— Plans underway to build unified database, reward selfless service
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has restated his administration’s firm commitment to promoting volunteerism as a strategic tool for development in Ondo State.
Speaking during a live interview on Orange 94.5 FM, Hon. Adeolu Iwakun, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Volunteer Service and the State Coordinator of the Nigerian National Volunteer Service (NNVS), said the government was putting structures in place to coordinate and elevate volunteer efforts across the state.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa is genuinely committed to creating an enabling environment for volunteer activities,” Iwakun said. “We are working to leverage volunteer services in advancing the present administration’s development agenda across all sectors.”
According to him, the Office of Volunteer Services has commenced registration of organisations, individuals, and NGOs into a centralised database. This initiative, he explained, is designed to improve the coordination and management of volunteer-based programmes.
“We are establishing a unified database to streamline partnerships and create synergy among stakeholders,” he said.
Iwakun added that the office will collaborate with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), private sector bodies, NGOs, and both local and international partners to drive the objectives of the “OUR EASE” agenda — the governor’s strategic plan for effective governance in Ondo State.
“To promote the culture of volunteerism, we will embark on advocacy campaigns, host seminars and conferences, and organise stakeholder engagements that equip volunteers with the skills they need to make real impact,” he said.
He also announced that the state government will begin formally recognising and celebrating outstanding volunteers and organisations who have contributed meaningfully to community development.
“People who commit their time and energy to support public good deserve to be acknowledged,” Iwakun stated. “This government will not only encourage such acts but will publicly commend them.”
Reaffirming his own dedication to the cause, Iwakun said: “We will harness our collective experience to build a vibrant volunteer ecosystem that serves our people.”
Observers believe this renewed focus on volunteerism could significantly boost community engagement and accelerate developmental outcomes across the Sunshine State.
