In a move that signals stronger collaboration between the legislative and executive arms of government, the Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on Inter-Parliamentary and Diaspora Matters has pledged its full support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s diaspora engagement and regional integration agenda.
This commitment was made during a familiarisation visit to the Ondo State Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, led by the Committee Chairman, Hon. Olatunji Oshatti.
A statement issued by the Press Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Lanre Cole, stated that the visit was part of the committee’s oversight functions aimed at better understanding the Ministry’s structure, operations, and strategic focus.
Welcoming the lawmakers, the Honourable Commissioner, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, described the visit as timely and strategic, saying that such engagements are essential to the realisation of the Ministry’s broad vision.
Akinlosotu provided a historical background of the Ministry, established in 2016 by the late Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN. He acknowledged the contributions of past commissioners, including the late Prof. Bayonle Ademodi, Hon. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, and Prince Boye Ologbese.
Expressing appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for the opportunity to serve, Akinlosotu who assumed office on July 15, 2025 outlined key initiatives under his leadership. These include the Diaspora Smart City Project, the creation of a Diaspora Trust Fund and Diaspora Bond, the hosting of a Diaspora Summit and Festival, and a targeted Diaspora Roadshow across key regions.
He also revealed plans to deepen collaboration with national bodies, particularly the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) led by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to ensure successful programme execution.
In response, Hon. Fatai Atere reiterated the House’s readiness to support the Ministry’s programmes, provided there is sustained dialogue and inclusive planning. Hon. Abitogun also lauded the Ministry’s budget performance and encouraged the team to continue contributing innovative ideas to legislative policy discussions.
Committee Chairman, Hon. Oshatti, praised the Commissioner’s strategic roadmap and assured of legislative backing to drive the Ministry’s objectives forward.
Also present was Hon. Muyiwa Ogunyemi, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Integration, who addressed ongoing challenges and highlighted Governor Aiyedatiwa’s “OUR EASE” Agenda as a roadmap for inclusive development.
Mrs. Asanbe, the Committee Clerk, called for continued mutual trust and collaboration between the Ministry and lawmakers. The Ministry’s Administrative Secretary closed the session by appreciating the committee members and staff for their commitment to service.
The visit reaffirmed a joint resolve by the Ministry and the lawmakers to advance diaspora welfare and regional integration in Ondo State through purposeful collaboration and visionary leadership
