Aiyedatiwa Vows to Prioritise Technical Education for Job Creation, Industrial Growth

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting technical and vocational education as a central strategy for driving industrial development and addressing youth unemployment in the state.

Speaking during a meeting with student representatives at the Governor’s Office in Alagbaka, Akure, Aiyedatiwa emphasised the urgent need to reposition the state’s education system to align with the demands of a modern, skills-based economy.

“We are paying more attention to technical education,” the governor said. “Investors are coming, and they will need a skilled workforce. Our focus is to prepare our young people for the future through vocational and technical training.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the student community for maintaining peace and constructive engagement, noting the absence of unrest since he assumed office. He described the stable academic atmosphere in the state as a reflection of the students’ discipline and leadership.

Addressing the economic challenges facing the country, Aiyedatiwa appealed for understanding and patience, insisting that recent national reforms, while difficult, are beginning to yield results.

“It’s a temporary hardship that is gradually easing. These reforms were necessary, and their long-term benefits will soon be more visible. Without them, the nation’s economy would be in worse shape,” he stated.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Segun Omoyofunmi, also commended the governor’s commitment to youth development, describing him as a “listening leader” who continues to engage young people in policy discussions.

During the meeting, several student leaders presented requests aimed at improving student welfare and development initiatives across the state.

Comrade Martins Ayemoluwa, President of the Niger Delta Students’ Union, called on the state government to support innovation and diversify investment in the Niger Delta beyond oil, including solar energy and the establishment of a marine science centre.

Comrade Precious Ikuenomore, Chairperson of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (NFSAN), Ondo State chapter, appealed for improved safety measures for female students, highlighting the dangers posed by the distance between hostels and the University of Medical Sciences.

NANS JCC Chairman, Comrade Mayomi Adekanye, urged the government to maintain consistency in student welfare policies, especially in areas such as transportation and housing. Similarly, NAOSS President, Comrade Temitope Alade, called for the establishment of security outposts near campuses and the revival of the NDDC scholarship scheme.

Comrade Adegoriola Abejoye, Chairman of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), acknowledged the governor’s fulfillment of 80 per cent of previous commitments but appealed for expedited action on student buses, campus road rehabilitation, and job creation for young graduates and student leaders.

The interactive session underscored the state government’s ongoing dialogue with students and its efforts to build a youth-driven development agenda focused on skills, security, and opportunities.