In a move widely described as aligning professionalism with governance, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has sworn in veteran journalist and public communication strategist, Mr. Idowu Emmanuel Ajanaku, as the new Commissioner for Information and Orientation.
Ajanaku’s appointment followed his successful screening and confirmation by the Ondo State House of Assembly, alongside 15 other commissioner nominees. The seasoned journalist brings over three decades of media, strategic communication, and public affairs experience to the role raising high expectations for a more robust and people-focused information architecture in the state.
Born on June 2, 1966, and a native of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area, Ajanaku’s life is a testament to resilience and academic excellence. He was the best graduating student of Idogun High School in 1985 and overcame early childhood adversity following the death of his father. He holds a Second Class Upper degree in History and International Studies from Lagos State University (2009) and a Master’s Degree with Distinction in History and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos (2012).
Ajanaku launched his journalism career at Moonshine, a Mushin-based community newspaper, eventually becoming its editor. His career trajectory soared with stints at Lagos Mirror and The Guardian Newspaper, where he gained national acclaim through incisive political reports, exclusive interviews, and bold analyses especially on Yoruba politics and the Afenifere movement.
His voice became a familiar and respected one in media circuits, with appearances on television programmes such as Editors Forum on Galaxy TV. Ajanaku’s work has earned him prestigious accolades including:
Best Political Reporter of the Year (2006) – African Media Watch, USA
Best Political Writer in Southwest Nigeria – Media Focus, UK
Egbe Omo Yoruba Presidential Milestone Award for excellence in journalism
Beyond journalism, Ajanaku served as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) and was later appointed Special Adviser on Information Strategy in the cabinet of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. He was instrumental in shaping media narratives and information flow during key political campaigns and governance periods in Lagos State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s decision to appoint Mr. Ajanaku is widely seen as a strategic step to strengthen the state’s public communication machinery. Observers describe it as “putting the right peg in the right hole” an endorsement of competence, integrity, and vision.
A devoted Christian, Mr. Ajanaku is married to Mrs. Biodun Elizabeth Ajanaku, and their union is blessed with children. He remains an advocate of ethical journalism and responsible media engagement, values he is expected to bring into his new role as Commissioner.
His swearing-in marks the beginning of what many believe will be a new era of strategic, transparent, and engaging public information in Ondo State.
