Aiyedatiwa approves record N33.8bn for OSOPADEC, vows to transform oil-producing communities.
New board tasked with delivering key infrastructure, empowerment, and transparent governance.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday approved a record N33.8 billion budget for the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), marking the highest allocation in the commission’s history.
The announcement was made in Akure during the official inauguration of the newly constituted OSOPADEC Board. The governor said the allocation is intended to tackle critical developmental challenges and improve infrastructure in the state’s oil-producing communities.
“This budget will fund vital projects such as road construction, school upgrades, water supply, healthcare centers, and housing,” Aiyedatiwa stated. “It will also strengthen initiatives focused on youth and women empowerment, scholarships, and skills acquisition center all aligned with our administration’s development blueprint.”
He emphasized the need for the new Board to deliver tangible results, especially in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas, which fall under the commission’s jurisdiction.
According to the governor, the inauguration of the Board was not merely a constitutional requirement but a reflection of his administration’s commitment to transparent governance and effective service delivery. He said the recent change to the OSOPADEC law has made the commission more efficient, open, and effective.
He urged the Board members to see their appointments as a call to genuine public service. “There are high expectations from our people. You must carry out your responsibilities with integrity, diligence, and a strong sense of purpose,” he said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the new leadership of his administration’s full support, which he stressed would be tied to accountability, measurable outcomes, and visible progress.
He also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organizations, civil society groups, and development partners to collaborate with the new Board in delivering sustainable development across oil-producing areas.
“This bold step sends a clear message that OSOPADEC will not only be active under this administration but will also thrive,” he added. “Let us collectively build a future defined by peace, progress, and prosperity for the people of Ilaje and Ese-Odo. Let this be the start of a new era where governance truly works for the people.”
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated board, OSOPADEC Chairman Prince Biyi Poroye thanked the governor for the trust placed in them. He pledged the Board’s full commitment to serving with dedication and ensuring impactful development in the state’s oil-producing areas.
