The Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhaheem Yayi-Akorode Albarka (JP), has said that the progress Ondo State enjoys today is the result of sacrifices and dedicated service rendered by past and present leaders over the last five decades.

Delivering his sermon at the Ondo State @50 Golden Jubilee Jumat Service held at the Central Mosque, Akure, the cleric reflected on the state’s 50-year journey, noting that visible development across sectors did not happen by chance but through years of effort and commitment.

He stressed that growth and achievement must define the life of individuals and institutions alike.

“Someone who is 50 years old and has not achieved anything has lost in life,” the Chief Imam said, as he commended the legacy of the late Pa Adekunle Ajasin. He also recalled the counsel of his father, the late Alhaji Yayi-Akorode, during Ajasin’s administration, underscoring the importance of wise leadership and moral guidance in governance.

Sheikh Yayi-Akorode highlighted the state’s political history, noting that Ondo State had experienced 17 years of military rule and 33 years of civilian administration.

He observed that democratic governance had brought more visible development, particularly in infrastructure and social services.

While applauding the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for infrastructural transformation in Akure, the cleric also expressed appreciation for initiatives such as the sponsorship of Muslim pilgrims to Mecca, support for those who previously could not afford the pilgrimage, and the recruitment of teachers to strengthen the education sector.

However, the Chief Imam appealed to the government to provide more operational vehicles to enhance environmental sanitation and city cleanliness.

He also called for increased representation of Muslims in the state cabinet, urging the government to deepen inclusiveness so that all communities would feel adequately represented in governance.

Special prayers were offered for Ondo State, the Governor and the nation at large.

In his remarks, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leading the state with justice, integrity and accountability, stressing that faith and civic responsibility must remain central to leadership and public service.

Speaking at the golden jubilee service, the Governor expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for His blessings on Ondo State and its people, describing the 50th anniversary as a time for reflection, honour and renewed dedication to righteousness, justice and service to humanity.

He recalled that Ondo State was created out of vision and courage to bring governance closer to the people, noting that the founders laid a solid foundation built on integrity, resilience and collective responsibility.

Despite challenges over the years, he said the state had continued to make progress through divine guidance and communal effort.

Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasised that faith plays a crucial role in governance, describing leadership as a sacred trust that must be exercised with justice, compassion and accountability. He assured that his administration would continue to pursue policies and projects that promote equitable development, social cohesion and the welfare of all citizens.

Looking ahead, the Governor said his administration would focus on inclusive economic growth across urban and rural communities, youth empowerment, education, skills acquisition and enterprise development anchored on moral values.

He added that government would strengthen institutions to enhance transparency, efficiency and sustainability, while preserving the cultural and religious values that unite the people.