Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been officially inaugurated as the governor of Ondo State, marking the beginning of his first full four-year term. His swearing-in follows his assumption of office in 2023 after the passing of his predecessor, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

The inauguration ceremony took place on Monday at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure, the state capital. It comes two months after Aiyedatiwa secured victory in the governorship election under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor took his oath of office at approximately 12:59 p.m., shortly after his deputy, Olayide Adelami. Following the ceremony, Aiyedatiwa rode in an open van around the complex, waving to enthusiastic supporters who gathered to celebrate the occasion.

In his inaugural address, Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the people of Ondo State and assured them that his administration would continue to build trust in government. He emphasized that his leadership would focus on the welfare of the people, particularly the most vulnerable groups.

“We like to assure you that the overwhelming renewed mandate you have freely given to us has further placed on us a huge burden of leadership, and we promise never to rest on our oars,” Aiyedatiwa said. “My deputy and I make a solemn pledge this day that we shall lead and govern with the fear of God and utmost dedication to the progress of the state. We will prioritize the welfare of our people, particularly the poor, the sick, and the marginalized.”

The governor also laid out his economic agenda, highlighting plans to attract investment and harness the state’s natural resources to generate revenue.

“In the next four years, we will work with interested investors and our development partners in ensuring that our Port Ondo becomes a reality,” he stated. “We will also facilitate investors to explore our large deposit of bitumen for local use and export purposes, thereby generating huge revenue for the state.”

The high-profile event was graced by several political leaders and dignitaries, including the Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Osun State Governor Bisi Akande, former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, Minister of Youth Ayodele Olawande, and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, among others.