Ondo govt commences biometric verification of workers

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The Ondo State Government has taken significant steps toward improving governance, infrastructure, and public welfare with a series of decisions approved at the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The government announced plans to commence biometric verification of public servants to streamline the civil service workforce and ensure accurate data on employee levels.

Head of Service, Bayo Philip, clarified that the exercise aims to enhance accountability and efficiency, assuring workers it is not intended to instill fear.

In addition, Philip confirmed the implementation of the N73,000 new minimum wage for civil servants, noting that November salaries had already reflected the adjustment.

“This is a fulfillment of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s promise. Civil servants must reciprocate by improving productivity,” he said.

The Commissioner for Education, Laolu Akindolire, announced the governor’s approval of N500 million for the construction of a Senate building at the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo.

Another N500 million has been earmarked for the project in the 2025 budget. Plans are also underway for the renovation of primary, secondary, and technical schools across the state to enhance the learning environment.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, disclosed the approval of four new traditional rulers and the recognition of two new stools.

This move, he said, is part of efforts to bolster grassroots leadership.

The newly appointed rulers include: Takunbe of Ipoke, Prince Hosea Julius Oladapo (Ese Odo LGA), Laragunsin of Ode-Iyansan, Prince Akingomi Olasehinde John (Irele LGA), Lumure of Ayeka, Prince Babatunde Michael Ayeyoma (Okitipupa LGA) and Alaboto of Aboto, Prince Oyetayo Ofoaye (Ilaje LGA).

The newly recognised stools are: Olusin of Owalusin (Akoko South LGA), Onitedo of Mahintedo (Ilaje LGA).

Special Adviser on Health, Simidele Odimayo, reported a significant decline in Lassa fever cases, attributing the success to collaboration between the government and residents.

However, he urged citizens to maintain proper hygiene to prevent outbreaks of cholera and other diseases.

Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu, emphasised the government’s focus on policies and projects that would enhance residents’ quality of life, affirming that 2025 would be pivotal for the state’s socio-economic development.