The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed the readiness of his administration to collaborate with the newly created South-West Development Commission to advance infrastructural renewal, industrialisation, and youth empowerment across the state.

The governor made this known at a reception held on Saturday in honour of the state’s representative in the commission, Jide Adewinle, at Ode Aye in the Okitipupa Local Government Area.

Governor Aiyedatiwa commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the SWDC, expressing optimism that the commission would effectively bridge developmental gaps in the South-West and unlock its vast economic potential. He described the initiative as a significant step towards addressing regional disparities and fostering sustainable growth.

“The creation of the South-West Development Commission is a laudable step by the Federal Government to tackle developmental disparities, 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,” Aiyedatiwa said.

The governor assured that the state would work closely with the SWDC and other federal institutions to ensure that the people of Ondo benefit maximally from ongoing and future developmental projects.

“Our administration will continue to collaborate with the commission to enhance regional integration, agricultural development, industrialisation and youth empowerment, all key pillars of our development agenda,” he stressed.

While congratulating the state’s new representative, Adewinle, Governor Aiyedatiwa described his appointment as a product of merit, hard work, and years of consistent service to humanity.

Earlier in his remarks, Mr. Adewinle explained that the SWDC was created to promote regional development by focusing on education, infrastructure, welfare, and economic empowerment, describing it as a platform that would reposition the South-West for sustainable growth.

He expressed profound gratitude to God, President Tinubu, and Governor Aiyedatiwa for the opportunity to serve, promising to justify the confidence reposed in him.

“What President Tinubu has done with the establishment of this commission is a continuation of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s dream for a prosperous South-West, a region that thrives on unity, innovation and development,” Adewinle stated. He added, “The commission will rekindle that legacy by driving growth in education, welfare, and infrastructure.”

The bill to establish the SWDC was passed by the National Assembly and assented to by President Tinubu some months ago, with the mandate to drive growth, develop infrastructure, reduce poverty, create jobs, and support projects that better integrate the six states in the South-West region.