Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday flagged off the construction of a 1,000-meter concrete walkway with an accompanying jetty at Obe-Nla community in Ilaje Local Government Area of the State.
The concrete walkway, which will have streetlights to illuminate the path of users, is a clear departure from the usual construction of wooden structures in the riverine areas of the State.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that such an impactful project is one of many that will be embarked upon to change the narrative of development in the riverine areas.
The Governor acknowledged the community’s longstanding demand for a durable and safe concrete walkway, emphasizing that this initiative is a testament to his administration’s commitment to improving the quality of life for residents.
“We have deliberately factored into the project durability; and daily safety and comfort of our people as they make use of the concrete walkway and jetty to ensure long-term benefits for our people”, he said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s dedication to the overall development of Ondo State, mentioning other key projects underway, including the completion of 28.5-kilometer Aboto-Atijere Road, the third phase of the Igbokoda-Ayetoro Road construction, and the imminent commencement of a 4.72-kilometer link road between Ugbonla and Ayetoro.
In addition to road infrastructure, the Governor noted recent developments such as the inauguration of the Ode-Erinje Electricity Sub-station by the federalgovernment, which has restored power to the Southern Senatorial District after 15 years.
He praised the collaboration with service providers to ensure the availability of pre-paid meters, enhancing electricity access in Okitipupa, Irele, Ilaje, and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also noted the ongoing construction of the coastal highway from Lagos to Calabar by the federalgovernment, which will include a route through the coastal area of Ondo State, further opening up the region for development.
The Governor assured residents that the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) would receive the statutory 40% of the 13% Oil Derivation Fund as first line charge to expedite ongoing and future projects in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.
Earlier in his welcome address, OSOPADEC Chairman, Hon. Sam Erejuwa, explained that the governor’s vision is to enhance the quality of life for the people of the riverine area by improving connectivity among communities.
In his goodwill message, the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abayomi Akinruntan, commended the Governor on the project, saying it shows his commitment to the rapid development of the oil producing communities.