The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday inaugurated the Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission board.
In his speech at the inauguration in Akure, Aiyedatiwa charged members of the board to deliver on their mandate.
The governor, who revealed that he had assented to the 2025 budget of the commission, said the new OSOPADEC bill recently passed by the State Assembly would allow for regular oversight.
He urged traditional rulers, youth groups, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to fully cooperate with the board to bring development to the mandate areas.
According to him, the event is a bold statement that under his administration, OSOPADEC will not only function but flourish.
Aiyedatiwa said the commission must deliver and ensure the desired transformation in the oil-producing communities.
“This occasion is not just a statutory obligation; it is a reaffirmation of our administration’s commitment to good governance, effective service delivery, and impactful development initiatives in the OSOPADEC mandate areas of Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.
“Today marks a new chapter in the history of OSOPADEC.
“This chapter is inspired and anchored by the policy thrust of our administration.
“This is an initiative that prioritises results, transparency, and accountability.
“It typifies our administration’s covenant with the people in our collective pursuit of progress, development, and prosperity for all,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa added that the new board must work collaboratively with the government, people, and stakeholders to ensure that development initiatives are impactful, sustainable, and beneficial to all, particularly the riverine communities.
The new Executive Chairman of OSOPADEC, Biyi Poroye, appreciated the governor for the opportunity to serve, promising not to disappoint the government and the people of the mandate areas.
