AKURE – Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has described the representative of Ondo State in Nigeria Delta Development Commission(BDDC) Board, Chief Ifedayo Abegunde as a huge contributor to youths and Niger Delta region development. He stated this noted that the feat achieved by the former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) in Ondo State is worthy of emulation. The stated this while making his remark on the two-term former member of House of Representatives at his 70th birthday celebration at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome), Alagbaka Akure, Ondo State capital. Acknowledging Abegunde’s significant contributions to Ondo State and the broader Nigerian political landscape, Governor Aiyedatiwa commended him for his unwavering contributions to the growth and development of Ondo State and the Niger Delta region He said: “Abegunde has consistently made meaningful contributions to the development of our people and communities. Ondo State is proud of his achievements and unwavering commitment.” In his address, Abegunde, who is the current Executive Director, Corporate Services, NDDC, said he’s dedicated to initiatives that would uplift Akure and the state at large. He promised that he would continue to leverage on his extensive experience to foster progress within Akure communities. Abegunde, who was on Saturday installed as the Asiwaju of Akure Kingdom by the Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, appreciated the monarch, the people of Akure Kingdom, his family, friends and associates for their support so far. Speaking on how he traversed the public offices, the newly installed Asiwaju of Akure Kingdom said his path was shaped by resilience, faith, and commitment to public service. He, therefore, advised the youth in the country to learn from his trajectory in life, be law-abiding, and show commitment to the development of their community and the nation. Abegunde said: “I am committed to helping our people and supporting those in need. We must unite and collaborate on community development.” Emphasising on the importance of developing manpower and empowering the youth for a brighter future, Abegunde said the future of the nation is in the hands of the youth. Among dignitaries who graced the occasion are Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, Senator Jide Ipinsagba, Ondo North, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Ondo Central, Chairman, Ondo State Chapter of APC, Ade Adetimehin, former Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, and representatives from NDDC. Others are Prince Dayo Adeyeye, Chairman, Nigeria Ports Authority, Oyetunde Ojo, Managing Director and CEO of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), and former Ondo State Commissioner for Finance, Wale Akinterinwa, among several others.