Aiyedatiwa’s administration deepens infrastructure, disaster preparedness and traditional leadership reforms
In a strong reaffirmation of its commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience, the Ondo State Government has approved the release of N3.5 billion as counterpart funding for the World Bank-supported Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP); a strategic initiative aimed at transforming rural road infrastructure and improving agricultural market linkages across the state.
This landmark decision was reached during the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, and chaired by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa at the Governor’s Office, Akure.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, unveiled the government’s plan to embark on a statewide flood mapping exercise; a first of its kind in the state’s history; designed to identify vulnerable communities and implement science-based interventions ahead of the rainy season.
“We are not merely drawing maps. We are examining the environmental and structural causes of flooding in each area,” Dr. Loko said, noting that the government is moving from reactive to proactive disaster management.
He acknowledged the challenges of perfection in such a wide-scale exercise but assured that emergency protocols, including temporary relocation and relief support, would be deployed for communities inadvertently affected despite the mapping.
“Climate change is real, but with early planning, we can protect our people and limit damage,” he added, calling for the cooperation of residents, particularly those living in flood-prone zones.
In another critical decision, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, announced that the EXCO has given a green light to N3.5 billion counterpart funding to unlock World Bank support for rural road projects under RAAMP.
“This funding will enable the state to partner with the World Bank in delivering modern, durable road infrastructure to our farming and remote communities,” Olawoye said, describing the move as a bold step towards agricultural prosperity and rural development.
He further revealed that engineers from the ministry will soon begin a technical audit of roads across the 18 local government areas of the state, including hydraulic assessments to guide the redesign of drainage and water management systems.
“We urge our citizens to be patient. We are not interested in patchwork solutions, but in projects that will last for generations,” he emphasized.
The meeting also brought significant cultural updates as the EXCO approved the installation of two traditional rulers, signaling the administration’s respect for local heritage and institution-building.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, announced the appointment of Prince Olusola Joseph Ajaka as the first Gbogunro of Idi-Ogba Alagbon in Ilaje Local Government Area, and Prince Isiaka Oseni as the new Alale of Akungba-Akoko in Akoko South West Local Government Area.
“These appointments were made after due consultation with kingmakers, local stakeholders, and community leaders,” Takuro noted, stating that the Council’s approval marked the final legal step for their installation.
Commissioner for Information, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, summed up the day’s developments as a reflection of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s people-first leadership, anchored on sound policy, strategic investment, and unwavering commitment to grassroots progress.
“Today’s decisions go beyond documents and policies. They are about lives, livelihoods, and the kind of future we are building in Ondo State,” Ajanaku said.
He urged residents to continue supporting the government, assuring that more transformational projects would be unveiled in the coming months.
“The Aiyedatiwa administration is not just working; it is delivering. From flood resilience to farm roads, from tradition to innovation, Ondo State is on a sure path to greatness,” he added.
