II in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Tope Agbulu.
The Governor reiterated that his administration remains committed to inclusive development and sustainable growth across all communities in the state.
