The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has intensified efforts to complete several abandoned and ongoing infrastructure projects across the state’s oil-producing communities, with authorities now setting a November deadline for delivery.
Top on the list is the Omuro International Market in Ode-Ugbo, a project that had remained stalled for over 16 years but has now returned to active construction.
During an inspection tour of projects in the mandate areas, OSOPADEC Chairman, Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, expressed optimism over the renewed activity at the market site, saying the contractor handling the project had shown greater commitment compared to previous visits by the commission.
“We were not happy with what we met on ground during our last visit, but today, the contractor has shown capacity and seriousness. Personally, I am happy with what I am seeing and I want to believe that with the support we are giving to the contractor, the project will be delivered in due course,” Poroye stated.
According to him, the contractor has now been directed to complete the project within two months, while the commission pledged continuous support to ensure the target is achieved.
“We will ensure that all necessary support is given to ensure that we deliver this project on time. It is our target that all outstanding projects must be completed before November this year,” he said.
The OSOPADEC chairman praised contractors working in the difficult riverine environment, noting that various infrastructure projects including jetties and walkways are progressing steadily following directives from the state government.
“I want to appreciate all the contractors, especially those in the riverine areas. The jetties are going, the walkways are going, everybody is working because Mr. Governor has given us a marching order,” he added.
Poroye explained that the Omuro International Market project is designed not only to boost commercial activities in the coastal area but also to align with modern environmental standards.
He revealed that adjustments were made to parts of the project to ensure sustainability and environmental safety.
“At a time when the world is increasingly confronted with environmental challenges, we believe development projects must reflect environmental responsibility and sustainability,” he said.
He further disclosed that the commission had already made plans for future expansion of the market, citing expectations that the facility would attract traders and investors from within and outside the country once operational.
“We have also anticipated expansion in acquiring this land because we are sure that when the market takes off, international buyers and sellers will need adequate space for themselves,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, commended Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and OSOPADEC for reviving the long-abandoned project and pushing for its completion.
Poroye also inspected the Aboto–Atijere Road project and expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, revealing that approximately 15 kilometres of the road had already been completed.
“The Governor is determined to complete this project and the contractor is equally determined. They have covered 15 kilometres already and with the speed they are going, we are sure they will do us proud,” he stated.
On the Aboto Water Project, the OSOPADEC boss described the initiative as vital to improving access to potable water in riverine communities.
He said the over 2MG/day Aboto Water Treatment Plant would serve several communities upon completion.
“The completion of the over 2MG/day Aboto Water Treatment Plant will provide potable water to many communities across the area. Considering the pace and quality of work being carried out, we are highly impressed with the progress recorded so far,” he said.
He added that similar water projects are also being planned for communities in Ese-Odo Local Government Area.
Poroye concluded by applauding the Ondo State Government for supporting infrastructure development in the mandate areas, stressing that the visible progress on various projects has strengthened the commission’s resolve to deliver more developmental projects to the people.
