Ondo State Government has announced a substantial financial commitment to rural infrastructure and a proactive strategy to combat flooding, following a State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The council approved a N3.5 billion counterpart fund for the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), alongside a comprehensive flood mapping exercise across the state.
Additionally, two new traditional rulers received official recognition.
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Speaking to journalists after the EXCO meeting, Tob Loko, the Commissioner for Environment, detailed the state’s new flood mitigation efforts.
He explained that the initiative involves not only identifying flood-prone zones but also investigating the environmental and structural factors that contribute to their vulnerability.
This data-driven approach, Loko stated, reflects the government’s commitment to preventing and managing flood disasters more effectively.
Loko acknowledged that while the government aims for thoroughness, unforeseen circumstances might arise.
He assured that provisions are being considered for residents who may be inadvertently affected by unexpected flooding, including potential emergency measures such as temporary relocation and the distribution of relief materials.
He urged residents, especially those in high-risk areas, to fully cooperate with government officials during the upcoming assessments and interventions.
In a related announcement, Abiola Olawoye, Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, confirmed the approval of the N3.5 billion counterpart fund for the World Bank-backed RAAMP, aimed at developing rural roads.
Olawoye emphasised that this financial commitment highlights Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure and boosting agricultural productivity in rural communities.
Olawoye also disclosed that his Ministry has been directed to conduct a thorough inspection of roads across all 18 local government areas to identify those urgently needing rehabilitation.
He noted that this process would include hydraulic designs to assess water flow and upgrade drainage systems, appealing for public patience as the government focuses on building “durable infrastructure, not temporary fixes.”
Meanwhile, Amidu Takuro, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, announced the EXCO’s approval of two new traditional rulers.
Olusola Joseph Ajaka has been confirmed as the pioneering Gbogunro of Idi-Ogba Alagbon in Ilaje Local Government Area, and Isiaka Oseni as the new Alale of Akungba-Akoko in Akoko South West Local Government Area.
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Takuro affirmed that both appointments followed due process and recommendations from relevant authorities.
Idowu Ajanaku, the Commissioner for Information, underscored that the significant decisions made during the EXCO meeting demonstrate Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to the state’s infrastructural development.
Ajanaku encouraged the people of the state to continue supporting the current administration, promising that more developmental projects would soon be rolled out.
