Lucky Aiyedatiwa

**Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa: Nigerian Politician and Governor of Ondo State** Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa (born January 12, 1965) is a prominent Nigerian businessman and politician. He is currently serving as the Governor of Ondo State, having assumed office following the death of his predecessor, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. Aiyedatiwa has held significant positions in both the public and private sectors, contributing notably to commerce, administration, and governance in Nigeria. **Early Life and Education** Aiyedatiwa was born in Obe-Nla, a community in the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. He began his early education at Saint Peter's Primary School, Obe-Nla, and subsequently attended Ikosi High School, Ketu, Lagos, for his secondary education, where he obtained his West African School Certificate (WASC) in 1982. He furthered his studies and obtained an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration from the University of Lagos in 1999. Demonstrating a commitment to higher education, Aiyedatiwa earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management from the same institution in 2004. He later obtained a Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom, in 2013. **Career Progression and Business Ventures** Prior to his career in public service, Aiyedatiwa was a successful entrepreneur and business leader. He established various businesses, serving as the Managing Director/CEO of several companies, including Flagship 1 International Limited, which focused on commodity trading and export. He also engaged in general contracting and consulting services. His business background provided him with extensive experience in management, finance, and international trade before entering the political arena. **Political Career and Major Achievements** Aiyedatiwa's political career began with various grassroots engagements. He was a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In 2020, he was selected as the running mate to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu for the gubernatorial election in Ondo State. Upon their victory, he was inaugurated as the Deputy Governor of Ondo State on February 24, 2021. During his tenure as Deputy Governor, he was instrumental in supporting the administration’s policies across infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development. He frequently acted in the capacity of Governor, particularly during the prolonged medical leave of Governor Akeredolu. His major achievement in this role was maintaining governmental stability and continuity in the state’s administration during politically challenging times. **Current Status** On December 27, 2023, Lucky Aiyedatiwa was sworn in as the 7th civilian Governor of Ondo State, following the passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. His current focus is on consolidating the late governor's achievements, strengthening state infrastructure, and ensuring peace and socio-economic progress in Ondo State. He is currently navigating his first full term as the state's Chief Executive, with his administration emphasizing unity and good governance.