The Secretary of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Abike Bayo-Ilawole, has assured residents of Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa remains committed to delivering sustainable development across the mandate areas.
Speaking during a three-day facility tour, Ilawole revealed that the governor would soon commission several completed and ongoing projects.
These include the newly renovated OSOPADEC Area Office Complex, the Comprehensive Health Centre along Secretariat Road, Igbokoda, and the refurbishment of over 20 public primary and secondary schools in riverine communities.
The tour, which began on Saturday involved on-the-spot assessments conducted by top management staff, project supervisors, technical aides, and other OSOPADEC personnel.
During the inspection, community leaders, religious heads, youth representatives, and women leaders appreciated Aiyedatiwa for initiating impactful projects.
They cited the construction of roads, school upgrades, provision of essential furniture and textbooks, employment of new teachers, access to potable water and electricity, and improved healthcare facilities as major strides.
Ilawole highlighted that these initiatives align with the Governor’s “OUR EASE” development agenda—an acronym for Opportunities, Urban and Rural Renewal, Education, Agriculture and Blue Economy, Socio-economic Welfare, and Efficient Healthcare.
The mantra is centred on equitable progress and sustainable transformation, particularly in rural communities.
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Inspecting the Area Office in Igbokoda, the secretary praised the pace and quality of renovation work, noting that the project, which began on 5th February 2025, is on track for completion before the end of the second quarter.
“I am indeed elated by the speed and standard of work. The complex will house 31 offices, a boardroom, a conference hall, and executive offices for the Chairman and Secretary. It will significantly enhance the Commission’s operations,” she said.
At the Fishery Terminal in Igbokoda, Ilawole also inspected a pilot Floating Fish Cage project launched in late September 2024.
The initiative, which began with 17,000 fingerlings and juvenile catfish, is expected to yield a 90 per cent harvest within two weeks.
“We are demonstrating a sustainable method of raising fish in their natural environment, aiming for better nutritional quality and higher commercial value,” she explained.
The secretary’s team also assessed the proposed site for a new branch of Memphis Microfinance Bank on College Road, Igbokoda.
The bank is expected to replicate its Akure model, providing financial access to residents of the mandate areas.
“Our goal is to stimulate economic activity by bringing banking services closer to the people. This will allow them to save securely and access soft loans to grow their businesses,” she added.
Other facilities visited included the completed Comprehensive Health Centre in Igbokoda, and the OSOPADEC Staff Quarters, which comprises twin 2-bedroom and twin 3-bedroom apartments.
The housing project, according to Ilawole, will receive further attention as funds become available.
Ilawole reaffirmed OSOPADEC’s dedication to improving the quality of life in the oil-producing communities of Ondo State through well-planned and impactful infrastructure.
