Ondo State governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, yesterday, inaugurated the Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission, OSOPADEC Board.
Aiyedatiwa, in his speech at the inauguration in Akure, 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 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 in his administration, OSOPADEC will not only function, but flourish.
Aiyedatiwa noted that the commission must deliver and ensure the desired transformation in 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,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa said the new board must work collaboratively with government, people and stakeholders to ensure that developmental initiatives are impactful, sustainable and beneficial to all, particularly the riverine communities.
The new Executive Chairman of OSOPADEC, Mr Biyi Poroye appreciated the governor for the opportunity to serve, promising not to disappoint the government and people of the mandate areas.
