Newly inaugurated Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, has pledged to strategically promote the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa through effective public communication.
Ajanaku, one of the 16 commissioners sworn in on Monday at a ceremony held at the International Centre for Culture and Events in Akure, officially resumed office on Thursday to a warm reception by ministry staff.
Speaking during his assumption of duty, Ajanaku expressed his determination to reposition the ministry as a dynamic hub for government communication. He also called for unity among media stakeholders in the state, stressing his readiness to use his experience to enhance the government’s image.
He described the ministry as both “the image manager of the state” and “the voice of the people,” highlighting its crucial role in governance and public engagement.
“My mission is to project the achievements of Mr. Governor, rebrand government communication, and foster genuine citizen engagement
“I thank His Excellency, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for the trust and opportunity to serve. I also thank God Almighty for life and this privilege,” Ajanaku said.
Outlining his vision for the ministry, Ajanaku emphasized the importance of effectively telling the story of the Aiyedatiwa administration under the OUR EASE agenda, a policy framework focusing on inclusive growth, infrastructure, empowerment, and good governance.
“Ondo State has a compelling story to tell, and it must be told effectively, creatively, and truthfully. This ministry will be lifted to a high pedestal, and all hands must be on deck as we take on this collective task.
“I’m ready to deploy every experience I have gathered to promote the administration of Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the enormous potential of Ondo State to the global community,” Ajanaku stated.
Speaking earlier on a radio programme aired on Adaba 88.9 FM, Akure, which was monitored by the NATION, the commissioner called for harmony and collaboration among professionals to achieve the common goal of effective information dissemination.
He said he is prepared to reposition the Ministry of Information as a strategic channel for government communication and public engagement, describing his appointment as a call to service and a responsibility he does not take lightly.
Ajanaku, a seasoned media strategist with years of experience in journalism and political communication, assured the public of a transparent and proactive information dissemination approach.
He added that his tenure will prioritize credibility, innovation, and professionalism.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo Council, has congratulated Mr Ajanaku on his inauguration by Governor Aiyedatiwa.
In a congratulatory message jointly signed by the State Chairman, Leke Adegbite, and the State Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack, NUJ expressed confidence in the ability of Ajanaku as a core senior journalist to harness the media potentials in the state and beyond for the benefit of the people and growth of the state.
The union expressed the readiness of the NUJ leadership and members of the media profession in the state to support and work seamlessly with the new commissioner for a smooth running of the government’s activities in an informed society.
It urged, “The new commissioner to form a formidable relationship with members of the pen profession in the state for a better service delivery.”
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Also, the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals (ACSPN), in the state, has congratulated Mr Ajanaku over his appointment and also expressed confidence in his capacity to reposition the ministry to drive effective public enlightenment and engagement with media stakeholders.
In a statement jointly signed on Thursday by its Chairman of the Association, Sunday Kolawole, and the Secretary, Richard Ilesanmi, the association promised to collaborate with his ministry to enhance media literacy, strategic communication, and institutional research to promote civic engagement in the state.
“The body of scholars, researchers and media professionals believes the new commissioner’s wealth of experience, especially in journalism and public affairs, will strengthen government-media relations and enhance citizens’ access to timely and credible information,” the statement.