The Nation Newspaper

Tag: ogun State government

  • Oil discovery: Ogun govt reaffirms jurisdiction, cites legal, historical evidence

    Oil discovery: Ogun govt reaffirms jurisdiction, cites legal, historical evidence

    Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its territorial jurisdiction over Eba Island in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, dismissing claims from some quarters in Ondo State as misleading and capable of triggering avoidable communal tension.

    The clarification follows public debates and a motion sponsored by Donald Kimikanboh Ojogo, representing Ilaje Federal Constituency in Ondo State, after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the commencement of drilling activities at an abandoned oil well located on Eba Island.

    In a statement issued yesterday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, said Eba Island where the approved oil well is located falls within Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    According to Akinmade, boundaries between states and local governments in Nigeria are constitutionally defined and properly documented by the National Boundary Commission (NBC), adding that official boundary maps and records clearly situate Eba Island within Ogun State.

    READ ALSO: The men who ruined a republic

    He explained that Eba is a long-established community within Ogun Waterside, whose status predates Nigeria’s independence and has remained unchanged through successive political and administrative reorganisations, including the 1976 state creation exercise that carved Ogun State out of the former Western State.

    “Since 1976, there has been no constitutional amendment, judicial pronouncement or federal gazette that altered the boundary placing Eba outside Ogun State,” the statement said.

    The government clarified that there are two distinct locations known as “Eba.” While one is located near the Ondo State forest reserve, the larger Eba Island—where the oil well approved by the President is situated—lies entirely within Ogun State’s coastal corridor.

    Akinmade noted that the presidential approval for drilling followed extensive due diligence by Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other relevant federal institutions, all of which confirmed that the oil well is located within Ogun State territory before clearance was granted.

    He added that the deployment of national security assets, including naval formations around the drilling site, further demonstrates federal recognition of Ogun State as the host state.

    Providing additional context, the statement disclosed that in October 2024, the Molokun of Atijere in Ondo State formally approached the Osobia of Makun-Omi in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, seeking permission to conduct business activities on Eba Island. The request was declined and subsequently reported to the Ogun State Government, NNPCL and security agencies.

    According to the government, this engagement amounted to a tacit acknowledgment of Ogun State’s jurisdiction over the area.

    On historical claims being circulated, the Ogun State Government described reliance on colonial documents from 1919 and 1920 as misleading, pointing instead to Colonial Government Gazette No. 660 of April 29, 1950, which clearly defined the boundary between the former Ijebu and Ondo provinces and superseded earlier notices.

    The government also cited lease agreements, historical community records and survey documents—including the Olokola Free Trade Zone Survey Plan—as further evidence establishing Eba Island as part of Ogun State.

    Administrative validation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was also referenced, with the polling unit at LA Primary School, Eba, officially registered under Makun/Irokun Ward in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    Akinmade said that following the discovery of hydrocarbon prospects in the coastal corridor, Ogun State Government conducted independent verification of the well coordinates using geospatial and cartographic technology, which confirmed that the wells are located within Ogun State boundaries.

    He added that Ogun State has worked closely with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and NNPCL in securing the asset and preparing it for commercial exploration, including facilitating the establishment of naval security infrastructure in the area.

    While cautioning against the spread of misinformation and inflammatory narratives, Ogun State Government called for restraint and responsible engagement by all parties.

    The government reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, peaceful coexistence and cooperation with the Federal Government in safeguarding national assets, saying the people of Makun-Omi Kingdom have assured authorities of their readiness to maintain peace and protect lives and property.

    “The facts are clear and the law is settled. Eba Island where the approved oil well is located is in Ogun State,” the statement concluded.

  • Ogun road infrastructure: Relief underway for abandoned communities

    Ogun road infrastructure: Relief underway for abandoned communities

    • By Femi Ogbonnikan

    The Ogun State government is making steady progress in road infrastructure development spanning various communities. With its aggressive drive toward achieving the objective of connecting every part of the state, there has been a significant relief for most parts hitherto neglected by the previous governments. For so many reasons, road interconnectivity forms the major agenda of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration. Beyond its immediate benefit of boosting the local economy, the aim is to create an enabling environment for industrial transformation.

    The State’s status as a leading investment destination in the country is directly linked to projects like inter-community road connectivity, the Gateway International Airport (GIA) and the proposed dry ports. For fair distribution of critical infrastructural projects, the Governor has consistently assured that no community would be left out or short-changed. He reiterated the same commitment again while recently commissioning the Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole road project in Ifo LocalGovernment Area. On the occasion, he assured the residents of Lambe and adjourning communities that the deplorable condition of the road in the area would soon be a thing of the past. The commissioning of Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole road by Governor Abiodun represents a shift towards the abandoned communities, delivering a promise of relief to that corridor. The strategic importance of the road goes far beyond local relief. Its completion significantly enhances the connectivity between Ogun State and Lagos State. By accident of location, Akute, Ajuwon, and Alagbole are border communities in Ogun State that are geographically closer to economic hubs in Lagos, like Ikeja and Ojodu-Berger than to Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. The road is a major artery for thousands of people who live in Ogun but work in Lagos. The reconstruction of the road transforms a previously terrible commuting experience-which had been neglected for years-into a viable, smoother link, making it easier to live and work across the two states.

    While commissioning the Akute–Ajuwon–Alagbole Road in Ifo Local Government Area, the Governor promised to award 11 more projects across the state. This, he explained, was in fulfilment of his electoral pledge and his administration’s efforts to further open up the state for economic development. He stated that the project was in response to the long-standing yearnings of the residents, confirming that his administration had earlier rehabilitated and reconstructed several adjoining roads in the axis, including Alhaji Kosoko Road (which links Denro–Ishasi–Akute), Segun Osoba Road, Toyin Street, and Yakoyo–Alagbole Road.

    Read Also: EFCC uncovers $3.43m, €280,000 fake currency, arrests five-man syndicate in Ibadan Zone

    “We also focused on the Hercules–Oke Aro–Giwa Road. That road was in terrible condition, but by the grace of God, it is now 100 percent completed. I will be back soon to commission it.

    “Next, we will take on the Akute–Lanbe–Oke Aro–Agbado–Ijoko–Sango roads. The Akute–Sango corridor is a 17-kilometre dual carriageway started by my predecessor but abandoned, rendering it impassable,” the Governor stated.

    He stressed that the road projects in Ifo 2 were part of a wider infrastructure drive covering Ifo I and II in the Ogun Central Senatorial District. According to him, other completed or ongoing roads in the district, include the Sango–Ijoko–Agbado Road, Adesan Road in Obafemi Owode, Magboro–Makogi Road, Elega–Isaje–Miliki–Bode–Olude Extension, Oke–Lantoro–Yidi Lane, and the Sango–Abeokuta Road.These projects, he added, were a fulfillment of his promise to ensure equitable and fair distribution of infrastructure projects across the three senatorial districts of Ogun State.

    This commitment aligns with the administration’s overall development blueprint encompassing Infrastructure, Social Well-being, Education, Youth Empowerment, and Agriculture.The administration’s focus on roads like the Akute–Ajuwon–Alagbole Road serves as a concrete demonstration that no part of the state will be left behind in the infrastructure drive. Governor Abiodun emphasized that the project forms part of his Urban Renewal Programme, which cuts across the ISEYA mantra, encompassing roads, hospitals, education, security, and human capital development.

    For communities benefiting from the ongoing projects, this is another promise kept. In keeping with the promise, construction work on Akute–Lambe road has commenced simultaneously along with the reconstruction of the Stadium Junction–Luba Road which has reached an advanced stage with the first 2.5-kilometre stretch already fully completed.

    Similarly, steady progress is being made on the reconstruction and dualisation of the Iperu–Ilishan corridor, a 5.3-kilometre strategic route linking the Gateway International Airport to the Sagamu–Benin Expressway. Elated residents along Akute-Lanbe axis commented the government for making good its promise. For them, the progress of the ongoing work brings hope for commuters and motorists who have had to bear the hardship of the abandoned road. A concerned resident, Mr. Filadelfia,  who could not hide his joy, applauded the government’s renewed effort, saying “today, the renewed pace of work is not just fixing a road, it is restoring dignity, stimulating economic revival, and proving that leadership can indeed rewrite the narrative when the will is present.”

    Excitement is no less palpable among the people residing along Stadium Junction–Luba corridor seeing Engineers on site moving toward the next phase, working from the VIA (Luba) Junction toward Stadium Junction, where the asphalt binder course is currently being laid. This layer serves as the structural base for the final wearing course that will provide a smooth and durable finish once applied.

    For Governor Abiodun, the project reflects the administration’s commitment to delivering dependable road infrastructure that genuinely meets the needs of residents. The improved corridor brings a relief for commuters from Erunwun, Atan and neighbouring communities, offering a faster, more convenient route for daily movement. The government aims to maintain and upgrade the road network in the state, ensuring sustainable development and economic growth. In almost every forum, the Governor has always reaffirmed that his administration firmly remains focused on the welfare and wellbeing of the people of Ogun State. Each ongoing and completed road intervention is aimed at improving ease of movement, stimulating economic activity and enhancing the overall quality of life across the state.The reconstruction and dualisation of the Iperu–Ilishan corridor is particularly significant in linking the Gateway International Airport to the Sagamu–Benin Expressway. The project also features more than 5 kilometres of new drainage and outfall systems to permanently tackle flooding along the stretch.

    The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, noted that the project was moving according to plan with clear phases of execution. “We are progressing aggressively. Earthworks and major drainage components are ongoing, while laterite placement is advancing across multiple sections. Several portions ahead of the active construction zone have already reached stone-base level and are ready for asphalting.

     “Our objective is simple: deliver a durable, high-quality road that supports airport access, improves mobility and enhances commercial activity for all communities along this axis,” he said.

     Akinsanya described the Iperu–Ilishan road as an essential socio-economic link, noting that its reconstruction will significantly ease movement for residents, businesses and airport-bound commuters. He also restated the government’s commitment to maintaining top engineering standards and using the best materials to ensure long-term durability. According to him, the project is expected to be completed by Christmas as scheduled.

     For improvement in the overall quality of life for Ogun State residents, the Abiodun administration has rehabilitated and constructed well over 1,500 km of roads across the state, with several new projects in the pipeline. Some of the notable roads undergoing reconstruction include the 5.5km Ode-Sapade Road, the Sango-Ijoko-Akute Road and the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. As the second busiest road in Nigeria, this project is being reconstructed to improve traffic flow and support economic development. Ode-Sapade Road is also being upgraded to a dual carriageway to improve transportation and reduce vehicle maintenance costs.

    The government prioritizes fair distribution of projects, ensuring no community is left behind. In their various stages, these projects are expected to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity. The overall goal is to enhance road safety and reduce travel times.Over the last six years, Ogun State residents have experienced significant benefits from the road infrastructure projects, including the Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole road and Sango-Ijoko-Agbado road which have enhanced connectivity, reducing travel times and boosting economic activities.

    With the development, new businesses have opened along these routes, increasing commercial activity and property values. More than ever before, roads are now safer, with reduced traffic congestion and accidents. Additionally, improvement in the condition of the roads has made it easier for residents to access markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.

    For the manufacturing sector, enhanced logistics and supply chain efficiency have boosted industrial production. The immense benefits of road interconnectivity on Agriculture cannot also not be over emphasized. Farmers can now transport produce more efficiently, increasing market access. On the broader economic front, the projects have created employment opportunities for locals, contractors, and suppliers. Enhanced road networks have reduced travel times and increased economic activities. For the real estate sub-sector, improved connectivity has increased property values and development.

    Overall, the Abiodun administration’s focus on road infrastructure has significantly influenced the attraction of local and direct foreign investment (FDI) to Ogun State, primarily by creating a more conducive environment for commerce and industry. Under the administration, critical roads connecting major industrial areas, such as the Agbara-Lusada-Atan Road and the Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway, have been constructed or rehabilitated. This allows for the seamless movement of raw materials and finished goods, drastically reducing logistics costs and transit times for businesses. As the Gateway to the nation’s commercial centre, projects like the Ijebu-Ode-Epe Road and reconstructed expressways connecting to Lagos State are evidence of the administration’s commitment to industrial transformation. They leverage Ogun State’s proximity to Lagos, Nigeria’s largest market and port, positioning Ogun as the preferred manufacturing and logistics hub.

    Critical road projects have also been linked with other major infrastructures, including the Gateway International Airport and planned ports like the Olokola Deep Sea Port, to create a comprehensive multi-modal transportation network. This attracts large-scale businesses requiring diverse logistics options. For manufacturers and businesses, the improved road network translates directly into lower costs for transportation, maintenance, and distribution. This financial advantage makes Ogun State more competitive compared to other locations. As a direct consequence, the infrastructure push has stimulated the growth of new industrial corridors such as the stretch from Mowe to Ibafo along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, attracting new firms like CWAY, Nestlé Nigeria, and Rite Foods.

    The improved infrastructure is often cited as a key factor in securing major foreign investment deals and expansions. Examples include $50 million expansion deals secured with groups like the Lee Group for manufacturing plants in Sagamu as well as partnerships with international firms like Shandong Luqiao Construction Company for road, bridge, and power projects. By tackling the historically poor state of roads, the administration has removed a major logistical bottleneck that frustrated businesses and discouraged new investments.

    The consistent investment in visible, high-impact infrastructure signals a long-term commitment to creating a stable and profitable operating environment, boosting both local and international investor confidence in the state’s economic future.

    The road infrastructure serves as the foundational enabler that allows the state to fully utilize its strategic geographical position, turning it into a tangible competitive advantage for businesses.

    •Ogbonnikan is a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Ogun State Governor on Media

  • Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment, adopts community service for waste offenders

    Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment, adopts community service for waste offenders

    The Ogun State Government has announced that residents caught dumping refuse on roads will henceforth be arrested, corrected with compassion, and assigned community service as punishment.

    Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya disclosed this while briefing members of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council during their fourth quarterly meeting held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Thursday.

    Oresanya stressed that the law forbids dumping refuse on roadways, noting that streets are not designated as dump sites.

    He explained that residents are expected to place their refuse in front of their homes for Private Sector Participants (PSPs) to collect directly at their doorsteps.

    He revealed that the state government is refining its enforcement strategy by shifting away from monetary fines to reduce financial pressure on citizens. Instead, offenders will be required to undertake community service.

    According to him, Governor Dapo Abiodun remains deeply concerned about environmental management in the state and is investing significantly in new equipment to strengthen the Ministry of Environment’s operations.

    “Under no condition should you dump refuse on the road. OGWAMA has the authority to arrest offenders, and those arrested will do community service.
    We will correct in love. You will sweep the road and collect refuse. When people see you doing that, they will understand the consequences, and you won’t return to the same habit,” he said.

    Oresanya added that Governor Abiodun has approved the procurement of brand-new trucks both for OGWAMA and the private waste sector to improve waste management across the state.

    Read Also: Tinubu constitutes boards of NADF, BOA, UBEC

    Addressing the issue of noise pollution, the Commissioner disclosed that the ministry has shut several religious centres and other facilities found to be violating noise regulations.

    He encouraged residents to report such disturbances through the ministry’s dedicated helpline: 09010480056.

    He further emphasized that sanitation should be a daily responsibility rather than a once-a-month ritual. He noted that Section 6 of the Constitution empowers Local Government Health Officers to inspect homes, ensure bins are not overflowing, and prosecute erring households.

    In addition, Oresanya revealed that safety consultants from the ministry are inspecting gas plants across the state to ensure compliance with safety standards, with substandard facilities set to be shut down soon.

    Commending the ministry’s recent intervention in Ogijo, Chief (Mrs.) Iyabo Apampa urged the Commissioner to also address air pollution and indiscriminate parking of trailers around Ibese and Papalanto where cement factories operate.

    Hon. Samuel Olubunmi Dada called on sanitary officers in the Local Governments to rise to their responsibilities, while encouraging residents to prioritize cleanliness and proper refuse disposal.

    Chairman of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, applauded the state government’s efforts in waste management and agricultural development.

    He also described the 2026 Budget of Sustainable Legacy, recently presented by Governor Abiodun, as a well-structured roadmap for a prosperous new year.

  • Ogun orders highway setback violators to clear illegal structures by January 31

    Ogun orders highway setback violators to clear illegal structures by January 31

    The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to individuals and businesses violating road and expressway setback regulations, declaring that the unlawful practice will no longer be tolerated.

    The Commissioner for Physical and Urban Planning, TPL Tunji Odunlami, gave the warning at the weekend during a briefing to journalists in Abeokuta, the state capital.

    He lamented the growing encroachment on highway corridors by shanties, makeshift stalls, and other unapproved developments, which he said distort the environment and endanger public safety.

    Odunlami directed property owners whose plots face major highways and expressways to approach the Ministry of Physical and Urban Planning for proper guidance on removing such illegal structures.

    He also announced a three-month amnesty programme for property owners who constructed buildings without the required planning permits, urging them to take advantage of the window to regularise their documents and avoid sanctions.

    According to him, the exercise—coordinated from the ministry’s Oke-Mosan headquarters and the 32 zonal planning offices across the state—began on November 1 and will run until January 31, 2026

    Highlighting the areas most affected by setback violations, Odunlami listed the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway from Berger Bridge at the Lagos boundary to Onigari at the Oyo State boundary; the Abeokuta–Sagamu Interchange Highway (Muhammadu Buhari Expressway); and the Sagamu Interchange–Ajebandele corridor on the Sagamu–Benin Expressway. Others include the Lagos–Abeokuta Highway from Ota Toll Gate to Bakatari, the Papalanto–Sagamu Interchange, the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda (Epe) Highway, the Ogijo–Sagamu Highway, and several other major roads across the state.

    He explained that such unauthorised physical developments not only obstruct visibility and traffic flow but also pose safety hazards, deface the environment, and worsen drainage problems.

    On the amnesty programme, the commissioner said it comes with a 50 per cent reduction in penal fees and covers residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and mixed-use buildings.

    He noted that Governor Dapo Abiodun approved the initiative to encourage compliance with the Ogun State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, ease year-end financial burdens on property owners, and strengthen the state’s planning database for better infrastructure development.

    “On November 1, 2025, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State, approved the commencement of an amnesty programme which provides a window of opportunity for those who have built without obtaining a planning permit to regularise their developments with a 50 per cent reduction in applicable penal fees,” Odunlami said.

    “These include residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and mixed-use developments, and all other categories of physical developments covered by the law and regulations. “The amnesty programme will run for a period of three months, ending January 31, 2026,” he said.

  • Ogun govt on Daniel’s road project: we won’t compromise standards

    Ogun govt on Daniel’s road project: we won’t compromise standards

    There is nothing unusual in Ogun State Government’s insistence on strict technical standards for the Paddy Arikawe Oye-Igbimo Road in Sagamu.

    The road is a constituency project proposed by Ogun East Senator Gbenga Daniel.

    In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor Dapo Abiodun on Media & Strategy, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, the government clarified that the requirements given to the contractor are the same standards applied to all road projects in the state and are designed to protect public safety.

    The statement added that any push by any contractor to lower these standards amounts to a blatant attempt to compromise public safety and is dead on arrival.

    It further described as a name-dropping pile of garbage, a report allegedly from Daniel’s media team titled: “Dapo Abiodun takes on Tinubu over standard of road constructed in Ogun” calling it a hastily assembled fabrication driven by desperation and ulterior motives.

    The statement challenged the authors “to present evidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is carrying out a 260-metre road project anywhere in Ogun State, expressing surprise that Daniel’s team seemed to assume Nigerians cannot distinguish between road projects approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and those initiated by individual federal lawmakers as constituency projects.

    READ ALSO: How CBN rate cut will save Nigeria N1tr, by Rewane

    It added that the government discovered the drainage and concrete pavement design failed to meet Ministry of Works standards only after the contractor submitted the project drawings.

    Following this, it said, it made its observations known to the contractor through a letter dated 22nd September 2025, asking it to make necessary corrections and re-submit for approval accordingly.

    The statement reads: “It is pertinent to state that whenever Ogun State Government wants to work on any FG road, it is statutory and mandatory that we must get necessary clearance from the Federal Ministry of Works and this had been the practice since the beginning of the previous administration.

    “In line with this, the Federal Government also requests for our drawings, specification and any other documents relating to the projects which we have always obliged them before they give us the approval to commence such projects.

    “Likewise, whenever the Federal Government wants to work on Ogun State Projects, they follow the normal procedure by informing the Ogun State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, attaching the necessary documents related to such roads.

    “They have always followed this process to avoid clashes or duplication of road projects among other reasons, therefore, Paddy Arikawe Oye Igbimo road should not be an exception.

    “It should be noted that the contractor did not inform the Ministry before he commenced work. His action negates the normal due process which ought to be followed before commencing work on the state road.

    “He was therefore informed through letter Ref. No. AD. 1198/48, dated 17th September, 2025 to formally inform the Ministry about the concerned project and seek necessary approval.”

    The statement added that after going through the documents submitted by the contractor, the government discovered that the contractor intends to construct 300m out of the entire stretch of 3000m, which represents 10% of the whole project, but the Ogun State Ministry of Works had earlier carried out palliative work up to the stone base level on some parts of this project, while the design work for the entire stretch is already at the final stage of execution.

    The statement further reads: “The directive by the Ogun State Ministry of Works is not an “interference” in a federal initiative, as mischievously alleged, but a responsible and necessary step, rooted in his constitutional duty to safeguard the interests of the people of Ogun State.

    “The Ogun State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure identified clear technical shortcomings in the contractor’s proposal, and dragging Mr. President into this matter is a needless distraction.

    “Pray, what does the Presidency have to do with a contractor’s failure to meet acceptable technical standards? This is simply an old-fashioned ploy by the OGD media team to divert attention from the substance of the issues raised.

    “How can anyone describe the Ogun State Government’s insistence on higher grade concrete, stronger stone base layers, reinforced tensile strength, and full compliance with Federal Ministry of Works standards as political if not for sinister motives?

    “The Ogun State government will not compromise on quality, nor will it allow substandard projects to be executed within the State. The people of Ogun deserve roads that stand the test of time, not propaganda-driven distractions.

    “The antics of the OGD media team will not succeed. The facts remain clear, and the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun remains committed to transparency, accountability, and lasting development for all.”

  • No reason to block Daniel’s projects, says Ogun govt

    No reason to block Daniel’s projects, says Ogun govt

    • ’Ex-governor should follow due process’

    Ogun State Government has dismissed claims that it is deliberately frustrating road projects initiated by Senator Gbenga Daniel, a former governor of the state, noting that it seeks coordination, not obstruction of development projects.

    The Nation reports that building of Paddy-Arikawe Oye Igbimo Road in Sagamu, which has the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government and facilitated by former governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, was recently halted by Governor Dapo Abiodun administration.

    It was alleged that the state government stopped the construction of the road to settle political scores with the facilitator of the project.

    There has been an unending face-off between Senator Daniel and Governor Abiodun, with the ex-governor accusing Abiodun of using every instrument of state power to persecute him politically ahead of 2027 senatorial election.

    Daniel’s camp perceived the alleged stoppage of Paddy-Arikawe Oye Igbimo Road project as the handiwork Governor Abiodun.

    However, the government yesterday said it had no reason to halt the road project.

    READ ALSO; Moral rot on steroids

    It gave this indication through the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Abiodun, Kayode Akinmade.

    According to Akinmade, who spoke on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ijebu-Ilese, lawmakers from the state routinely inform the government about their constituency projects to aid planning and budgeting, but Daniel chose not to follow due process.

    Appealing to the senator to develop a close relationship with the relevant ministry, he said: “If a project the state is contemplating is already captured in the federal budget, the state government will now use the resources made for that one for another road. But in a situation where there is no communication, that’s the problem.”

    Akinmade urged contractors handling constituency projects to work closely with relevant ministries, saying Ogun State Government would never intentionally block projects meant to bring relief to the people.

    Listing the achievements recorded by Governor Abiodun in sectors, Akinmade said the administration had completed over 1,200 kilometres of roads across 20 local governments, reconstructed federal highways such as Ijebu-Ode-Epe Highway to international standard.

    He said Ogun’s economy quadrupled from N3.5 trillion in 2019 to N16 trillion in 2025, ‘’and investors have been moving to Sagamu, Papalanto and other areas, even as there are plans for a Disneyland and entertainment hall that will revolutionise the business climate in the state.’’

    He said Ogun recorded lowest food price increase nationwide, going by the May 2025 report of the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS), adding that the renovation of a tourism landmark, Olumo Rock, generated about N20 million weekly.

    Noting that Ogun is “arguably the most secure state in Nigeria” with peace and stability, Akinmade said the state government was collaborating with Lagos State on a N500 billion agricultural intervention, adding that the farmers’ markets in Abeokuta had helped to stabilise food prices.

    “In the last six years, Ogun State has been investors destination of choice in Nigeria,” Akinmade declared, highlighting Governor Abiodun’s focus on creating opportunities for investors, building infrastructure, ICT and maintaining peace and stability.

  • Ogun youths tasked on skills acquisition

    Ogun youths tasked on skills acquisition

    The Ogun state government has tasked young person to acquire vocational skills for self reliance.

    The state government also restated its commitment to the development of skills and vocational education, given the importance of youth development and job creation.

    The state’s Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu made the call during the MDAs Stakeholders’ Forum on Ogun Job Centre Employment Services and Certificate of Skills Training, held at Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the state capital.

    The programme  was jointly organised by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, in conjunction with the Ogun State Skills Fund (OSF) and Ogun State Skills Qualification (OGSQ).

    Arigbabu noted that it was imperative to acquire skills jobs, in order to be more relevant in the society.

    Read Also: AGF seeks adequate protection for whistleblowers

    “Indeed, it is very important to be skills relevant in the country today, so as to reduce the “Japa” syndrome in the country, and Ogun state is the only state that has job skills centre that spread across the three Senatorial Districts of the state,” Prof. Arigbabu said.

    The Skills Specialist, Ogun State Skills Funds, Segun Fatoki  explained that the centre offers sustainable services such as linking seekers to employers, legal migration, availability of equipment and power supply, support by donor agencies, National and International recognised certification, business training services to micro and small businesses and funds to train more people.

    Also, GIZ Technical Advisor,  Godwin Obhiyegbobu, said the programme aimed at capacity building of personnel on career guardiancy, employment services, noting that equipping of the job centre with modern IT equipment and work tools at the work hub for vocational skills training was part of the programme.

    The Senior Programme Officer OSF, Mr. Kazeem Ogungbe analysed the core values of the job centres to include, integrity, accountability, personal growth, fairness, creativity, ethics and team spiritedness, adding that the current administration was  committed to providing quality standard of living for its citizenry.

  • Ogun orders integrity test on collapsed school building

    Ogun orders integrity test on collapsed school building

    Ogun State Government has said it would conduct a pre-requisite quality and integrity test on a building affected by rainstorm at Mayigi Community Comprehensive School, Ilase in Ipokia Local Government.

    Rainstorm hit the school recently, destroying classrooms, which left a 14-year old pupil dead and five others, including two teachers, a food vendor alongside her seven-month-old baby, with injuries.

    The government, which made this known through the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele,

    during an on-the-spot assessment of the school yesterday, said the building would not be in use until the structural integrity test on it was completed.

    Salako-Oyedele, an engineer, who represented Governor Dapo Abiodun, said if the building was found satisfactory, the roof would be put back in place for the pupils’ immediate use.

    She assured citizens that the Abiodun administration would ensure such occurrence did not occur again in schools.

    She said the zonal education officer had been instructed to go round schools in the community to identify such abandoned buildings, in order not to put learners at risk.

    Read Also: I’ve no hands in attacks on oil installations in Rivers, says Fubara

    The deputy governor reiterated the administration’s commitment to delivering qualitative and quantitative education to learners of school age.

    She also visited the other victims of the building collapse receiving treatment at the General Hospital, Ipokia to comfort them on behalf of the governor.

    Salako-Oyedele visited the parents of the deceased pupil to commiserate with them on the death of their son.

    She pledged government’s support and continued safety of pupils by ensuring infrastructures in schools were in good shape.

    Responding on behalf of the family, Mr Moses Amosun thanked Governor Abiodun, Deputy Governor Salako-Oyedele and others in the state delegation, saying although it was a painful loss; the presence of the state government had shown they were not alone.

  • Ogun alerts residents on flood

    Ogun alerts residents on flood

    Ogun State Government has alerted residents over impending flood.

    It said they should be vigilant and careful about their environment as one of the major flood prone areas in the country, according to classification made available by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

    Read Also: No political realignment can stop Tinubu in 2027 – Ganduje

    Environment Commissioner Ola Oresanya, who made this known yesterday at a news conference in Abeokuta, said the flood alert was part of the ministry’s adaptation and mitigation strategies to enlighten the citizens on the vulnerability of settlements and communities around the state.

    He said the ministry yearly must issue flood alert to residents, to raise their consciousness about flood and its adverse impacts on the environment and socio-economic lives of the people.

  • Ogun launches ‘one house, one toilet’ campaign

    Ogun launches ‘one house, one toilet’ campaign

    Ogun State Government has kicked off the ‘one house, one toilet’ campaign in Ijebu-North Local Government, as part of efforts to eradicate open defecation in the council and state.

     The campaign was kicked-off through the Ogun State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RUWATSAN) Agency, in partnership with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with the theme: ‘The Implementation of NTD-WASH Based Community-led Sanitation (CLTS).

    The campaign will cover 167 communities within Mamu, Omen, Ojowo-Japara and Osun wards in Ijebu-North Local Government. Commissioner for Rural Development, Mrs. Olufemi Ilori-Oduntan, says the campaign seeks to promote the use of toilets and good hygiene practices in every community across the state and Nigeria                         .

    She said: “The Federal Government’s mandate to eradicate open defecation is embedded and signed in an Executive Order 009 in considering its prevalence and havoc.

    Read Also: Akpabio, Akpoti-Uduaghan and politics of allegations

    “As one of the major strategies for scaling up sanitation; the result of which was that Ikenne Local Government being declared into ODF status in December 2023. The journey towards making Ijebu-North the second local government wide open defecation free starts today because we are sure that the remaining seven wards will also be considered soon.”

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development, Mr. Seyi Sokoya, said: “It is my hope, in view of the importance of this campaign to our national development process and meeting the goal of eradicating open defecation Nigeria, that, this campaign and other initiatives of this present administration will contribute to the success of the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector. “Sensitisation is a driving tool in achieving an Open Defecation Free Ogun, and so the campaign must be people-centred and community-based.

    ‘’This is why community engagement, especially in the vulnerable and underserved communities, is a priority to us. We also seek the support of local governments to cascade the policy to the people who are the direct beneficiaries.”

    The Project Manager, Mr. Sola Ogunbo, said the practice of open defecation was a menace that had plagued the communities for too long, noting that it posed significant risks to the health, environment and economic development.

     “Indeed, it is unacceptable that in this day and age, many of our citizens are still forced to defecate in the open, exposing themselves and their loved ones to the dangers of water-borne diseases, malnutrition and dignity-denying conditions and the future of the children.”

    He said it also contributed to high health costs, reduced productivity and even loss of lives, adding that national statistics indicated that waterborne diseases claimed thousands of lives every year, yet they were preventable.

    The UNICEF representative, Mr. Monday Johnson, said that it was imperative to eradicate open defecation through collective sensation of the stakeholders in the state, as the state did in Ikenne Local Government Area two year ago.

    The Chairman of Ijebu-North Local Government, Mr. Bolaji Odusanya, represented by his Secretary, Mr. Sojinrin Adeniyi, lamented that it was discovered that truck drivers, motor boys and street traders were the main offenders of ‘’this nefarious act.

    He urged stakeholders to implement decisions taken at the meeting to ensure open defecation was totally eradicated in the council and in the state at large.