The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has announced a major drive to complete long-abandoned projects across its mandate areas and state-owned tertiary institutions.
Shoreline Protection and Infrastructure Push
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday at the commission's headquarters in Oba-Ile, Akure North, the Chairman, Biyi Poroye, outlined a series of interventions. A key focus is combating coastal erosion exacerbated by climate change.
Efforts have commenced for shoreline protection and reclamation in Ayetoro and other communities suffering from relentless sea incursion. As a pilot project, the state government has approved a shoreline protection and reclamation initiative at Obe-Nla. This project will serve to test and refine the technology before wider application.
On physical infrastructure, Poroye revealed that numerous road projects are advancing. The construction of the 28.5 km Aboto–Atijere Road is nearing completion. Furthermore, preparations are being finalised for the 4.72 km Ugbo-Nla–Erunna Road to improve connectivity and trade along the coastal corridor.
Education and Community Projects Near Completion
The commission is also addressing long-standing neglect in the education sector. Poroye assured that three abandoned OSOPADEC student hostels will be completed. These hostels are located at:
- Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA)
- Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa
- Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO)
He also confirmed the full disbursement of the 2023/2024 scholarships and bursaries to all eligible students.
For community development, a rural electrification project for Ilumeje-Atijere, covering areas from Igboegunrin through Gbolomi to Igbobi, has been initiated to tackle inadequate electricity.
In Obe-Nla, the construction of 1,000 metres of concrete walkways is 85% complete, aiming to provide safer and more accessible pathways. Similarly, the School of Maritime Transport and Logistics at Ugbo-Nla is also 85% finished. This institution is seen as a strategic investment in skills development for the blue economy.
Commitment to Service and Transparency
Poroye emphasized that the commission's actions are guided by the governor's vision for a responsive public service. He noted the implementation of capacity-building programmes, staff promotions, training, and enhanced welfare.
To ensure transparency, the commission plans to conduct another round of project inspections with the media in January. "They reflect a commission dedicated to transforming vision into action, policy into projects, and promises into measurable results," Poroye stated.
