ONDO AT 50: AIYEDATIWA LEADS GOLDEN JUBILEE CHURCH THANKSGIVING

AIYEDATIWA LEADS GOLDEN JUBILEE CHURCH THANKSGIVING, ANCHORS STATE’S FUTURE ON FAITH AND ETHICAL LEADERSHIP

Ondo State on Sunday marked a significant milestone in its history as Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa led a Golden Jubilee Thanksgiving Service to commemorate the state’s 50 years of existence, reaffirming faith, justice, and ethical leadership as pillars for its future development.

The thanksgiving service, held at St. Thomas’ Anglican Church, Isinkan, Akure, was part of activities marking Ondo State @ 50, bringing together government officials, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens from across the state.

Speaking at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa attributed the survival and steady progress of Ondo State over the past five decades to divine guidance, the resilience of its people, and the enduring role of faith in governance.

Addressing clergymen, worshippers, and citizens, the governor described the golden jubilee as a moment of profound gratitude, reflection, and fellowship, noting that both the achievements recorded and challenges overcome by the state bore the imprint of God’s grace.

He recalled that Ondo State was established 50 years ago as a beacon of governance, unity, and opportunity, anchored on principles that uphold human dignity, communal solidarity, and moral responsibility.

According to him, the state’s progress has been sustained not only by the diligence of its people but also by steadfast reliance on divine guidance, stressing that faith has inspired courage, illuminated wisdom, and anchored the conscience of leaders and communities.

Governor Aiyedatiwa described the state’s five decades of existence as a testimony to vision, resilience, and divine providence.

He acknowledged the central role of the Church in the state’s journey, describing pastors, ministers, and Christian leaders as key drivers of moral values, social cohesion, and civic responsibility.

According to the governor, the Church, through worship, teaching, and counsel, has strengthened community character and enriched the moral foundation upon which governance rests in Ondo State.

He expressed appreciation for the resilience and dedication of the people of the state, noting that their labour, commitment, and unity have sustained families, communities, and institutions over the decades.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also commended past and present leaders for their vision, wisdom, and courage in steering the affairs of the state, while praising the Church for nurturing ethical leadership and promoting social cohesion.

He said the thanksgiving service was not only an expression of gratitude but also an opportunity to recommit to responsible stewardship of the state’s blessings, ensuring that public policies, initiatives, and projects reflect integrity, justice, and care for all citizens.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth that uplifts both urban and rural communities, alongside youth and human capital development through education, skills acquisition, mentorship, and enterprise.

He further pledged to strengthen institutions to promote transparency, accountability, and sustainable development, while preserving the cultural and moral values that unite the people of Ondo State and guide ethical governance.

According to him, faith, when combined with visionary leadership and active citizen engagement, serves as a compass through governance challenges, uncertainty, and opportunities.

In his sermon, the Bishop of Akure Diocese and Archbishop of Ondo and Ekiti Province, Most Reverend Simeon Borokini, urged leaders and citizens to allow faith, discipline, integrity, and vision to guide Ondo State as it enters its next 50 years.

While acknowledging the contributions of the state’s founding fathers and expressing gratitude for God’s guidance over the years, Archbishop Borokini noted that the golden jubilee celebration was not only for government but for all residents of the state.

“Leaders must lead with integrity. Leaders must guide with wisdom. Citizens must rise with discipline and innovation,” he said, urging the Church and faith community to continue to pray and speak truth.

He further encouraged residents to obey the law, love their state, and ensure that thanksgiving goes beyond words. “Let it be gratitude with humility, reflection with repentance, and celebration with responsibility,” he added.

Archbishop Borokini prayed for continued divine guidance for Ondo State, expressing hope that the state would experience greater peace, prosperity, development, and innovation in the years ahead.

Dignitaries present at the service included the First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip; former Deputy Governors Lasisi Oluboyo and Omolade Olateru; APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers; traditional rulers; heads of security agencies; and other eminent personalities.