The Ondo State government has officially sanctioned the relocation of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) Teaching Hospital Complex to the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). This facility will now function as FUTA’s College of Medicine and its primary Teaching Hospital.
Following a State Council meeting chaired by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, informed the press that the hospital complex in Akure will be transferred to the Federal Government to support FUTA’s medical education and healthcare services.
This decision comes in the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement for FUTA to establish a College of Medicine alongside a Teaching Hospital.
Dr. Ajaka explained, “The transition involves the handover of personnel, physical assets, medical equipment, and all associated responsibilities. All current staff members will be integrated into the FUTA Teaching Hospital under federal administration.”
He further emphasized that this strategic move is anticipated to enhance the quality of healthcare delivery within Ondo State while propelling FUTA’s vision to emerge as a premier institution for medical sciences in Nigeria.
In a related development, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr. Leye Akinola, outlined new policies endorsed by the Council aimed at shielding farmers from the repercussions of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which prohibits the import of crops grown on deforested land.
Engr. Akinola revealed that the government will implement agroforestry initiatives in designated forest zones, ensuring the preservation of protected areas.
He also noted that farmers cultivating cocoa, cashew, oil palm, and rubber will be allowed to maintain their operations, provided they comply with rigorous farm mapping and traceability protocols.
“By December 30, 2025, any agricultural produce lacking verifiable farm mapping will face rejection in the EU market. To protect farmers’ incomes, the state will facilitate farm mapping and issue permits to legitimize ongoing farming activities,” Akinola stated.
Additionally, the Council approved a revision of tariffs on agricultural products and timber, aligning Ondo State’s policies with those of other South-Western states under the DAWN Commission framework.
On infrastructure, the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, clarified that every cabinet member has been tasked with selecting a road project within their local government area to directly benefit local communities.
He underscored that this initiative is designed to promote balanced development across all 18 local government areas, emphasizing that it is not driven by personal or political motives.
“These road projects are supplementary to the 2025 budget and aim to improve community access and connectivity,” Ajanaku explained.
Lastly, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Hamidu Takuro, announced the Council’s confirmation of Joseph Ilesanmi as the new traditional ruler of Sosan in the Akoko South-East local government area.
