Babatope Okeowo 
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has disclosed the readiness of his administration to revive Ifon Ceramic Company, Okitipupa Oilpalm Limited, and other moribund industries across the State.
The companies established during the first civilian governor of the state, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin have been dead or comatose for several years.
Speaking during a consultative meeting with religious leaders in the state at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s office in Akure, the Governor said the decision to revive the companies hinged on the determination of his administration to provide employment opportunities for the youth and enhance the economy of the State.
According to him, this is in addition to the ongoing efforts to reach an agreement with other investors in developing the Sea Port, bitumen exploration, and waste-to-energy initiative.
Aiyedatiwa, who briefed the clergymen on the activities of his administration so far, thanked them for their support and prayers, as well as their contributions to maintaining peace and tranquillity in the State.
The Governor emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence among residents and stressed the need for dialogue in resolving the current economic challenges facing the nation and its people.
His words “We must prioritize dialogue to address the economic challenges facing our nation and its people. In light of global economic realities, we must increase production to help lower the high prices of commodities”, he added.
In response, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state, Anselm Ologunwa, expressed gratitude to the governor for organizing the meeting and recognizing the contributions of religious leaders.
“Thank you, Mr. Governor, for convening this meeting and for the recognition given to religious leaders. We must understand the root causes of the current challenges we face. We appreciate the palliative measures provided to us and acknowledge the government’s efforts in advancing our state”, he said.
The Chief Imam of Akure, Sheik Abdul Hakeem Yayi Akorede, also commended the governor for his efforts in fostering unity and peace within the state.
Akorede, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between religious leaders and the government in addressing the challenges faced by the people, acknowledged the positive impact of the governor’s initiatives and reassured that the Muslim community would continue to offer their prayers and support.
In his welcome address, the Chairman, of Ondo State Muslim Welfare Board, Alhaji Chandy Adam, urged religious leaders to help spread the message against protests and to support Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration in implementing more life-changing programs and policies.
