The Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said the state government was implementing projects, policies and programmes aimed at meeting the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2030.
The governor stated this on Tuesday while receiving the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire.
Aiyedatiwa, who commended Orelope-Adefulire for her efforts in accelerating the 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development Goals across the country, said his administration would continue to play its part in making the agenda a reality.
He said, “Based on the SDGs achievements from 2015 to 2024, we have only reached 15 per cent across the country. Your visit is crucial given these statistics, even though we have structures in place to meet these goals. The 17 SDGs align with our existing frameworks, and it is vital to recognise these goals.
“Our administration has been striving to align with the policies of the SDGs, but there is still much work to be done on a global scale. We need support from all stakeholders to achieve the SDG goals. Partnership is essential, and we are all involved in this effort.”
The governor listed the efforts of his administration in line with the SDGs which include the installation of solar-powered street lights across major cities, recruitment of health workers and teachers, distribution of implements to farmers and food palliatives to the vulnerable, provision of free shuttle buses for students and opening up of rural roads for easy access to farms to boost food production in the state.
Aiyedatiwa stressed the need for advocacy to improve the quality of life for everyone, appreciating the SDGs office’s commitment to supporting the state in eradicating poverty and fostering sustainable growth.
Speaking earlier, the presidential aide, Orelope-Adefulire, reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to supporting the Ondo State Government in meeting the SDGs, speeding up developmental projects and eradicating social challenges.
She outlined various activities aimed at supporting this mission, including efforts to end extreme poverty across the country. According to her, the Agenda 2030 focuses on sustainable development throughout Nigeria, and her office aims to ensure that no groups are left behind, including youth, women, and people with disabilities.