Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on the people of the state to embrace the year 2024 with renewed hope as his administration is working hard to make life bearable for them.
Abiodun, while congratulating the people for making it into the New Year, said his administration would redouble its efforts towards meeting their needs, pledging to do so with sincerity, humility and integrity.
He also promised to govern with unwavering dedication, equity, inclusiveness and accountability, as well as upholding the rule of law.
The governor, who gave the promise in his New Year broadcast to the people of the state, noted that 2023 had been a challenging year for many Nigerians because of the precarious economic situations in the country.
He, however, lauded the people for remaining steadfast despite all odds.
Abiodun, who emphasised that his government had achieved significant milestones, covering substantial grounds across the state, said: “In 2023, we faced numerous challenges, but together, we were resolute, focused, and we emerged united and stronger. I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to you, the good citizens and residents of Ogun State for your unwavering support, cooperation, resilience, and unflinching loyalty.
“All ongoing projects would be completed while new frontiers would be opened under the ‘ISEYA’ mantra, even in the face of global socio-economic challenges.
“We have prioritised the provision of the required infrastructure, particularly in the transportation sector. We have constructed or rehabilitated over 500 kilometres of roads across the state, thus ensuring improved transportation and connectivity. Our commitment to equitable development is evident, as these works are spread across our 20 local councils in the state.
“We have also embarked on our multi-modal transport master plan, encompassing land, air, water and rail modes of transportation. The Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport project, initiated a little over two years ago, is set to commence passenger and cargo operations in the first quarter 2024. This world-class airport and economic enabler will provide over 25,000 job opportunities.”
He noted that power supply is being enhanced and expanded to improve electricity, while the state remained the first in Nigeria to deploy Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuelled buses, which has resulted in reduced transport fares.
He also announced the restoration of water supply to major towns, especially Abeokuta and its environs, as the results of complete rehabilitation of Arakanga waterworks and pipeline reticulation.
On healthcare delivery, the governor said over 100 primary healthcare centres in 100 wards were renovated and equipped, among others.
Abiodun, who further disclosed that over 60,000 women had been empowered through various intervention programmes, said over 1,200 classrooms had been reconstructed, 5,000 teachers recruited, and thousands of desks and chairs provided to make the learning environment conducive.
