
WE’LL ENSURE A SUCCESSFUL MISSION – AIYEDATIWA ASSURES COURSE 47 PARTICIPANTS
The Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa has said that the state is fully committed to supporting research and policy development efforts aimed at enhancing national growth and sustainable development.
He made this known during a courtesy visit by participants of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47 2025 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru who are on a study tour to Ondo State.
The event took place at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure.
In his remarks, Governor Aiyedatiwa congratulated members of the delegation on their selection into the prestigious programme, describing it as a recognition of their individual competence and leadership capacity.
“I congratulate every member of this distinguished delegation for being selected to participate in this year’s course. It is indeed a testament to your track records and the confidence reposed in your individual capabilities,” the Governor said.
He expressed satisfaction with the choice of Ondo State as one of the study locations for the team, saying “You have come to the right place. Ondo State is rich in resources, culture, and intellectual capital. Whatever interrogations or inquiries you intend to make, you will find this state very useful for your research.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the delegation of the state’s maximum support during their visit.
“Be assured of the full cooperation of the state government. We are ready to support you in every way possible to ensure that your mission here is successful,” he stated.
He further encouraged the visitors to explore the beauty and serenity of Ondo State.
“Ondo is one of the safest states in Nigeria. I have no doubt that you will enjoy your stay. I also urge you to take time to visit some of our tourist destinations and you will be amazed at what you’ll find,” the Governor added.
The delegation was led by Alhaji Muhammad Sulaiman, secretary and Director of Administration, representing the Director of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Prof Ayo Omotayo.
He explained that the participants drawn from various sectors have been divided into seven study groups to visit Cross River, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Benue, Lagos, and Ondo States.
According to him, “each year, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria assigns a national theme for the Institute to interrogate. For 2025, the focus is on Blue Economy and Sustainable Development: Issues, Challenges, and Opportunities.”
He explained that the states chosen have marine boundaries and are therefore critical to understanding the blue economy in Nigeria.
“If you permit me, the states we are visiting all have marine resources that are vital to this year’s theme. We hope to gather enough insights to enrich our final report to be submitted to Mr. President in November,” Sulaiman said.
He thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa for the warm reception accorded the team, noting that they would remain in Ondo State for five days to carry out their field visits.
“We are not surprised by the warm welcome we have received. Ondo is the Sunshine State, and you have truly lived up to that name. On behalf of the Director-General of NIPSS, we thank you sincerely, Your Excellency,” he added.
In attendance were deputy governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Bayo Philip among other government officials.