Latest news with #LuckyAiyedatiwa
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Nigeria: Aiyedatiwa harps on digital economy
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Wednesday urged youths in the state to leverage technology to upscale their skills in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Aiyedatiwa, who made this call during the flag-off ceremony for the training of 500 youths organized by the Ondo State Government in collaboration with GIZ-ZME, said the initiative would further position them to benefit from the opportunities and deliverables in the ICT sector. Represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration's commitment to fostering a revolutionary digital economy, technological advancement, and industrialization. He emphasized that ICT knowledge has the potential to transform the lives of young people and contribute significantly to the state's development. According to him, the digital transformation journey for Ondo youths remains a top priority in achieving a collective vision of a technology-driven state. He appealed to the trainees to embrace the opportunity to sharpen their ICT skills and assured that the government would continue to implement policies and programs aimed at addressing unemployment, bridging the skills gap, and ensuring prosperity for all. He said, 'This training, an innovative initiative of the Ondo State Government in collaboration with the Nigerian-German Centre for Migration and Development (GIZ-ZME), is a testament to the power of collaboration in achieving transformative change. It represents a bold and forward-thinking step toward equipping our young people with the requisite skills to thrive in today's fast-evolving digital economy. 'Our administration is committed to technological advancement and industrialization, which form an integral part of the 'OUR EASE' policy thrust of the state.' 'We have partnered with federal government institutions and private organizations to provide our youths with the required ICT skills to make them competitive in an increasingly digitalized world. 'To achieve this overarching goal, we partnered with the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy to organize the Build-A-Thon digital skills training program for secondary school students in 2024.' 'Through the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), we have also expanded access to internet connectivity, including in rural areas, by facilitating speedy permits for telecommunications masts and the deployment of Fibre-to-the-Home.' 'Efforts are also underway to establish technological and innovation hubs in our tertiary institutions, starting with the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology in Okitipupa.' 'In line with modern trends, we are also promoting e-governance by issuing an executive order to centralize ICT projects and programs under SITA. This agency is now mandated to develop websites for MDAs and digitalize government activities to improve public service efficiency.' 'These efforts and more are why Ondo State was chosen as the Southwest regional host for the Space-Technology and Virtual Satellite Aperture Terminal (VSAT) Hackathon Training by the Nigerian Communications Satellite Company (NIGCOMSAT), scheduled for May.' The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Aiyedatiwa on ICT, Tomide Akinribido, and the Senior Special Assistant on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Benedict Gbayesemore, revealed that over 2,000 youths in the state expressed interest in the training. They assured that those who were not selected for the initial batch would be accommodated in upcoming programs. The governor maintained that ICT is a valuable tool with a vast value chain capable of addressing youth unemployment and restiveness. Also speaking, the Controller of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in Ondo State, Mrs. Nike Mogboruko, commended the state government and its partners for bringing the initiative to life. She emphasized that the digital economy represents the new frontier. 'This initiative aligns with the federal government's policy direction, particularly the National Employment Policy, which highlights the need for strategic interventions in technical and vocational education, ICT, and entrepreneurship to reduce unemployment and promote decent work,' she said. 'With the right skills and attitude, you can compete globally, innovate locally, and transform your communities. I wish you all a productive and enriching training experience.' Ayomikun Olugbode, Facility Manager of the Nigerian-German Centre for Migration and Development (GIZ-ZME), said, 'It is crucial to bridge the skills gap among young people, which is why we provide ICT upscaling training. 'Young Nigerians, whether they choose to migrate or stay, deserve the right skills to thrive either locally or globally.' He added that the four-week training program, organized in collaboration with the Ondo State Government through SITA, marks another milestone in their five-year partnership with the state, expressing hope for continued collaboration. Copyright © 2022 Nigerian Tribune Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Nigeria: Ondo "No road project will be left uncompleted —"
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Wednesday assured the people of the state that no road project would be left uncompleted, including those inherited by his administration. The governor made this statement during the flag-off of the dualisation of a 10-kilometre stretch from Cashhold Junction to Km10 on the Akure–Idanre corridor, from Arakale to Oke-Aro Junction in Akure, the state capital. Aiyedatiwa stated that the flag-off of the road was one of his major electioneering campaign promises, describing the project as crucial to accelerated progress and prosperity in the state. According to him, the project will feature modern traffic systems and solar-powered streetlights, and is designed to accommodate heavy vehicular traffic with its robust pavement structure and 28-metre-wide carriageway. He reiterated his administration's commitment to infrastructural development in the state. He said, 'This project stands as a powerful testimony to the resolve of our administration to build an Ondo State where opportunities are not just promised but are accessible — a place where every citizen can thrive in an environment of progress and shared prosperity.' The governor linked the initiative to his administration's 7-Point Development Agenda, known as 'OUR EASE', noting that the Akure–Idanre Road is a critical economic artery long plagued by congestion, delays, and safety hazards due to its outdated single carriageway. 'For what has seemed like an eternity, this road has been a source of daily frustration for commuters and a bottleneck for the movement of agricultural produce from Idanre to Akure's markets. Today, we begin to change that story,' he said. Aiyedatiwa also emphasised that the road would boost tourism to the iconic Idanre Hills and promote economic growth through increased connectivity, trade, job creation, and ease of movement. The governor noted that other features of the road would include dual carriageways with a width of 9.3 metres, 1.5-metre walkways on each side, a 3-metre utility bay, line drains and medians, and traffic lights at critical intersections. Describing the project as a gateway to unlocking the vast potential of Ondo State, Aiyedatiwa assured residents that it would be completed to the highest standards and within schedule. The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for enabling states to pursue developmental projects through increased fiscal capacity. Aiyedatiwa pledged that all ongoing road projects across the state — including those inherited by his administration — would be completed. Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Olawoye Ayorinde Abiola, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for prioritising critical infrastructure projects across the state. He said, 'The commencement of this project shows the governor's clear focus on delivering impactful developments that will benefit our people for generations. 'The dualisation of the Akure–Idanre Road is a strategic move to ease transportation, enhance safety, and stimulate economic growth.' Abiola assured the public that the construction would be carried out with strict adherence to quality standards and within the projected timelines. He noted that the new road would not only serve current needs but also support future expansion and development. In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Gbenga Fasua, described the event as a remarkable and unforgettable day for the people of Akure, both at home and in the diaspora. He expressed deep appreciation to the governor on behalf of the people, noting their excitement and gratitude over the dualisation of the Oke Aro–Idanre Road (Phase One), which he said would greatly enhance transportation and development in the area. In his remarks, the Chairman of Idanre Local Government, Smart Omotadowa, commended the governor for prioritising infrastructural development across the state. He noted that the commencement of the road project would bring significant relief to residents and foster greater connectivity between Akure and Idanre. Also speaking, the member representing Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Festus Akingbaso, lauded the state government's commitment to fulfilling its promises. He emphasised that the road project is a testament to responsive governance and assured constituents that, in his own capacity, he would continue to support initiatives that improve their livelihoods. The Managing Director of Roosco Construction Ltd, Mr Marcel Alrouss, whose company is handling the project, provided details on the scope and execution of the dualisation. He explained that the project involves the expansion of the existing road into a dual carriageway, complete with modern drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, and improved safety features. Mr Alrouss assured that the construction would adhere to the highest engineering standards and be delivered within the stipulated timeframe, emphasising the company's commitment to quality and timely delivery. The Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, commended Aiyedatiwa for fulfilling his promise to dualise the road, which demonstrates his commitment to the development of the state capital. In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Finance, Mrs Omowumi Isaac; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; State Chairman of the APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; Chairman of SUBEB, Rt Hon. Victor Olabimtan; members of the Ondo State House of Assembly; traditional rulers; religious leaders; market women; and others. Copyright © 2022 Nigerian Tribune Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
