Ondo State on Friday deepened its commitment to civic engagement as it hosted the maiden edition of the Ondo State Volunteer Summit in Akure to mark the 2025 International Volunteer Day. The well-attended event, held at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, drew government officials, civil society groups, humanitarian actors, non governmental organisations and volunteers from various sectors.
The summit also marked the formal launch of the Ondo State Volunteer Service, a new state platform established to coordinate, empower and celebrate volunteerism.
In his opening address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Volunteer Service, Hon Adeolu Iwakun, described the gathering as a landmark moment in the history of civic participation in Ondo State. He expressed appreciation to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for institutionalising volunteerism through the creation of the Volunteer Service Office.
“Volunteerism, whether through community participation, humanitarian support, problem solving initiatives or simply the offering of personal skills, remains a powerful pillar for sustainable development,” Iwakun said. He praised volunteers for their steadfast dedication and affirmed that the new volunteer office would further strengthen their relationship with government.
Stakeholders at the summit underscored the vital role volunteers play in community and national development. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sckyé Group, Dr Thomas Wilson Ikubese; spiritual leader of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, Pastor Evelyn Joshua; Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs and Intergovernmental relations, Mrs Kikelomo Ikuomola; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, Allen Sowore, commended the Aiyedatiwa administration for providing structured support for volunteerism. They called for enhanced collaboration between government and private individuals to drive meaningful development.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Director General of the National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Agency’s South West Director, Mrs Funke Salako, urged Nigerians to commit themselves to nation building through voluntary service. “This is a defining opportunity for all of us to contribute to national growth by embracing values that strengthen collective progress,” she said.
Representing the Governor, the Special Adviser on Environment, Dr Tunji Rhema Moyero, reaffirmed the administration’s prioritisation of citizen welfare, youth engagement and inclusive governance. He congratulated all volunteers and assured them of government’s continued support in creating an environment where volunteerism thrives.
“In Ondo State, the progress and recognition of volunteers will remain a standard that others can follow,” he said.
The summit also featured a major honour segment celebrating individuals whose contributions have shaped communities within and beyond the state. Among those recognised as Volunteer Ambassadors were the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan; proprietress of Mummy’s Place International Nursery and Primary School, Dr Damilola Oshin; Pastor Evelyn Joshua; Dr Thomas Wilson Ikubese; Registrar of Elizade University, Mr Omololu Adegbenro, and several others.
The late founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, Prophet TB Joshua, was posthumously honoured for his humanitarian contributions during his lifetime, a moment that drew emotional applause from participants.
Another highlight of the event was the recognition of Elder Isaac Tapere, the Chairman/CEO of Tisco Group, who announced his donation of a Volunteer Centre to Ondo State. The centre is set for construction once government allocates the designated land, a gesture widely described as a significant gift to humanity.
The summit also featured cultural performances, the decoration of Governor Aiyedatiwa as Grand Patron of Volunteer Service and the presentation of plaques to distinguished volunteers.
With the success of its first Volunteer Summit and the launch of the Ondo State Volunteer Service, the state has strengthened its position as a champion of organised volunteerism, driven by compassion, shared responsibility and the collective goal of building a more supportive and engaged society.
