The Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, has charged journalists in the state to look towards the future and plan ahead.

He implored them to be prudent in their prime years and to practise their profession with dignity, noting that journalists are part and parcel of society and contribute immensely to its development, and therefore should not beg for survival.

Ajanaku made the call at the 2025 Press Week public lecture of the Ondo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), held at the NUJ Press Centre, Alagbaka, Akure, on Wednesday.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, he reiterated his commitment to leaving a legacy that would place journalists in the state in a better position than he met them, particularly by ensuring the improvement of their welfare.

Also speaking on behalf of the governor, the commissioner noted that the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration holds journalists in high esteem and has ensured the free flow of information.

He emphasised the readiness of the government to partner with journalists in a bid to move the state from a civil-service-driven economy to an industrialised one.

He hinted that with the planned multi-billion-naira deep seaport and refinery projects, Ondo State would not remain the same, and appealed for the support of individuals to ensure the successful execution of the projects.

Ajanaku stressed the need for constructive criticism of government policies and programmes, stating that the government is not against criticism. He added, “When we have done well, commend us, and when we have done badly, come to us.”

He assured residents of the government’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property, saying, “We will not shy away from our responsibilities.”

The commissioner also expressed the love and interest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Ondo State, which he said was evident in the appointment of two federal ministers from the state.