Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to expanding technical and vocational education as a key driver of industrial growth and sustainable job creation.
Speaking during a meeting with student representatives at the Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure, Aiyedatiwa said the state’s education strategy is being realigned to meet the demands of a modern, skills-driven economy.
He explained that the renewed focus on technical education would help attract investors who require a readily available pool of skilled labour.
“We are paying more attention to technical education. Investors are coming, and they will need skilled labour,” the governor said. “Since I became governor, there has been no student unrest. You have engaged constructively without any form of violent agitation.”
Aiyedatiwa commended the students for their discipline and peaceful conduct, noting that the state had enjoyed a stable academic environment since his assumption of office.
While acknowledging the economic hardship brought about by ongoing national reforms, the governor appealed for patience, assuring that the policies would yield long-term economic benefits.
“It’s a temporary hardship that is easing up. The reforms are yielding results and benefits, and they are making the economy better. If these reforms had not been implemented, Nigeria would have been worse off today,” he said.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Segun Omoyofunmi, lauded the governor’s continuous engagement with young people, describing him as a listening leader committed to youth development.
Student leaders at the meeting presented various requests and concerns.
President of the Niger Delta Students’ Union, Comrade Martins Ayemoluwa, urged the government to promote innovation and investment in the Niger Delta beyond oil exploration, calling for greater solar energy development and the establishment of a marine science project in the state.
Chairperson of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (NFSAN), Ondo State chapter, Comrade Precious Ikuenomore, appealed to the governor to enhance the safety of female students, citing the unsafe distance of hostels from the University of Medical Sciences campus.
NANS JCC Chairman, Comrade Mayomi Adekanye, urged consistency in addressing student welfare, especially in accommodation and transportation, while NAOSS President, Comrade Temitope Alade, called for the establishment of security outposts near campuses and the revival of NDDC scholarships.
Similarly, NAUS Chairman, Comrade Adegoriola Abejoye, praised the governor for fulfilling 80 per cent of previous commitments but appealed for faster delivery of buses, road repairs, and employment opportunities for student leaders.
