Aiyedatiwa unveils solar initiative to power 1,000 Ondo businesses

Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has announced the Lucky Light Initiative, a solar energy programme to supply electricity to 1,000 small businesses across the state's 18 local government areas. Speaking at the 2026 ONDEA Entrepreneurs Summit in Akure, Aiyedatiwa emphasized that energy is a major production cost for small businesses, and the initiative aims to reduce that cost and improve their efficiency.

The governor detailed that the programme will be implemented in phases to ensure a consistent impact statewide. Additionally, the Lucky Light Initiative will provide grants and business support packages to 20 young entrepreneurs selected through the ONDEA My IDEA programme, offering mentorship and further growth opportunities. Aiyedatiwa's administration is focused on developing an entrepreneurial ecosystem in key sectors like agriculture, tourism, the blue economy, technology, renewable energy, manufacturing, creative industries and export-oriented businesses, aiming to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

In another initiative, the governor plans to acquire shares in the Dangote Group for 500 young entrepreneurs in Ondo State, encouraging investment and long-term thinking among the youth. The summit also featured discussions by Federal Government officials, business leaders, and entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of innovation and investment to position Ondo State as a stronger destination for enterprise and emerging opportunities.