Ondo State Should Not Be Struggling Economically, Says University Don
An associate professor of African socio-cultural, diplomatic and military history at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Dr. Solomon Tai Okajare, has asserted that Ondo State lacks any moral or logical justification to remain among Nigeria's economically struggling states. According to Okajare, the state's abundant natural and human resources, coupled with its substantial economic potential, should unequivocally position it as a high-flying state in the country.
Lecture Highlights State's Paradox of Poverty Amidst Plenty
Dr. Okajare made these remarks while delivering a lecture titled 'Unlocking Subnational Economic Power: Practical Pathways for Sustainable Economic Growth in Ondo State' during a lecture series and induction ceremony for new members into Club Elan in Akure, the Ondo State capital. He dissected the paradox of poverty amidst plenty in the Sunshine State, emphasizing that its fertile lands, extensive coastline, oil and bitumen deposits, and diverse tourism attractions should undoubtedly make it an "economic gem" among its peers.
"For Ondo State, the foregoing discourse stands firm more at the epicentre of potentiality and hope with little to show for actual achievement of the accruable benefits, thus propelling mere projection than calculation of gains," Okajare stated.
Identifying Impediments to Economic Transformation
While outlining the state's strengths, Okajare also identified key impediments to its economic transformation. These include planning without foundational knowledge, weak and obsolete infrastructure, and macroeconomic instability, among others. He urged all sons, daughters, and residents of Ondo State to actively participate in efforts to reposition it for sustainable development.
"This is the crux of the matter, whereas successive governments in the state, including the incumbent, have severally demonstrated and reiterated their desire to return the Sunshine State to the lane of self-sufficiency and sustainable development," he noted.
Government Efforts and Ongoing Challenges
Okajare specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration, which he said has convincingly shown commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, offering incentives, and supporting investors. However, he stressed that as long as Ondo State continues to rely heavily on monthly allocations from the Federation Account, its economic narrative remains a paradox of wealth in poverty.
"As long as Ondo State is not yet in the league of states that can operate without heavily relying on the Monthly Dinner from the Federation Account, its economic story remains a paradox of wealth in poverty. This compels the need to identify the challenges and proffer applicable strategies for solutions," Okajare emphasized.
Club Elan Welcomes New Members
Meanwhile, the President of Club Elan, Mobolaji Adeyeye, highlighted the significance of the new inductees, stating that their arrival underscores the club's status as a preferred destination for professionals and businessmen seeking camaraderie. "It is a reminder that our club remains a destination of choice for men of calibre and that our story is still very much being written," Adeyeye said.
He added that the club is approaching its twenty-ninth founding anniversary, marking nearly three decades of fellowship, purpose, and impact. "To our new members, you do not simply join a club tonight – you join a legacy. Bring your energy, your ideas, and your best self. The Elan family expects nothing less and will give nothing less in return," he concluded.
Speaking on behalf of the inductees, Chief Akindele Omole assured the club's leadership and members that the new intake would contribute meaningfully to the club's objectives and legacy of impact within Ondo State and beyond.
