Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo has reaffirmed his belief in an autonomy for local government administration to promote grassroots development.

Recall that the state had in January 2025 elected the 18 chairmen for the local government areas of the state and they were subsequently sworn into office by the governor.

Mr Aiyedatiwa spoke on Monday at the official presentation of some Toyota Hilux vehicles to the newly inaugurated local chairmen in the 18 LGAs of the state.

The governor explained that the local government administration plays a critical role in governance, stressing that his government is committed to strengthening grassroots governance.

“This administration prioritizes grassroots development, and we are determined to support the local government system in every way possible,” he said. “Personally, I believe in local government autonomy, and I’ll wholeheartedly support it.”

Mr Aiyedatiwa said his administration was committed to ensuring the 18 LGA chairmen have the necessary tools to function effectively.

He added that the vehicles presented to the chairmen would improve service delivery at the local level and promote grassroots outreach for development.

“These vehicles are not for luxury but to aid you in reaching every corner of your local government to serve the people better,” he said while also advising the chairmen to remain accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the people.

Mr Aiyedatiwa explained that the success of the administration of the 18 chairmen at the local level will contribute significantly to the overall development of the state.

Remarking, the chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Ondo chapter, Gbenga Fasua, thanked Mr Aiyedatiwa for the gesture and assured the governor of the LG chairmen’s commitment to good governance, grassroots development, and the implementation of people-oriented policies.