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Extraondonary, Akure (2025)

15/08/2025

TRANSFORMING HEALTHCARE IN ONDO — Our Take

We must commend Dr. Olusegun Victor Ategbole, Chairman of the Ondo State Hospitals Management Board, for the work he has been doing so far. His recent tour of hospitals in the Northern Senatorial District shows a clear commitment to raising the standard of healthcare in our state.

From Rufus Giwa Memorial Hospital in Oke Agbe Akoko to General Hospitals in Irun, Ikare, Ipe, and Iwaro Oka, Dr. Ategbole and his team assessed infrastructure, medical equipment, and service delivery, engaging directly with healthcare workers and patients. His message is bold and reassuring — our hospitals must meet international standards, and this administration is determined to make that happen.

However, while upgrading facilities is essential, we strongly believe that improving the structure of primary care is a must. Primary healthcare is the gateway to the health system, and if we strengthen it, we ensure that care is accessible, timely, and affordable for those who need it most — especially in our rural communities.

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s vision for a people-centred healthcare system is commendable, and with the right structure in place, the benefits will reach every corner of Ondo State.

A brighter future for healthcare in Ondo is possible — but we must make sure the foundation is strong enough to carry it.

12/08/2025

Ondo State Sports – Time for a Big Reset

Last season, our dear Sunshine Stars FC — the pride of Ondo State — suffered relegation. The women’s team has also been struggling, and it’s clear that our sports story needs a new chapter.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has expressed his determination to change this narrative. He wants Ondo State to be a reference point in Nigerian sports, leaving a legacy future generations can be proud of. Money should not be our stumbling block — what we need are big ideas, clear direction, and the right people to execute them.

Here are 7 key suggestions that could ignite Ondo’s sports renaissance:

1️⃣ Revamp Grassroots Football Development

Create a statewide talent scouting network from schools and local communities.

Establish football academies in each senatorial district, with modern training facilities and certified coaches.

Partner with former Sunshine Stars legends to mentor the next generation.

2️⃣ Build a Sustainable Club Model

Transform Sunshine Stars into a professionally run football club with clear technical and commercial goals.

Recruit experienced football administrators with proven track records.

Develop revenue streams beyond government funding — merchandising, ticket sales, and corporate partnerships.

3️⃣ Elevate Women’s Football

Invest equally in the women’s team’s facilities, coaching staff, and player welfare.

Run community outreach programs to inspire young girls to take up the sport.

Host an annual Ondo State Women’s Football Festival to draw attention and sponsorship.

4️⃣ Upgrade Sports Infrastructure

Renovate the Akure Township Stadium to meet CAF and FIFA standards.

Create multi-sport complexes in Akure, Okitipupa, Akoko, Owo and Ondo town for athletics, basketball, volleyball, and indoor sports.

Install modern training equipment and sports science facilities.

5️⃣ Expand into Other Sports

Establish state programs for athletics, basketball, table tennis, and wrestling, tapping into Nigeria’s Olympic potentials.

Create annual sports championships for secondary schools in all local governments.

6️⃣ Build the Sports Economy

Launch Ondo Sports Week — a week-long event attracting scouts, investors, and sports tourists.

Develop sports tourism attractions (stadium tours, legends’ hall of fame, beach sports at the coastline).

Encourage private sector investment through tax breaks and incentives.

7️⃣ Human Capital & Management Excellence

Train sports administrators, coaches, and referees to world-class standards.

Partner with international clubs for technical exchange programs.

Set up a Sports Advisory Council of experts, ex-athletes, and entrepreneurs to guide strategy.

If implemented with passion and discipline, Ondo State can go from struggling to becoming Nigeria’s sports model state. Governor Aiyedatiwa has the will — let’s rally the brains and hands to make it happen.

Addendum: we are sad to hear of the passing of ,
The former Stars player and coach passed on this week during a training session with his new team where he was an Assistant Coach.
We wish you a peaceful journey 🕊️

24/07/2025

☀️ MAJOR MOVES IN ONDO STATE HEALTHCARE!
Dr. Olusegun Victor Ategbole is already making waves as the new Chairman of Ondo State Hospitals Management Board (HMB)! 💪

Recently, he embarked on surprise visits to multiple healthcare facilities across Akure, and what we saw was exactly what Ondo State primary care needs - hands-on leadership that doesn't wait for appointments!

✅ At SITA: Directly addressed computer equipment needs with Finance & Administration
✅ At Neuro Psychiatric Hospital: Connected with both staff and patients, reinforcing Gov. Aiyedatiwa's healthcare commitments
✅ At College of Health Technology Clinic: Witnessed firsthand the dedication of our medical personnel

Why this matters for Primary Care in Ondo State: This kind of unscheduled, direct assessment is EXACTLY what our healthcare system needs. No advance notice, no prepared presentations - just real evaluation of where we stand and what needs fixing.

Dr. Ategbole's approach shows he understands that revamping healthcare starts with understanding the current reality - not just reports on paper, but the actual conditions our medical personnel work in and the resources they need.

The new HMB Chairman clearly has a lot of work ahead, but these surprise visits signal a refreshing commitment to accountability and real improvement in our healthcare delivery.

Governor Aiyedatiwa made the right choice. Let's support this hands-on approach to transforming healthcare in Ondo State! 🙌

23/07/2025

☀️ Key Takeaways from the Ondo-REA Partnership:
This MOU represents a significant step forward for addressing Ondo's power challenges. The partnership brings substantial resources - REA has $1.6 billion in funding available for renewable energy projects across Nigeria, with 25 underserved communities in Ondo specifically targeted for electrification.
What makes this promising:
☑️ Ondo has established its own State Rural Electrification Agency to ensure local needs are addressed quickly.
☑️The state scored 4/5 on policy readiness, showing strong preparation; focus on renewable energy (solar, wind, biomass) rather than just grid extension.
☑️ Strategic targeting of remote areas like Ilaje, Idanre, Owo, and Akoko regions.
☑️ Plans extend beyond basic power to support agro-processing, healthcare, education, and small businesses
🖼️ The bigger picture: Governor Aiyedatiwa is positioning this as more than infrastructure - it's about economic transformation. The emphasis on mini-grids and localized solutions could provide more reliable power than traditional grid connections, especially for rural communities that have historically been underserved.
⚡Bottom line for residents: While this is still in the MOU stage, the combination of federal funding, state commitment, and private sector involvement suggests this initiative has better prospects than previous announcements. The focus on renewable energy could also mean more sustainable, long-term solutions to the state's power challenges.
The 25-community pilot will be worth watching as a test case for broader electrification across Ondo State.

19/07/2025

🌟 ONDO STATE STANDS TO GAIN BIG: 4 Ways Constitutional Reform Could Transform Our State
Governor Aiyedatiwa's push for constitutional amendments isn't just politics - it's about unlocking Ondo State's massive potential. Here's how we could benefit:

💎 1. ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE: Control Our Mineral Wealth
What We Have:

Bitumen deposits (one of Africa's largest reserves)
Limestone for cement production
Granite for construction
Kaolin for ceramics and paper
Marble for luxury construction
What Changes: ✅ Direct state control over mining licenses ✅ Keep majority of revenue instead of sending to Abuja ✅ Attract international investors with streamlined processes ✅ End illegal mining through better local oversight

The Impact: Potential revenue boost of 300-500% - transforming Ondo from a "civil service state" to an economic giant!

🛡️ 2. SECURITY REVOLUTION: Police That Know Our Communities
Current Challenge:

Federal police don't understand local terrain
Slow response to farmers-herders conflicts
Limited knowledge of community dynamics
State Police Solution: ✅ Officers from local communities ✅ Faster response times ✅ Better understanding of cultural sensitivities ✅ Enhanced protection for our agricultural and mining sectors ✅ Community policing that actually works

Real Results: Look at Amotekun's success - imagine that with full police powers!

🏛️ 3. GOVERNANCE UPGRADE: 33 LCDAs Become Full Local Governments
Current Status: 33 Local Council Development Areas struggling for recognition

After Reform: ✅ Direct federal allocation as full LGAs ✅ Better grassroots development ✅ More resources for rural communities ✅ Enhanced service delivery to citizens ✅ Stronger democratic representation

Bottom Line: More money, better services, stronger local democracy!

🚀 4. INVESTMENT BOOM: Job Creation & Economic Growth
New Opportunities:

Mining industry expansion
Agricultural processing facilities
Tourism development around our natural resources
Technology hubs in major cities
Small-scale manufacturing
Job Creation Potential: ✅ Thousands of direct mining jobs ✅ Supporting service industries ✅ Agricultural value chain employment ✅ Youth entrepreneurship opportunities ✅ Women's economic empowerment

Investment Climate: Clearer regulations + local control = investor confidence!

17/07/2025

A New Chapter for Ondo State 🌟
Governor Lucky Ayiedatiwa has officially sworn in new commissioners to join his administration in steering the affairs of our beloved Ondo State. This presents a pivotal moment for our state's future.

For too long, Ondo State has remained in the shadows, content with modest progress while the world races ahead. Yes, we've seen new roads constructed and salaries paid, but governance in the 21st century demands so much more than meeting basic expectations.

The era of settling for the ordinary is over. It's time to embrace the extraordinary and think boldly beyond conventional approaches. Ondo State has the potential to become the gold standard - a beacon that other states look up to and aspire to emulate.

Our focus must shift to transformative sectors:

Tourism - showcasing our rich cultural heritage and natural beauty
Technology - positioning us as a digital hub
Healthcare - ensuring world-class medical services for our people
Security - creating a safe haven for investment and growth
Sports - developing talents and facilities that compete globally
Economic diversification - reducing dependence on traditional revenue sources
This vision is not just possible - it's within our reach. But it requires these newly sworn-in commissioners to hit the ground running with innovative solutions and unwavering commitment.

The task ahead won't be easy, and we don't expect it to be. That's precisely why we need all stakeholders - government, private sector, and citizens - working in unison. Our state needs this push now more than ever.

Let's set politics aside, roll up our sleeves, and build the Ondo State we all dream of. The time for transformation is now! 💪

16/07/2025

🎉 **EXCITING NEWS FOR ONDO STATE YOUTH!** 🎉

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa just commissioned the brand new Ondo State Skill Enterprise Development Centre on Oda Road, Akure! 🏢✨

This facility is all about empowering our young people with the skills they need to thrive in today's world. Perfect timing for World Youth Skills Day 2025! 🌟

**What makes this special?**
• A dedicated space for youth to learn profitable skills
• Focus on AI and digital skills training
• Transport allowances provided for participants
• Real solution to unemployment and youth idleness

Governor Aiyedatiwa's message was clear: "This is a workshop for empowerment - a place where dreams can be built through skills. No youth should be found roaming the streets when we've provided these tools!"

**The goal?** Self-reliance, economic productivity, and giving our youth the backbone they need to succeed! 💪

Huge thanks to everyone involved in making this happen - from the Governor's team to local government leaders who are all committed to putting youth development first.

Time for our young people to grab these opportunities and build their futures! 🚀

15/07/2025

Ondo State Government has executed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with Backbone Ingrastructure Nigeria Ltd (BINL) for the development of a 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) oil refinery and the development of its Sunshine free trade zone with its related infrastructure.

The ex*****on ceremony performed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti was also witnessed by the Attorney General of the State and the Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Kayode Ajulo (SAN).

In an earlier courtesy visit by the Management of BINL, the State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa pledged full support to genuine investors, as he emphasized the potentials of the proposed projects by BINL, in the areas of job creation, crime reduction, boosting of the State's economy as well as national development.

The Governor also highlighted other of Ondo State's untapped resources such as bitumen, and the plans for a deep-sea port.

He praised the collaboration between Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA) and the investors.

The investors, through their Chief Executive Officer Mr. Henry Onwuka expressed confidence in the State's leadership and its readiness to commence the project.

19/06/2025

🚨 A New Dawn for Oil-Producing Communities in Ondo State? Let’s Talk.

Recently, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa inaugurated a new Board for the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) — and not without bold promises. The headline? A historic N33.8 billion budget approved for the Commission in the 2025 fiscal year — the highest ever allocation in its history.

On the surface, this is a welcome development. For years, oil-bearing communities in Ondo South have cried out for basic infrastructure, youth empowerment, clean water, quality healthcare, and environmental protection — needs that remain partially fulfilled despite decades of resource exploitation.

But as history teaches us, budgets are one thing. Impact is another.

🔍 So, What Should the New Board Be Focusing On?

Here’s a critical take on the priorities they must embrace to avoid repeating past mistakes:

1. Transparent and Accountable Governance
The new N33.8 billion allocation is only as good as the transparency with which it's deployed. The board should:

Publish quarterly financial reports.

Open community-level channels for feedback and complaints.

Work with credible civil society groups to monitor projects.

2. Critical Infrastructure that Changes Lives
Oil communities like Ilaje and Ese-Odo still grapple with:

Poor road access and eroding shorelines.

Lack of potable water despite being surrounded by water.

Unreliable electricity and poor health facilities.

Let’s not build white elephant projects. OSOPADEC must prioritize basic, durable infrastructure that meets people where they are.

3. Youth Empowerment and Skills Development
Instead of handing out token stipends or one-off grants, the board should:

Invest in sustainable vocational training.

Partner with tech hubs to empower local talent.

Facilitate start-up incubation and access to micro-loans for small businesses.

This will curb youth restiveness and reduce migration.

Tourism! The potentials there are immense!

4. Environmental Sustainability
Oil exploration has devastated ecosystems and livelihoods. OSOPADEC should:

Lead coastal protection and erosion control projects.

Fund community-based environmental restoration.

Partner with the Ministry of Environment and international agencies to develop green initiatives.

5. Healthcare Access and Education
It's shocking that many oil communities still lack functioning clinics or decent schools. A portion of the budget must go to:

Building and staffing primary health centres.

Upgrading riverine school infrastructure.

Supporting health outreach and immunisation programs.

🔚 Final Word

The people of Ondo State deserve more than budget headlines. They deserve transformation. OSOPADEC now has the resources — and with the right political will, this board has the chance to rewrite the story of marginalisation and development.

Let it be said that this was not another missed opportunity.

19/06/2025

Hiring! Our 2025 Editorial & Social Media Internship applications are now open.

This opportunity is ideal for recent graduates or students pursuing degrees in sports management, sports journalism, physical education, or related fields.

Strong interest in athletics and sports events management is all we ask for. Application closes on 16 July.

Apply here: https://on.athletics.africa/internships

19/06/2025

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has pledged to drive economic growth and sustainable development by partnering with international investors, such as the visiting partners from the Czech Republic. In the engagement session with Czech Ambassador Krejci Zdenek and his delegates, His Excellency, along with some members of the State Executive Council discussed leveraging Czech expertise in industrial machinery, agriculture, construction, and renewable energy to enhance Ondo State’s economy, create jobs, and alleviate poverty, underscoring the mutual benefits of this strategic alliance.

Key government officials and members of the Czech delegation attended the meeting, including Barr. Emmanuel Omomowo, the Administrative Secretary of Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA), and Mr Femi Akarakiri, the Director of Business Development of ONDIPA.

25/05/2025

DISCOVER ONDO: THE UNTAPPED GEM OF NIGERIAN TOURISM

When we talk about tourism goldmines in Nigeria, Ondo State deserves a seat at the table — and at the heart of it lies the majestic Idanre Hills.

Rising dramatically from the lush landscape, Idanre Hills is more than just a beautiful sight — it’s a journey through history, culture, and nature. From the 660 steps that lead you into the clouds, to the ancient settlement, mysterious inscriptions, and breathtaking views, this is a destination that leaves you in awe.

But beyond its natural grandeur, Idanre Hills is a product — a tourism experience waiting to be fully harnessed. With the right investment in infrastructure, promotion, and community engagement, it has the power to boost local economies, create jobs, and put Ondo State firmly on the global tourism map.

Let’s reimagine tourism. Let’s brand Idanre Hills. Let’s sell Ondo.

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