Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended President Bola Tinubu for signing into law the bill establishing the South-West Development Commission (SWDC), describing it as a strategic initiative to close developmental gaps and harness the region’s economic capacity.
The President assented to the legislation in March 2025, following its passage by both chambers of the National Assembly. Sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel, who represents Ogun East, the Act mandates the Commission to coordinate infrastructure growth, social welfare, and economic expansion across the South-West states.
Speaking at a thanksgiving event in honour of Dr Jide Martins Adewinle, recently appointed as the Federal Commissioner representing Ondo State in the SWDC, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the new body would strengthen regional development and advance national cohesion.
“The establishment of the South-West Development Commission is a laudable step by the Federal Government to tackle developmental imbalances, harness regional potential, and promote sustainable growth. With the right leadership and collaboration, the commission will serve as a veritable tool for economic revitalisation, infrastructural renewal, and social transformation in our region,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to work with the Commission in promoting industrialisation, infrastructure renewal, and youth empowerment across all 18 local government areas of the state.
The governor described Dr Adewinle’s appointment as merited and reflective of competence, discipline, and integrity.
“Over the years, Dr Adewinle has demonstrated exceptional commitment to
community development, youth empowerment, and professionalism,” he said.
“His appointment further projects Ondo State as a reservoir of capable men and
women who can stand tall anywhere in service to our nation.”
He advised the new appointee to approach the task with humility, accountability, and a sense of service.
“Leadership is stewardship imbued with humility and accountability. Let your service reflect diligence and integrity. Expectations are high, but I’m confident that you will make Ondo proud,” Aiyedatiwa added.
The governor pledged continued collaboration with the SWDC and other federal institutions to ensure that residents of the state benefit from ongoing and future development projects.
“Our administration will continue to collaborate with the Commission to enhance regional integration, agricultural development, industrialisation, and youth empowerment—key pillars of our development agenda,” he said.
In his remarks, Dr Adewinle expressed appreciation to God, President Tinubu, and Governor Aiyedatiwa for the trust reposed in him, promising to deliver results that justify the confidence placed in his appointment.
He said the Commission was conceived as a platform to advance education, infrastructure, and social welfare while driving economic empowerment across the South-West.
According to him, the creation of the SWDC aligns with the visionary policies of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose developmental blueprint laid the foundation for the region’s early economic prominence.
“What President Tinubu has done through this Commission is a continuation of
Chief Awolowo’s dream for a prosperous South-West – a region driven by unity,
innovation, and progress,” Adewinle said.
“The Commission will rekindle that legacy by driving growth in education,
welfare, and infrastructure.”
He explained that the body would pursue region-specific projects to tackle the concentration of development in a few areas, create employment, and stimulate local economies.
Chairman of Okitipupa Local Government, Andrew Ogunsakin, also used the occasion to commend the governor for approving a 5-kilometre road project within the council area and acknowledged other ongoing projects across the state.
The thanksgiving reception, held at Adekunbi Hall, Iye Ile Resort Centre, Ode-Aye, attracted dignitaries from various parts of the country, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and associates, who gathered to celebrate the new Federal Commissioner’s appointment.