By Precious Owolabi
Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has commended his Ekiti State counterpart, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, for prioritising local content and engaging indigenous contractors in the execution of developmental projects across the state.
Ododo gave the commendation in Ilawe-Ekiti during the commissioning of the 21-kilometre Ikare- Ilawe Road and the commissioning of the Renovated General Hospital, Ilawe-Ekiti two major projects completed by the Oyebanji administration.
Speaking at the event, the Kogi governor described the projects as “a reflection of purposeful leadership and progressive governance,” lauding both the contractor and the state government for the timely and quality execution of the works.
“When you have the best, why run out of the country to get contractors” Ododo said.
“I thank you most sincerely for proving your worth and ensuring this project was completed on time and within cost.”
He also praised the people of Ekiti State including traditional rulers, religious leaders, elders, women, and youths for their consistent support and prayers for Governor Oyebanji, whom he described as “a humble and visionary leader committed to serving his people with integrity.”
Ododo noted that the commissioning represented more than just infrastructure, describing it as a celebration of “vision, leadership, and the undying spirit of service to humanity.”
Highlighting the significance of the Ikare- Ilawe Road, he said the project completed with drainage, culverts, and asphaltic pavement symbolises a “bridge to opportunity, growth, and prosperity” for the people of Ekiti.
On the renovated and fully equipped General Hospital, Ilawe-Ekiti, Ododo commended Oyebanji for his commitment to improving healthcare delivery, describing health as “the foundation of a productive society.”
“Your administration’s strides in infrastructure, education, health, and youth development speak to your love for your people and your clear vision for Ekiti,” Ododo stated. “Even if your opponents will not admit it in public, they know your great performance.”
He urged residents to take ownership of the projects, protect them, and continue supporting the governor to sustain the pace of development in the state.
Ododo also commended the cordial relationship between the Ekiti State government and its people, describing it as a model of unity and shared purpose.
Earlier in his remarks, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, commended President Bola Tinubu for the federal government’s economic reforms, which he said have enabled states to deliver meaningful development projects without resorting to borrowing.
Oyebanji said the projects were part of ongoing efforts by his administration to fulfill its social contract with the people of Ekiti State.
“After God, all the glory for what we are doing in Ekiti State should go to Mr. President,” Oyebanji said.
“All the capital projects currently ongoing in Ekiti have been fully funded without borrowing a dime.
This is due to President Tinubu’s courageous reforms, which have freed resources for sub-nationals. All states in the federation are grateful to him for his leadership.”
The governor noted that, as part of activities marking his third anniversary in office, the state would commission no fewer than ten major road projects across the three senatorial districts, as well as six fully renovated and modernised specialist hospitals.
He explained that the ongoing infrastructural projects were strategically selected to promote tourism, enhance agricultural activities, and improve access to healthcare and education across the state.
Oyebanji emphasised the importance of continuity in governance, stating that the alignment of vision and sustained commitment to development had yielded tangible benefits for the people of Ekiti.
While commending the Commissioner for Works and his team for their efficiency, the governor also appreciated Peculiar Ultimate, the construction firm handling the projects, for delivering on schedule and within budget.
“You are one of our most reliable contractors,” Oyebanji said. “You did not stress us at all. You promised to deliver, and you did.”
The governor congratulated the people of Ekiti and members of his administration on the state’s third anniversary, reiterating his commitment to sustaining development and improving the quality of life for all residents.
The Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo, added that the road was awarded in 2022 under the administration of Dr. Kayode Fayemi, but was revived by this administration and completed to ease transportation ,bringing enhanced transportation of agriculture products to market centres and as well lessen cost of vehicular maintenance.
Adebayo urged the motorists and residents to take ownership of the project and prevent making of bonfires that could destroy the quality.
The Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Alabi, applauded the governor for clearing all hurdles and ensured speedy completion of the road, after the initial setback that nearly stalled the readiness of the road for usage