. Beneficiary residents of Alape-Araromi in Ilaje area ecstatic

I’m constructing landing jetties in 18 communities, distributing

2,000 pre-paid meters, renovating 22 schools, Gov reveals

By Adedotun Ajayi

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development and transformation of riverine communities, especially the oil-producing areas of the State.

The Governor stated this on Tuesday when he officially inaugurated the rehabilitated 32.7km Alape Junction – Araromi Seaside Road in Ilaje Local Government Area, a project of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).

Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted his government’s ongoing efforts in transforming the oil-producing areas through critical infrastructure projects aimed at alleviating long-standing challenges.

The Governor said, “Our aim is to improve essential facilities, including roads, electricity, clean water, land reclamation, and shoreline protection with a view to reducing or eliminating the longstanding challenges that our communities face in this region. All these are geared towards making life more bearable for our people in the riverine areas of the State.

“Today, it is evident that this road is already positively impacting the lives of the people as envisioned by our administration. Our government’s focus is on projects that bring positive change and improve the well-being of all residents.”

Reflecting on the broader developmental strides achieved, particularly in Ilaje and Ese-Odo mandate areas, Governor Aiyedatiwa remarked, “The mandate areas of Ilaje and Ese-Odo have experienced significant growth, marked by several remarkable projects. These include, but are not limited to, the construction of a 1,000-meter concrete walkway with jetties at Obe Nla, the 28.5km Aboto – Atijere Road, a Mini Water Treatment Scheme at Molutehin, and the establishment of the School of Maritime Transport and Logistics at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) in Ugbonla.

“Moving forward, our government has put in place plans to commence other developmental projects. These include the construction of the 4.72km Ugbonla – Erunna Road with a bridge across the Erunna River; the distribution of 2,000 electricity prepaid meters, and the construction of concrete landing jetties in 18 communities across Ilaje and Ese-Odo LGAs.”

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to educational advancement, he added, “In furtherance of our commitment to education development, we will be distributing 2,000 sets of twin lockers (desks and chairs) with essential textbooks in English and science subjects to schools in riverine communities in Ilaje and Ese-Odo LGAs. Additionally, plans are underway to renovate 21 public primary and secondary schools in this area.”

Earlier, in her welcome address, Princess Abike Bayo-Ilawole, the Secretary of OSOPADEC, stressed the transformative impact of the new infrastructure on the lives of the people in the oil-producing areas of Ondo State.

She expressed deep appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering commitment to developing the riverine communities and prioritising projects that directly improve the quality of life for residents.

“This road is more than just an infrastructure project; it represents a lifeline for our communities, connecting us to economic opportunities and enhancing access to essential services,” she stated.

She acknowledged the Governor’s dedication to supporting OSOPADEC’s vision and for enabling the commission to execute its mandate of fostering sustainable development across the oil-producing areas.

Meanwhile,  Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, took his election campaign to Ilaje Local Government on Tuesday, where he received overwhelming support from community leaders, monarchs, and key APC figures in the region.

At the event, the Amapetu of Mahinland, Oba Oluwasegun Akinyomi, speaking on behalf of all traditional rulers in Ilaje, declared the monarchs’ collective support for Aiyedatiwa’s election bid.

He emphasised the unity among the royal council, expressing confidence in Aiyedatiwa’s leadership and noting his consistent efforts to bring development to Ilaje communities.

“The traditional rulers in this region have resolved to support Governor Aiyedatiwa beyond 2025. We believe in his dedication to our people and his commitment to improving infrastructure, security, and economic opportunities across our communities,” Oba Akinyomi stated.

Adding to the endorsement, Chief Olushola Oke, a former governorship aspirant and prominent figure within Ondo State politics, also offered his strong support. Known for his significant influence within Ilaje and beyond, Oke highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s impact on the local economy and the state’s stability.

 “Governor Aiyedatiwa has proven his dedication to our people,” Oke said.

The Iya Oloja General, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, also lent her endorsement at the campaign gathering. As the leader representing market women across Nigeria, Tinubu-Ojo praised Aiyedatiwa’s policies that have benefited the market community, especially in fostering an environment conducive to small businesses and improving livelihoods. “Governor Aiyedatiwa has prioritised the needs of traders and small business owners, and we stand with him for his election,” she affirmed, acknowledging the positive impact his administration has had on traders in Ondo State.

Chief Ayiri Emami, an influential APC chieftain from the Niger Delta, further bolstered the governor’s support base, citing Aiyedatiwa’s responsiveness to the needs of riverine communities.

Emami commended the governor for his focus on infrastructure and security, which he said were vital to the development of coastal regions like Ilaje. “Governor Aiyedatiwa has shown a genuine commitment to the progress of our coastal communities, and we are here to ensure his continued leadership,” Emami stated, reinforcing his support for Aiyedatiwa’s vision for Ondo State.

In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed profound gratitude to the leaders and supporters who gathered to endorse his re-election campaign. He acknowledged the support of the traditional rulers, APC leaders, and community members, pledging to continue his efforts in transforming Ondo State, particularly Ilaje. “I am deeply honoured by your trust and commitment to our shared vision,” Aiyedatiwa said. He reaffirmed his commitment to completing ongoing projects and initiating new developments to further uplift the area, vowing to work tirelessly for the progress and prosperity of the people in his local government and throughout the state.

Notably, the governor also assured the people of Ayetoro community, which has faced severe sea incursion challenges, that his administration is committed to reclaiming the community from the destructive impact of sea incursion.

“Ayetoro will not be abandoned. We are determined to reclaim it from the effects of sea incursion and bring sustainable development to the area,” Aiyedatiwa pledged.

Addressing party faithful at Ugbonla, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude to them, emphasising the importance of unity within the APC as they work towards a successful election.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa reassured the crowd that their community’s concerns are fully acknowledged and will be prioritised by his administration.

He emphasised that these issues would be addressed in due course, highlighting that his government is committed to delivering key projects and improvements that align with the community’s needs and aspirations. The governor urged the people to remain confident in his administration’s resolve to bring about meaningful development to their area.

“Your concerns are of great importance to us, and we have taken note of each one. Our mission is to ensure that every community feels the positive impact of this government, and I am personally committed to understanding and addressing your needs,” he stated.