Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has approved automatic jobs for seven National Youth Service Corps members who distinguished themselves during their service in the state.
The governor also presented N1 million each to 66 outstanding students, teachers and recipients of national honours at an award ceremony held on Tuesday at the Cocoa Conference Centre, Governor’s Office, Akure.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, disclosed this in a statement issued after the event.
Speaking at the ceremony, Aiyedatiwa said the decision reflects his administration’s belief that talent and hard work must be recognized and retained to drive the state’s development.
“Today we are celebrating excellence because it deserves to be encouraged,” he said. “These corps members, students and teachers have shown commitment, creativity and discipline. They are role models for others and true representatives of Ondo State.”
The governor paid special tribute to teachers, describing them as the foundation of any thriving society.
“Every great nation is built in the classroom,” Aiyedatiwa stated. “Teachers shape character, transfer knowledge and give young people the tools to succeed. We cannot overstate their importance.”
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, said the awards were created to motivate students and educators across Ondo to pursue higher standards.
He added that education remains central to the Aiyedatiwa administration’s agenda. According to him, the governor has directed his ministry to compile a list of other students and citizens who have recorded exceptional academic feats for future honours.
The seven NYSC members will be absorbed into the Ondo State civil service with immediate effect, while each of the 66 awardees went home with a N1 million cheque.
The programme was attended by education stakeholders, traditional rulers, parents and school administrators who applauded the government for celebrating merit.