Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has praised his Ekiti State counterpart, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, describing him as a “beacon of progress, prudence, and performance” within the Southwest region.
Aiyedatiwa made the commendation while commissioning three major projects in Ekiti West Local Government Area, calling the development strides in Ekiti “a testament and evidence of transformative leadership.”
The projects commissioned by the visiting governor in Okemesi included the new Itawure–Okemesi road, an electricity power project, and the newly renovated General Hospital, Okemesi.
Aiyedatiwa stated that in just three years, Oyebanji’s administration has overseen “unprecedented infrastructural revitalization, improved social and economic development,” with governance anchored on integrity and accountability.
Reflecting on the impact of the newly commissioned facilities, Aiyedatiwa said: “As I join you today to commission the Itawure to Okemesi Road, the General Hospital, and the electricity Project, I see modern structures of stones and steel and cables, I see symbols of vision, commitment, and humanity.”
He further emphasised the broader significance of the projects: “When you create a road, when you build a road, you create access and definitely increase the economic activity in the area. The hospital we unveil embodies the sanctity of life and the compassion of a government that truly cares.”
Aiyedatiwa affirmed the shared bond between Ondo and Ekiti, describing it as a connection of “shared heritage, shared destiny, and shared aspiration” for the regional renaissance.
He hailed Oyebanji as a leader who views governance as a “sacred trust and divine stewardship,” and noted that the entire Southwest region is proud of his achievements in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
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Oyebanji confirmed that the commissioning of the three projects was designed to connect the Okemesi community to civilization and enhance its economy.
He confirmed that the Okemesi projects are part of a larger plan to commission at least ten roads to mark his third anniversary in government.
Responding to social media critics who claim his administration has achieved little, Oyebanji urged them to “come home” and witness the level of development firsthand.
“When I hear some people on the social media saying that we have not done anything, I always say, yes but come home because most people don’t leave their comfort zones, they are not connected to their communities, they don’t know what is happening at home,” he said.
He thanked Aiyedatiwa for honoring the invitation, noting: “You commission the road, you light up Okemesi then we drive straight to the hospital, see what we have done.”
The Commissioner for Works, Sola Adebayo, said the road project is not merely an upgrade but an “enabler of progress and a lifeline” that will facilitate the seamless movement of people, agricultural produce, and essential commodities, aligning with the administration’s Six-Point Agenda.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Oyebanji Filani, praised the governor’s focus on healthcare infrastructure, noting that the renovated hospital facilities are now equipped with essential services, including laboratory, theater services, delivery rooms, and wards.
The community expressed its gratitude through its representatives, including the Owa Ooye of Okemesi, HRM Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, and the former Attorney General, Wale Gapounda, who appreciated l Oyebanji for the unprecedented development in the town.
