Ondo among Nigerian states with lowest multidimensional poverty – FG
Ondo State has been identified as one of the states with the lowest multidimensional poverty levels in Nigeria, the federal government has said.
Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, made the disclosure on Tuesday during a luncheon hosted by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for traditional rulers at the Government House banquet hall in Akure.
He stated that while Nigeria’s national poverty rate stands at 63 per cent, with 30 per cent classified as ultra‑poor, Ondo State maintains a comparatively lower rate of 27.7 per cent. Dr. Doro added that his ministry has begun implementing policies to reduce poverty and support citizens in achieving resilience, independence, and self‑sufficiency.
The minister also disclosed that the federal government would collaborate closely with the Ondo State government to further reduce poverty, emphasising that engagement with state and local governments is central to federal poverty‑reduction programmes.
Governor Aiyedatiwa praised traditional rulers for their role in maintaining peace, security, and development in the state, noting that their endorsement during the last governorship election contributed to his record 366,781 votes. He also thanked religious leaders for their prayers, which he said strengthen the administration.
Highlighting development projects, the governor cited the deep seaport, refinery, petrochemical and fertiliser plant, and Nigeria’s first methanol plant producing ammonia bicarbonate, already operational and set for commissioning in early January. He assured that the government is stable and functioning efficiently, with the welfare and security of the people as a top priority.
The Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, commended the governor’s transformative leadership, highlighting infrastructure, community development, and the provision of official vehicles to over 200 tribal leaders. Former Deputy Governor Ambassador Omolade Oliwateru also praised ongoing developmental projects, particularly in Akure.
Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction for assurances to help further reduce poverty in Ondo State and said progress would be reviewed in two years to assess impact.
