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Ondo Min of Regional Integration & Diaspora Relations, Investment House, Akure (2026)

01/09/2026

*HAPPY NEW MONTH - SEPTEMBER!*

May this new month bring you renewed strength, divine favor, good health, peace and abundant blessings. May God order your steps, open new doors and crown your efforts with success.

Wishing you a happy and prosperous September! 🙏🏽

*~ Otunba Wale Akinlosotu.*

25/08/2026

FROM INFRASTRUCTURE TO OPPORTUNITY: AIYEDATIWA’S STEADY TRANSFORMATION OF ONDO STATE*

By Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, FCIPA

Infrastructure remains one of the clearest measures of purposeful governance. It is not merely about roads, bridges and concrete structures; it is about creating the physical foundation upon which businesses thrive, communities connect and economies grow.

Against this background, the steady infrastructural development under the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa deserves commendation. The newly flagged-off Akure Flyover is particularly significant—not simply as a landmark infrastructure project, but as an investment in mobility, productivity, urban renewal and the future economic competitiveness of Ondo State.

A FLYOVER WITH A BIGGER ECONOMIC MEANING

Akure is expanding rapidly, and with growth comes increased pressure on existing infrastructure. Traffic congestion imposes real economic costs through lost productive hours, delayed commercial activities, higher transportation costs and unnecessary stress for residents.

The new flyover is therefore a timely and strategic response to the realities of a growing state capital.

By improving traffic flow and connectivity along an important corridor, the project has the potential to reduce travel time, facilitate the movement of goods and people, improve road safety and create a more efficient environment for businesses.

In economic terms, time saved on the road is productivity gained in the workplace.

For traders, transporters, professionals, students, entrepreneurs and investors, improved mobility translates into greater efficiency. For businesses considering Akure as an investment destination, modern transportation infrastructure strengthens the city's attractiveness and competitiveness.

*BEYOND THE FLYOVER: THE SOCIAL DIVIDEND*

The value of infrastructure should also be measured by its impact on everyday life.

A well-developed transport network enables people to get to work and school more conveniently, allows businesses to serve their customers more efficiently and facilitates the movement of emergency and essential services.

It also promotes urban integration. Communities that are better connected become more economically and socially integrated.

This is why the Akure Flyover should be seen as more than an engineering project. It is a social infrastructure investment capable of improving the daily experience of thousands of residents and visitors to the state capital.

A PATTERN OF STEADY DEVELOPMENT

What is particularly encouraging is that the flyover forms part of a broader infrastructure vision under Governor Aiyedatiwa.

The administration has continued to focus on roads, urban renewal and connectivity across Ondo State. This approach reflects an understanding that sustainable development cannot be achieved through isolated projects. Roads must connect communities; infrastructure must connect economic centres; and government investment must create an enabling environment for private-sector growth.

The continuation and completion of inherited projects, alongside the initiation of new ones, further demonstrate the value of continuity in governance.

Development is most impactful when governments build on existing foundations while responding boldly to emerging challenges.

LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROW

The Akure Flyover represents more than a response to today's transportation needs; it is a strategic investment in the Akure of tomorrow.

It reflects Governor Aiyedatiwa's forward-looking vision of a modern, connected and economically vibrant state capital. As Akure continues to expand, infrastructure of this magnitude will provide the platform for greater commercial activity, improved mobility, new investment opportunities and enhanced quality of life for residents.

This is the essence of visionary governance: anticipating the needs of tomorrow and taking decisive steps today to prepare for them.

The Akure Flyover is therefore not just a project for the present; it is a lasting investment in the future prosperity of Akure and Ondo State.

CONGRATULATIONS, MR. GOVERNOR

At a time when citizens rightly demand tangible results from government, the steady progress being recorded in infrastructure deserves recognition.

I therefore heartily congratulate His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on this latest giant stride.

The flag-off of the Akure Flyover is another demonstration of his commitment to building infrastructure that responds to the realities of a growing state while laying the foundation for future prosperity.

It is also a reminder that effective leadership is about identifying the challenges that matter, making strategic investments and delivering solutions that can positively impact generations.

Governor Aiyedatiwa deserves commendation for maintaining focus on development and for steadily strengthening the physical and economic foundations of Ondo State.

The message is clear: infrastructure is not expenditure alone; when strategically conceived and properly executed, it is an investment in prosperity.

The Akure Flyover represents another bridge between government investment and economic opportunity, between urban growth and modern infrastructure, and between today's achievements and tomorrow's aspirations.

Congratulations once again, Your Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on this giant stride. May your administration continue to deliver more transformative projects that will leave enduring footprints in the development history of Ondo State.

*The journey continues - and the future of our Sunshine State is looking brighter.

10/08/2026

ONDO STATE TARGETS DIASPORA BILLIONS AS MINISTRY BEGINS MAJOR RESTRUCTURING

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen operations and service delivery, deepen engagement with indigenes of the state both abroad and within, and attract more investments into the state, the Ondo State Government has commenced a major restructuring of the Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Olumide Asere, disclosed this in an interview with Roving Reporters while outlining the new direction of the ministry, saying the restructuring was designed to make the institution more effective and position it to contribute significantly to the economic and social development of Ondo State. Asere, who was recently posted to the ministry from the Public Service Training Institute, said the management led by the commissioner, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu has a clear mandate to improve the ministry’s operations and build an institution capable of delivering greater value to the state.

The Permanent Secretary also acknowledged the support and leadership of the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Akinlosotu, describing him as a key partner in the ministry’s drive to reposition its operations. He said the ongoing reforms are being pursued under the Commissioner’s leadership and are aimed at delivering greater value to the people of Ondo State.

Asere said one of the immediate priorities of the commissioner was to strengthen the organisational structure of the ministry and ensure that its various responsibilities were clearly defined. He further disclosed that a new structure had already been developed, comprising the Commissioner at the apex, the Permanent Secretary and two major directorates, supported by relevant departments. According to him, the two major directorates are Diaspora Affairs and Integration, while Finance and Administration and Accounts would provide the necessary administrative and financial support. He said the restructuring would provide a framework for the ministry to pursue its mandate more effectively and respond to emerging opportunities in diaspora engagement, investment attraction, regional integration and community relations.

Asere identified diaspora engagement as one of the major areas where Ondo State could unlock significant economic opportunities. He said the participation of ondo state in the 2026 Diaspora Day event in Abuja provided valuable insight into the scale of opportunities available to states through their citizens living abroad. “The Abuja event was an eye-opener for us. It gave us an understanding of what the ministry should be doing that we are not doing sufficiently,” he said.

According to him, Ondo State has a large population of indigenes living in different parts of the world, creating a significant pool of capital, expertise, professional networks and investment opportunities. “We have a lot of our children overseas. Why is it that Ondo State is not sufficiently represented in diaspora affairs? We need to do more to enhance and improve Ondo State’s representation in diaspora affairs,” he said.

He maintained that the state should look beyond statutory allocations and deliberately pursue alternative sources of development funding through investment partnerships and diaspora resources. “Forget about the money coming from the federal allocation. There is a lot that can be achieved by attracting more investment, such that federation account receipts become less significant to our development. One of the ways we can achieve this is through the diaspora,” Asere stated.

The Permanent Secretary also identified comprehensive data on Ondo State indigenes living abroad as a priority. He said the ministry was exploring ways of building a reliable database that would enable the state to identify its citizens abroad, understand their needs and establish stronger relationships with them. “We need more. We cannot get the required data by sitting in our offices. We need to go out and find out. Whether it is 123 or 1,000, let us get the data of these people,” he said.

Asere said the exercise should cover major destinations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Schengen countries and other locations where Ondo indigenes reside. “There is no country where you cannot find Ondo State people. Our people travel a lot. Nigeria has millions of people outside the country, and Ondo State is part of that population,” he added.

He explained that accurate data would help the government develop targeted programmes and create a platform through which Ondo indigenes abroad could participate directly in the development of the state.

Beyond diaspora affairs, Asere said the ministry would strengthen its role in regional integration and community relations across Ondo State. He noted that Ondo State has diverse geographical and cultural identities, making effective integration essential to peaceful coexistence and balanced development. “Ondo State is made up of different groups of people, and we need to find ways of ensuring peaceful coexistence among the component parts,” he said.

According to him, communities across the Akoko, Akure and southern parts of the state have distinct identities and development concerns which require greater attention and coordination. “The question is: what is the role of this ministry in ensuring peaceful coexistence among the component parts?” he asked.

He said the ministry would strengthen collaboration with local governments, development agencies and other relevant institutions to promote integration and community relations.

He also identified human trafficking, insecurity and other emerging social challenges as areas requiring greater collaboration between government institutions. “Human trafficking is a very important area that we need to look into. The issue of insecurity is also an area that we need to examine. Community relations are equally important,” Asere said.

The Permanent Secretary also stressed the need for the Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations to play a more active role in major investment and development projects in the state. He cited the emerging deep-sea port and petroleum-related investment opportunities as areas where the ministry could facilitate greater participation by Ondo indigenes in the diaspora.

According to him, the ministry should be positioned to connect major economic initiatives with the state’s diaspora population, particularly in areas involving investment, expertise, partnerships and community development. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration with regional development bodies, including the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission, particularly on issues relating to regional integration and economic development.

Asere disclosed that the ministry was also preparing to host an engagement programme for Ondo State indigenes returning from South Africa. He said the initiative would provide an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the state and its citizens abroad while demonstrating the state’s commitment to their welfare and reintegration.

“The South African returnees’ programme is going to be a kind of high point because there are things you do that speak for themselves. When the governor sees tangible things on ground, it communicates better than merely saying that we are doing something,” he said. He disclosed that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa had approved the programme, adding that preparations were being accelerated towards its implementation.

According to him, the programme would also provide an opportunity to deepen the state’s engagement with Ondo indigenes living in South Africa.

The Permanent Secretary said the ultimate objective of the ministry’s diaspora strategy was to transform the relationship between Ondo State and its citizens abroad into tangible economic opportunities. “There is a whole lot of money to be harnessed from the diaspora. What we need is the right structure and the right platform to give people confidence that their investments will be properly managed,” he said.

He explained that a credible system would encourage Ondo indigenes abroad to invest in productive ventures in the state and contribute their expertise and networks to its development. Asere stressed that the ministry’s role would extend beyond traditional administrative functions to identifying opportunities, building partnerships and creating platforms that could generate economic value for the state.

Asere expressed confidence that with the support of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, the ministry would achieve its objectives. He said the ministry’s restructuring programme and renewed focus on diaspora engagement, investment attraction and regional integration would receive the necessary backing to deliver meaningful results for Ondo State.

He said the ministry would continue to engage stakeholders, strengthen its internal structure and develop programmes capable of connecting Ondo State with its citizens, resources and opportunities across the world. “There is a lot that this ministry can offer. We need to look beyond what we have always done and position the ministry to contribute meaningfully to the future of Ondo State,” Asere said.

09/08/2026

ONDO CONSTITUTES COMMITTEE TO STRENGTHEN SISTER-STATE PARTNERSHIP WITH MARYLAND, USA

The Ondo State Government has constituted an implementation committee to strengthen its Sister-State Partnership with the State of Maryland, United States of America, as part of renewed efforts to attract investment, create jobs, deepen trade relations, and foster sustainable socio-economic development.

The Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, disclosed this during a stakeholders' meeting on the Ondo State - Maryland Sister-State Partnership held at the ONDIPA Hall in Akure.

The implementation committee comprises Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations; Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology; Hon. Afolabi Adesoji, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism; Engr. Leye Akinola, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources; Pastor Adebola Ademuwagun, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry; Princess Kikelomo Ikuomola, Special Adviser on Multilateral and Intergovernmental Relations; Prof. Simidele Odimayo, Special Adviser on Health; and Barrister Emmanuel Omomowo, Chief Executive Officer/Vice Chairman, Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA).

Akinlosotu said the administration of Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is revitalising the existing Sister-State relationship with Maryland to deepen bilateral cooperation and unlock mutually beneficial opportunities in investment, education, agriculture, technology, tourism, culture, infrastructure, healthcare, and pharmaceutical development.

According to him, the initiative is in line with Governor Aiyedatiwa's vision of positioning Ondo State as a preferred destination for local and foreign investment while driving inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

The Commissioner recalled that Ondo State signed a Sister-State Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State of Maryland in 2013 to promote cooperation in areas of mutual interest and strengthen institutional and people-to-people relationships.

He noted that the present administration is committed to fully implementing the provisions of the agreement and leveraging the partnership to attract investment, facilitate knowledge and technology transfer, promote cultural exchange, strengthen healthcare collaboration, and create employment opportunities for the people of Ondo State.

Akinlosotu further explained that the MoU provides for the establishment of implementation committees by both governments to coordinate and drive the partnership.

"We are from the African continent, while they are from the Americas. Our objective is to identify areas where both governments can collaborate for mutual benefit, including agriculture, education, culture, tourism, infrastructure development, pharmaceutical production, healthcare and technology exchange.

"The State of Maryland has already constituted its implementation committee and remains committed to sustaining the partnership. It is therefore imperative for Ondo State to activate its own implementation committee and fully maximise the immense opportunities available through this strategic relationship," he said.

Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engr. Leye Akinola, emphasised the need for government agencies, private investors, development partners, farmers, and agribusiness operators to work together in harnessing the enormous opportunities presented by the partnership.

He said stronger collaboration would unlock Ondo State's agricultural potential, attract investment, boost food production, create jobs, and accelerate sustainable economic growth.

"Only through collaboration and shared responsibility can we fully realise the benefits of this partnership and position Ondo State as a leading hub for agribusiness and agro-industrial development in Nigeria," he said.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser on Multilateral and Intergovernmental Relations, Princess Kikelomo Ikuomola, highlighted the state's vast investment opportunities in cocoa production, tourism, manufacturing, solid minerals, healthcare, and the blue economy.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the Aiyedatiwa administration to improving the ease of doing business, strengthening infrastructure, and enhancing security as part of efforts to attract both domestic and international investors.

In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer/Vice Chairman of the Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA), Barrister Emmanuel Omomowo, described the partnership as a strategic platform for knowledge transfer, innovation, technology exchange, and capacity building, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

He added that increased investment arising from the collaboration would promote industrialisation, enhance value addition to agricultural products, strengthen local manufacturing, and generate sustainable employment opportunities for the people of Ondo State.

Tayelolu Oladuti
Head, Media and Publicity,
Ministry of Regional integration and Diaspora Relations..

16/06/2026

AKINLOSOTU APPLAUDS AIYEDATIWA AS DANGOTE MOVES TO BUILD NIGERIA'S BIGGEST INDUSTRIAL ZONE IN ONDO STATE.

The Honourable Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, has commended the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his visionary leadership and commitment to economic transformation following the announcement by the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, to establish what is projected to become Nigeria's biggest industrial and free trade zone at Olokola in Ondo State.

Akinlosotu described the development as a landmark achievement and a strong validation of Governor Aiyedatiwa's industrialization agenda, noting that the investment would position Ondo State as one of Nigeria's leading destinations for manufacturing, trade, and foreign direct investment.

According to the Commissioner, the proposed industrial zone represents a major breakthrough in the state's quest for economic diversification, job creation, wealth generation, and sustainable development.

"The decision by Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the Dangote Group to return to Ondo State with this massive investment is a testament to the confidence that investors have in the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. It is a clear indication that Ondo State is fast becoming one of the most attractive investment destinations in Nigeria," Akinlosotu said.

He noted that the proposed industrial hub, with its integrated power, gas, water, and logistics infrastructure, would unlock enormous opportunities for businesses, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, stimulate local enterprises, and significantly improve the state's revenue base.

Akinlosotu further praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his proactive engagement with investors and for creating an enabling environment that encourages private sector participation in the state's economic development.

He also lauded the Governor's strategic vision in leveraging Ondo State's vast natural resources, deep seaport potential, and advantageous location along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway corridor to attract transformational investments.

The Commissioner urged residents and host communities to support the project and cooperate with both the state government and investors to ensure its successful implementation.

He expressed confidence that the Dangote Industrial Zone would usher in a new era of industrial growth and prosperity for Ondo State and reaffirmed his unwavering support for Governor Aiyedatiwa's efforts to build a stronger, more economically vibrant, and globally competitive state.

"History is being made in Ondo State. This investment has the potential to transform our economic landscape for generations to come. I congratulate Governor Aiyedatiwa for this remarkable achievement and thank Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his confidence in the future of Ondo State," Akinlosotu concluded.

Tayelolu Oladuti,
Head, Information Unit,
Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations.

05/06/2026

Akinlosotu congratulates Odusanya on appointment as Ondo Head of Service

The Ondo State Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, has congratulated Chief Segun Odusanya on his appointment as the 17th Head of Service of Ondo State, describing the elevation as well-deserved and a recognition of years of dedicated service to the state.

In a congratulatory message issued on Friday, Akinlosotu said Odusanya's appointment was a fitting reward for his outstanding contributions as a seasoned administrator and accomplished bureaucrat in the Ondo State Public Service.

According to the commissioner, the new Head of Service has consistently demonstrated discipline, professionalism and a strong commitment to efficient public service delivery, qualities that have distinguished him throughout his career.

Akinlosotu expressed confidence that Odusanya would deploy his vast administrative experience, integrity and leadership skills towards repositioning the civil service for greater efficiency, productivity and excellence.

He noted that the appointment not only recognizes past achievements but also places on the new Head of Service a greater responsibility to drive reforms and enhance service delivery across government institutions.

The commissioner also commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for the appointment, describing it as a reflection of the governor's commitment to merit, continuity and the strengthening of the state's civil service.

He said the decision underscores the administration's determination to promote competent leadership within the public service and improve governance for the benefit of the people of Ondo State.

Akinlosotu wished Odusanya wisdom, strength and success in the discharge of his new responsibilities, expressing optimism that his tenure would bring positive developments to the state's civil service.

05/06/2026

AKINLOSOTU CONGRATULATES CHIEF SEGUN ODUSANYA ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS 17TH HEAD OF SERVICE, COMMENDS GOVERNOR LUCKY ORIMISAN AIYEDATIWA

Warm congratulations to *Chief Segun Odusanya* on your well-deserved appointment as the 17th Head of Service of Ondo State.

This prestigious elevation is a fitting recognition of your outstanding record as a seasoned administrator and accomplished bureaucrat. Over the years, you have exemplified discipline, professionalism, and a deep commitment to efficient public service delivery. Your appointment is, therefore, both a reward for meritorious service and a call to even greater responsibility.

I also extend profound appreciation to His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for this thoughtful and commendable appointment. It reflects his unwavering commitment to merit, continuity, and strengthening the civil service for improved governance and service delivery in the state.

I am confident that you will bring your wealth of experience, administrative depth, and integrity to bear in repositioning the civil service for greater efficiency, productivity, and excellence in service to the people of Ondo State.

Once again, congratulations, my brother. Wishing you wisdom, strength, and remarkable success in this new and higher responsibility.

Signed:
Otunba Wale Akinlosotu,
Hon. Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Ondo State.

June 5, 2026.

03/02/2026

AKINLOSOTU HAILS ONDO AT 50: CELEBRATING OUR HERITAGE, HONORING OUR HEROES, AND MARCHING INTO AN INDUSTRIAL FUTURE

The Hon. Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, *Otunba Wale Akinlosotu,* heartily congratulates the Governor of Ondo State, *His Excellency Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa,* and the good people of our dear Sunshine State both at home and in the diaspora as Ondo marks its golden jubilee on February 3, 2026 - celebrating fifty years of resilience, growth, and shared destiny as a proud people.

This milestone offers us the opportunity to honor and appreciate our heroes past: the founding fathers, traditional rulers, community leaders, public servants, and all patriots whose sacrifices, vision, and resilience laid the solid foundation upon which Ondo State stands today. Their selfless contributions continue to inspire our collective journey toward unity, development, and shared prosperity.

As we celebrate five decades of progress, we proudly acknowledge the purposeful leadership and notable achievements of *His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa,* whose administration has remained committed to good governance, industrial revolution, infrastructural development, economic growth, and the overall well-being of our people. His steady leadership is repositioning Ondo State for sustainable growth and a more prosperous future.

As we celebrate this journey, may the next chapter of Ondo State bring greater unity, innovation, and development across all communities.

Happy 50th Anniversary to our dear Sunshine State - greater heights await us.

Signed:
Otunba Wale Akinlosotu,
Hon. Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Ondo State.

February 3, 2026.

12/01/2026

AKINLOSOTU CELEBRATES GOVERNOR LUCKY AIYEDATIWA @ 61:
.. A PURPOSE-DRIVEN LEADER DELIVERING RESULTS FOR ONDO

Today, we celebrate a rare gift to Ondo State - *His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa,* as he marks his 61st birthday.

At 61, Mr. Governor stands as a shining example of purposeful leadership, resilience, and quiet strength.

Your journey reflects grace under pressure, wisdom earned through service, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of Ondo State. You lead not with noise, but with results; not with promises alone, but with visible impact.
Your administration continues to inspire confidence through its people-centered policies, developmental strides, and inclusive governance philosophy anchored on the *OUR EASE* Agenda.

You have shown that leadership is about empathy, courage, and the ability to unite diverse interests for the common good.
Beyond governance, you remain a mentor, a bridge-builder, and a destiny helper to many, offering guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for growth. Your humility in power and firmness in decision-making have earned you respect across political, traditional, and generational lines.

Oga, as you celebrate this milestone, may God grant you renewed strength, deeper wisdom, sound health, and greater grace to finish strong.

May your remaining years in service be marked by landmark achievements, peace, and enduring legacies that generations will remember with gratitude.

Happy 61st Birthday, the people’s Governor -
Ondo State is proud of you.

Congratulations, Sir!

Signed:
*Otunba Wale Akinlosotu*
Hon. Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Ondo State.
*January 12, 2026*

Ondo Min of Regional Integration & Diaspora Relations

01/09/2026

25/08/2026

10/08/2026

09/08/2026

16/06/2026

05/06/2026

05/06/2026

03/02/2026

12/01/2026

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