By Akindele Orimolade
When the political storms raged like a cyclone, few imagined Ondo State would find calm so soon. Yet, under the steady hand of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, fondly called Broda Lucky,the Sunshine State has not only regained stability but also recorded remarkable strides in governance, development, and unity.
In a reflective article titled: “One Year of A Night of Praise: A Deep Reflection on the Faith-Inspired, People-Centred Leadership of Broda Lucky”: the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), credited the governor’s success to his unique blend of faith and people-first governance.
At the heart of this philosophy is the monthly Night of Praise, a sacred gathering Dr. Ajulo described as more than a religious event. “It is a sanctuary where hearts unite in worship, lifting voices in gratitude and drawing strength for the journey ahead,” he wrote. For Ajulo, the Night of Praise has nurtured harmony and infused the State with divine peace.
But Broda Lucky’s leadership goes beyond worship. His first year has been marked by fiscal discipline, with Ondo maintaining one of the lowest debt profiles in Nigeria and avoiding new loans. His administration has recruited over 2,000 teachers, cleared outstanding salaries and pensions, disbursed over ₦1.5 billion in gratuities, paid WAEC fees, and injected billions into tertiary institutions, including ₦1 billion for a Senate Building at UNIMED.
On infrastructure, the Zero Pothole Initiative has rehabilitated more than 60 km of roads, while projects like “Light Up Akure” and flood channelisation have improved urban living. Rural roads are opening access to markets for farmers, backed by a ₦2 billion food security fund and ₦220 million in soft loans to artisans and SMEs.
Security has also been strengthened, with Amotekun Corps bolstered and rural checkpoints established to safeguard communities. From agriculture to education, from green economy initiatives to landmark judicial complexes, Ondo State is witnessing transformation on multiple fronts.
Dr. Ajulo concluded that this progress is inseparable from the governor’s faith-driven leadership. “The love of God permeates Ondo, reflected in the smiles of her people and the spirit of togetherness that defines the OUR EASE agenda,” he affirmed.
As Ondo marks the first anniversary of A Night of Praise, the learned silk urged citizens to sustain prayers for their governor:“Broda Lucky’s journey reminds us that with faith, resilience, and unity, we can weather storms and achieve greatness together,” he wrote.
From worship to welfare, from prayer to policy, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s first year is being hailed as proof that when faith meets leadership, transformation follows.
