One Year of A Night of Praise: A Deep Reflection on the Faith-Inspired, People-Centred Leadership of Broda Lucky
-Bamofin Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, Ph.D.
In the heart of Ondo State, a remarkable story unfolds—a narrative intricately woven with threads of faith, resilience, and divine guidance. The emergence of His Excellency, Prince Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the Governor of Ondo State whom I fondly called “Broda Lucky” is not merely a tale of political ascent; it represents the profound impact of faith-driven governance that seeks to uplift the spirits and lives of the people. His journey, marked by significant challenges and unwavering devotion, stands as a demonstration of hope for all who believe in the transformative power of the Almighty God.
From the very beginning, Broda Lucky has displayed an extraordinary commitment to serving the people of the Sunshine State, guided by a pastoral call that resonates deeply within his soul. He has embraced the role of shepherd, leading the people of Ondo State not just through policies, but with a heart that beats in harmony with the divine. His faith in Almighty God has been the cornerstone of his governance, inspiring a renewed sense of purpose among the citizens.
Yet, this path has not been without its trials. Confronted by pockets of foes, Brida Lucky’s resolve was put to the test. The political landscape was fraught with challenges, as adversaries sought to undermine his vision. However, through steadfast belief, unconditional love of the people, and divine guidance, he emerged victorious—first at the polls, where the voice of the people rose in unison to give him an unprecedented 18.0, a feat never achieved in Nigeria, and later in the courts, where justice prevailed, affirming the mandate freely donated by the people. His triumphs serve as a powerful testament that faith, anchored in truth and love, can conquer even the fiercest of storms.
A cornerstone of Broda Lucky’s faith-inspired leadership is the monthly Night of Praise, an event that transcends mere celebration. It is a sacred gathering where the faithful come together, united in worship, lifting their voices in songs of gratitude and praise. In this holy space, the atmosphere brims with spiritual energy, as hearts intertwine in a collective expression of devotion. I have been privileged to partake in this transformative experience, witnessing firsthand the joy and unity that radiate from these gatherings.
As we commemorate the first anniversary of Night of Praise, I, as a creation and testimony of divine grace, reflect on its profound impact on the government and the people of my State. Each month, this event has nurtured a spirit of togetherness, creating a sanctuary where individuals from all walks of life can find solace and strength in their faith. The echoes of worship have resonated beyond the venue, instilling a sense of peace that envelops Ondo State. In a world often divided, these nights have become a testament to the divine love that enriches our lives.
Under Broda Lucky’s guidance, Ondo State has blossomed into a symbol of peace and progress, attracting investors who recognise its potential. Today, it stands as a vibrant hub for a multitude of events, conferences, workshops, and seminars, with its airport, motor parks, and sea ports emerging as the busiest in the region, all thanks to the remarkable influx of commuters.
The governor has initiated a series of financial disciplines, and on fiscal grounds, Ondo State continues to maintain one of the lowest debt profiles nationwide, with no new loans taken under this administration transformative projects that have reshaped the landscape of the State.
Our Broda Lucky has significantly advanced human capital development by recruiting over 2,000 teachers across primary and secondary schools, paying WAEC fees, and disbursing N335 million in scholarships and bursaries, benefiting more than 11,000 students. His administration also injected substantial funding into tertiary institutions, including N1 billion for a Senate Building at UNIMED and N1.2 billion to revive abandoned projects at OAUSTECH. On the civil service front, salary and pension arrears have been cleared, with the introduction of a N35,000 wage award to public servants and N10,000 to retirees, along with disbursements of over N1.5 billion in gratuities, reflecting a strong commitment to welfare.
Not yet done, under the “Zero Pothole Initiative,” the government has rehabilitated numerous roads, like a key 3.5 km rural road in Ilaje, and launched construction on rural arteries to connect farmers to markets. Over 60 km of roads have been rehabilitated, while urban infrastructure projects include lighting, waste management initiatives (“Light Up Akure,” “Operation Keep Ondo Clean”), and flood channelisation. The administration also approved a N2 billion food security intervention fund, distributed N220 million in soft loans to artisans and SMEs.
Broda Lucky’s “OUR EASE” policy blueprint spurred large-scale projects, including the launch of the Diaspora Smart City (“Green Economy Initiative”)
Security enhancements include bolstering the Amotekun Corps, establishing new forest security checkpoints, and building rural law enforcement capacity, an effort lauded for stabilising communities and safeguarding livelihoods.
His Agricultural programs have bolstered food security, uplifting farmers and enhancing the local economy. His administration has championed educational reforms, ensuring that future generations receive a quality education, preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow. Broda Lucky’s commitment to infrastructure development is vividly illustrated by the construction of new multi-billion-naira judicial complexes and public facilities that stand as landmarks of progress. His focus on environmental sustainability has birthed initiatives promoting green energy and conservation, ensuring a healthier ecosystem for generations to come.
These highlights reflect a multi-sectoral approach by Broda Lucky’s administration, focusing on education, infrastructure, security, entrepreneurship, fiscal discipline, and long-term strategic development to transform Ondo State.
The love of God permeates the air of Ondo State, nurturing an environment where harmony flourishes. This divine love is reflected in the smiles of the people, in the laughter of children, and in the collaborative spirit that has blossomed within our State, defining our Broda Lucky’s OUR EASE agenda and policy thrust. It is a love that transcends differences, uniting us as one family under the Almighty’s grace.
In this moment of reflection, I must interrogate the essence of this faith-driven leadership. What does it mean to govern with the heart? It means leading with compassion, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. As the teaching goes, “The one who does good will receive good,” reminding us that our actions resonate far beyond ourselves. It means embracing the divine calling to serve, recognising that true leadership is rooted in humility and grace.
As we look to the future, let us continue to support and uplift Broda Lucky with prayers and supplications for his mission. His journey reminds us that with faith, resilience, and the support of the people, we can navigate the complexities of leadership and governance. Together, let us celebrate the divine love that flows through Ondo State and the remarkable legacy of faith-driven leadership that Governor Aiyedatiwa exemplifies.
Philosophically, I echo the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” May we all be inspired to embrace our own callings, to lead with love, and to contribute to the flourishing of our communities. In this shared journey, let us remember that we are stronger together, united in the spirit of worship and service, under the watchful gaze of the Almighty.
Also, in the words of the philosopher Rumi, “The wound is the place where the Light enters you.” Our collective experiences—both trials and triumphs—have shaped us, illuminating our paths and deepening our connections. Each note sung and every prayer whispered has woven an intricate tapestry of hope, resilience, and spiritual awakening.
This anniversary for me, is a poignant reminder of our shared journey—a journey where individual struggles transform into collective strength. It is a celebration of the extraordinary spirit that unites us, transcending our differences and binding us as one family under the grace of the Almighty. In these sacred moments, we have discovered that our true wealth lies not in material abundance, but in the love and support we give and receive.
As we reflect on the impact of A Night of Praise, let us carry forward this spirit of unity into our everyday lives. Let us be the harbingers of kindness, the architects of hope, and the vessels of compassion in a world that often craves light. May we continue to uplift one another, nurturing a culture where love flourishes and understanding prevails.
On this significant moment, I must take the opportunity to share my warmest wishes with His Excellency, the government, and the wonderful people of Ondo State: Happy first anniversary of A Night of Praise! May the light of our shared faith continue to illuminate our path, leading us toward a future enriched with grace, peace, and profound love. Together, let us embrace this new chapter of our sacred journey, moving forward with courage and a deep sense of purpose, united in our commitment to uplift our State and serve one another with heartfelt compassion.
