In a significant development for civil servants in Nigeria, the Federal Government has approved a minimum wage of N70,000. In a bold response, the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, announced plans to implement a higher minimum wage of N73,000 for state government workers. This decision reflects Aiyedatiwa’s determination to prioritize the welfare of the people in Ondo State. The announcement was made during his campaign kickoff event in Ondo town, as he also geared up for the upcoming governorship election scheduled for November 16. His decision to exceed the Federal Government’s wage highlights his administration’s focus on improving the living standards of workers in the state.
During the campaign rally, Governor Aiyedatiwa called on attendees to translate their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) into votes, emphasizing the importance of continuity in his administration’s progress. By seeking the electorate’s mandate, he intends to secure further development initiatives that he believes are essential for the state’s growth. His address resonated with the crowd as he expressed gratitude for their support thus far, stating: “The best way to demonstrate this love is to vote for continuity, which will bring even more dividends of democracy.” Aiyedatiwa’s rhetoric highlights a grassroots approach to governance, emphasizing the relationship between leadership and the electorate.
Reflecting on his accomplishments during his time in office, Aiyedatiwa outlined various initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s infrastructure and agricultural sector. He noted significant investments, including over one billion naira allocated for land clearing projects and rural road construction, which are designed to support and boost agricultural productivity. Aiyedatiwa’s emphasis on agriculture as a pillar of development showcases his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for farmers, thus stimulating economic growth and food security in Ondo State.
Furthermore, the governor addressed the issue of healthcare, particularly the retention of medical professionals in the state. His administration has focused on salary and allowance enhancements for doctors to make working in Ondo State more attractive, reducing the tendency for professionals to seek opportunities elsewhere. By investing in the welfare of healthcare providers, Aiyedatiwa aims to improve medical services available to the residents of Ondo State, which is a crucial aspect of community development and public health.
Echoing the governor’s sentiments, the chairman of the APC in Ondo State, Mr. Ade Adetimehin, reinforced the call for voters to support the party in the upcoming elections. He acknowledged the ongoing commitment of Aiyedatiwa to infrastructural development and urged party members to safeguard their voter cards, which are vital for ensuring APC’s enduring leadership in the state. This rallying cry is indicative of the party’s strategy to mobilize support and consolidate their political power in the region.
Lastly, the Director General of Aiyedatiwa’s campaign, Abiola Makinde, underscored the importance of local engagement and mobilization among supporters. He encouraged attendees to return to their communities to rally more voters in support of the governor, underlining the necessity of a strong turnout on election day. This grassroots mobilization reflects a broader political strategy aimed at strengthening the APC’s position in Ondo State and ensuring that Aiyedatiwa’s vision for the state continues beyond 2024. Overall, these efforts illustrate a focused campaign that intertwines economic welfare, infrastructural development, and healthcare improvements as key pillars of Aiyedatiwa’s governance agenda.
