Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has named Dr. Summy Smart Francis as Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship and Innovation, part of a broader set of appointments aimed at advancing the administration’s “OUR EASE” development agenda.

Dr. Francis, founder of Africa’s Young Entrepreneurs (A.Y.E.) and convener of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GEF), brings extensive experience in startup development, youth empowerment, and innovation strategy.

His reappointment into a position previously held from the tenure of Rotimi Akeredolu SAN, till the election of the incumbent suggests impact and consistency.

The announcement, released by Chief Press Secretary Ebenezer Adeniyan, includes seven special advisers, a director-general, 20 senior and special assistants, and five members of the Law Commission. The newly created advisory role positions Dr. Francis and the 10,000-member A.Y.E. network to support youth-led enterprises and contribute to economic growth across Ondo State.

Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of leveraging expertise across sectors including agriculture, security, education, and economic development. “We will continue to build a vibrant, inclusive economy through strategic appointments and focused implementation,” he said.

Other Special Advisers appointed include:

• Hon. Olugbenga Omole (Transport)
• Comrade Gani Mohammed (Special Duties & Strategy)
• Allen Sowore (Communication & Strategy)
• Dr. Tunji Rhema (Environment)
• Mrs. Kikelomo Ikuomola (Public Affairs & Inter-Governmental Relations)
• Engr. Wale Aladenusi (Marine & Blue Economy)
• Hon. Kolawole Babatunde (Legislative & Party Affairs)
• Hon. Igbekele Akinrinwa (Local Government Affairs)

Engr. Razaq Obe was named Director-General of the Performance and Project Implementation Monitoring Unit (PPIMU).

Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) were appointed across key areas such as media, education, oil and gas, religion, mobilisation, and taxation. Mr. Sam Bolala was named Special Assistant on Environmental Health.

The Law Commission will be chaired by Mr. Femi Okunjemiruwa, Esq., with regional representation from Rotimi Omosua, Esq., Raymond Olaleye Ogunmoyero, Esq., Oladehingbe Sunday, Esq., Tope Olajube, Esq., and Sir Emeka Offor.

The appointments align with Ondo State’s broader economic vision, including support for a projected $1 trillion African economy. Dr. Francis is expected to play a central role in catalyzing 10,000 startups through mentorship, funding, and GEF initiatives.